When comparing Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 vs Bose QuietComfort 25, the Slant community recommends Bose QuietComfort 25 for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Bose QuietComfort 25 is ranked 19th while Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 is ranked 72nd. The most important reason people chose Bose QuietComfort 25 is:
The traveling case is small and provides room for spare batteries and other components. This makes it pretty portable, for those that can't or don't want to leave their headphones at work.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Balanced and clear sound
These headphones will sound great with a practically all genres of music. The highs are slightly rolled-off, but still present a good level of detail, so these headphones are not harsh. The mids are warm, while the bass is controlled instead of boomy.
Pro Extensive accessory bundle
The ATH-ANC23 offers good value for money due to the extras that you get. The accessory pack includes a carrying pouch, the active noise cancelling in-line control hub, an alkaline battery, an airplane adapter and a number of eartips, including foam ones, which provide a better seal and noise isolation than the standard silicone tips.
Pro Good active noise cancelling
The active noise canceling feature blocks out high and mid frequency noise quite well. Voices and environmental noise aren’t likely to interfere with your music. Loud, low-frequency noises like jet engines may still seep through though, so these are not the best for long flights.
Pro Good portability
The traveling case is small and provides room for spare batteries and other components. This makes it pretty portable, for those that can't or don't want to leave their headphones at work.
Pro Battery is easily replaceable
These headphones use a triple-A battery to power noise canceling. Should it run out of charge, it can easily be replaced.
Pro Active noise canceling is very good
With the feature switched on, you can really zone in on the music. Noise canceling is very effective at blocking out ambient noise, especially the lower frequencies. On a flight for example, engine noise is drastically reduced, as well as most of the sound from the conversations in your vicinity.
Pro Plenty of comfort features
The QC25 feels comfortable even after wearing it for several hours. The pads go over the ear and feel soft, as the ample cushioning is covered with supple and high quality synthetic leather. Aside from the usual headband padding, it also has an inner Alcantara lining that feels really nice on the skin.
Pro Noise canceling levels can be adjusted
You have a number of options as to how you want to use these headphones' active noise canceling feature. You can either have the feature on or off while you are listening to music, or have noise canceling on without audio. This is a nifty feature if you just want to enjoy some peace and quiet when in a noisy place.
Pro Light and easy to wear
These headphones will not tire your head or neck out, even if you wear them for quite some time. These are pretty light at around 196 grams.
Pro Fun sound with boosted highs
Sub-bass is a bit laid back, but the overall low-end production is punchy and with good extension. Mids are clear and forward so vocals, guitars and keys sound good with these. The upper treble is boosted, which results in good detail, but can also give harshness to the sound.
Overall, this is a really fun set of cans to listen to, especially if you just want to have a fun music listening experience.
Cons
Con The control unit to earpiece cable may be too short
If you are a tall person, you may have a problem positioning the large active noise cancelling module. The wire connecting the module to the earpieces is quite short. This can make it a little difficult to clip the module to your belt or pocket, which can get annoying.
Con Noise cancelling is not very effective on low-frequency noise
You may still clearly hear low-frequency noise, even with active noise cancelling turned on. The feature is effective on high and mid frequency noise, but not that well on low-frequency sounds. Loud engine noises may still mix in with your music.
Con Audio has not enough power on some phones
Takes a lot of power for volume. Not all phones have enough audio output to reach high volume.
Con High frequency noise may still mix with audio
While low frequency sounds are effectively blocked, high frequency ones can still be heard. Female voices and high pitched noises may still get in the way of your music.
Con No noise canceling auto shut-off
The feature continues to drain battery even if the headphones are not used. Turn this off before storing.
Con Noise canceling is uncomfortable for some users
A number of users complain about the headphones' noise canceling having a feeling of pressure in the ears, which they find to be quite uncomfortable.