How to Choose the Right Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise cancelling headphones are perfect for shutting off from the outside world and listening to great music while you do so.

17:14 15 November 2022

Noise cancelling headphones are perfect for shutting off from the outside world and listening to great music while you do so. Also, in the age of the Zoom call, they’re ideal for stopping intrusive outside noise from wrecking key meetings! However, many of us have suffered from the problem of buying headphones that either don’t suit our needs or have bad external noise control. 

So take a look below as we list the things you need to be aware of when choosing the right noise cancelling headphones. 

The Three Types of Noise Cancellation

There are three types you need to be aware of: passive, active, and adaptive noise cancellation. 

Passive noise cancelling headphones are the most common, and you will see them the most when you go shopping. They can be identified by their big and bulky look. This is because most of the outside noise eliminated is done so by that bulky design. This works by covering your ears to insulate and block the noise out rather than any specific technology working to do so.

Active noise cancelling headphones use technology within the headphones to provide you with ambient noise to block out any outside low-frequency sounds. If you’re a jet setter travelling on aeroplanes or taking trains often, these are perfect for blocking out engine noise and the odd bit of human chit-chat. 

Adaptive noise cancelling headphones are a new arrival in the headphone market. They adapt to the noise level outside and decide how loud or quiet to provide the ambient noise to block it out. They will sometimes do this on their own accord, or you can adjust the noise cancellation with an appropriate app. 

Find the Right One Depends on Your Needs

These three types of noise cancellation all come with great benefits and disadvantages, depending on your needs. 

Passive headphones offer the least amount of noise cancellation out of the three. Although, they have the added benefit of generally being the cheapest. 

In comparison, active and adaptive headphones provide the best noise cancellation. However, they do include a battery that will need to be charged now and then. Due to this, the headphones will also be heavier, which you need to take into consideration.

You also have the option of wired vs wireless. Wires often get in the way, and wireless headphones are convenient for many people’s needs. However, this also means you will need to charge them, which you don’t get with wired headphones.

Think About Sound Quality and Durability

Having headphones that block out surrounding sounds is all well and good, but how does the audio sound, and how long does it last? At the end of the day, you’ll be listening to it, and you always want your music or videos to sound as great as possible, noise cancelling or not. 

We recommend that you check out reviews for the potential headphones you’ve been looking at before you make a purchase to ensure the sound quality and durability won’t let you down.

Find the Right Ones for You

With so many headphones on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one. However, with careful research and consideration, you should be able to find noise cancelling headphones that you will enjoy for a long time, allowing you to be able to listen to your favourite music in peace or not miss anything in your virtual business meetings!