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All is quiet… We put the best noise-cancelling headphones of September, 2018 through their paces.
Noise cancelling headphones? Is this a weird modern day paradox? Nope, turns out not.
These little ear furnishings don’t simply 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 opposite sound to cancel it out. Don’t get confused between these and noise isolating headphones – the latter block external noise by giving you giant padded Princess Leia buns over your ears!
There are certain factors to consider when choosing noise cancelling headphones:
- Wired or wireless – the most popular noise cancelling headphones are Bluetooth, but if you can live with a cable, wired sets will save you some dollars.
- Battery life – you must remember to recharge noise-canceling headphones, so should be aware of the battery charge. Many models will allow listening without the noise cancelling 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 cancelling headphones of September, 2018:
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
- Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for clear phone calls and voice activation, which now includes Amazon Alexa. Simply update your software via the Bose Connect App and you will have the ability to hit the Action button to access hands-free voice control. You can also use the Action button to adjust the level of noise cancellation.
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2) COWIN E7
Overview
Our first impression was sheer wonder when we turned them on – they light up!
Once we had calmed down, we all had a proper look. These headphones appear well made and the cushioning over the ear pieces is comfortable.
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.
What Needs Improving
Our only complaint is that the control buttons feel a little bit cheap, which is a shame when design is obviously an important factor for Cowin.
COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone Wireless Headphones Over Ear, 30H Playtime for Travel Work TV Computer...
- Active Noise Cancelling technology. Significant noise reduction for travel, work and anywhere in between. Advanced active noise reduction technology quells airplane cabin noise, city traffic or a busy office, makes you focus on what you want to hear,enjoy your music, movies and videos. The noise cancellation function can work well both in wire and wireless mode.
3) Sony WH-CH700N
Overview
These Sony headphones look like they mean business – no flashing lights or shiny bits, just the matt black of quiet, unspoken superiority.
What We Like
When we were wearing these headphones, they were so comfortable and light that most forgot we had them on.
The sound quality is amazing, with a really decent bass thrumming away, while the 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 WH-CH700N Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones, Black (WHCH700N/B)
- Noise cancellation adjusts to your environment with One Push AINC
- Long lasting listening with up to 35 hours of battery and quick charging
- Wireless Bluetooth streaming with NFC one-touch
- Built-in microphone for hands free calls and use with your voice assistant
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