In designing its fourth-generation consumer noise-canceling headphones, the QuietComfort 15s, Bose has done something interesting. Instead of coming up with a whole new look for its headphones as it did with the QuietComfort 3s, Bose has left the basic design of its popular QuietComfort 2s intact and simply redesigned them on the inside, adding even more effective noise-canceling circuitry and improving their sound quality.

While they're no bargain, the Bose QuietComfort 15s currently offer the best sound and silencing capabilities in a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Extracomfortable design; improved sound; highly effective noise-canceling circuitry; device folds for compact storage in included carrying case; 30-day home trial.

Expensive; when the battery dies, so does the music.

While they're no bargain, the Bose QuietComfort 15s currently offer the best sound and silencing capabilities in a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Extracomfortable design; improved sound; highly effective noise-canceling circuitry; device folds for compact storage in included carrying case; 30-day home trial

Expensive; when the battery dies, so does the music

Consumer testers said Bose's QC15 headphones are comfortable to wear, even for a long stretch

Great sound quality; Consumer testers found them very comfortable to wear; Consumer testers said the headphones stayed in place during use; Adjustable; Durable; Repels water well; Comes with a carrying case and airline adapter plug

Large profile means they'll take up a lot of space in your bag; Expensive

When it comes to headphones with active noise cancellation, Bose is probably the most well known player on the block. The QC15s – QC stands for quiet comfort – are lightweight and comfortable. They come with a slim case that should fit into most laptop bags.

The QuietComfort 15 are Bose's top-of-the-line noise cancelling headphones.

Fantastic noise reduction; great sound; very comfortable.

Bulky; Pricey; Requires a AAA battery at all times

Lightweight enough for hours of listening on an aircraft with no distracting aircraft noise.

Comfortable; Good Noise Reduction; Great Sound; Lightweight

Cord could be sturdier

Nothing beats Bose QC 15 as far as notice cancellation is concerned. Pricey, yes, but those who want the ultimate, should get it.

We have the smaller system with single speakers (5) and a single CD player. Although the larger system was @ $1000 more, we would consider the additional investment if making the purchase today.

Sound quality is great

No audio adjustments (base/treble) on systems

If you want to shut yourself away from other folks' background hubbub, you'll struggle to do better than this. And, yes, that includes the Dr Dre Monster Beats , our previous favourites.

It cost small fortune but definitely worth it. I bought it after reading the other review - as I also find flying noisy and I like listen to music or audio books while travelling. I fly in 2 days for holiday and my headphones come with me.