There are many reasons for using an active noise cancelling headphone today. With the amount of noise pollution all around us, it is only logical to want a headphone that blocks out all external noise. At the very least, this lets you enjoy your music without interference. Additionally, it is also a great way to focus on the task at hand, powered by your favorite tunes. Since you're not experiencing background interference, you can also listen at a lower volume, which is always better for your hearing. With all these convincing reasons, all that's left is to get your own. Here are some promising picks available on Amazon that have been shortlisted based on their specifications and features.
The third installation in the Sony WH-1000XM series, the WH-1000XM3 has a lot going in its favor as a contender. It features close-fitting ear pads to enhance the performance of the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 – together they promise noise-free listening anywhere you like. Along with vehicle noise, the 1000XM3 also promises to reduce other urban sounds like people talking around you. While the Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing feature assures great performance aboard flights, the Unique Personal Optimizing takes into account your head size, presence of hair and glasses to deliver customized noise cancellation best suited to you. The LDAC audio codec aims for wired-quality audio for all your high-definition tracks, even over Bluetooth.
The JBL Tune noise cancelling headphone aims for a comfortable experience with its lightweight over-ear design. The foldable build also makes it travel friendly. The headphone promises 15 hours of noise-free wireless usage with just two hours of charging time. This can be further extended to 22 hours without using ANC. When used in wired mode, the noise-cancelling performance can be extended to a whopping 30 hours. The multipoint connection feature allows it to stay linked with two devices at the same time. This helps you avoid missing calls on your phone while you're listening to videos on your tablet or laptop.
Running out of power can be bothersome with an ANC headphone, but the Skullcandy Venue has a way to overcome that challenge through its Rapid Charge feature. This feature ensures 5 hours of performance after just 10 minutes of charging. The model also has a Monitor Mode that lets in ambient noise at the press of a button, which helps you stay connected to your surroundings without removing the headphones. The combination of the cushioned adjustable headband and soft memory foam earpads aim for a comfortable fit that can be used for hours. The premium travel case that the headphones ship with make it travel friendly.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 improves upon the 1000XM3 and promises the suppression of a wider range of ambient sounds. This technology is powered at the core by the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which receives ambient noise data from two microphones on each ear cup. Thus sensing the environmental noise, it ensures the adjustment of the cancellation up to 700 times per second to deliver superior isolation. It also features atmospheric pressure optimization for better noise-cancellation during air travel. The Ambient Sound Control feature allows the headphone to continue cancelling noise while allowing important sounds from your environment to pass through like announcements.