Sometimes all we wanted is a few me-time moments for ourselves, including listening to our favourite music playlist without interruption. Thankfully, we are blessed with the invention of a little thing called the noise-cancelling technology. It works by filtering unwanted background noises such as city traffic and people’s conversations.
What are the differences between noise cancelling earphones and headphones?
If you are planning to get a new pair, there are two different types available in the market: noise-cancelling earphones and headphones. But here lies the million-dollar question: Which device suits you the best? Well, it all depends.
For noise-cancelling earphones, they are generally lightweight, portable and able to drown out external sounds. Although they do not completely isolate the noise due to the smaller and compact design.
Noise-cancelling headphones, on the other hand, is noticeably bigger and bulkier -- two of among the most significant disadvantages that you might want to take note. But then again, they are particularly better in blocking out background noises since the earcups fully enclosed your outer ears.
Now that you know the general differences between noise-cancelling earphones and headphones let’s get on with our main topic. Below is a list of the best noise-cancelling earphones and you can get them online. Check them out to see which one suits you.
The Sony WI-1000X boasts an ergonomically-shaped neckband design that fits comfortably around your neck, thanks to its padded leather cover. Not to mention the earphones only weighs at just 71g, which will not strain your neck even if you wear them for long hours.
Impressive design aside, users can enjoy the convenience of wireless music with Bluetooth 4.1 and NFC connectivity. Sound quality is top-notched, with deep bass and S-Master HX audio amplifier that helps to minimise distortion in favour of clearer audio all around.
Another biggest selling point is the earphones' noise-cancelling technology, complete with a cool feature via Adaptive Sound Control. It allows you to adjust different ambient sound settings automatically like when you're travelling and walking using Sony's Headphones Connect app.
Say goodbye to wires with this true wireless Sony WF-1000X, which boasts a compact design that sits snugly and discreetly in your ears. Despite its size, the earphones do not skimp on features, offering crystal-clear sound with its tiny but mighty 6mm driver.
Noise-cancellation is just as great, and you can even customise them according to your liking with the help of Sony’s Headphones Connect app. Another highlight is the earphones’ reasonably durable battery life, which can last up to nine hours of continuous playback.
True to its name, the Bose QuietComfort 20 allows you to enjoy uninterrupted music with its top-of-the-line noise-cancelling technology via its Acoustic Noise Cancelling feature. It works by reducing the unwanted background noise no matter you are on the train or walking in a crowded street.
Performance-wise, expect amazing sound clarity that has enough depth in both bass and treble. Listening to the likes of an upbeat pop song, a guitar-driven alternative rock or even string-laden orchestral music has never sounded so vivid. The earphones also come with an in-line remote, allowing you to control volumes and taking hands-free calls using its built-in microphone.
Expect full-bodied sound reproduction with Sony MDR-EX750NA, which features 9mm high-sensitivity drivers and its proprietary Beat Response Control. They work to help accentuate the deep bass effect for a better music listening experience.
You will also find two microphones that do more than just hands-free calls. They are used to detect ambient noise with the help of its built-in noise-cancelling feature. The battery life is equally impressive; it's capable of sustaining up to an incredible 16 hours of playback.
Can’t enjoy your favourite music due to all the unwanted noises around you? Consider a pair of high-quality earphones such as the Bang & Olufsen B&O Beoplay E4 then. It comes with advanced hybrid active noise cancelling (ANC) that detects ambient sounds and reduces them significantly using two microphones.
As expected from the reputable Bang & Olufsen brand, the sound quality is crisp while the earphones have an overall solid build quality constructed from sturdy and scratch-resistant metals. The battery life is just as amazing, which can last up to 20 hours of playback.
Investing a pair of earphones that comes with a noise-cancelling technology tends to cost a fortune. But even if you are in a tight budget, that doesn’t mean you can’t own one for yourself, such as this TaoTronics BH026.
These otherwise budget-friendly earphones boast a CvC 6.0 noise cancelling technology that minimises exterior noises and even helps to boost better voice quality during a phone call. Other highlights include an in-line remote for adjusting volumes and skipping tracks, ideal for a busy person like you.
Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, the Sony WI-SP600N boasts a well-constructed design that's sturdy and premium. It's made with a decent noise cancellation feature that's able to drown out exterior sounds. Besides, the earphones have a sound quality which utilises Sony's Extra Bass technology, making it suitable for bass-heavy music like EDM.
The Sony WI-SP600N also comes with an easy-to-use, in-line remote where you can control your music, volume and even make hands-free calls. These earphones are also lightweight enough at just 21g and have a decent battery life that can sustain up to six hours of playtime.