I’ve been testing the Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds for a week, and now I see why they’ve been sold out since launch

In a week of testing the Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds, it becomes clear why they've quickly sold out since their launch. Despite the resurgence in popularity of wired earbuds over the past two years, many would not have anticipated Bose entering the wired market with such a high-end offering. Priced at just $99, these buds have taken the tech world by storm, proving to be an affordable choice for those who prioritize basic essentials.

Available in black, dewdrop mint, and white, the Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds stand out as the most affordable option Bose has ever released, boasting active noise cancellation (ANC) and lossless audio. Though sold out, the affordable price tag, combined with superior ANC and lossless audio, make them a compelling choice.

Design-wise, these earbuds resemble Bose's newer wireless earbuds, featuring a modernized in-ear design, laser-etched logo, polished matte finish, and microphone placement. Bose's interchangeable silicone ear tips and wings are back, providing improved durability. The control module, while bulkier than competitors, can sometimes pick up noise, affecting calls and ambient listening.

In terms of comfort, these earbuds are some of Bose's most comfortable to date. Despite the hard plastic sound ports, they do not press hard on the concha thanks to Bose's gentle silicone tips, creating a solid seal for strong noise isolation. The stabilizer wings ensure a firm grip, preventing slippage even after long-wearing periods.

Controls are responsive and straightforward, with the multifunctional button flanked by volume buttons. However, there is no dedicated support for Siri or Google Assistant voice commands. The USB-C connection provides 24-bit lossless audio and a stable connection but lacks wireless features such as aptX Adaptive/Lossless hi-res audio, multipoint technology, spatial audio, and companion app support. Users must select the earbuds as their computer's audio output device on macOS.

Sound-wise, the NC Wired Earbuds deliver an impressive bright sound signature, emphasizing the high end for clarity and detail. The bassline and string groove in "A Good Day" by Anderson .Paak and Cordae are particularly impressive, with a lively soundscape highlighted by remarkable acoustic layering and instrumental separation. Bass is tamer than on previous Bose earbuds, which can be seen as both a positive and negative, depending on personal preferences.