In a world where life is constantly punctuated by noise, finding tranquility can be a challenge. Noise cancelling earbuds offer a much-needed escape from the barrage of everyday sounds, from the hum of a busy office to the drone of an airplane’s engine. These compact audio devices employ active noise cancellation technology to reduce unwanted ambient noise, allowing for a purer listening experience or moments of serene silence.
Choosing the right pair of noise cancelling earbuds involves considering a few critical factors. Sound quality is paramount; the earbuds should deliver clear and balanced audio across various types of content. The effectiveness of noise cancellation is also crucial—it should significantly reduce ambient noise without adding noticeable hiss or affecting audio fidelity. Comfort is another important aspect, as the earbuds will often be worn for extended periods. Additionally, battery life should be sufficient to last through a long commute or a flight, and features like quick charging are a plus.
When assessing the best noise cancelling earbuds, we also take into account additional functionalities that might elevate the user experience. This includes wireless connectivity, intuitive controls, compatibility with different devices, and durability to withstand daily use. With the market offering a wide array of options, pinpointing the one that seamlessly fits into your lifestyle is key.
We have conducted extensive research and real-world testing to find the best noise cancelling earbuds that meet these criteria. Our efforts have culminated in a list that not only reflects cutting-edge technology but also user comfort and overall performance.
Top Noise Cancelling Earbuds
We’ve meticulously tested and evaluated numerous earbuds to bring you the most effective noise-cancelling options available. Our focus is on providing you with a selection of products that excel in eliminating unwanted noise, ensuring an immersive audio experience. Whether you’re commuting, working, or relaxing, our list aims to enhance your listening experience by presenting the best noise-cancelling earbuds to suit a variety of needs and preferences.
TOZO NC9 Earbuds
We think these earbuds offer a balance of quality noise cancellation and sound performance for their price bracket.
Pros
- Effective three-layer noise cancellation
- Transparent mode enhances situational awareness
- Swift pairing process enhances user convenience
Cons
- Inconsistent battery life when ANC is active
- Limited control customization
- Potential fit issues for some users
Having tried the TOZO NC9s for a few weeks, we’ve been quite taken by their noise cancellation capabilities. The outward and inward-facing microphones do an impressive job at muting the rumble of the daily commute. It’s also been convenient to switch to Transparent Mode during a conversation without needing to remove the earbuds.
The pairing process couldn’t be simpler, which saved us a lot of time and hassle. Right out of the case, they connected seamlessly to multiple devices, a welcome feature for those of us who are not so tech-savvy.
Battery life has been generally decent, though not quite as long-lasting in Active Noise Cancellation mode as we’d hoped. It’s something to keep an eye on during extended use. The earbuds are snappy enough to recharge in the compact case, providing several additional charges without needing a power source.
Beats Studio Buds
We found these earbuds to bring a satisfying balance of sound quality and noise-cancellation to our everyday use, making them a solid choice for most listeners.
Pros
- Effective noise cancellation for immersive audio
- Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Excellent Bluetooth range with minimal dropouts
Cons
- Battery life may fall short for all-day users
- Lacks wireless charging capability
- The case feels less durable compared to others
Slipping on the Beats Studio Buds, we immediately noticed the snug, almost bespoke fit provided by the three different ear tip sizes. This hallmark of comfort, complemented by the satisfying hush of active noise cancellation, allowed us to sink into our music in bustling environments, from crowded commutes to noisy office spaces. The sound profile was crisp and balanced, with the truly wireless experience unmarred by any bothersome connection loss.
During our testing, convenience stood out. The compact charging case easily fit in our pockets, albeit we did find ourselves wishing it supported wireless charging for an added layer of ease. Despite that, the quick charge feature proved handy, giving us an appreciable boost with just a few minutes of charging when we forgot to plug them in overnight.
While working out, the IPX4 rating kept our minds at ease, as a little sweat didn’t threaten the earbuds’ functionality. Calls were crisp and clear, with the built-in microphones delivering solid performance during both phone and video calls. It’s worth noting that while Beats claims up to 8 hours of listening time, our heavy usage peppered with calls and max-volume sessions meant more frequent visits to the charging case than some might like.
Our collective experience shows that the Beats Studio Buds cater well to both Android and Apple users looking for a versatile, convenient earbud that doesn’t skimp on sound quality or ease of use, despite some minor shortcomings in battery life and build quality.
JBL Tune 230NC
We found the JBL Tune 230NC earbuds to be a solid choice for anyone seeking quality sound and active noise cancelling at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Impressive Pure Bass Sound that enhances the music experience
- Active Noise Cancelling effectively reduces ambient noises
- Comfortable fit with a water-resistant design suitable for workouts
Cons
- Occasional need to adjust earbud tips for optimal sound and fit
- Users may experience some Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Ambient Aware feature could be improved for better situational awareness
Upon trying out the JBL Tune 230NC earbuds, we immediately noticed the substantial bass that these compact buds deliver. The JBL signature sound is unmistakable, providing an immersive listening experience that really brings out the depth in our favorite tracks.
During calls, we were impressed by the clarity delivered by the four microphones; the person on the other end could hear us loud and clear, and we appreciate that especially in noisier environments.
We especially love how the earbuds felt secure in our ears throughout various activities, such as jogging on a drizzly morning. Their IPX4 rating against water means we didn’t stress over sweat or rain damaging them, which is quite reassuring.
On the flip side, we did have to pause now and then to adjust the earbuds for better noise cancellation and sound. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a hassle-free fit.
We did face some interruptions with Bluetooth connectivity. While not frequent, it’s an aspect that could be smoother. Quick toggling of the Bluetooth settings remedied this and we were back to enjoying our tunes.
Lastly, while the ambient mode is a thoughtful addition for those who want to stay aware of their surroundings, we feel there’s room for refinement. It’s helpful, but we could use a more natural ambient sound from these earbuds.
Overall, we’re quite taken with the JBL Tune 230NC for their robust audio performance and functional noise cancelling. Despite a few minor drawbacks, these earbuds have proven to be a reliable companion both for enjoying music and handling our calls on the go.
Soundcore Space A40
We recommend the Soundcore Space A40 earbuds for their impressive noise-cancellation and comfortable fit for long listening sessions.
Pros
- Superior noise-cancellation experience
- Comfort remains uncompromised even after extensive use
- Fast charging feature is a time-saver
Cons
- Struggle to block out chatter effectively
- Bass-heavy sound profile may not suit all genres
- Limited color options might not appeal to everyone
Having spent ample time with the Soundcore Space A40 earbuds, I’ve found the noise cancellation to be a standout feature. The advanced technology truly minimizes ambient noise, creating a private haven for music and calls. On a packed train or busy street, the earbuds held their ground, proving their worth.
Comfort is another factor these earbuds excel at. With a lot of earbuds, I tend to experience discomfort after just an hour or two, but not with these. They’re lightweight and sit snugly in the ear, allowing for marathon sessions of music or podcasts without the urge to take them out.
During a hectic week, the quick charging capability has been a lifesaver. A brief charge during a coffee break provides hours of playback, which means being caught without music is a rarity. It’s one of those features that, once experienced, becomes essential.
Beats Fit Pro
We think you’ll be thoroughly impressed by the noise-cancelling capabilities and fit of the Beats Fit Pro, especially if you’re in search of earbuds that can keep up with a dynamic lifestyle.
Pros
- Exceptional sound with robust bass and clear highs
- Secure fit with wingtips that adjust to stay put during workouts
- Reliable battery life for sustained enjoyment
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Wingtips may not be comfortable for everyone
- Lack of an accompanying app for sound customization
Having just tried them out, we can confidently say that the Beats Fit Pro earbuds offer a powerful, balanced audio experience that can truly enhance your favorite tracks. Their Active Noise Cancelling functionality immerses you in music, making it feel like you’re in a world of your own.
We’ve found that the secure-fit wingtips are a standout feature for anyone who’s active; whether you’re hitting the gym or just on a bustling commute. We certainly appreciated how they stayed comfortably in place throughout the day without needing constant adjustment.
The Beats Fit Pro also boasts an impressive battery life, which we found quite sufficient for daily use. Six hours per charge and an additional 18 with the case mean you’re covered for long flights or a couple of days’ worth of commutes, without the hassle of frequent charging.
Despite their higher price tag, which may be a drawback for some budget-conscious individuals, we believe the quality of these earbuds justifies the investment. However, it’s worth noting that individuals with smaller ears may find the wingtips less comfortable, which could be a dealbreaker for comfort-focused users.
Lastly, while the sound is indeed exceptional straight out of the box, audiophiles who prefer to tweak and personalize their listening experience may miss having an app to control the EQ settings—a minor caveat in an otherwise versatile pair of earbuds.
Buying Guide
Understanding Noise Cancellation
We must assess the type of noise cancellation technology used. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) employs microphones and speakers to reduce ambient noise. Meanwhile, passive noise isolation relies on the earbud design to physically block noise.
Key Features to Consider
- Battery Life: It’s important to check the earbud’s battery longevity, especially with ANC enabled.
- Comfort: Since earbuds are worn for extended periods, we should prioritize comfort and fit.
Evaluating Sound Quality
Sound quality is subjective, but a flat frequency response with the ability to equalize settings to our preference often provides a satisfying listening experience.
Additional Functionality
Some earbuds offer features like transparency mode, which allows us to hear ambient noise when necessary, or control customization.
Durability and Water Resistance
Checking for durability standards and IP ratings ensures we choose earbuds that can withstand our daily activities and weather conditions.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | ANC and/or passive isolation |
| Battery Life | Minimum hours of playtime with ANC |
| Comfort | Multiple ear tip sizes and materials |
| Sound Quality | Frequency response and equalizer options |
| Additional Features | Transparency mode, app support |
| Durability | Build quality, IP rating for water resistance |
Remember to read reviews and watch comparison videos without focusing on a single brand or product to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we address some of the most common queries about noise cancelling earbuds to help you make an informed choice for your needs.
What are the top noise cancelling earbuds to use while sleeping?
For sleeping, we recommend earbuds with a comfortable fit and effective noise cancelling capabilities such as the Bose Sleepbuds II. They’re specifically designed to stay put during the night and mask unwanted noise.
Which noise cancelling earbuds offer the best value under $100?
The Anker Soundcore Life P3 offers a great balance between cost and performance for under $100. They provide respectable noise cancellation and a solid battery life.
What are the optimal noise cancelling earbuds for making phone calls?
We find the Sony WF-1000XM4 to be exceptional for phone calls. They have a beamforming microphone and bone-conduction sensor that ensure clear voice pick-up even in noisy environments.
Can you recommend noise cancelling earbuds that are compatible with Android devices?
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro are an excellent choice for Android users, offering strong noise cancellation and seamless integration with Android devices.
Which earbuds are most effective for noise cancellation during flights?
For frequent flyers, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are hard to beat. They have powerful noise cancellation that’s well-suited for minimizing airplane cabin noise.
What do consumer reviews on Reddit suggest about the best noise cancelling earbuds?
Consumer reviews on Reddit frequently praise the Apple AirPods Pro for their noise cancelling technology and comfort, even for users of non-Apple devices.