Introduction
Noise-canceling headphones have become an essential accessory for travelers, offering a serene listening experience by reducing ambient noise. Whether you’re on a plane, train, or bus, these headphones can significantly enhance your travel experience by providing peace and quiet. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 noise-canceling headphones for travel, highlighting their features, benefits, and what sets them apart from the competition.
Importance of Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel
Traveling can expose you to a variety of unwanted noises, from the hum of airplane engines to the chatter of fellow passengers. Noise-canceling headphones can help mitigate these distractions, allowing you to relax, focus, or enjoy your music and podcasts without interruption. The ability to block out ambient noise can also reduce stress and fatigue, making your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
What to Look for in Noise-Canceling Headphones
When choosing noise-canceling headphones for travel, it’s important to consider several key factors:
- Battery Life: Long battery life ensures your headphones last throughout your journey.
- Comfort and Fit: Comfortable headphones are essential for long trips.
- Sound Quality: High-quality sound enhances your listening experience.
- Price: Find a balance between features and budget.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight headphones are easier to carry.
- Additional Features: Features like wireless connectivity, touch controls, and voice assistant integration can enhance usability.
Top 10 Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel
01. Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are renowned for their exceptional noise-canceling capabilities, superior sound quality, and comfortable design. They offer up to 30 hours of battery life, making them ideal for long journeys.
Specifications | |
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Model Name | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
Battery Backup | 30 hours of battery life |
Sony WH-1000XM4
he Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are renowned for their exceptional noise-canceling capabilities
02. Bose QuietComfort 45
Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones provide outstanding noise cancellation and a comfortable fit. With up to 24 hours of battery life and excellent sound quality, they are perfect for travelers.
Specifications | |
---|---|
Model Name | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
Battery Backup | up to 24 hours of battery |
Bose QuietComfort 45
Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones provide outstanding noise cancellation and a comfortable
03. Apple AirPods Max
Apple AirPods Max combine high-fidelity audio with industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation. Their premium design and seamless integration with Apple devices make them a top choice for Apple enthusiasts.
Specifications | |
---|---|
Model Name | Apple AirPods Max |
Battery Backup | Up to 20 hours |
About Details Apple AirPods Max | BREATHTAKING AUDIO QUALITY — Apple-designed dynamic driver provides high-fidelity audio. Computational audio combines custom acoustic design with the Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences. FOCUS ON WHAT’S PLAYING — Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside noise so you can immerse yourself in music. HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — Transparency mode lets you hear and interact with the world around you. PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, ACOUSTIC-FIRST DESIGN — Designed with a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions for an exceptional over-ear fit that perfectly seals in sound. MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Pair AirPods Max by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen. LONG BATTERY LIFE — Up to 20 hours of listening, movie watching, or talk time with Active Noise Cancellation and Personalized Spatial Audio enabled. |
Apple AirPods Max
Apple AirPods Max combine high-fidelity audio with industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation.
04. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones offer robust noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and a stylish design. They provide up to 17 hours of battery life and feature intuitive controls.
Brand | Sennheiser Consumer Audio |
Color | Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | On Ear |
Impedance | 470 Ohm |
About Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
- Auto on:off and smart pause never miss a beat with seamless on:off and pause functionality; Plays your music faster than any other headphone
- Active noise cancellation and transparent hearing Momentum 3 wireless adapts to your environment wherever you find yourself
- Exceptional comfort soft ear pads and headband crafted from genuine leather insure exceptional wearing comfort during long listening sessions
- Three button interface provides easy operation without having to read a manual
- Automatic pairing mode makes setting up Momentum 3 wireless easy on the first activation
Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones offer robust noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and a stylish design
05. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9
ABOUT THIS PRODUCTS:
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 headphones deliver luxurious comfort, excellent noise cancellation, and impressive sound quality. They offer up to 25 hours of battery life and a sleek, premium design.
Easy Listening: Effortlessly adjust the volume, switch tracks, and handle calls with on-device touch controls. A dedicated button for your device’s native voice assistant simplifies headphone operation even further.
Background Noise Control: Advanced Active Noise Cancellation effectively reduces both high- and low-frequency background noises. Use Transparency Mode to quickly tune back into your surroundings with a swipe on the touchpad.
A Sound Experience: Enjoy unparalleled Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound with a bass port for deep sound and two dedicated microphones for enhanced voice call clarity.
Freedom to Move: The Beoplay H9 wireless over-ear headphones can pair with up to two devices simultaneously and remember up to eight. With a 10-meter operating range, you have the freedom to move around comfortably.
25 Hours of Music: A single full charge, taking 2.5 hours, provides up to 25 hours of playback with both Bluetooth and Active Noise Cancellation enabled, thanks to a bigger and better battery.
Power Source: Battery-powered for your convenience.
Brand | Bang & Olufsen |
Color | Matte Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 headphones deliver luxurious comfort, excellent noise cancellation
06. JBL Live 650BTNC
JBL Live 650BTNC headphones offer effective noise cancellation, great sound quality, and a comfortable fit. They provide up to 30 hours of battery life and feature voice assistant integration.
Signature Sound
Slip on a pair of JBL LIVE 650BTNC wireless over-ear Bluetooth headphones and elevate your day. With powerful 40mm drivers, these headphones deliver JBL’s signature sound with enhanced bass, making every track pop.
Mute Distractions
Designed to be lightweight and comfortable, the JBL LIVE 650BTNC headphones feature noise-cancelling technology to keep your groove undisturbed. Manage calls directly from the ear cup buttons without needing to look at your phone.
Get Help from Voice Assistant
Activate Google Voice Assistant or Amazon Alexa by tapping the ear cup. Play your favorite playlist, text your friend, check the weather, and more. Use the JBL app to easily set your preferred voice assistant.
Rock Out Uninterrupted
Enjoy up to 30 hours of sound with Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) turned off, or 20 hours with both ANC and Bluetooth on. Need a quick boost? A 15-minute charge gives you an extra 2 hours of playtime.
Multi-Point Connection
Switch effortlessly between Bluetooth devices with multi-point connection. Seamlessly transition from a video on your tablet to a call on your phone, ensuring you never miss a beat.
Brand | JBL |
Color | Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Impedance | 32 Ohm |
JBL Live 650BTNC
JBL Live 650BTNC headphones offer effective noise cancellation, great sound quality,
07. AKG N700NC M2
AKG N700NC M2 headphones deliver high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation. With up to 23 hours of battery life and a comfortable design, they are great for travel.
Engineered Sound. Unparalleled Comfort.
Experience the ultimate in audio quality and comfort with these over-the-ear headphones. Designed for noise isolation and featuring replaceable earpads, rotating ear cups, and advanced noise cancellation, these headphones offer foldable convenience and immersive surround sound. Additional features include in-line control, ambient sound mode, a rechargeable battery, a built-in on/off switch, stereo sound, and an adjustable headband.
Key Features:
- Microphone Type: Built-In
- Wireless Technology: Bluetooth
Package Contents:
- 1 Headphones
- 1 Carrying case
- 1 Flight adapter
- 1 USB charging cable
- 1 Straight cable
AKG N700NC M2
AKG N700NC M2 headphones deliver high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation
08. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offer excellent noise cancellation, great sound quality, and a comfortable fit. They provide up to 20 hours of battery life and feature intuitive touch controls.
Spectacular Omnisonic Sound
Immerse yourself in your favorite music, shows, and more with spectacular Omnisonic sound.
Touch Control
Effortlessly manage your audio experience with intuitive touch controls that let you skip tracks, answer/end calls, and get hands-free assistance.
Long Battery Life
Power through your day with up to 18.5 hours of music listening time or up to 15 hours of voice calling on Microsoft Teams. A quick 5-minute charge provides almost an hour of music playback.
Comfortable Design
Enjoy all-day comfort with soft, breathable, and lightweight over-ear pads.
Extended Playtime
A full charge now lasts up to 20 hours, ensuring your listening experience goes uninterrupted.
Brand | Microsoft |
Color | Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offer excellent noise cancellation, great sound quality, and a comfortable fit.
09. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
About this item
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer impressive noise cancellation, good sound quality, and a budget-friendly price. They provide up to 40 hours of battery life and feature multiple noise-canceling modes.
Hi-Res Certified Music
Experience every detail of your favorite songs with the Life Q30’s 40mm drivers. The highly flexible silk diaphragms deliver powerful bass and crisp treble, extending up to 40kHz for enhanced clarity.
Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology
Stay focused with the Life Q30’s hybrid active noise cancellation. Dual noise-detecting microphones filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound, ensuring your music is free from distractions.
Ultimate Noise Cancellation Experience
Customize your noise cancellation with three modes: Transport minimizes airplane engine noise, Outdoor reduces traffic and wind sounds, and Indoor dampens office noise and background chatter.
40-Hour Playtime
Enjoy up to 40 hours of music in noise cancelling mode with the Life Q30 headphones. Switch to standard mode for an extended playtime of up to 60 hours. A quick 5-minute charge provides 4 hours of listening.
Brand | Soundcore |
Color | Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer impressive noise cancellation, good sound quality, and a budget-friendly price.
10. Shure AONIC 50
About this Shure AONIC 50 :
Shure AONIC 50 headphones deliver high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation. With up to 20 hours of battery life and a comfortable design, they are ideal for long journeys.
Premium, Studio-Quality Sound
Experience exceptional audio with custom-engineered 50mm dynamic drivers, developed from decades of professional expertise for critical listeners.
Spatialized Audio Technology
Enhance the depth of your listening experience with our proprietary algorithm, which widens the soundstage without adding unnatural artifacts. Available in three unique modes: Music, Cinema, or Podcast.
New Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Technology
Block out distractions with our advanced hybrid ANC technology, providing a truly immersive and natural listening experience, improved from the previous generation.
Up to 45 Hours Battery Life
Enjoy extended listening with up to 45 hours of battery life and quick charge capabilities. A 15-minute charge provides 5 hours of use, more than doubling the runtime of the previous generation.
Customizable EQ
Tailor your sound with multiple presets or create your own using the free ShurePlus PLAY app. Settings save directly to your headphones for a seamless audio experience across apps and devices.
Premium Communication
Benefit from clear call quality with beamforming microphone technology and proprietary automatic gain control (AGC) settings.
Bluetooth 5 Wireless Technology
Enjoy enhanced stability with Bluetooth 5 wireless technology, featuring a class 1 transmitter with a range of up to 100 meters (320 feet).
Versatile Connectivity
Connect to wired sources with the included 3.5mm analog audio cable or use the USB-C digital input for charging and high-resolution streaming audio.
What’s in the Box
- 1 pair of AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones
- Compact carrying case
- 3.5mm analog audio cable
- USB-C cable
Brand | Shure |
Color | Black |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Model Name | SBH50G2-BK |
Shure AONIC 50
Shure AONIC 50 headphones deliver high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation.
Detailed Reviews
Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely regarded as one of the best noise-canceling headphones on the market. They feature advanced noise-canceling technology that adapts to your environment, ensuring a consistently quiet experience. The headphones also offer exceptional sound quality, with powerful bass and clear highs. The comfortable design, with plush ear cups and a lightweight frame, makes them perfect for extended use. Additionally, the WH-1000XM4 supports a range of smart features, including touch controls, voice assistant integration, and multipoint connectivity, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously.
Bose QuietComfort 45
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are the latest in Bose’s acclaimed QuietComfort line. They feature improved noise-canceling technology that effectively blocks out ambient noise, making them ideal for travel. The headphones offer a comfortable fit, with soft ear cushions and a lightweight design. Sound quality is excellent, with a balanced sound profile that delivers clear vocals and deep bass. The QC45 also boasts a long battery life of up to 24 hours and supports fast charging, providing up to 3 hours of playback from a 15-minute charge. The intuitive controls and seamless device pairing make these headphones user-friendly and convenient.
Apple AirPods Max
Apple’s AirPods Max are a premium offering that combines high-fidelity audio with advanced noise-canceling technology. The headphones feature custom-built drivers that deliver rich, detailed sound with deep bass and crisp highs. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is among the best in the industry, effectively reducing ambient noise across a wide range of frequencies. The AirPods Max are also designed for comfort, with memory foam ear cushions and a breathable knit mesh canopy. The headphones seamlessly integrate with Apple devices, offering features like spatial audio and dynamic head tracking for an immersive listening experience. Battery life is up to 20 hours with ANC and spatial audio enabled.
Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones are known for their stylish design and high-quality sound. They feature active noise cancellation that effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing you to focus on your music or calls. The headphones offer a balanced sound profile with strong bass, clear mids, and detailed highs. The comfortable design, with leather ear cushions and a stainless steel headband, makes them suitable for long listening sessions. The Momentum 3 Wireless also includes features like auto on/off and smart pause, which automatically pauses your music when you take the headphones off and resumes when you put them back on. Battery life is up to 17 hours with ANC enabled.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 headphones are a luxurious option that combines premium materials with excellent noise-canceling capabilities. The headphones feature soft lambskin leather ear cushions and a polished aluminum frame, providing both comfort and durability. The noise cancellation is highly effective, allowing you to enjoy your music without distractions. Sound quality is superb, with a rich, detailed sound profile that delivers deep bass and clear highs. The Beoplay H9 also offers up to 25 hours of battery life with ANC enabled and includes touch controls for easy operation.
JBL Live 650BTNC
JBL Live 650BTNC headphones offer a great balance of performance and value. They feature active noise cancellation that effectively reduces ambient noise, making them suitable for travel. The headphones deliver powerful sound with deep bass and clear highs, thanks to JBL’s signature sound profile. The comfortable design, with padded ear cups and a lightweight frame, ensures a pleasant listening experience. The Live 650BTNC also includes voice assistant integration, allowing you to access Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa with a simple touch. Battery life is up to 30 hours with ANC off and up to 20 hours with ANC on.
AKG N700NC M2
The AKG N700NC M2 headphones offer high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation at a competitive price. They feature adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to your surroundings, providing a quiet listening experience. The headphones deliver clear, balanced sound with strong bass and detailed highs. The comfortable design, with memory foam ear cushions and a foldable frame, makes them easy to carry and store. The N700NC M2 also includes features like ambient aware and talk-through mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings or have conversations without removing the headphones. Battery life is up to 23 hours with ANC enabled.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offer a great combination of noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort. They feature adjustable noise cancellation that allows you to control the level of noise reduction, providing a personalized listening experience. The headphones deliver clear, detailed sound with a balanced profile. The comfortable design, with soft ear cushions and a lightweight frame, makes them suitable for long periods of use. The Surface Headphones 2 also includes intuitive touch controls and voice assistant integration, allowing you to control your music and access Cortana with ease. Battery life is up to 20 hours with ANC enabled.
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and sound quality at an affordable price. They feature hybrid active noise cancellation that effectively reduces ambient noise, making them ideal for travel. The headphones deliver powerful sound with deep bass and clear highs, thanks to custom 40mm drivers. The comfortable design, with memory foam ear cups and a lightweight frame, ensures a pleasant listening experience. The Life Q30 also includes multiple noise-canceling modes, allowing you to customize the level of noise reduction for different environments. Battery life is up to 40 hours with ANC enabled.
Shure AONIC 50
The Shure AONIC 50 headphones deliver high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation. They feature adjustable noise cancellation that allows you to control the level of noise reduction, providing a personalized listening experience. The headphones deliver clear, detailed sound with a balanced profile. The comfortable design, with soft ear cushions and a lightweight frame, makes them suitable for long periods of use. The AONIC 50 also includes intuitive touch controls and voice assistant integration, allowing you to control your music and access Siri or Google Assistant with ease. Battery life is up to 20 hours with ANC enabled.
How Noise-Canceling Technology Works
Noise-canceling headphones use advanced technology to reduce unwanted ambient sounds. They feature built-in microphones that pick up external noise and generate sound waves that are the exact opposite (anti-phase) of the detected noise. This process, known as destructive interference, effectively cancels out the external noise, allowing you to enjoy your music without distractions. There are two main types of noise cancellation: passive and active. Passive noise cancellation relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out sound, while active noise cancellation uses electronic circuitry to cancel out noise.
Benefits of Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travelers
Noise-canceling headphones offer several benefits for travelers:
- Reduced Noise: They block out ambient noise, allowing you to enjoy your music, movies, or podcasts without distractions.
- Improved Focus: By reducing background noise, noise-canceling headphones help you concentrate on work or relaxation.
- Stress Reduction: Lower noise levels can reduce stress and fatigue, making your travel experience more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Audio Quality: Noise-canceling headphones provide a better listening experience by eliminating background noise.
- Comfort: Many noise-canceling headphones are designed for long-term comfort, making them ideal for long journeys.
Comparing Noise-Canceling and Passive Noise Isolation
While both noise-canceling and passive noise isolation headphones aim to reduce unwanted sounds, they do so in different ways. Passive noise isolation relies on the physical design and materials of the headphones to block out noise. This can include thick ear cushions, tight seals, and over-ear designs that cover the ears completely. Active noise-canceling headphones, on the other hand, use electronic circuitry to generate sound waves that cancel out ambient noise. Active noise cancellation is generally more effective at reducing low-frequency sounds, such as engine noise, while passive noise isolation is better at blocking out higher-frequency sounds.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Canceling Headphones
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider, especially for long trips. Look for headphones that offer at least 20 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled. Some models also support fast charging, allowing you to get several hours of playback from a short charge.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential for long-term use. Look for headphones with soft ear cushions, adjustable headbands, and lightweight designs. Over-ear headphones generally provide the best comfort and noise isolation.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a key consideration for any pair of headphones. Look for headphones with a balanced sound profile, strong bass, clear mids, and detailed highs. Some models also offer customizable sound settings through companion apps.
Price
Noise-canceling headphones are available at various price points. While premium models offer the best features and performance, there are also budget-friendly options that provide good noise cancellation and sound quality.
Portability
Portability is important for travelers. Look for headphones that are foldable and come with a carrying case. Lightweight designs are also easier to carry and wear for extended periods.
Additional Features
Consider additional features that enhance usability, such as wireless connectivity, touch controls, voice assistant integration, and customizable noise-canceling modes. Some models also offer features like ambient aware and talk-through mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones.
User Testimonials and Experiences
Many travelers have shared positive experiences with noise-canceling headphones. Users often praise the ability to block out background noise, making flights and train rides more enjoyable. Comfort and sound quality are also commonly highlighted, with many users noting that noise-canceling headphones provide a more immersive listening experience. Some travelers have mentioned that the headphones help reduce stress and fatigue by creating a quieter environment.
Expert Insights on Top 10 Noise-Canceling Headphones
Experts agree that noise-canceling headphones can significantly enhance the travel experience. According to audio engineers, the advanced noise-canceling technology used in top models effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing for a more enjoyable listening experience. Industry professionals also emphasize the importance of comfort and battery life for travelers, recommending headphones that offer long battery life and a comfortable fit. Additionally, experts suggest looking for features like customizable sound settings and multiple noise-canceling modes to tailor the listening experience to different environments.
Conclusion
Noise-canceling headphones are a valuable investment for travelers, offering a quieter and more enjoyable listening experience. Whether you’re on a long flight, a train ride, or simply need some peace and quiet, the right pair of headphones can make all the difference. By considering factors like battery life, comfort, sound quality, and additional features, you can find the perfect pair of noise-canceling headphones for your travel needs. With options ranging from premium models to budget-friendly choices, there’s something for every traveler.
FAQs
How do noise-canceling headphones work?
Noise-canceling headphones use built-in microphones to detect external noise and generate sound waves that are the exact opposite (anti-phase) of the detected noise. This process, known as destructive interference, effectively cancels out the external noise, allowing you to enjoy your music without distractions.
Are noise-canceling headphones worth it for travel?
Yes, noise-canceling headphones are worth it for travel as they can significantly reduce ambient noise, making your journey more enjoyable and less stressful. They allow you to focus on your music, movies, or work without being disturbed by background sounds.
Can noise-canceling headphones be used without music?
Yes, noise-canceling headphones can be used without music. Many models offer a noise-canceling mode that allows you to block out ambient noise even when you’re not listening to music. This can be helpful for creating a quiet environment for relaxation or concentration.
What is the difference between noise-canceling and noise-isolating headphones?
Noise-canceling headphones use electronic circuitry to generate sound waves that cancel out ambient noise, while noise-isolating headphones rely on their physical design and materials to block out sound. Noise-canceling headphones are generally more effective at reducing low-frequency sounds, while noise-isolating headphones are better at blocking out higher-frequency sounds.
How long do noise-canceling headphones last on a single charge?
Battery life varies by model, but many noise-canceling headphones offer at least 20 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled. Some models also support fast charging, allowing you to get several hours of playback from a short charge.