Do the Bose have a switch so you can go from noise cancelling to transparency? That would be beneficial if he has someone trying to talk to him during operation. Outside mics would pick up the conversation.
I know the Apple AirPods Pro have that function. Just squeeze the stem to switch back and forth.
Yes, both the ear buds and over the ear have transparency mode.
I dont use it but on the ear bud you tap the left ear bud to cycle through the modes. Or you can use the app. You can also through the app adjust the level of transparency.
On the over the ear headset you would use the app or simply slide the power switch to off. It's an easy access switch right in the middle right headset.
My wife has the AirPods Pro and they are very effective too. In fact she cant hear me when I talk. (we just tested it *LOL*)
With earbuds though, unlike over the ear headsets, how effective the noise reduction is will be dependent on fit. With earbuds the fit has to be perfect and of course over the ear has a lot more leeway as it jsut has to go over your ear.
I forgot about those, they maybe something the OP wants to try too. They maybe a little more prone to coming loose,. I dont know, I know with my wife they do sometimes. But trying to get her attention right now is impossible while her back is to me.
She does say, like most of the ear buds higher frequencies will get through and only when she has them perfectly in her ear does it block out my voice 100%
I think over the ear would be best for the OP IF that was allowed or convenient for him just because placement isnt critical . If not, yeah, Bose QC2, AirPods Pro and Sony WF 1000 XM4 (based on write ups, I have no knowledge of using the Sony) would be worth trying, I am sure between those he would be happy with one of them maybe.
If I was him, I would try all of them and return the ones I dont want for refund.