All Is Quiet
Noise-canceling headphones? Is this a weird modern-day paradox? Definitely not!
These little ear furnishings don’t just seal out noise by using thick pads, but make use of sophisticated technology to counteract exterior noise. Digital signal processing (DSP) uses an audio processor that “listens” to the sound around you and plays an undetectable opposite sound to cancel it out. Don’t get confused between these and noise isolating headphones – if you want complete non-interference from external sound, you need noise-canceling headphones.
One of the best aspects of noise-canceling headphones is the way in which they pair with other modern technology. If you’re a music producer or musician playing instruments, simply hook up noise cancelling headphones to your electric Stratocaster or digital piano and shut yourself away from the world. Want an extra boost in sound? Add a headphone amplifier to make your sound quality extra high fidelity.
There are certain factors to consider when choosing noise-canceling headphones:
- Wired or wireless – the most popular noise-canceling headphones are Bluetooth, but if you can live with a cable, wired sets will save you some dollars. You can also get noise-canceling headphones in the form of wireless earbuds.
- Battery life – you must remember to recharge noise-canceling headphones, so you should be aware of the battery charge. Many models will allow listening without the noise canceling ability, and this is useful if your battery dies on you.
- Comfort – most models use an over-ear design to ensure a tight seal and comfortable fit.
Here is our guide to the best noise-canceling headphones this year:
1) Bose Quiet Comfort 35 (Series II)
Overview
Although at the more expensive end of the scale, these look super slick, feel solid and well made, and arrived nicely packaged ahead of schedule. For music buffs, Bose is the name and having it emblazoned on your ear covers is surely the height of coolness.
What We Like
The sound quality on these headphones is excellent – crisp, clear and with no external interference, with previously unheard tones within familiar music being clearly audible.
They are also very comfortable and lightweight to wear, even on extremely hot, humid days.
What Needs Improving
There is a lack of compatibility with Windows 10 – hopefully Bose will rectify that soon.
Bose QuietComfort 35 (Series II) Wireless Headphones, Noise Cancelling - Black
$249.00 in stock
27 used from $149.99
2) COWIN E7 Pro (2018)
![COWIN E7 PRO [Upgraded] Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone/Deep Bass Wireless Headphones Over Ear 30 Hours Playtime for Travel/Work/Cellphone, Black](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41K8IEinpCL.jpg "COWIN E7 PRO [Upgraded] Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone/Deep Bass Wireless Headphones Over Ear 30 Hours Playtime for Travel/Work/Cellphone, Black")
Overview
Our first impression was sheer wonder when we turned them on. These headphones are like wearing cushions on your ears, so soft, delivering impeccable sound and keeping away unwanted noise. Neat and stylish, we like these.
What We Like
We tried these out for over six hours solidly, and they felt perfectly comfortable for the whole time – no headache, or overheated ears for anyone. They look smart, feel smart and the sound quality is excellent. The battery charge lasts for a minimum of 30 hours. The Cowin E7 Pro has been updated, and these noise-cancelling headphones are the best yet.
What Needs Improving
We were thoroughly impressed with the Cowin E7 Pro, however, the long cable, although generous, can get in the way if it’s not tied up.
![COWIN E7 Pro [2018 Upgraded] Active Noise Cancelling Headphone Bluetooth Headphones Microphone Hi-Fi Deep Bass Wireless Headphones Over Ear 30H Playtime Travel Work TV Computer Phone - Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41K8IEinpCL.jpg)
COWIN E7 Pro [2018 Upgraded] Active Noise Cancelling Headphone Bluetooth Headphones Microphone Hi-Fi Deep Bass Wireless Headphones Over Ear 30H Playtime Travel Work TV Computer Phone - Black
$79.99 in stock
3) Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones
Overview
These Sony headphones look like they mean business – no flashy design, just the matt black of quiet, understated style. Edgy and subtley cool, they are easily adjustable for your comfort and listening pleasure.
What We Like
When we were wearing these headphones, they were so comfortable and light that most of us forgot that we had them on.
The sound quality is amazing, with a really decent bass thrumming away. The higher notes are silky and judder-free, and nothing jars – it’s all super smooth. The Sony battery lasts forever and charges almost at the speed of sound.
What Needs Improving
These headphones are lacking a mute button, and for unexpected phone calls, that can be a little gimmicky.
Sony WH1000XM3 Wireless Industry Leading Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones, Black (WH-1000XM3/B) (2018 model)
$249.99 in stock
30 used from $144.99
If you liked this post, then also make sure you check out…