Do Noise-Cancelling Headphones Actually Work?
We're discussing genuine ANC without the bothersome static noise.
Our Top 5 Noise-Cancelling Headphones That Deliver
When it comes to listening to music, noise-cancelling headphones can make all the difference. Whether you’re on a crowded train or trying to drown out the sound of your neighbor’s lawnmower, a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can create the perfect sonic sanctuary.
But do noise-cancelling headphones actually work? The short answer is yes, and they work so well that it feels like magic. However, not all headphones that promise to cancel noise actually deliver on their claims. Just like not every expensive pair of glasses will protect your eyes from blue light, not every pricey set of headphones will guarantee true noise cancellation.
So how do noise-cancelling headphones work? Imagine having a personal noise-canceling wizard right inside your headphones. These headphones use internal microphones that listen to the outside world and the noises around you. Then, like a wizard casting a spell, the headphones invert the noise and send it to the speakers. The idea is that the sound waves from the noise and the inverted noise cancel each other out, leaving you with almost silence – the perfect soundscape for enjoying your favorite music.
Over-ear headphones even take it a step further by creating a tight seal around your ears, adding another layer of sound blocking. In the past, noise-cancelling earbuds didn’t feature active noise cancellation, but now there are plenty of options available. However, if you’re a noise-cancellation snob, stick with headphones as they provide a better seal and more effective noise cancellation.
Now that we know how noise-cancelling headphones work, let’s dive into the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market.
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What Are the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones to Buy?
When it comes to noise cancellation, two brands stand out from the rest: Bose and Sony. Both brands are renowned for their audio quality and industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. However, there are also some other brands and models worth considering. Here are the top picks:
Best for Adjustable ANC: Bose 700
The Bose 700 headphones offer 10 different levels of active noise cancellation, so you can adjust it based on your preferences. Sometimes, complete silence can be too intense or uncomfortable, and you might prefer a little ambient noise. With the Bose 700, you have the flexibility to find the perfect balance. Plus, they deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort, making them an excellent investment.
Who it’s for: If you’re someone who wants more control over their noise cancellation experience, the Bose 700 headphones are the perfect fit.
Why we picked this: Although the Bose 700 headphones come with a higher price tag, they offer the most adjustable ANC. And guess what? They have frequently gone on sale, so keep an eye out for a good deal. These headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort, making them worth every penny.
Battery life: Up to 20 hours | Bluetooth range: 33 feet | App-connected: Yes
Most Comfortable Headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones prioritize comfort without sacrificing noise cancellation. If you’re someone who wears their headphones all day, these are the perfect choice. They offer a snug and comfortable fit, making them ideal for long flights or extended listening sessions. Plus, they feature Bose’s new immersive spatial audio, providing a concert-like experience.
Who it’s for: If comfort is your priority and you want headphones you can wear all day without discomfort, then the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the way to go.
Why we picked this: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the most comfortable noise-cancelling headphones we’ve tested. They provide excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. You can wear them for hours without any discomfort, and their immersive spatial audio technology adds a whole new dimension to your listening experience.
Battery life: 24 hours | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App-connected: Yes
Best for Music Lovers or Audiophiles: Sony WH-1000XM5
For those who value both noise cancellation and audio quality, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are the perfect choice. These headphones deliver a balanced sound that lets your music shine while still blocking out ambient noise. With exceptional audio performance and effective noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM5s are a dream come true for music lovers and audiophiles.
Who it’s for: If you’re passionate about music and want headphones that provide excellent sound quality alongside top-notch noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are the ones to get.
Why we picked this: The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones provide a well-rounded sound with clear highs, rich mids, and deep lows. They create a balanced sonic experience that brings your music to life. With their long battery life and comfortable fit, these headphones are perfect for long listening sessions.
Battery life: 30 hours | Bluetooth range: 32 feet | App-connected: Yes
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro
If you prefer the compactness of earbuds over headphones, the Apple AirPods Pro are the best noise-cancelling earbuds on the market. They offer impressive noise cancellation for their small size and are discreet and easy to carry. With the added benefit of USB-C charging, these earbuds are a convenient and effective choice for ANC on the go.
Who it’s for: If you want ANC without the bulk of over-ear headphones, and you’re already a part of the Apple ecosystem, the Apple AirPods Pro are the perfect fit.
Why we picked this: The AirPods Pro may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to noise cancellation. They offer a comfortable fit and provide excellent sound quality. With the new USB-C charging port, you can easily charge them directly from your iPhone 15. They may be a bit pricey, but the ANC and overall convenience make them worth it.
Battery life: 6 hours (up to 30 hours with charging case) | Bluetooth range: 30 to 60 feet | App-connected: No
Best More Affordable Earbuds: Beats Studio Buds+
If you’re looking for quality ANC earbuds at a more affordable price, the Beats Studio Buds+ are a great choice. They offer decent noise cancellation and deliver a well-rounded sound with strong bass. These earbuds are perfect for Android users, thanks to their Google Fast Pair support. Plus, they provide a comfortable fit, making them a solid alternative to the AirPods Pro.
Who it’s for: If you’re on a budget and want ANC earbuds that won’t break the bank, the Beats Studio Buds+ are a fantastic option.
Why we picked this: The Beats Studio Buds+ offer an excellent combination of affordability and decent ANC performance. They provide a comfortable fit and deliver a balanced sound profile with a focus on bass. These earbuds are perfect for music lovers who want to enjoy their favorite tracks without distraction.
Battery life: 6 hours with ANC, 9 hours without (27 hours with charging case) | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App-connected: No
How We Tested for the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones
At ENBLE, we take our testing seriously. Every single pair of headphones included in this guide has been thoroughly tested and evaluated by our expert reporters and editors. We considered factors such as the effectiveness of the active noise cancellation, comfort, battery life, audio quality, and any special features each pair of headphones offered.
We didn’t just rely on our existing headphone reviews either; we performed additional hands-on testing specifically for this guide. The headphones on our list are the cream of the crop, and they have earned their spot through rigorous testing.
Conclusion: Escape From the Noisy World
Noise-cancelling headphones are truly a magical invention. They have the power to transport you to a world of pure audio bliss, free from the distractions of the outside world. Whether you choose the adjustable ANC of the Bose 700, the exceptional comfort of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, the audio excellence of the Sony WH-1000XM5, or the convenience of the Apple AirPods Pro and Beats Studio Buds+, you can’t go wrong with any of these top picks.
So say goodbye to the incessant sounds of jet engines or the chatty co-worker in the next cubicle. Embrace the power of noise cancellation and immerse yourself in your favorite music like never before. It’s time to escape from the noisy world and create your own private auditory paradise.
Now, let’s address some common questions readers may have:
Q&A
Q: Can noise-cancelling headphones completely eliminate all external noise?
A: While noise-cancelling headphones can significantly reduce external noise, they may not completely eliminate all sounds. They are highly effective at canceling low-frequency repetitive sounds, such as the hum of airplane engines or background chatter, but they may not block sudden loud noises or higher-frequency sounds as effectively.
Q: Do noise-cancelling headphones require a separate power source?
A: Yes, noise-cancelling headphones require a power source to operate the active noise cancellation technology. Most models come with built-in batteries that need to be charged periodically. Some wireless headphones can also be used in passive mode without noise cancellation if the battery runs out.
Q: Can noise-cancelling headphones cause any discomfort or ear pressure?
A: Some users may experience slight discomfort or a feeling of ear pressure while wearing noise-cancelling headphones, especially for extended periods. This sensation is caused by the tight seal created by over-ear headphones or the in-ear design of earbuds. However, modern noise-cancelling headphones are designed for maximum comfort, and most users won’t experience any discomfort.
Q: Are noise-cancelling headphones worth the investment?
A: If you value high-quality audio and want to enjoy your music, podcasts, or audiobooks without distraction, noise-cancelling headphones are definitely worth the investment. They provide a more immersive listening experience and can be a game-changer for frequent travelers, commuters, and anyone who wants to escape the noise of the world.
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References:
- Bose 700 headphones
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones
- Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones
- Apple AirPods Pro
- Beats Studio Buds+
