When you’re ready to upgrade your daily commute or workout routine, you might want to think about trading in your old earbuds for a pair that can really help you tune out distractions. You’re likely no stranger to the frustration of background noise getting in the way of your favorite tunes or podcasts. But did you know that some earbuds can actually help you achieve a sense of auditory bliss? We’ve rounded up the top 5 noise-canceling earbuds that can help you find your own personal sweet spot – and the results might just surprise you.
Contents
- Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Earbuds
- Soundcore Space A40 Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds
- Jabra Elite 7 Active in-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Wireless Headphones
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Canceling Earbuds
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Earbuds
If you’re an audiophile seeking exceptional noise cancellation and crystal-clear sound quality, the Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Earbuds are the best choice, boasting two proprietary processors dedicated to noise cancellation and a new high-performance driver unit for richer vocals and enhanced fine details.
You’ll appreciate the specially designed driver unit that produces a wide frequency range and deep bass, making your music sound more immersive.
With LDAC for high-end audio options and DSEE Extreme tech to upscale compressed audio, you’ll notice a significant difference in sound quality.
Plus, the earbuds’ adaptive sound control uses AI to adjust to your surroundings, ensuring you get the best listening experience possible.
Best For: Audiophiles seeking exceptional noise cancellation and crystal-clear sound quality.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation with two proprietary processors and a new high-performance driver unit
- Immersive sound quality with a wide frequency range and deep bass
- Adaptive sound control using AI for the best listening experience possible
Cons:
- May not fit all ear canals, with subjectivity in play for fit and ANC
- Charging time and battery life are not significantly improved from previous models
- Water resistance level is not specified beyond being “water resistant”
Soundcore Space A40 Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds
With their ability to reduce ambient noise by up to 98%, the Soundcore Space A40 earbuds are the best choice for commuters, students, and anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in their music or podcasts without distractions.
You’ll enjoy 50 hours of playtime, with 10 hours of single charge playtime and fast charging giving you 4 hours of listening from a 10-minute charge.
The earbuds deliver highly detailed sound with strong bass, clear mids, and bright treble, and you can even customize the sound to your liking with the Soundcore app.
Plus, the ergonomic design and multiple ear tip sizes provide a comfortable fit, making them perfect for side and front sleepers.
Best For: Commuters, students, and anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in their music or podcasts without distractions.
Pros:
- Up to 98% noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience
- 50 hours of playtime with fast charging capabilities
- Customizable sound options with the Soundcore app for a personalized listening experience
Cons:
- Some reviewers mentioned minor issues with noise cancellation and fit
- No specific warranty information is provided in the product description
- No information is available on the water resistance rating of the earbuds
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds come with four pairs of silicone tips to provide all-day comfort for ears of all shapes and sizes.
The lightweight design and IP54 water and dust resistance guarantee you can wear them anywhere.
With a custom high-excursion Apple driver and high dynamic range amplifier, you’ll experience crisp, clear highs and rich bass.
Adaptive Audio blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for an immersive experience.
Plus, with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, you can enjoy your favorite tunes all day long.
Best For: Fitness enthusiasts, commuters, and anyone who wants a comfortable, high-quality listening experience with advanced noise cancellation and water resistance.
Pros:
- Advanced noise cancellation with up to 2x more Active Noise Cancellation for dramatically less noise
- Long battery life with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the MagSafe Charging Case
- Seamless connectivity and intuitive controls with the Apple H2 headphone chip and Apple U1 chip in the MagSafe Charging Case
Cons:
- May not fit comfortably for users with very small or very large ears despite the four pairs of silicone tips
- No official water resistance rating for the charging case
- No significant upgrades in terms of sound quality compared to the previous generation
Jabra Elite 7 Active in-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds
For fitness enthusiasts and commuters seeking a secure, sweat-resistant fit and exceptional noise cancellation, the Jabra Elite 7 Active in-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds are an ideal choice.
You’ll appreciate the ShakeGrip technology that provides a snug fit, along with IP57 water and sweatproofing that can withstand your most intense workouts.
With adjustable Active Noise Cancellation and HearThrough technology, you can customize your listening experience to suit your environment.
Plus, the 4 microphones with SAATI Acoustex mesh provide crystal-clear calls, even in windy conditions.
With up to 8 hours of battery life per earbud and an additional 30 hours from the case, you can enjoy uninterrupted music and calls all day long.
Best For: Fitness enthusiasts and commuters seeking a secure, sweat-resistant fit and exceptional noise cancellation.
Pros:
- Elite 7 Active earbuds provide a secure fit with ShakeGrip technology and are IP57 water and sweatproof, making them ideal for intense workouts and commutes.
- The adjustable Active Noise Cancellation and HearThrough technology allow for customizable immersion and awareness, perfect for adapting to different environments.
- The earbuds offer up to 8 hours of battery life per earbud and an additional 30 hours from the case, providing uninterrupted music and calls throughout the day.
Cons:
- Some users report minor issues with connectivity and battery life, which may be a drawback for those who rely heavily on their earbuds.
- The earbuds may not be suitable for those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, as they are a premium product.
- The Elite 7 Active earbuds may not be the best choice for those who prioritize features like Dolby Atmos, which is available in the higher-end Elite 10 model.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Wireless Headphones
If you prioritize exceptional noise cancellation and personalized sound, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Wireless Headphones are the best choice, offering advanced active noise cancelling technology that intelligently adapts to your unique ear shape.
You’ll enjoy up to 6 hours of battery life, with a quick-charge option that gives you 2 hours of playback from just a 20-minute charge.
The earbuds come with three pairs of ear tips and three pairs of custom stability bands to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
With the Bose app, you can customize your noise cancellation levels, manage Bluetooth connections, and more.
Plus, the earbuds’ sleek design, IPX4 rating, and soft silicone ear tips make them perfect for all-day wear.
Best For: Individuals who prioritize exceptional noise cancellation and personalized sound quality for daily use or exercise.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation and personalized sound quality
- Long battery life with quick-charge option and comfortable design
- Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 capability with strong and continuous connection
Cons:
- Some customers experienced issues with connection and battery life
- No cable is included with the product
- The carrying case is relatively small and may not fit in all pockets or bags
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Canceling Earbuds
When you’re shopping for noise-canceling earbuds, you’ll want to contemplate a few key factors to guarantee you find the perfect pair for your needs.
You’ll need to ponder the sound quality, fit, and comfort, as well as the level of noise cancellation you require.
From there, you can weigh the importance of battery life, water resistance, and other features that matter most to you.
Sound Quality Matters
Sound quality matters when choosing noise-canceling earbuds because you want earbuds that accurately reproduce the full range of audible sounds.
A good pair should have a wide frequency response, typically ranging from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, to verify you can hear every detail. The driver size and type also play a significant role, with larger drivers often producing better bass response and smaller drivers exceling at high-frequency reproduction.
When it comes to transmitting audio signals, high-quality codecs like LDAC and aptX HD can make a huge difference.
They allow for higher-resolution audio signals, resulting in a more detailed and nuanced listening experience. Additionally, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of an earbud’s amplifier is vital, as higher SNR values indicate a cleaner signal with less background noise.
Some earbuds even employ digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, such as DSEE Extreme, to upscale compressed audio and enhance sound quality.
Fit and Comfort Key
After ensuring your earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, it’s time to focus on finding a pair that fits comfortably and securely in your ears, as this will greatly impact your overall listening experience.
A secure fit is vital for effective noise cancellation, as it helps to block ambient noise and keep the earbuds in place during exercise or daily activities. You’ll want to weigh the earbud design, such as stem-style or in-ear, which can affect the fit and comfort.
Look for earbuds that include multiple ear tip sizes, like small, medium, and large, to guarantee a comfortable fit for your unique ear shape and size.
The materials used in earbud construction, like silicone or plastic, can also impact comfort and durability. Some materials are more breathable or sweat-resistant than others, which is important if you plan to wear your earbuds during workouts or in humid environments.
Additionally, features like adjustable ear tips or customizable fit options can help create a more personalized and comfortable fit for you.
Noise Cancellation Levels
With noise-canceling earbuds, the level of ambient noise reduction can vary substantially, ranging from minimal background hiss to almost complete silence.
When choosing the right earbuds for you, bear in mind the noise cancellation levels they offer. Some earbuds can reduce ambient noise by up to 98%, while others may only offer limited noise reduction.
You should also think about the type of noise you want to block out. For example, if you’re a commuter, you might want earbuds that excel at blocking out constant, low-frequency sounds like engine rumble.
On the other hand, if you work in a noisy office, you might need earbuds that can effectively block out higher-frequency sounds like conversation or background chatter.
Additionally, look for earbuds with adaptive noise cancellation, which can provide more effective noise reduction than fixed systems. Some earbuds even offer multiple noise cancellation modes, such as ‘commute’ or ‘focus,’ which can be tailored to specific environments or activities.
Battery Life Importance
When selecting the perfect noise-canceling earbuds, bear in mind how long they’ll last on a single charge, as a dead battery can render even the most effective noise cancellation useless. You need earbuds that can keep up with your daily activities, so aim for a minimum of 6 hours of battery life to get you through the day. Some models even offer up to 30 hours of additional battery life from their charging cases, giving you plenty of juice to spare.
Fast charging capabilities are also a crucial feature, especially if you’re always on-the-go. With just a 10-15 minute charge, you can get an hour or more of listening time. However, think about your typical listening habits, as the level of noise cancellation and volume can impact battery life. If you’re someone who likes to crank up the volume or uses noise cancellation frequently, you may need to recharge more often.
Look for earbuds with adaptive sound control, like the Sony WF-1000XM5, which can help conserve battery life by adjusting noise cancellation levels based on your surroundings. By taking into account your battery life needs, you can find the perfect noise-canceling earbuds that keep up with your lifestyle.
Water Resistance Needed
You’ll want to verify your noise-canceling earbuds can keep up with your active lifestyle, and that means considering water resistance as a vital feature.
As an athlete or someone who plans to use them during intense workouts or in wet conditions, you’ll want earbuds that can withstand sweat and water damage. Look for earbuds with a high level of water resistance, such as IP57, which can provide peace of mind and protection.
For instance, the Jabra Elite 7 Active has a water resistance rating of IP57, meaning they can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
When choosing earbuds with water resistance, consider the activities you’ll be using them for and the level of protection you need.
Even with water-resistant earbuds, it’s still important to dry them thoroughly after exposure to water to prevent damage and maintain their performance.
Don’t assume that water-resistant earbuds are impervious to damage; proper care is still essential.
Noise Cancellation Modes
Get ready to fine-tune your listening experience by exploring the various noise cancellation modes that cater to your unique needs and preferences.
You’ll find that many earbuds offer multiple modes to choose from, each designed for specific listening scenarios. For instance, normal mode provides balanced noise cancellation, while transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings. Voice mode, on the other hand, amplifies voices and reduces background noise. Some earbuds even offer customizable modes, letting you personalize your listening experience through mobile apps or on-device controls.
When selecting noise-canceling earbuds, consider whether you need adaptive noise cancellation, which automatically adjusts to your environment.
You might also want multi-mode noise cancellation, which lets you switch between high, low, and off settings depending on your activity or surroundings.
Advanced modes, like AI-based noise reduction algorithms, can intelligently identify and suppress specific types of noise, such as background chatter or airplane rumble.
Price and Value Ratio
As you weigh your options, assessing the price and value ratio of noise-canceling earbuds is vital, considering what features and performance you need versus what you’re willing to pay for.
The price of noise-canceling earbuds can range from under $100 to over $300, so evaluating what you’re getting for your money is key.
Don’t assume that a higher price tag always means better noise cancellation or sound quality. Some budget-friendly options can offer similar performance to more expensive models.
When evaluating the value ratio, prioritize the features that matter most to you, such as battery life, water resistance, and comfort.
If you’re a frequent user, advanced features like adaptive noise cancellation, high-fidelity audio, and sleek designs might be worth the investment.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can still find great options that meet your needs.
Ultimately, the best value ratio will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Research and compare different options to find the perfect fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear Noise-Canceling Earbuds While Sleeping?
You’re wondering if you can catch some Z’s with noise-canceling earbuds on. While it’s technically possible, you might find them uncomfortable or even a choking hazard, so it’s not recommended.
Do Noise-Canceling Earbuds Work Well for Voice Calls?
You’ll be blown away by the crystal-clear voice calls you’ll experience! Noise-canceling earbuds are designed to block ambient noise, allowing you to focus on the conversation, and your caller will think you’re in a quiet studio, not a noisy street!
Can I Use Noise-Canceling Earbuds With a Non-Bluetooth Device?
You’re wondering if you can use noise-canceling earbuds with a non-Bluetooth device. Yes, you can! Look for earbuds with a wired connection option, like a 3.5mm audio jack, to plug into your device.
Are Noise-Canceling Earbuds Suitable for Exercising or Running?
You’re a well-oiled machine when you exercise, but can your earbuds keep up? Sweat-resistant noise-canceling earbuds are perfect for running, but you’ll need to choose models with secure fits and water-resistant ratings to guarantee they don’t skip a beat.
Can I Customize the Fit of Noise-Canceling Earbuds?
You can customize the fit of earbuds by swapping out ear tips or wings in different sizes, ensuring a snug and comfortable seal that won’t fall out during intense activities like exercising or running.
Conclusion
You’ve got the power to silence the world and unleash a symphony of sound with the top 5 noise-canceling earbuds.
Each pair is a masterclass in audio engineering, with features like adaptive sound control, up to 98% noise cancellation, and personalized sound quality.
Whether you’re a music lover, a busy bee, or an athlete, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you.
So, slip them in, zone out, and let the sweet serenade of silence wash over you.
