If you just got your Bose 700 headphones and can't figure out how to turn them off, you're not alone. I spent 10 minutes searching for the power button my first day.
To turn off Bose 700 headphones, press and hold the Power/Bluetooth button on the right earcup for 2-3 seconds until you hear the shutdown tone.
After helping dozens of users with their Bose headphones, I've learned the shutdown process isn't always straightforward. Sometimes the button doesn't respond, or you're not sure if they're really off.
This guide covers everything from basic shutdown to troubleshooting unresponsive buttons and optimizing your auto-off settings.
Quick Answer: How to Turn Off Your Bose 700
⚡ Quick Steps:
- Locate the Power/Bluetooth button on the right earcup
- Press and hold for 2-3 seconds
- Listen for the shutdown tone
- Check that the LED indicator turns off
The whole process takes about 3 seconds once you know where the button is.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Power Off
The Power/Bluetooth button on the right earcup of Bose 700 headphones controls both power and Bluetooth pairing functions.
Let me walk you through the exact process I use every time.
1. Find the Power/Bluetooth Button
The button sits on the lower back edge of the right earcup. Run your finger along the back edge until you feel a small raised button.
It's about the size of a pencil eraser.
2. Press and Hold the Button
Press the button firmly and hold it down. Don't just tap it - that won't work.
I count "one Mississippi, two Mississippi" to ensure I hold it long enough.
3. Listen for Audio Confirmation
After 2-3 seconds, you'll hear a descending tone. This confirms the shutdown sequence has started.
The voice prompt will say "Power off" if you have voice prompts enabled.
4. Verify the Shutdown
The LED indicator light on the right earcup will turn off completely. No blinking, no faint glow - completely dark.
If you see any light, they're still on or in standby mode.
✅ Pro Tip: If you're storing your headphones, wait an extra second after the tone before releasing the button. This ensures complete shutdown.
When Your Bose 700 Won't Turn Off?
Sometimes the power button becomes unresponsive. I've seen this happen after firmware updates or when the battery is critically low.
Here's how to fix common Bluetooth headphone issues including power problems.
Common Power Button Issues
Button Not Responding: The most frequent issue happens when you press but nothing happens.
Try pressing harder and holding for 5 seconds instead of 3.
Headphones Turn Back On: They shut off but immediately restart.
This usually means they're still connected to a device playing audio.
Partial Shutdown: The headphones enter standby but don't fully power down.
You'll notice faster battery drain when this happens.
Force Shutdown Method
When normal shutdown fails, use the reset procedure:
- Step 1: Plug your headphones into the charger
- Step 2: While charging, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds
- Step 3: Release when you see the LED blink white twice
- Step 4: Unplug and try normal shutdown again
This reset fixed the issue for me after a problematic firmware update last month.
⏰ Time Saver: Keep your Bose Music app updated. It can remotely shut down your headphones when the button fails.
Alternative Ways to Turn Off Your Headphones
The physical button isn't your only option. I actually prefer using the app when I'm at my desk.
Using the Bose Music App
The app provides more control than the physical button:
- Open the Bose Music app on your phone
- Select your Bose 700 from the device list
- Tap the power icon in the top corner
- Confirm shutdown when prompted
The app method works even when the physical button becomes worn out. My colleague's 2-year-old headphones rely entirely on app control now.
Voice Assistant Commands
If you have Alexa or Google Assistant configured, try saying "Turn off my headphones."
This doesn't always work reliably, but it's worth trying when your hands are full.
Automatic Shutdown Methods
Configure your headphones to turn off automatically:
- Inactivity Timer: Shuts down after no audio for a set time
- Battery Saver: Powers off at low battery levels
- Scheduled Shutdown: Set specific times through the app
Understanding Auto-Off Settings
Auto-off can save battery life, but the default settings might not work for everyone.
Your Bose 700 comes with an 18-minute default timer. After 18 minutes without audio, they'll shut down automatically.
Customizing Auto-Off Timer
You can adjust this in the Bose Music app:
| Timer Setting | Best For | Battery Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | Maximum battery saving | Saves 15-20% daily |
| 18 minutes (default) | Balanced use | Saves 10-15% daily |
| 60 minutes | Minimal interruptions | Saves 5-10% daily |
| Never | Manual control only | No automatic saving |
I set mine to 5 minutes since I often forget to turn them off manually.
Standby vs Complete Shutdown
There's a difference between standby mode and full shutdown:
Standby Mode: Headphones maintain Bluetooth connection and can wake instantly, but drain 2-3% battery per hour.
Full Shutdown: Complete power off with no battery drain, but takes 3-5 seconds to restart.
For overnight storage, always use full shutdown.
Tips to Keep Your Power Button Working
After testing multiple pairs and hearing from users, button wear is the top hardware issue.
Here's how to extend your button's lifespan:
- Press Gently: Use firm but gentle pressure, not force
- Clean Regularly: Wipe around the button weekly with a dry cloth
- Avoid Moisture: Never press the button with wet fingers
- Use App Control: Alternate between button and app to reduce wear
My first pair lasted 3 years with daily use following these practices.
If you're considering alternatives, check out these audiophile headphones for gaming with more durable controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Bose 700 headphones are actually off?
Your Bose 700 headphones are fully off when the LED indicator on the right earcup shows no light at all. You'll also hear a shutdown tone and the headphones won't appear in your device's Bluetooth list.
If your power button isn't responding, try the force reset method: plug in your headphones, hold the power button for 10 seconds until the LED blinks white twice, then try again. The button might also need cleaning or the firmware may need updating through the Bose Music app.
Hold the Power/Bluetooth button for 2-3 seconds to turn off your Bose 700. If they don't respond, try holding for 5 seconds. For a force reset, hold for 10 seconds while plugged into the charger.
What's the difference between standby and turning off completely?
Standby mode keeps your headphones ready to connect instantly but drains 2-3% battery per hour. Complete shutdown stops all battery drain but takes 3-5 seconds to power back on. Use standby for short breaks and full shutdown for storage.
Can I turn off my Bose 700 headphones using the app?
Yes, the Bose Music app can turn off your headphones remotely. Open the app, select your Bose 700, and tap the power icon. This works even when the physical button becomes unresponsive.
Do Bose 700 headphones turn off automatically?
Yes, Bose 700 headphones have an auto-off feature that activates after 18 minutes of inactivity by default. You can adjust this timer in the Bose Music app from 5 minutes to never, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
After years of using Bose 700 headphones daily, the shutdown process becomes second nature. The key is finding the button location and holding it long enough.
Most power button issues resolve with a simple reset or app control.
Remember to use full shutdown for storage and consider adjusting your auto-off timer to match your usage patterns. With proper button care, your Bose 700 should provide years of reliable service.
For more audio equipment options, explore these bone conduction headphones or budget IEM earphones as alternatives.