What To Know
- Choosing the perfect pair of noise-canceling headphones can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two titans like the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700.
- The Bose 700, on the other hand, boasts a more neutral sound signature, with a slightly brighter treble and a slightly less pronounced bass.
- The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 offer a range of features and functionalities that enhance the listening experience.
Choosing the perfect pair of noise-canceling headphones can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two titans like the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700. Both boast impressive features, sleek designs, and top-notch audio quality, making it difficult to decide which one truly reigns supreme. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key aspects of each model, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
Design and Comfort: A Tale of Two Styles
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 take distinct approaches to design and comfort. The Surface Headphones 2 embrace a minimalist aesthetic with a sleek, rounded design and a comfortable, padded headband. The earcups are generously sized, providing ample space for your ears and ensuring a secure fit. The headphones are available in black and platinum, blending seamlessly with a professional or casual attire.
On the other hand, the Bose 700 adopts a more modern, angular design. The slim headband and compact earcups offer a more compact and lightweight feel. While the headphones are comfortable for extended wear, some users may find the earcups slightly smaller than the Surface Headphones 2, potentially impacting comfort for those with larger ears. The Bose 700 is available in black and silver, offering a more contemporary look.
Noise Cancellation: The Battle of Silence
Both the Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 excel in noise cancellation, effectively silencing the outside world and immersing you in your audio. The Surface Headphones 2 utilize a combination of active noise cancellation (ANC) and passive noise isolation, effectively blocking out a wide range of frequencies. The headphones boast 13 levels of noise cancellation, allowing you to customize the level of silence based on your environment.
The Bose 700, however, takes noise cancellation to another level. Its proprietary “QuietComfort” technology offers unparalleled noise reduction, effectively muffling even the most persistent sounds. The headphones feature a “Transparency Mode” that allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones. This feature is particularly useful for navigating busy streets or engaging in conversations without taking your headphones off.
Sound Quality: A Symphony of Sound
Both the Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 offer exceptional sound quality, delivering rich, detailed audio with impressive clarity. The Surface Headphones 2 deliver a balanced sound signature, with a slightly warmer tone and a good emphasis on bass frequencies. The headphones are well-suited for a wide range of genres, from classical music to electronic dance music.
The Bose 700, on the other hand, boasts a more neutral sound signature, with a slightly brighter treble and a slightly less pronounced bass. This balanced sound profile makes the headphones ideal for listening to a variety of genres, including rock, pop, and jazz. Both headphones offer a wide soundstage, creating a sense of spaciousness and immersion.
Features and Functionality: A Comparison of Capabilities
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 offer a range of features and functionalities that enhance the listening experience. The Surface Headphones 2 feature a dedicated “Microsoft Teams” button that allows you to quickly join or leave a meeting with a single press. The headphones also support voice assistant integration, allowing you to control your music, make calls, and access other features using voice commands.
The Bose 700 also offers voice assistant integration, supporting both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. The headphones feature a dedicated “Action” button that allows you to trigger voice commands or adjust noise cancellation levels. Additionally, the Bose 700 supports Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Battery Life: Endurance for Your Audio Adventures
Both the Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 boast impressive battery life, ensuring you can enjoy hours of uninterrupted listening. The Surface Headphones 2 offer up to 20 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 25 hours with noise cancellation disabled. The headphones also support fast charging, offering up to 1.5 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge.
The Bose 700 boasts a slightly longer battery life, offering up to 20 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled and up to 40 hours with noise cancellation disabled. The headphones also support fast charging, providing up to 3.5 hours of playback with a 15-minute charge.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Headphones for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a minimalist design, a comfortable fit, and a slightly warmer sound signature, the Surface Headphones 2 might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more modern design, exceptional noise cancellation, and a more neutral sound profile, the Bose 700 might be the ideal option.
A Final Note: Embracing the Audiophile’s Journey
Whether you choose the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 or the Bose 700, both models offer a compelling listening experience. They are both excellent choices for those seeking high-quality audio, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. Ultimately, the best headphones for you are the ones that best meet your individual needs and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which headphones are better for travel?
A: Both the Surface Headphones 2 and the Bose 700 are excellent choices for travel, offering effective noise cancellation and comfortable fit. However, the Bose 700’s slightly smaller and more compact design might make it a better choice for those who prioritize portability.
Q: Which headphones are better for working from home?
A: Both headphones offer excellent noise cancellation, making them ideal for working from home. The Surface Headphones 2’s dedicated “Microsoft Teams” button might be a valuable feature for those who frequently use Microsoft Teams for meetings.
Q: Which headphones are better for listening to music?
A: Both headphones offer excellent sound quality, but the choice depends on your preferred sound signature. If you prefer a warmer sound with a good emphasis on bass, the Surface Headphones 2 might be a better choice. If you prefer a more neutral sound with a brighter treble, the Bose 700 might be a better option.
Q: Which headphones are more affordable?
A: The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are generally more affordable than the Bose 700. However, prices can vary depending on sales and promotions.
Q: Which headphones are better for calls?
A: Both headphones offer excellent call quality, thanks to their built-in microphones. However, the Bose 700’s “Transparency Mode” might be a useful feature for those who need to hear their surroundings while on calls.
