headphones for travel

We tested the 6 best noise-canceling headphones for travel

I can't fly anywhere without a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Even if I'm not actively listening to music or enjoying a TV show, I often use noise-canceling headphones to drown out background noise.

If you've traveled recently, I probably don't need to convince you of the value of a pair of these headphones. These days, there are more distractions than ever in airports and on planes — there are only so many times I can hear the same canned pitch for a cobranded airline credit card.

However, if you really want to drown out everything, which pair of headphones or earphones does it best? Here's a guide to my current favorites based on portability, sound experience, comfort, battery life and, of course, how well their noise-canceling abilities fare in the TPG hair dryer test.

Apple AirPods Pro

How portable are they.

Since their introduction in 2019, Apple's AirPods Pro have been my go-to travel headphones, thanks in no small part to their portability.

AirPods Pro have two components: a charging case and the earbuds. The charging case is where the AirPods sit when they're not in your ears, and there's even a built-in speaker to help you find the case if you misplace it.

The actual earbuds are much smaller than Apple's entry-level AirPods, and they're much less bulky and unwieldy than some other earbuds on the market.

How is the sound?

Apple recently introduced the second-generation AirPods Pro with a claim of double the active noise cancellation of the legacy model. If you were on the fence about these earbuds before, this updated model should make them a no-brainer for most travelers who use an iPhone.

With the second-generation buds, I am disturbed by fewer announcements and chatty passengers than with the original model. The sound quality is also noticeably better, thanks to a more powerful audio driver.

How comfortable are they?

Aside from the portability, the AirPods Pro also excel in terms of comfort.

As you decide which headphones are right for you, you'll need to choose between in-ear and over-ear models. Back in the day, in-ear headphones didn't offer great noise cancellation. However, Apple and its competitors have since introduced earbuds that feature this travel must-have.

That's great news since I find earbuds are generally more comfortable than over-ear headphones. Also, with four tip sizes included with the AirPods Pro, you're bound to find the right fit.

How is the battery?

The second-generation AirPods Pro offer up to six hours of listening time with a single charge. The charging case offers 30 hours of listening time, and just five minutes in the case provides about one additional hour of listening time.

The hair-dryer test

To simulate the background noise on an airplane, I borrowed my wife's Dyson hair dryer and blasted it at full force next to my ears while listening to the same song (Taylor Swift's "Enchanted") through each of the following six pairs of headphones (set at the same 80% volume level).

The verdict? I could hear the blow dryer when it was at the highest setting, but only just.

Are they worth it?

The fact that the AirPods Pro fit in my pocket makes them a game changer for travel. I used to lug around bulky over-ear headphones, but why bother when you can get great sound quality in a pair of earbuds that fit in the palm of your hand?

Sure, there are headphones that offer better noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro pack the best mix of sound, noise cancellation and portability that an iPhone user will find in a small package.

Additionally, with multiple microphones, they double as a great set of headphones for those who make phone calls while on the road.

Buy now for $199.00 and save 20% on the standard price of $249.00

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Bose's Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are the company's sleekest over-ear headphones, but you'll still need to tote around a nearly 1-pound pouch when the headphones are stowed safely in your bag.

Aside from Bluetooth wireless connectivity, I love that you can also use the provided 3.5-millimeter audio cable to plug the headphones into seatback entertainment systems that don't yet support Bluetooth.

Bose is renowned for its best-in-class noise-canceling headphones, and the 700 series builds on that legacy with some of the best sound and noise cancellation you'll get in a pair of headphones.

I always feel immersed in my music when I listen to these headphones, and the noise cancellation is among the best I've experienced.

I also love that you can adjust the noise-cancellation levels to control how much of the outside world you want to hear.

These headphones are much more comfortable than some of Bose's older models, but they aren't for everyone.

During long-haul flights, I find that my ears sometimes start feeling numb after wearing these headphones for prolonged periods (something that hasn't bothered me with other over-ear headphones like the AirPods Max).

Bose's top-of-the-line headphones offer up to 20 hours of nonstop listening. It takes about 2 1/2 hours to fully recharge the headphones, and a quick 15-minute charge will provide up to 3 1/2 additional hours of battery life.

I couldn't hear the faintest sound from the hair dryer, even when it was blasting at full force.

Back in the day, Bose was No. 1 when it came to noise-canceling headphones. The company now has some formidable competitors, but Bose builds on a very strong foundation with the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700.

These are among the world's best over-ear noise-canceling headphones, and you certainly can't go wrong with them. I just wish they were a tiny bit more comfortable for prolonged periods of use.

Buy now for $299.00 and save 21% on the standard price of $379.00

Sony WH-1000XM5

Like any over-ear noise-canceling headphones, you'll need to make room in your bag for Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones, though they only weigh around 250 grams and shouldn't add too much weight to your luggage. They come with a carrying case to keep them in tip-top shape while you're on the move — just note that the ear cups don't fold in for a more compact carrying experience.

Like the Bose headphones, Sony's top-of-the-line model can connect directly to seatback entertainment systems using a 3.5-millimeter audio cable.

These headphones pack some serious active noise-cancellation chops, building on the company's already industry-leading noise-canceling technology.

Unlike the Bose offering, you can't adjust the level of noise cancellation, but you'll have no issue tuning out your surroundings when listening to music with these headphones.

I find these headphones to be perfectly comfortable for long-haul flights. They aren't too heavy on the head and ears, and the padded headband helps keep them in place throughout the journey.

Sony's headphones offer some of the best battery life you'll find. The company advertises up to 30 hours of nonstop use, with the ability to quickly charge the headphones for three minutes to unlock an additional three hours of music playback.

Just like the Bose 700s, I couldn't hear any noise from the hair dryer while listening to music with these headphones. To test them further, I blasted some music at 100% volume on my home speaker, and I could still barely hear any distractions with the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones are about as good as you can get in the roughly $400 range. They've got great sound in a (somewhat) portable package with top-notch battery life.

In my experience, the Sony WH-1000XM5s slightly outperform the similarly priced Bose headphones in terms of noise cancellation — I am usually less distracted when wearing Sony's headphones on a plane.

Buy now for $328.00 and save 18% on the standard price of $399.99

Apple AirPods Max

There's no denying that these are among the sleekest headphones on the market, though that comes at the expense of some portability.

The AirPods Max include a magnetic smart carrying case, but it only protects the actual earpieces themselves. The headphones can't be folded to create a more compact configuration, so you'll need to make room in your bag for them.

While you might think that the AirPods Max only connect via Bluetooth, there's some great news. You can actually plug them directly into seatback entertainment systems using a Lightning to 3.5-millimeter Audio Cable, sold separately for $35.

As the most expensive headphones in this guide, you might not be surprised to learn that they offer the best noise cancellation I've experienced yet.

You can't control the level of noise cancellation, but when flying around with these headphones, you won't want to. With the AirPods Max, I had no trouble drowning out a crying baby sitting three rows behind me.

Combine this impressive noise cancellation with immersive sound, and these headphones offer travelers the best listening experience.

The AirPods Max aren't just sleek — they also boast an incredibly snug fit on the ear.

Apple did a great job designing the AirPods Max for inflight use, and for most domestic and transatlantic flights, your ears should stay cool and comfortable while using these headphones.

That said, some friends have complained about them getting a bit uncomfortable during the longest flights, something experts call "eardrum suck."

The AirPods Max offer up to 20 hours of listening time on a single charge, and five minutes of charging provides roughly an additional hour and a half of listening.

These numbers mean that you're set for all but the longest flight in the world (nearly 20 hours from pushback in New York to landing in Singapore).

As you might expect, the AirPods Max passed the hair-dryer test with flying colors.

The AirPods Max combine a best-in-class audio experience with top-notch noise cancellation in a modern and sleek package.

As the most expensive headphones in this guide, the AirPods Max are most definitely a splurge. However, if you're already in Apple's ecosystem and looking for the best travel headphones, these are it.

Buy now for $449.00 and save 18% on the standard price of $549.00

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Much like the AirPods Pro, these earbuds are among the most portable noise-canceling headphones you'll find. They also magnetically snap into a separate charging case, which is longer and narrower than the AirPods Pro case.

The buds themselves are small and sleek and should fit into your ear without any issues — more on that below.

What sets these earbuds apart is the noise cancellation. They're just as good, if not a tiny bit better, than Apple's second-generation AirPods Pro.

That said, I find the overall listening experience on AirPods Pro to be more immersive — I don't feel nearly as engrossed with my music when using the Bose earbuds.

Bose's QuietComfort Earbuds II are very comfortable. There are three different size options for the tips and ear bands.

With nine different possible combinations, you shouldn't have a problem finding a very stable fit, no matter the shape of your ear.

Bose advertises up to six hours of battery life on a single charge, but I was able to beat that estimate by about 30 minutes on a recent flight.

The charging case offers 18 additional hours of battery life, and just 20 minutes of charging in the case should deliver up to two additional hours of listening time from the earbuds.

Bose's earbuds outperformed the AirPods Pro on the hair-dryer test. They blocked slightly more noise, but both sets of in-ear headphones should do the trick on most flights.

For most travelers, these earbuds will compete head-to-head against the AirPods Pro. If you aren't in the Apple ecosystem, the Bose buds may be the right choice for you.

For everyone else, the choice is much trickier. AirPods integrate seamlessly into the entire iPhone (and Apple product) experience. Coupled with a quick setup and familiar controls, the AirPods will certainly do the trick for many.

However, if you're looking for best-in-class noise cancellation, I'd consider the $50 splurge over the AirPods Pro for Bose's earbuds.

Buy now for $236.55 and save 21% on the standard price of $299.00

Soundcore by Anker Life Q20

One of the best travel features of the Life Q20 headphones is that they swivel inward for increased portability. They come with a drawstring travel pouch, and they won't take up as much space as the other over-ear headphones in this guide.

Aside from Bluetooth wireless connectivity, you can use the provided 3.5-millimeter audio cable to plug the headphones into seatback entertainment systems that don't yet support Bluetooth.

As you might expect for a sub-$60 pair of headphones, the Life Q20s aren't going to beat the likes of Apple, Bose or Sony.

That said, given the price tag, they offer an impressive amount of active noise cancellation. I find that the sound quality is better than expected for such an inexpensive pair of noise-canceling headphones.

With memory foam ear cups, these headphones do a pretty good job of molding to your ears. They're a bit bulkier than some of the other over-ear models, but that's a trade-off you have to make, given the price.

Of all the headphones in this guide, the cheapest ones also pack the longest battery life. Anker advertises 40 hours of wireless playback on a single charge.

If you're pressed for time, you can quickly charge these headphones for five minutes to add four hours of listening time.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, these headphones did the worst job of blocking out the background noise from the hair dryer. At the highest setting, I could definitely hear the noise from the Dyson.

If you aren't a super-frequent traveler, the Life Q20s may be a great starter option for you. The active noise cancellation and sound quality aren't as impressive as with the other, more expensive brands, but you're saving around $300 with these headphones.

Several other features may feel quite basic, including the outdated micro USB charging port. However, that's not stopping nearly 50,000 customers from leaving five-star Amazon reviews for these headphones.

Buy now for $59.99

The best travel headphones 2024, chosen by our jet-setting reviewers

Mute airplanes, trains and automobiles

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best premium
• Best for battery life
• Best earbuds for ANC
• Best earbuds for Apple
• Best mid-priced earbuds
• Best super-cheap earbuds
• Earbuds for in-flight movies
• How to choose
• How we test
• Latest updates

When looking for the best travel headphones, we're slightly adjusting our priorities compared to looking for more general headphones. We're looking for portability, battery life and, of course, active noise cancellation (ANC) more than we might otherwise. For those looking for the best airplane headphones, the option of a wired connection becomes crucial too, for those in-flight movies.

This list of the best travel headphones overlaps heavily with the best noise-cancelling headphones , but focusing more on their battery life, whether they have a folding lightweight design, and making sure they have a 3.5mm jack. Over-ear headphones are better at ANC than wireless earbuds, and wireless buds don't have wired connections, s headphones are our first pick – but best noise-cancelling earbuds have a huge portability advantage, so we've included those too (and one of them actually can handle a wired connection).

Our reviewers have tested all of these travel headphones on the exact kinds of transport we're talking about – our recommendations are based on real-world use for flights, trains, buses and even the occasional boat.

The quick list

Want a simple way to find the travel headphones with the features and price range you want? Use our quick list below – you can click to see a longer write-up of each product for more in-depth information.

The best travel headphones for most people

These headphones offer strong noise cancellation, great sound, good battery life, wired or wireless use, and a comfortable fit in a lightweight folding design. Ideal for travel at a superb price.

Read more below

The best cheaper travel headphones

These headphones can't cut out as much noise as higher-end models, but they're excellent for the price, and come with some useful smart features. They're light, and work wired or wireless.

The best premium travel headphones

The best noise cancellation we've used to date, elite sound quality, spatial audio, and a super-comfortable design that folds up. They're expensive, though, and the battery life is short.

The best travel headphones for battery life

You get glorious sound quality and solid noise-stopping here, with some super-smart features, and wired or wireless use. Oh, and 60 hours of battery life, which crushes everything else here.

The best noise-cancelling earbuds

These offer essentially the best noise cancellation of earbuds, with a solid and secure fit. Great sound quality, smart features, and very good value for premium-level earbuds.

The best earbuds for iPhone and iPad

With noise-blocking powers to challenge the Bose, amazing Spatial Audio for watching movies on iPhone or iPad, and glorious audio quality, these are ideal for Apple fans. 

Load the next products...

The best mid-priced earbuds for noise cancellation

Half the price of Bose headphones or AirPods, and more premium than the Earfun, these hit a perfect balance. You get astounding audio quality, great ANC, and good battery life.

Read more below  

The cheap earbuds with good noise cancellation

For this price, no other buds delivers better noise cancellation. And as an added bonus, they offer a long battery life of 7 hours with ANC on. They're very future-proof for features, too.

The best wireless earbuds for in-flight movie systems

Exquisite sound, decent ANC, weak battery life – but you can connect their case to a 3.5mm jack, and it beams sound to the buds. They're uniquely good for flights, but they'll cost you.

I've been reviewing tech for 14 years, and for pretty much all that time I've been testing headphones and speakers. As one of TechRadar's most frequent travellers, I've tested a ton of headphones and earbuds on flights and train rides, and I've used experience to choose the headphones that best fit the particular priorities of people flying or taking other long journeys.

Recent updates

April 11, 2024 Added the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones based on our review.

The best travel headphones 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The best travel headphones overall

1. Sony WH-1000XM4

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Sony WH-1000 range has gone from strength to noise-cancelling strength with each iteration. While the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are now available, the 2020 XM4s still offer an incredible combination of brilliant ANC and enjoyably balanced audio quality from a lightweight set of folding cans. You could shell out the extra for the latest model but these are a significantly better buy for being slightly older. 

For travel especially, the noise cancelling here is exceptional. You’ll only realize just how loud that plane engine hum actually is when you take these off. This is thanks to Sony’s proprietary processor, which is constantly sampling the world around you and adjusting the noise cancellation accordingly. And not only will intrusive noises disappear but the pleather cups are cosy and comfortable even for long haul journeys, making the Sony WH-1000XM4s our top pick for the very best travel headphones, even though the newer Sony WH-1000XM5 is available – that model lacks the folding design, and is more expensive without being a big leap better.

Read our full Sony WH-1000XM4 review  

• ^ Back to the top

2. Sony WH-CH720N

Sony's more affordable counterpart to its flagship 'XM' model can be found for under $150/£100, but delivers very impressive audio quality regardless, especially when it comes to detail and overall balance. Instruments are crisp, treble and bass both get to shine in their own way, and the mid-range is warm and full.

The noise cancellation really helps clamp down on the volume of outside sounds so that you can hear dialog in a movie on a plane, in our experience, though it does leak in noticeably more sound overall than the higher-end options here (both in terms of over-ear headphones and earbuds), so we had to significantly turn up the volume on a quiet, speech-heavy movie on a plane compared to those options. But it's as good as anything else available for the price.

They're very lightweight and are generally comfortable to use for long periods, which means we can forgive them for not folding. They don't feel as premium as other options here, but again, that's fine. The wired option is very welcome for plane use, and the quoted 35-hour battery life is essentially on the money in our experience.

Read our full Sony WH-CH720N review

The best travel headphones for elite noise cancellation

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

These are, perhaps, the ultimate travel companion – with just one flaw that might put you off. They check so many boxes, with their best-in-class active noise cancellation at the center of the success. We found in our testing that nothing else stops the hubbub of a city or traffic around you so effectively – though we did find that they reacted oddly to extremely loud sounds (sitting by a bus engine on a hill, and during plane take-off) with some very robotic output. But we were happy to forgive these moments, since they're so good the rest of the time.

And on top of that, you get truly exceptional audio quality that's more exciting, precise and detailed than anything else in this list. They're capable of deep, velvety bass and delicate, elevated treble, with plenty of expression and clarity through the mid-range. And on top of this, they have a spatial audio mode that does a good job of feeling like the sound isn't being pumped right into your ears, from any source, which can help flights to feel less claustrophobic.

And they do all this in a fairly light design that folds up for travel, so they're great for your carry-on (and they come with a hard cases). The only real downside? The 24-hour battery life is lower than other over-ear headphones here, though it's still enough to make it through the vast majority of flights, of course. Just remember to charge when you land. All of this comes at a high price compared to the other headphones here, though we think it's well worthwhile if you can stretch to it. (If not, the non-Ultra Bose QuietComfort Headphones offer very nearly as good ANC for cheaper, and are still light and foldable).

Read our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones review

The best travel headphones for huge battery life

4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless cans were TechRadar’s favorite headphones of 2022 , the year they launched, and they're seriously impressive headphones that deliver on every level. 

You see, before we even get onto the excellent audio and brilliant ANC, let’s just take a moment to celebrate the 60-hour battery life. Yes, 60 hours , even with ANC and normal volume levels. That’s enough for five transatlantic flights without even having to think about going anywhere near a USB-C port. Oh, and if you do somehow run out of juice, there’s a 3.5mm jack for just that or plugging into a plane entertainment system.

While that battery life would be enough for us, Sennheiser has also managed to cram in wonderfully dynamic audio. No matter the music genre, the Momentum 4 Wireless deliver an ultra detailed and crisp aural performance. There’s a real depth here that is rare even in over-ear cans. Add in strong active noise cancellation (with genius adaptive features you can customize through the app) and you’ll very quickly forgive the slightly basic looks and mildly chunkier weight of these travel cans.

Read our full Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless review  

The best noise cancelling earbuds for travel

5. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

While some earbuds come with a selection of silicone tips to make sure you can personalize the fit of your buds, the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II go one better and customize audio specifically for your ear canals. Thanks to what Bose calls CustomTune, both ANC and audio in these buds are personalized to best suit your ears. And going by the clear and extra-detailed sound here, we can say it’s doing something right. Combined with Bose’s best-in-class noise cancellation, these buds sing with a vibrant soundstage even over the whirr of jet engines. 

The design has been overhauled from the previous generation, with a significantly more comfortable fit that’s ideal for long listening sessions. They aren’t the smallest buds, but they are lighter than the original Bose QC Earbuds, and the lozenges don’t look nearly as bulky in your ears. The downsides here are that there’s no hi-res audio support, no spatial audio, no multi-point pairing, and the chunky design may not suit everyone, though they fit very securely.

And while the active noise cancellation is effectively the best you can get for earbuds (the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are arguably better, but not much better, and they're notably more expensive, though they do also bring spatial audio support), the high-end over-ear stuff is even more effective. But then, they don't slip in your pocket wherever you go, like these do.

Read our full Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 review  

The best ANC earbuds for iPhone and iPad

6. Apple AirPods Pro 2

The AirPods Pro 2 were huge leap forward for the AirPods line, delivering not just a super-convenient experience for Apple users, but audio quality and noise cancellation that's up there with the best in the class. There’s an expansive soundscape that we’ve just not heard on previous AirPods, with incredibly layered audio. Vocals, bass, and even individual instruments all get their chance to shine. 

Add in excellent ANC that's only a hair behind the Bose at #5 on this list , plus a lighter weight and smaller case than almost all similar rivals, and Apple's Find My functionality in case you leave them somewhere, and the AirPods Pro 2 are the perfect travel companions.

The final cherry on the icing for traveling is Spatial Audio, however. Use them with an iPhone or iPad to watch movies and they recreate the feeling of being in a movie theater surrounded by speakers, rather then feeling the sound is pumping right in your ears. It's nice to feel less confined when traveling, and nothing does that more effectively than these.

But this all really applies if you're deep into Apple tech; the functionality is very limited on Android. And note that the six hours of battery life per charge is very average – the Sony WF-C700N at #6 on the list offer 7.5 hours, by comparison.

Read our full Apple AirPods Pro 2 review

The best mid-priced earbuds for ANC

7. Sony WF-C700N

It's not many products that leads us to say that a pair of earbuds "just ripped our notions on what is achievable at this level to smithereens" in a review, but these did. If you want to spend less than $100/£100 on a pair of earbuds while getting the best possible sound and noise cancellation from them, read no further. Nothing beats these.

It's not just the energetic, accurate, detailed audio quality, but that the effective (and customizable) noise cancellation that makes it easy to hear. Yes, the Bose earbuds or over-ear headphones do it better, but you pay a ton more to get there.

Throw in support for Sony's 360 Reality Audio tech for positional sound, plus generally great app support, a super-light and secure fit, and long battery life from the buds, and you've got a winning package. That you only get one additional charge from the case is a bit of an issue for traveling, but not a dealbreaker. It's the same with the lack of auto-pause when you remove them, or hi-res support – again, we're not concerned for the price. We love them.

Read our full Sony WF-C700N review

Best super-cheap earbuds with good ANC

8. Earfun Air Pro 3

We called these "the best cheap noise-cancelling earbuds you can get" in our review, and that's the long and short of it. Do they block noise as well as the Bose, AirPods, or Sony earbuds also in this list? No – but they're way less expensive (and often discounted further), and they do it as well as anything else at the same kind of price.

And when you then factor in the fantastic nine-hour battery life, and that they're future-proofed with features such as Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio support, they're even more of a bargain. The sound is good for the price, with no obvious weaknesses, even it isn't as rich as more elite models – it's still fun and compelling to listen to.

The design is not very svelte, but we don't mind too much considering what's been packed in there. These are such good all-rounders, and the quality of the sound for the cost makes them our cheapest pick.

Read our full Earfun Air Pro 3 review

Best true wireless earbuds for in-flight movie systems

9. Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2

When it comes to sound quality, few earbuds can match these. We said "you're in for a sonic masterclass" in our review, and raved that dynamic elements are delivered with "more zeal and energy than we've heard from any set of true wireless earbuds to date". When it comes to audio quality, they're second to none.

That's sadly not true when it comes to the quality of the noise cancellation (which let's through far more low-frequency rumble than we expect from something so premium), and the battery life, which is the lowest of anything in this list.

But they have an ace up their sleeve. Unlike basically all other true wireless earbuds, these can be used wired. The case comes with a couple of cables (one USB-C to USB-C, one 3.5mm jack to USB-C), so that you can connect the case to an audio source such as an in-flight entertainment system. The sound is beamed from the case to the earbuds over aptX high-quality streaming.

All of the over-ear headphones we've featured in this list have a wired options, but none of the earbuds does. That's the nature of going true wireless. You get the best of both worlds here. Well, most of the best – if only the noise cancellation was better. They're also very large – those with small ears should give them a test before committing.

Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 review

How to choose the best travel headphones for you

When it comes to choosing the best travel headphones, all of the important decisions are fully subjective. This is about finding the best travel headphones for  you  and not anybody else, so there are a few things to consider. 

The first one is an easy choice. Do you prefer over-ear cans or earbuds? We all have very different preferences, and there’s no right or wrong answer. Some people find in-ear buds invasive or worry about finding exactly the right fit. Thankfully if you’re fretting about the latter, most earbuds now come with a collection of silicone tips to ensure that the buds are snug enough for you not to worry about them tumbling out. Active noise cancelling depends on a good seal, so most ANC pairs have a good selection. Earbuds are also handy for travelling thanks to their compact cases that can slide into an inside pocket. 

But if you’re happy to carry something a little bigger and want some added audio oomph, there are plenty of over-ear options explicitly designed to press the mute button on airports and crowded train carriages. Brands like Sony and Bose have long reigned over the travel crowd, purely for their ultra-comfortable over-ear fit, excellent noise cancellation and satisfying audio chops.

They also fit snugly even when you’re cosied into your neck pillow on the plane, which is incredibly satisfying as you drift off. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for over-ears that come with a 3.5mm cable in the case so you can plug into the airplane entertainment system without having to resort to the free foamy monstrosities so you can watch a movie.

True wireless earbuds won't have a cable option (mostly), so if you're taking them on a flight, make sure you've filled your tablet or phone with entertainment.

Once you’ve decided on a fit, it’s time to think about your budget. If you fly regularly or want to silence a noisy metro train daily, you might want to invest in a high-end pair of ANC cans. If you’re just heading onto one short flight and don’t want to spend as much as the ticket on a pair of headphones, plenty of ANC options are available that won’t break the bank. You’ll sacrifice some bells and whistles, but audio quality doesn’t always have to suffer.

Speaking of ANC, you'll want to consider just how much you want to block out the world around you. As we said above, the more you pay the better the ANC tends to be. But that isn't always the case, so be sure to read our first-hand reviews. All of the options in this guide have some level of ANC – we consider it essential for a pair of the best travel headphones – but we also have a guide dedicated to the best noise cancelling headphones and best noise cancelling earbuds specifically if wrapping yourself up in an immersive cocoon of sound is your number one priority.

Higher-end headphones also may come with a system to adjust the air pressure between the seal and your eardrum, which is obviously nice on airplanes, when the pressure changes. Sony's WH-1000XM4 at #1 on this list feature 'Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing' tech, for example, while AirPods Pro 2 at #7 on this list also feature a pressure-balancing system.

How we test the best travel headphones

When we review headphones with active noise cancellation, we always test them for travel as much as possible anyway, since that's usually the hardest test for their noise blocking powers! We listen to them in cities among traffic, on public transport including trains and buses, and we've tested most of these options on flights, to find the best headphones for airplanes.

For audio fidelity, we test headphones from a range of sources, but mainly the best music streaming services . Our tests range from very high-quality tracks on Tidal to the very basic quality of Spotify's app, plus we'll test podcasts, YouTube , movie streams and other common ways to listen. 

We always test out the apps that most modern headphones have, to see how they can affect the experience (for better or worse), plus any features that are enabled by the apps, such as customizable noise cancellation, EQ settings, or spatial audio.

And we'll test the battery claims with actual use – and we'll use them for a long time to test the comfort, while we're at it.

We're comparing our verdicts in all these areas against other products at the same kind of price to arrive at our conclusion of not only whether something sounds good or blocks noise well, but whether it achieves good value while doing that.

Latest updates to the best travel headphones

December 6, 2023 Checked rankings against recent product launches and added in a new lead image.  

June 25, 2023 This guide launches for the first time! All entries were chosen by our team, based on our own reviews and opinions of the products.

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Matt is TechRadar's Managing Editor for Entertainment, meaning he's in charge of persuading our team of writers and reviewers to watch the latest TV shows and movies on gorgeous TVs and listen to fantastic speakers and headphones. It's a tough task, as you can imagine. Matt has over a decade of experience in tech publishing, and previously ran the TV & audio coverage for our colleagues at T3.com, and before that he edited T3 magazine. During his career, he's also contributed to places as varied as Creative Bloq, PC Gamer, PetsRadar, MacLife, and Edge. TV and movie nerdism is his speciality, and he goes to the cinema three times a week. He's always happy to explain the virtues of Dolby Vision over a drink, but he might need to use props, like he's explaining the offside rule.

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Home » Gear » best travel headphones

The 8 Top Travel Headphones in 2024

These days a good pair of headphones is as important a travel essential as a decent travel bag or travel wallet. Travel headphones are a great way of keeping you entertained while traveling, with many of the best also offering the fantastic added extra of noise-cancelling functionality – which is always appreciated on a plane, train, or hotel with noisy air conditioning! What’s more, travel headphones are lightweight and compact too.

But which of the 250 travel headphones on the market should you spend your hard-earned money on? Check out our detailed reviews of the very best available now!

We’ve covered things like best headphones for hiking, best noise cancelling headphone, most compact, in ear, over ear, good travel headphones on a budget. You get the idea, we’ve got them all!

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Games

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• Top Travel Headphones – Bose QuietComfort 35 II
• Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $100 – Silensys E7
• Best Wireless Travel Headphones – Sony WI 1000X
• Best travel headphones for iPhone – Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices
• Best Travel Headphones with Microphone – Skullcandy Crusher
• Best Over-ear Travel Headphones – Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones
• Best Travel Earbuds – Skullcandy Earbuds
• BONUS! Best Travel Pillow to use with Headphones – Trtl Pillow Plus

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

• > Wired and wireless
• > Noise-cancelling

Silensys E7

• > Great price
• > Active noise-cancelling

Sony WI 1000X

• > Users can adjust the sound profile

Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices

• > Specifically made for Apple devices
• > Built-in microphone

Skullcandy Crusher

• > 40 hours battery life
• > Full range audio drivers plus subwoofer drivers

Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones

• > Lightweight
• > Can be used for fitness routines

Skullcandy Earbuds

• > Made for movement
• > Sweat-resistant

Trtl Pillow Plus

• > Comfortable
• > Perfect for travel headphones!

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These over-ear style closed-back headphones are incredibly comfortable to wear, feel sturdy in the hand, and are simple to set up and use. The QuietComfort 35 II by Bose can be used either wired or wireless and can be connected to two different devices at the same time.

These headphones also offer noise-cancelling functionality, capable of removing a large array of background sounds to create a well-balanced timbre that fits well whatever the music or podcasts you enjoy listening too, although they lack the ability to alter the sound to your own personal likes. The battery life for the QuietComfort 35 IIs is around 20 hours, with charging taking roughly two hours to fully charge.

• Wired and wireless
• Noise-cancelling
• Long battery life
• The over-ear style might not suit every user
• Cannot adjust timbre to personal choice
• Bose AR app only available for iOS users
• Quite bulky

Are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones for me?

If you’re looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that are going to serve you well during your travels – being comfortable, well-made, and featuring noise-cancelling – then the QuietComfort 35 II by Bose are certainly a very good buy!

The team were super impressed by these headphones, especially those that wanted a superior level of noise cancellation for things like noisy flights or hostel dorms. They love the control they have over the noise cancellation with the 3 levels which is super useful for different travel situations. The addition of alexa, music sharing and the connect app not only adds extra functionality but added levels of control too. They also found the headphones to be pretty light too given their high quality feel.

A pair of travel headphones don’t have to cost hundreds of dollars. Even if you’re on a tight budget as a student or backpacker there are some fantastic pairs of travel headphones on the market to consider. The Silensys E7 active noise-cancelling headphones are one such pair! Though they might lack some of the all-round styling of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, Silensys E7 do come in five cool colors as well as a glossy black.

More importantly perhaps for those on a budget, these headphones come in at a penny under $70, while still offering active noise-cancelling capabilities in both wired and wireless modes. A built-in microphone allows you to make hands-free calls from your smartphone, while the good-quality sound means you’ll always enjoy using your Silensys E7s.

• Great price
• Good color range
• Active noise-cancelling
• Over-ear style
• Weight of close to 1.5 lbs
• Batteries not included
• Not as sturdy as more expensive models

Are the Silensys E7 active noise-cancelling headphones for me?

Not only do the Silensys E7 headphones offer an excellent price point for anyone traveling on a budget in the need for a good pair of headphones, but also come in some cool color choices if plain black or white isn’t quite your look. Despite the price, these headphones also offer wired and wireless modes and hands-free call taking!

The team were really impressed by the levels of noise cancellation offered for such a great price. They felt that for those that don’t want to spend a few hundred $ on something that could potentially get broken, stolen or lost pretty easy on the road, these were a great solution. Another thing they liked was the cool range of colours which many other brands don’t offer.

Available in black and gold, the Sony WI 1000X are much more exciting than their name might suggest. These in-ear headphones are another closed-back form with a neckband that is both well-made and looks good. These headphones also offer some good noise cancellation despite not being an over-ear form of travel headphone.

Their basic set-up is pretty well-balanced to suit any genre of music, however, the WI 1000X also connect to Sony’s Headphones Connect app (on Android and iOS), from where users can adjust the sound profile to your exact personal tastes! These headphones provide the option of hands-free calling with vibration notifications on the neckband and have ten-hour battery life.

• Users can adjust the sound profile
• In-ear headphone
• Neckband might feel strange to some
• Only black and gold options
• Ten-hour battery life

Are the Sony WI 1000X headphones for me?

Although they are compact and lightweight, this doesn’t stop the Sony WI 1000Xs being wireless headphones with noise-cancelling functionality. They also boast the ability to receive hands-free calls, while true music lovers will adore the ability to adjust the headphones’ sound profile to exactly your preferred settings via the smartphone app.

Our team felt these were the best travel earphones for those looking for a compact in-ear configuration. They loved the deep base and clearer range of frequencies these Sony headphones offer them. They were also impressed by the fact that such a small, light and in ear headphone offers noise cancellation abilities and they felt they were very effective too.

If you have a more recent edition of an iPhone then Apple’s decision to do away with the standard 3.5mm audio jack a few years ago means you’ll be searching for travel headphones which use a lightning connector instead. Those fine folk at Bose have come to the rescue with the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphone for Apple devices.

These wired in-ear travel headphones have added StayHear+ tips to ensure the best and most comfortable fit possible, while a built-in microphone, neck-line controls and clothing clip make it incredibly easy to switch between listening to music and making calls on your iPhone.

• Specifically made for Apple devices
• No lightning adapters required
• Built-in microphone
• In-ear headphones
• 16-hour battery life
• Only in black

Are the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices for me?

Apple product users are limited in their choice of headphones to some extent, however, that doesn’t mean they have to settle for second best. The Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple devices provide all the features you’d expect from a good pair of travel headphones at this price point while being specifically made for iPhone and other Apple devices!

Our team rate these as their best travel earphones for Apple users due to their superb sound quality and the awesome effectiveness of the noise cancellation for such small headphones. They felt being so small they were pretty much perfect for travellers, especially those who spend heaps of time flying. They also remarked how comfortable these were too.

The Skullcandy Crusher travel headphones are a simply phenomenal pair of headphones all around. Their sleek look – in black, maroon, olive green, and white – make these over-ear closed-back headphones very attractive and street worthy. But more than just looking great, these headphones do their job extraordinarily well too. The use of two full-range audio drivers in addition to two subwoofer drivers creates a strongly immersive experience with adjustable bass levels.

They are also wireless, with up to 40 hours of Bluetooth battery life after a full charge of 2.5 hours, while just ten minutes of charging promises to deliver three hours of functionality. On-ear buttons together with the built-in microphone allow you to answer calls, and adjust sound settings without the need to ever reach for your smartphone!

• Full-range audio drivers plus subwoofer drivers
• 40 hours of battery life
• Over-ear headphones
• Weight of 0.6 lbs
• No horizontal or vertical swivel
• Soft packing bag supplied

Are the Skullcandy Crusher Travel Headphones for me?

Anyone looking for a good pair of travel headphones with a built-in microphone should be drawn towards the Skullcandy Crusher headphones. They have a nice look and excellent audio and subwoofer drivers, while Skullcandy seems to have upped the build quality from previous headphone models! Fully wireless, they also boast an impressive 40-hour battery life.

The team love the Skullcandy headphones for many reasons, but the main one has to be how cool they look! Ok, they’re not that shallow, they also told us just how comfortable these headphones are, in fact, possibly the most comfortable they’ve ever used. They are also great in warmer weather too with the material not being as “sticky” when sweating! They also found the battery level to be almost unbeatable too and perfect for long travel stints and times when recharging is difficult.

We’ve already given you some great examples of over-ear travel headphones in our other categories, but the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones make the cut as our best over-ear travel headphones for a number of reasons. Firstly, they are incredibly lightweight, weighing in at an almost unbelievable 0.9 ounces! Then there’s the fact these travel headphones are waterproof and sturdy enough in their fit that they can be used for athletic events such as jogging or other fitness routines.

When it comes to tech, the Aeropex Headphones are wireless, and have a built-in microphone and volume control, while fitting snuggly behind the head/neck, allowing bone conduction technology to deliver sound through the skull so you’re still able to capture ambient sounds around you that you might need to hear!

• Lightweight
• Can be used for fitness routines
• Neckbrace style fitting
• 8-hour battery life
• Imported into the US

Are the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones for me?

If you need a lightweight pair of headphones that aren’t going to fall off as soon as you take a couple of steps jogging, you really should consider the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones. Weighing less than an ounce, these headphones are waterproof too, meaning you don’t have to stop training with them if and when the weather turns. Additionally, these headphones have built-in volume control and microphone for taking calls!

The team feel these are the best headphones for hiking due to the way in which the design allows you to still be very aware of your surroundings whilst listening to music or a podcast. The design is also perfect for those who want to still be able to hold conversations with their headphones on. The style is also pretty low key and they found they stayed in place well whilst hiking or running and wern’t big enough to get hot or sweaty too.

The Skullcandy Method travel earbuds, or in-ear travel headphones, are also designed with sport and movement in mind and are sweat-resistant as a result. DualLock technology, together with the neck brace or ‘collar’ mean these travel headphones are easy to keep in place even when active.

They have Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in microphone for answering any calls you might receive while out and about, while you’ll find further controls within easy reach on the collar. The battery for the Skullcandy Method Earbuds charges in just 2.5 hours, giving users nine hours of music – enough for a double marathon!

• Made for movement
• Sweat-resistant
• Controls on neck collar
• Neck collar might be uncomfortable to some
• 9-hour battery life
• Not fully wireless

Are the Skullcandy Method Earbuds for me?

Using headphones while doing heavy exercise can be difficult, but the Skullcandy Method Earbuds have DualLock technology and a neck collar to prevent the buds slipping or falling out. What’s more, the collar incorporates a whole load of useful controls alongside a built-in microphone for taking calls and wireless Bluetooth connectivity so you don’t get tangled up in wires as you break those personal training records!

The team were really impressed by the sheer range of features and functions on such a small and lightweight pair of headphones. They felt in terms of travel headphones, there size and weight makes them perfect. In terms of battery life, for their size they were again suitably impressed.

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Ok, so you’ve got some good travel headphones, but you want to use a travel pillow. Hmm, what to do!?

You’re on a plane, or train, or bus, and want to while away the time with music and podcasts but also want to be comfortable throughout by using a travel pillow. What do you do? You need a travel pillow that won’t interfere with your headphones, with the Trtl Pillow Plus a great example of its kind.

Being scarf-like wrap rather than a traditional travel pillow it is soft to the touch, lightweight and unbulky while providing all the support you need to rest well thanks to a in-built plastic headrest. Leaving the ears and lower head free, the Trtl Pillow Plus doesn’t clash with headphones, whether you prefer to use over-ear or in-ear versions, making it the perfect addition to your travel must-haves!

• Comfortable
• Perfect for travel headphones!
• In-built support limits you to one sleeping position
• One-size only
• Not a traditional travel pillow
• No direct connectivity to travel headphones

Is the Trtl Pillow Plus Travel Headphone Pillow for me?

Offering a great combination of features that are easily useable in collaboration with a pair of travel headphones makes the Trtl Pillow Plus a great choice for any traveler. Lightweight, and much less bulky than a traditional travel pillow, it provides comfortable support for those looking to rest that doesn’t get in the way of headphone use.

Our team love this new style solution to that age old problem, sleeping whilst sat upright! The neck support allows them to avoid waking up stiff and sore and the low profile and lightweight construction makes it easier to carry than a conventional pillow/ neck pilow. Most importantly for this post, they love that the design doesn’t cover the ears allowing them to wear pretty much any kind of headphones with ease.

Plantronics Backbeat

The Plantronics Backbeat over-ear headphones have an attractive vintage look of black and tan that provides up to 24 hours of wireless music before having to connect up to a cable or charge. Its Bluetooth connectivity extends to a very healthy 100 meters with the ability to be connected to two different devices at the same time, while these headphones are also great for travel because they can be twisted flat and kept in a protective travel sleeve.

On top of that, the Plantronics Backbeat headphones have active noise-cancelling that massively reduces ambient noise while providing top quality audio with powerful audio drivers which create a sound that is rich right across the sound spectrum.

• Stylish look
• Travel-friendly design
• 100m Bluetooth connectivity
• Very specific style
• 6 lb in weight
• No built-in microphone

Are the Plantronics Backbeat headphones for me?

When it comes to headphones that look the part as well as sounding the part, the Plantronics Backbeat over-ear headphones are another fine choice! Not only do they offer great sound quality, but have a battery life that lasts an entire day on one charge, and twist flat so they can be safely packed away without taking up huge amounts of space.

The team love the classic look of these headphone and for those wanting something that they can wear in professional settings, these worked perfectly. The placement of the controls is also pretty unique and the team felt that they were easier to use than many others on this list. They also loved how bassy these headphones were, especially for those favouring heavy metal and dance music.

Sennheiser HD 4.50

Although the Sennheiser brand may not be as well known as Sony, Bose, or Skullcandy, we think these over-ear headphones deserve looking at! Although wireless, the use of Bluetooth 4.0 and aptx technologies ensures a fine sound quality can still be enjoyed. Users of these headphones can also enjoy NoiseGard active noise-cancelling, removing all that irritating ambient background noise that are frequently found in offices, and on various forms of transport.

Ear-mounted buttons make it really easy and simple to stay in control, while the built-in microphone ensures you can make and take calls without reaching for your smartphone. These headphones also come with a very good battery life of 19 hours after a full charge!

• High-quality sound
• NoiseGard active noise-cancelling
• Ear-mounted buttons and built-in microphone
• Over-ear design
• No protective carry case supplied
• Weight of 8 ounces
• Not great for those larger in stature

Are the Sennheiser HD 4.50 headphones for me?

If branding isn’t all important to you, lesser-known Sennheiser has been creating noise-cancelling headphones since 1984, giving them an incredible pedigree and heritage in this sort of technology. The HD 4.50 headphones also offer wireless listening for up to 19 hours in one go, alongside a built-in microphone for making wireless calls, and ear-mounted buttons for easy control.

The Sennheiser brand is well known throughout our team and they just love the high build quality which gives them a real sense on longevity. Another plus point is the superb and accurate sound levels that really blow other options out of the water.

Jabra Elite 85h

One of the chunkier over-ear headphones on our list, the Jabra Elite 85h are fully wireless headphones with smart active noise cancellation that kicks in automatically if it detects background noise such as the hum of an aircraft. Their very clever SmartSound technology means that you’re always guaranteed the best quality sound for your environment, while even with active noise-cancelling switched on they offer a battery life of 36 hours on a single charging.

Users can also get five hours of action with just 15 minutes of charging – perfect if you’re never in the same place for very long! The Jabra Elite 85h headphones also have eight built-in microphones for the very best call quality whatever the noise coming from your background surroundings.

• Fully wireless
• Smart active noise cancellation
• 36-hour battery life
• Multiple built-in microphones for making calls
• Quite bulky to wear
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• Short charging cable

Are the Jabra Elite 85h headphones for me?

These over-ear headphones are impressive all-rounders in an ever-busier marketplace. With active noise-cancelling that is triggered automatically when it picks up background noise, and SmartSound tech that guarantees top-quality sound whatever that background, users can be sure never to miss a beat. And with 8 different microphones built-in, those you talk to wireless won’t have any problem picking up what you’re saying either!

The team felt these were a great option for those on a budget wanting headphones which offer great noise cancellation, a range of features and functionality as well as looking good too. They also felt the sound quality and the base levels were also pretty damn good too for such well priced headphones.

Bose QuietControl30

The little brother or sister of the Bose QuietControl 35 II (already reviewed above), the Bose QuietControl30 wireless headphones offer great sound despite their lightweight nature! These in-ear headphones and next collar incorporate controls on the wire connecting earbud with collar, while these headphones are otherwise wireless.

These headphones also offer the ability to alter the level of noise cancellation to your immediate surroundings, while offering both Bluetooth and NFC connectivity. A dual microphone system makes calls clearer than with headphones using a single built-in microphone and can be used for up to 10 hours on a single full charge.

• Easy access controls at ear level
• Adaptive noise cancellation technology
• Dual microphone system for clear calls
• Neck collar may be awkward for some
• Do not allow Bose music sharing
• 10-hour battery life

Are the Bose QuietControl 30 headphones for me?

If you like the sound of the Bose QuietControl 35 II but are after something a little lighter and less bulky then the BoseQuietControl 30 are the ideal alternative. With Bluetooth and NFC wireless connectivity and two in-built microphones, you can listen to music and make calls without having to reach for your smartphone, with these headphones having enough battery life to keep you entertained on the move for up to 10 hours.

Our team felt these were a close second when it comes to the best headphones for hiking given how well they stayed in their ears. More than that though they were super impressed by the levels of noise cancellation offered by headphones that are so small and light. They also loved that the Bluetooth transmitter could fit inside a planes standard jack and so connect with the inflight entertainment system easily.

Philips PH805

Folding in on themselves to reduce the amount of space they take up in a bag, these over-ear headphones by Philips have a luxurious-feeling memory foam cover than rests over or on top of your ears, to make sure they remain comfortable throughout the day! There’s in-line control and a microphone switch for moving effortlessly between listening to music and taking or making a call, while the specially-designed standalone acoustic chambers and optimized 40mm neodymium drivers ensure good sound quality. The Philips PH805 headphones also feature noise-cancellation technology, and come in at just 8 ounces in weight!

• Folding to reduce storage space
• Memory foam covers
• Great quality sound
• Noise-cancelling tech
• Lack some style
• Over/on-ear headphones
• Not wireless
• Imported to US

Are the Philips PH805 headphones for me?

These Philips PH805 headphones provide a good balance between cost, sound quality, usability, and size. Ear comfort is protected through the use of memory foam covers, while the drivers and acoustic chambers used to create a wonderful sound. Further, the Philips PH805 have noise-cancelling technology built-in, so however noisy the surrounding environment you find yourself in, you’ll still be able to enjoy music as it should be heard.

For what are a super cheap pair of headphones, the team were pretty impressed by what they offered. For less than 40 quid you get decent noise cancellation, good portability and a lightweight design. The wires might be a drawback but for those wanting to switch between their phone, laptop and the entertainment system on the plane, they know it will be quick and easy.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

How to choose the best travel headphones for you

Over-ear versus in-ear headphones

One of the first questions you should ask yourself when you’re thinking of splashing out on a new pair of travel headphones is which sort of headphone do you prefer? Are you a fan of over-ear headphones that make it much easier to become fully immersed in what you’re listening to, or in-ear headphones which tend to be lighter but have slightly reduced sound qualities as a result? Do you like the feel of the neck collars/braces that accompany many modern in-ear choices?

Also, bear in mind what activity or activities you plan to use these headphones for! For example, if you intend to primarily use your new headphones for exercise or activities with a lot of movement, be sure to pick a pair that are specifically built for the purpose. That way, you’ll be sure that your headphones will last, and resist the rigours of running, for instance.

In general, if you’re going to be running or you’re looking for as an example, the best headphones for hiking, you’re going to want ones that will stay in whilst you’re being active too. So, looking for the best travel earphones, ones that go inside your actual ear, is perfect.

Wired, wireless, and true wireless

For most people, deciding between wired, wireless, and true wireless travel headphones is a pretty easy choice coming down to personal preference and what you’re used to. We’d say doing away with wires is definitely the way to go, especially when traveling, when there are already ten different things to get tangled up in! As for the difference between wireless and true wireless, a wireless travel headphone will connect to your smartphone or device through Bluetooth but might have a wire between earbud and neck brace, while you’ll find no wires on any sort in a truly wireless travel headphone.

Other features to consider

While most brands of headphone in the same price bracket will have similar features, its worth noting down exactly what you are looking for in your pair of travel headphones. We’d say finding a pair with good noise-cancelling functionality is all important when traveling – given the amount of noisy downtime you’re likely to face on planes, trains, and elsewhere. The so-called ‘ambient’ noise on a plane can hit 60 decibels for example, which explains why its always so difficult to fully hear films using the airline’s free headphones.

In addition, are you also looking for compact size, so that your travel headphones pack down really small (another reason to opt for in-ear headphones perhaps)? Maybe it’s sound quality which is more important to you.

You will also want to decide whether or not you’re going to want a built-in microphone system, enabling you to make hands-free calls. Frankly we say that if you’re going to be using your smartphone to listen to music, why not also have that hands-free capability!

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel gear, but here at The Broke Backpackers, we’ve got enough experience to have gotten pretty good at it!

When we set about testing a piece of gear, we start by handing each item out to various members of our team spread around the world. This means we always get different opinions and experiences when it comes to feedback.

Our testing revolves around a series of parameters we use for each item to fairly compare them to one another. We look at how well each piece fulfils its primary purpose. So when it comes to picking out good travel headphones that are things like portability, weight, size, noise cancellations, battery life and durability as well as sound quality.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced – So more expensive headphones that performed poorly were treated more harshly when it came to doling out points. On the other hand, cheaper headphones were given a bit more leeway.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Are bluetooth headphones better than wired headphones?

That depends on your personal preference. Bluetooth headphones are definitely handier but they also need to be charged which can get a bit annoying. However, the wire connected with your headphones can get tangled in your clothes and other objects.

Can you wear bluetooth headphones on a plane?

Yes, you can wear bluetooth headphones on a plane. If you’re worried, keep them disconnected during landing and take-off.

Are noise-cancelling headphones any good?

Noise-cancelling headphones are great for people that need to work on their laptop in a busy environment. There is no disadvantage of noice cancelling, unless you need to be aware of your surroundings.

What are the best budget travel headphones?

The Silensys E7 are the best noise-cancelling headphones that are not just high in quality, but also pretty affordable.

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A final point for all those iPhone and iPad users out there

Don’t forget that if you’re a user of Apple iOS products you’re going to need to take the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack into consideration for wired headphones, or you’ll also be faced with needing to add a lightning adapter to your kit list!

When you’re thinking about travel headphones there’s a lot to consider – as you’ve probably already discovered! However, the good news is that we’ve done much of the hard graft for you guys, and we’ve cast our eyes across the 250 different travel headphones out there to bring you only the very best! What’s more, our links make it really easy to make that purchase a reality – so get clicking!

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The 11 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested noise-canceling headphones to find the best options for all of your travels.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

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Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Whether you can’t get enough of music, podcasts, or audiobooks, a pair of the best noise-canceling headphones can significantly improve the quality of your listening experience — especially if you’re traveling on a plane, commuting on a busy route, or working amid an abundance of background noise. 

In our New York City lab, we tested 27 pairs of noise-canceling headphones from the industry’s leading brands, including Apple, Samsung, and Jabra. We performed a series of tests that evaluated ease of use, functionality, comfort, and, of course, sound quality. We listened to a series of noises at different frequencies, such as a screaming baby, an airplane cabin, and a siren, to discover which headphones truly have the most ear-saving power. We then also tested all of these headphones out in the real-world to guarantee the best results to guide you while you shop.

The best noise-canceling headphones we tested are the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700. These tried-and-true wireless headphones blew us away with the ability to silence any fracas with their active noise-canceling. On top of that, they are exceptionally comfortable to wear and are easy to set up and use. If over-the-ear headphones aren’t your style preference, we also have versatile earbud recommendations as well as verdicts on the best multi-use and budget options.

Best Overall

Bose noise cancelling headphones.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Noise Cancelation 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

These have a unique adjustability with an expandable headband and ear cups that slide up and down for an even better fit.

They didn't feel as secure on the head as other headphones we tested.

The Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 earned the top spot on our list for the best noise-canceling headphones with superior performance across all of our testing categories. Most notably, these headphones blocked almost all outside sound with their active noise-canceling feature turned on. There are 11 levels of passive and active noise-canceling on this Bose model, and when we used the headphones at the highest setting, we couldn’t even hear ourselves voice talking. Even after six months of use, we found these to have the best noise cancellation capabilities of any headphones we tested.

Along with the great noise cancellation quality, we also love how slim the case is — those two qualities seem ideal for commuting to the office. We wore these on a five-hour flight, and they were comfortable the whole time. The right earcup has touch sensors to adjust the sound level and noise-canceling presets as well as power the headphones on and off. Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa can work with these Bose headphones to allow hands-free assistance for answering texts or changing music selections. They're simple and easy to set up, but users will need to download the Bose app to take advantage of the headphones’ full functionality. Additionally, they're comfortable to wear, but when we moved around a bit, they didn’t feel as secure as some of the other headphones we tested.

The Details: Up to 20 hours battery life | Up to 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 8.96 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Anker soundcore life p3.

• Sound Quality 4 /5
• Noise Cancelation 4 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5

The sound quality of the music is sharp and vibrant.

The sound quality isn’t as good during phone calls and it takes a few moments to turn them off and on.

For a pair of noise-canceling headphones at such an accessible price, we were impressed with the excellent sound projected from the Anker Soundcore Life P3 during testing. When listening to music at a low level, the active noise-canceling concealed all outside sounds, including the decibel tests with a baby screaming, a siren, subway sounds, and more. However, during the phone test, the person on the other end of our call could hear outside sounds. If some background noise during phone calls doesn’t bother you, this shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s something to consider if your primary use of these headphones would be for something requiring no disturbances.

After using these headphones for a full month, we found them to be so comfortable that we often forget we're wearing them. There are also several different sizes of tips included so you can tailor your headphones to your own preference. Users will need to download the Soundcore app to control the noise-cancelation settings, but the app was simple to use and the earbuds paired to our device immediately. 

The Details: 7 hours of playing time and another 35 hours with the case | Android and iOS | 2.24 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Sound, Earbuds

Samsung galaxy buds pro.

The headphones have crisp and clear sound quality. 

The price depends on the color — some are more expensive than others.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro headphones block out all surrounding noise and provide a vibrant sound. We love how lightweight and comfortable the earbuds are to wear, and they feel secure when you’re on the move. In lab testing, the active noise-canceling feature prevented almost all outside noises from being heard, except for some ambient noise at 84.5 decibels. Other than that, we couldn’t hear a siren, a baby screaming, an airplane cabin, or a construction drill at various decibel levels. Although Samsung is an Android product, we used an iPhone to pair with the earbuds and it was simple and hassle-free. Users can tap an earbud to adjust the active noise-cancelation and transparency levels as well as pause or play a song. We loved that it does a great job of adding bass to songs, creating a vibrant listening experience.

The Details: Up to 8 hours battery life | Up to 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 1.2 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Sound, Over-ear

Jbl tour one m2.

The smart noise cancelation instantly adapts to mask any new sounds introduced to your environment.

Talking on the phone or during video calls takes some getting used to as your own voice may sound echoey.

For daily commuters, frequent travelers, or anyone else who wants to be completely immersed in sound, JBL's Tour One M2 headphones have the adaptive technology you need to get that concert-quality experience. You can use these over-ear headphones right out of the box without the app, you just connect them to your device as you would any other Bluetooth device. The app, however, is helpful with interactive images to help guide you through headphone setup or to change the settings including the tap controls. Throughout our tests, we were able to connect to multiple devices, and especially love how it prioritizes your phone so, if you get a call while listening to your computer, it automatically switches devices when you answer.

These headphones are perfect for audiophiles as the noise-blocking capabilities are so advanced, it actually takes some getting used to. The Tour One M2's have smart noise cancelation that continuously adjusts as you’re wearing so if, for example, a train or siren goes by, the noise is blocked along with the regular nat sound of the room. We loved listening to music on these and felt more focused when listening to podcasts and audiobooks because there wasn’t any distracting background noise. It really allows you to be in your own world with whatever you’re listening to.

The Details: Up to 50 hours battery life | Android and iOS | 9.6 ounces | Over-ear

Most Comfortable, Over-ear

Sony wh-1000xm5 headphones.

 Amazon

• Ease of Use 2 /5
• Functionality 4 /5

They completely block out loud sounds and background noises.

The set-up can be tricky at first.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 are one of the most impressive all-around noise-canceling headphones we've used. We loved the lightweight and comfortable fit of the headphones; they aren't too snug or too loose but do appear slightly bulky on the head. During lab testing, these headphones impressed us with their automatic adaptive noise-canceling, which turns the noise-canceling on and off when someone starts speaking and allows users to easily skip or pause songs by tapping the side of the ear cups. When the active noise-canceling was turned on, it could prevent the sounds of a ride-on lawnmower from being heard while landscaping. And, when we walked around the city, the headphones created a “bubble” where outside noises were completely tuned out.

We did have some difficulties setting up the headphones due to a lack of instructions included by Sony, but once the app was downloaded, it became a much more intuitive experience. While the setup was tricky, these headphones more than made up for the inconvenience with incredible active noise cancelation.

The Details: Up to 30 hours battery life | Up to 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 8.8 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Most Comfortable, Earbuds

Jabra elite 85t earbuds.

• Functionality 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 4.5 /5
• Noise Cancelation 4.5 /5

The Jabra app has a tool that tests sound leakage and recommends which size of the rubber earbud tip should be used.

You may have to read the directions to help with connecting to your computer.

Earbuds can be uncomfortable to wear for long amounts of time, but the Jabra Elite 85ts come with several thoughtful features to enhance comfort. There are three different sizes of rubber earbud tips, and the Jabra Sound+ app has a tool that emits a sound to test for leakage so that it can recommend the best fit for improving sound and comfort quality. We loved how lightweight and secure the earbuds felt.

There are 11 sound levels with active noise-canceling and a transparency mode for when you need to hear surrounding sounds better. You can toggle between six included sound settings and create custom presets on the app or by tapping the earbud. After wearing these headphones regularly for one month, we found that the noise-canceling aspect does work really well and makes for much more pleasant rides on the commuter train. These earbuds would be ideal for commuting or extended flights when travelers want to listen to music for long periods of time without having to worry about ear pain. 

The Details: Up to 25 hours battery life | 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 1.06 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Splurge

Apple airpods max.

The sound quality and noise-canceling are excellent during phone calls.

They don't turn off unless they're in the case, so you have to always carry the case with you.

Apple’s first pair of over-the-ear headphones, the AirPods Max earned our fandom with noise-canceling abilities that blocked out nearly all outside commotion while providing crisp and vibrant sound for music and phone calls. We found the sound quality to be much higher than other options, and the cancel/transparency range is larger. We also appreciated how intuitive the headphones are to use thanks to buttons along the earpiece that allow you to adjust the sound level, play or skip a song, and change the active noise-cancelation and transparency settings. During our decibel tests, the headphones only let in the sound of a screaming baby at 75.3 decibels; otherwise, the noise-cancelation blocked out sirens, talking, construction drills, and more. Even with the transparency setting on, we noted that the headphones provided a noise-blocking effect.

The headphones are comfortable to wear and shaped nicely to our heads without many adjustments needed, but they still not be the best option to use during your workouts. Although these Apple headphones have a higher price point than some, we think the sound and material quality match the cost for those who have a larger budget. Even after six months of regular use, these headphones certainly live up to the hype and continue to deliver an amazing listening experience.

The Details: Up to 20 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 13.6 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Best Battery Life

Jabra elite 85h.

There are six preset equalizer settings, but you can save custom presets, too.

The noise-cancelation didn’t feel as strong as other headphones we tested.

On one single charge, the Jabra Elite 85H has a 36-hour battery life with the active noise cancelation turned on — an ideal length for travelers that might not have regular access to a power-up. To pair the headphones and control the noise-canceling abilities, users will have to download the Jabra Sound+ app, which includes features like sleep mode and a headphone tracker to find them if they get misplaced. We had no issues setting up the app and appreciated the tour the app gave that outlined how to use the headphones. After one month of regular use, these exceeded our expectations. The audio quality is amazing and the noise cancelation and hear-through mode works like a charm.

The noise-canceling feature especially impressed us by blocking out ambient noise like the sounds of an airplane cabin. We were able to hear the highest-pitched sounds like a baby screaming, but thoughtful features like the ability to play white noise from the app help block out noise. The headphones are comfortable to wear but aren’t as lightweight as the others we tested. On the plus side for portability, they fold up and fit into a compact carrying case that is perfect for air travel. 

The Details: Up to 36 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 10.4 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Best for Apple Users

Apple airpods pro.

• Durability 4.5 /5

It takes Apple users seconds and almost no effort to pair Apple AirPods Pro.

After six months of use, we noticed the battery life doesn't last as long as when they were new.

Apple users who are looking to stay within the iOS family should consider the AirPods Pros. The pairing process for Apple users takes minimal effort and almost no time at all. We paired the headphones to a phone easily and were able to adjust the active noise-canceling and transparency features without issue. The sound quality of the headphones didn’t blow us away, but we were thoroughly impressed with the noise-canceling ability that silenced any outside noise, including our simulated tests with sounds like a siren, a screaming baby, and a car honking. On a flight, we were impressed with the quality and its ability to drown out the airplane noises.

To suit your size preference, the Apple earbuds come with three different earbud tips so you can customize how snug you want them to feel in your ear. Another great feature for Apple users is the ability to track your earbuds if you misplace them by using the Find My Friends app on an iPhone. Android users can certainly enjoy a pair of AirPods Pros, but we think Apple users or people new to using wireless earbuds will appreciate the convenience the most. [Note: We tested the first generation headphones here, but we've also later reviewed the newer model as well.]

The Details: Up to 5 hours battery life | Android and iOS | 0.18 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Multi-use

Beats fit pro noise canceling earbuds.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

You can skip songs and adjust the volume level by tapping on the earbud.

The control buttons aren't easy to locate; you may have to feel around to find them.

Whether you're traveling, commuting, or working out at the gym, you'll love how comfortable and intuitive the Beats Fit Pros are. Pairing the headphones to a phone is incredibly easy — all you have to do is open the case and the device will automatically connect via Bluetooth. These earbuds have special audio that allows users to adjust the sound transparency to completely block out noise or allow it to filter through while using the earbuds. The sound quality for playing music was powerful, and nothing leaked through the active noise-cancelation. However, when talking on the phone, you may not want to activate the noise-canceling feature, otherwise you may not sound clear on the other end. After six months of regular use, we're so impressed with the battery power on these headphones and find that they only need to be charged once a week.

The Details: Up to 24 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Customizable

Bose quietcomfort earbuds.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Comfort 3.5 /5
• Noise-Cancellation 5 /5

We love the quiet mode for when you really need to focus.

They may not be comfortable for people with small ears.

When it comes to noise-canceling headphones, we usually focus on blocking out sound so you can hear your music or movie without distraction. These headphones take things one step further by allowing users to customize their own noise-cancelation mode from a full cancelation "quiet" mode to a fully aware mode that automatically adjusts based on your surroundings. There's also an app you can use to track you earbuds — not just the case — in case one gets lost. We were also very impressed with the sound quality of these earbuds when listening to music. It feels like a full surround system and the music is so clear. The downside is that the left earbud doesn't work on its own since the Bluetooth actually connects to the right bud. Both earbuds also have tap controls, so these are best used together for optimal listening.

The Details: Up to 6 hours battery life | 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 0.3 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

We gathered our product testers in our New York City lab to find the best noise-canceling headphones through a series of tests that evaluated ease of use, functionality, sound quality, comfort, noise-cancelation, and overall value. We tested 27 earbuds and headphones from industry-leading tech and audio brands like Apple, Bose, Sony, and more.

To test the ease of use, we had our participants unbox each set of headphones and note how easy it was to pair their cellphones to them. Some brands require an app to be downloaded that controls the features of each headphone, whereas others can be controlled by tapping on the earbud to adjust the settings. These features were tested for functionality to determine how difficult it was to navigate the headphones’ features.

Next, we carefully considered the comfort of each pair of headphones and earbuds. Some earbuds came with multiple sizes of rubber tips, and the over-the-ear headphones could be adjusted to fit the shape of the user’s head. Everyone made a phone call to test the microphone and asked the person on the other end of the call how clear their voice sounded. 

Our team used the headphones during a variety of noise-canceling challenges that included listening to music while walking around outside and participating in frequency assessments to listen for sounds at different levels with and without music playing. The decibel tests included a baby screaming, sirens, subway noises, construction drills, cars honking, and airplane cabin noises.

Travel + Lesiure / Vicky Wasik

Other Noise-canceling Headphones We Liked

Some noise-canceling headphones came close to making our list of top performers, but the pairs below lacked features and qualities compared to our winners. 

Bose QuietComfort 35 II : These headphones were comfortable to wear and easily blocked ambient sounds, but the sound quality didn’t impress us, and we think there are better headphones out there for the same price or less. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX : These have a great battery life and the app is easy to use, but the price is high considering we couldn’t fully tell the difference between the active noise-canceling and transparency settings. 

Sony WH-1000XM4 : Despite having excellent sound quality and noise-canceling abilities, the newer version of these headphones outperformed this older set during testing. 

OnePlus Buds Pro True Wireless Earbuds : These earbuds are simple to use, but they weren’t the most comfortable to wear and felt disorienting when listening to only one earbud at a time.

Tips for Buying Noise-canceling Headphones

Consider your primary use .

Depending on what you plan on using a pair of noise-canceling headphones for, be sure to consider factors like earbuds versus headphones, noise-canceling ability with phone calls versus music, and the price. If you’re planning on using a pair of noise-canceling headphones for work, consider prioritizing headphones that block out noise during phone calls specifically. For travelers, a lightweight pair of earbuds will be best for portability as well as long battery life and overall comfort for long journeys. 

Know the pros and cons of overhead versus earbuds

Overhead headphones and earbuds can both offer excellent noise-canceling abilities but differ when it comes to style, portability, and comfort. Travelers might find earbuds to be easier to carry around — especially if they are already bringing along a travel pillow — but headphones that go over the ears may end up being more comfortable for longer amounts of time. Plus, while earbuds are small and discreet, headphones are noticeable and could get in the way of workouts or sleeping on your side.

Noise-canceling headphones are designed to reduce background noise while listening to music or talking on the phone. While they can’t eliminate all surrounding sounds, active noise-cancellation can help with drowning out ambient noise and providing clear and crisp sound quality whether you’re listening to music or taking a phone call. Some headphones, like those from the Jabra brand, have white noise features that let users listen to sounds like ocean waves to help cover outside noise.

Active noise-canceling (ANC) neutralizes outside sounds using built-in microphones to pick up sounds and using sounds that are out of phase with the external sounds to counteract ambient noise. Passive noise-canceling features are the physical design of the earbud or headphones that prevent outside noise. For example, the shape and cushion of ear cups and the rubber tips on earbuds are passive noise-canceling features. 

Noise-canceling headphones, especially over-ear headphones, generally have padding and other components that block noise even when they are not projecting music. Active noise-canceling headphones (ANC) can block noise whether or not you are playing music.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best noise-canceling headphones based on a series of tests completed by our testers in our lab.

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Having to regularly top off the battery on your wireless headphones can be a chore, right? Even the best wireless headphones I've tried don't yet support wireless charging, meaning I have to remember to hunt down the charging cable and USB-C power adapter every time my headphones need a boost. 

The last thing I want to be concerned with on a lengthy work commute, business trip, or while away on a vacation, is refilling the battery on my headphones. Just as Sod's (or Murphy's) law states 'anything that can go wrong will go wrong,' so it is highly probable that my headphones will run out of battery right while I'm in the middle of catching up on a favorite TV show, listening to a music playlist, or enjoying a podcast.

So a robust and reliable pair of headphones with great sound and practical battery life are always at the top of my travel bag wherever I go. 

As wireless headphones get more and more adaptive processing tech on board to help block out the noise of our surroundings and personalize the sound to our ears, the drain on the battery life when these features are enabled can happen more rapidly.

Thankfully, many of the latest headphone designs have managed to significantly increase their battery life, and also come with fast charging that can achieve several hours of playback time from just a 10-minute quick charge. 

So what are the best wireless headphones models for battery life? Read on to discover my recommendations for the best models I've tried that allow you to listen for longer.

1. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless  

At 60 hours with ANC fully enabled, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones have the longest battery life of any pair of noise-cancelling headphones we've ever encountered. This is exceptionally high for a headphone of its type, and by comparison outperforms the Sony WH-1000XM4 (below) by some 30 hours. 

This is a considerable step up on playback time over Sennheiser's Momentum 3 Wireless that claims 17 hours, but gave less when ANC was enabled. How the company has managed to increase battery life so dramatically hasn't been discussed, but the possibility of only ever neededing to charge these headphones every couple of weeks at most (or once a month if you listen for just two hours a day) makes them very desirable for work commutes, business travelers and the perfect model to take on a vacation. What's more, with battery life this good you may not need to take the charging cable and USB power adapter with you.   

Even when you do need to recharge it's pretty rapid, taking just 2 hours from empty to fully charged, while a 5 minute charge claims to give up to 4 hours of playback time.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: was $349 now $276 @ Amazon The 60-hour battery life is a real crowd pleaser and the ANC model to beat. Add in the easy-going Sennheiser sound and effective noise cancelling, and the Momentum 4 is one the most practical ANC headphones we've seen, perfectly built for a life on the road.

2. Cleer Enduro ANC

The Cleer Enduro ANC headphones are an incredible value for money. Battery life claims to match the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless above, and combined with an easy going fit aided by an easily adjustable headband and earcups that can both rotate and pivot in a foldable design, these are particularly good for travelers.   

Is the battery life too good to be true? As it turns out, yes, though the Enduro ANC is anything but a letdown. With ANC enabled, the volume at 50% and connected via Bluetooth, it gave over 50 hours from a single charge in our tests. Many of our  best over-ear headphones  don’t come close to that, with or without noise cancellation. 

We originally tested the Cleer Enduro ANC headphones in 2021, and back then these were easily the longest-lasting pair of noise-cancelling headphones Tom’s Guide had reviewed. Battery life may have been bettered by Sennheiser (above), but the Cleer Enduro ANC continue to be the best cheap noise-cancelling headphones overall. 

The only downside is a lengthy empty-to-full recharging time of 3 hours, though you can get 2 hours of playback time from a quick 10-minute charge. 

Cleer Enduro ANC: was $149 now $129 @ Amazon The Enduro ANC may have been around for a while but they are still by far the best pair of cheap noise-cancelling headphones we've tested, especially when it comes to battery life. The modern, feature-rich design is backed up by great sound quality and effective ANC. The transparent ambient mode works well, fit is decent, and Bluetooth supports aptX Adaptive. 

3. Sony WH-1000XM4

As I mentioned when making previous travel headphone recommendations , I feel slightly guilty that I don't prefer Sony's newer  WH-1000XM5 headphones, which replaced the XM4 last year. But there are solid reasons for making the XM4 my best travel headphones for work commutes. 

Firstly, they're foldable, which makes them so much more practical for sliding into my work or travel bag, and the protective case is a lot smaller too. And judging by the number of fellow travelers on my work commutes also sporting the older version of Sony's XM-series headphones on their head, I'm not alone.

Battery life may only run to half the time of the models mentioned above, but at around 30 hours with ANC-enabled it is similar to the new XM5 version, and long enough for most travelers. Do the math and it is enough juice to keep you entertained on a round-trip flight to Tokyo, with some power left to binge YouTube clips on Uber rides to and from the airports.   

Based on our testing, the rated time was about an hour off, as our pair lasted around 29 hours when listening with ANC on. High volume, heavy streaming, and extra features barely affected playtimes, so we have to commend Sony for its admirable job with battery management. Quick charging eases any low battery anxiety by generating 5 hours of playtime from a 10-minute boost.

4. Anker Soundcore Space Q45 

Like the Cleer Enduro ANC (above), Anker's Soundcore Space Q45 are quite the bargain with remarkable battery life, features and effective ANC performance. Anker’s never been one to cheat their consumers out of battery life. After all, they built their legacy on selling high-powered portable chargers. It should come as no surprise that the Space Q45 has some of the lengthiest playtimes in the category, no matter how you use the headphones.

A full charge gets you 50 hours with ANC on and up to 65 hours with ANC off, placing them in the same company as the Sennheiser Momentum 4 (60 hours). It's worth pointing out that these aren’t accurate playtimes, though, as high volume and features such as high-quality audio LDAC support brings them down to around between 37 to 45 hours. Anyone who uses the Space Q45 moderately can get about a month of use. Music lovers like myself should get around two weeks of ANC listening before needing a recharge, making them an ideal choice for a vacation.

If that’s not enough, Anker’s quick-charging technology helps get you 4 hours of listening time in 5 minutes, which is very impressive indeed. These are a great value travel companion and worthy of tracking down.

Anker Soundcore Space Q45: was $149 now $129 @ Best Buy The Anker Soundcore Space Q45 delivers quality ANC, lively sound and a comfortable design along with extra long battery life. The sonic soundstage is wide and immersive, and the high-quality audio LDAC support makes the Soundcore Space Q45 a versatile travel option for sound aficionados.

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As a former editor of the U.K.'s Hi-Fi Choice magazine, Lee is passionate about all kinds of audio tech and has been providing sound advice to enable consumers to make informed buying decisions since he joined Which? magazine as a product tester in the 1990s. Lee covers all things audio for Tom's Guide, including headphones, wireless speakers and soundbars and loves to connect and share the mindfulness benefits that listening to music in the very best quality can bring.

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10 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Travel [2023]

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We picked the best travel-friendly noise-canceling headphones for you in 2023.

Visiting other countries and seeing new places can be a fantastic experience; however, traveling itself can get pretty stressful.

When you’re in transit, unforeseeable things can happen – some of them unavoidable, and others downright annoying. It can be difficult to relax even when you’re on vacation with the added bother of different intrusive sounds, like engine noise and noisy passengers.

One of the best ways to stay sane during those long hours spent in transit is just to tune it all out – and that’s where noise-canceling headphones come in.

Several factors ought to be considered when picking a pair of noise-canceling headphones, and, the good news is, you don’t have to look far because we’ve compiled them all in this extensive guide. We’ve also put together a list of top-scoring noise cancelling headphones for travel that hit many of the buying factors we’ve listed.

So, let’s dive in!

How to Pick the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel?

Traveling can present many unpredictable scenarios, so naturally, the goal is to make it as stress-free as possible. Noise cancellation is undoubtedly one way to make those long hours spent in-transit more bearable, but there are also several other elements to consider to get the most out of your investment and travels.

To help guide you in choosing the best noise-canceling headphones to suit your travel needs, as yourself the following questions:

• Which type of active noise cancellation is best for traveling?
• Do the headphones have a long battery life?
• Are the headphones portable?
• How’s the build quality of the headphones?
• Are the headphones comfortable?
• How is the sound quality of the headphones?
• How much do the headphones cost?

Active noise cancellation

When traveling, you’ll want a pair of headphones that can effectively eliminate unwanted background noise, and this is best achieved with active noise cancellation (ANC) . In contrast to passive noise isolation, which only uses physical properties to block out noise and can be added to any headphones , ANC uses advanced technology built into the headphones to detect and combat unwanted ambient noise.

In fact, the first Active noise-canceling headphones were initially made for flights. After the tech was first patented in 1936, it was used mainly by airplane and helicopter pilots throughout the 1950s to help with the loud, constant drone of their engines.

Because of this, a lot of advancements in noise cancelling headphones are focused on this purpose. That’s why you can find some of the best of the best noise cancelling headphones on the market on this list.

Active noise cancellation is specifically geared towards blocking consistent, low-frequency noises such as the sound of engines humming.

Adaptive ANC

If you’ve already set your sights on a pair of ANC headphones, it’s important to remember that there are different types of active noise cancellation. The common types of ANC include feedforward , feedback , and hybrid , which only differ on how the dedicated ANC microphones are placed inside the ear cups. You can usually find these types in ANC headphones below $100.

However, if you’re someone who travels quite often or is easily bothered by the noisy disturbances we encounter while traveling, it’s more advisable to opt for adaptive ANC .

Adaptive ANC is essentially a hybrid ANC with built-in artificial intelligence. It’s designed to monitor the listener’s surroundings and make automatic adjustments depending on how loud or quiet the environment is. It continually does so as you move from one place to another.

This makes adaptive ANC perfect for travelers since the likelihood of being exposed to all manner of noises is expected. Adaptive ANC also eliminates the need to tweak your noise-canceling settings continually and is more known for better sound quality and battery life. But as with any product with built-in AI, you can expect it to be more expensive than other types.

Ambient mode

Battery life.

The sheer horror of being on a long flight and knowing your headphones aren’t going to make it until the end is a feeling that most of us would rather avoid, which is why battery life is a priority.

ANC technology requires more power to work, which is why ANC headphones come with a built-in battery dedicated solely to powering the noise-canceling system.

When that battery gets drained, the ANC won’t run, even when the device is connected via an AUX cable. In addition to that, a solid battery will give you longer listening hours so that you can enjoy your music or your favorite podcast without worrying about charging.

Portability

Another valuable feature for frequent travelers is portability. You’ll want a pair of headphones that are easy to pack and carry and won’t add to your baggage weight, especially since some airlines can be unforgivingly strict about these things.

Consider the following features:

• Weight: The lighter your headphones are, the better portability they have. Headphones on the lighter end of the weight spectrum are no heavier than 0.55 lbs, while anything weighing 0.75 lbs or more is already considered quite heavy.
• Foldable: You’ll want something compact and space-saving, particularly since some ANC headphones tend to be on the bulky side because of the materials. Check to see if the headphones can be easily folded into a smaller configuration to prevent packing headaches later on.
• Accessories: Look for a pair that comes with a sturdy carrying case (ideally not one of those drawstring bags) that’ll let you carry it on its own and give ample protection on lazy days when you can’t be bothered to organize the contents of your luggage. Also, check to see if it comes with a flight adapter, which can be helpful on long flights.

Build quality

Adventurous travelers will want to place importance on build quality so that the headphones can endure environmental and climate exposure.

Build quality refers to the soundness and durability of the headphones’ overall design, and several factors can help you determine this.

Materials used

Headphones crafted with dense, high-quality plastics and metal frames will give better longevity. Likewise, the foam and padding used on the ear cups should also feel thick and sturdy enough to endure everyday wear and tear.

Foldable headphones will have joints in the headband, and it’s important to examine their quality, as they could be potential weak spots later on. They should move smoothly and have a decent amount of resistance to stay in position. If your headphones come with wires, thicker cables encased in rubber or fabric have better durability.

Warranties don’t just assure you of added security; they’re also a great way to get a feel of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s overall design and performance. Warranties that provide two or more years of protection are good indicators that the company has invested a great deal in durability.

User reviews

Comfortable fit.

Headphones for travel are likely going to see most use during long flights, so comfortability is a huge factor to consider. It’s especially important since small nuisances, if prolonged and repeated, can flare up into bigger, more annoying problems.

Good fitting headphones don’t just assure comfort; they also give a better seal over the ears so that less sound leaks out and less noise comes in, effectively enhancing the ANC.

A sure-fire way of knowing how comfortable headphones are is to try them on, but if you’re buying online, other factors can help you determine the comfortability of headphones.

Clamping force

Clamping force refers to the headband’s tightness or tension and may affect people differently depending on the user’s head shape and size.

Go for headphones with a clamping force that’s firm enough to keep them securely in place and give your ears a good seal without making your head feel like it’s in a vice. If you cannot try on the headphones in person, your next best move is to look for reviews that talk about comfort and fit.

Aside from cushioning the ears, ear pads also act like a grip that prevents your headphones from sliding down and helps maintain good sound quality by blocking out noise. You’ll want to look for high-quality padding like memory foam, which is soft and springy yet dense and breathable. Regular foams may not offer enough support and can flatten over time.

The size or amount of the padding is also something to consider. Thin and shallow ear pads may not leave enough space between the ears and the hardware, while too-thick padding may compress the ears too much.

Adjustability

Sound quality.

Even if your only concern is blocking out ambient noise, given the hefty price range of good ANC headphones, it’d certainly be worthwhile to invest in something that sounds impeccable as well. Though we all may have different preferences regarding what sounds good, ultimately, good sound quality is determined by accuracy and clarity.

Accuracy and clarity of sound quality should give you a close-to-precise audio recreation of whatever it is you’re listening to, with less deviation between frequencies.

To get a better understanding of the sound quality of a pair of headphones, check the following:

• Driver units: Drivers are small, speaker-like devices located inside the ear cups and are responsible for delivering audio to your ears by converting electrical signals into sound waves. There can be anywhere between 1 to 4 drivers in each ear cup, ranging from 20mm to 50mm in diameter. While these variations can affect sound quality, more often than not, it’s how well a driver is manufactured that makes the difference.
• Frequency range: The average person has an audible frequency range of 20Hz to 20000Hz, which refers to the degree of high and low sounds they can perceive. Headphones that can reproduce a broader range of frequencies will give you better sound quality.
• Sound signature: Sound signatures refer to a unique combination of frequencies and how each of those frequencies is amplified or decreased. The tricky part is those sound signatures are based entirely on personal taste, so it depends on what type of music you listen to and what sound qualities you like emphasized.

For example, a flat sound signature is the most natural-sounding and is ideal for jazz or classical music because it allows the listener to hear all the instrumental elements. Fans of pop or dance music should go for a V-shaped sound signature , enhancing the bass and treble, while a balanced sound signature is best for most music genres.

• Bluetooth audio codecs: Bluetooth codecs are algorithms that compress, transmit, and receive audio data between devices. These codecs have different ways of compressing data that’s unique to them. It’s this combined with the bandwidth of the Bluetooth connection and the size of the audio file that can affect overall sound quality.

SBC, for example, is one of the most common, universally-used codecs; however, it’s also known for producing poor sound quality due to its high lossy compression.

To ensure you’re getting the best sound quality possible, go for devices that support aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX-LL audio codecs. These codecs compress data more efficiently and have higher transfer rates so that less data is lost.

• User reviews: Doing a deep dive into reviews and discussions on sites like Amazon, Youtube, Quora can yield a wealth of information from actual customers with real-world experience with these devices. A little research can help you make a more informed choice.

Additional features

Sometimes, you may find yourself juggling several things at once while traveling – handling luggage, taking last-minute calls, getting directions from airport staff, etc. Some headphones are designed with extra features that make multitasking effortless for the busiest of travelers.

If you’re one such traveler, here are a few features to keep an eye out for:

Voice assistant integration

Headphones with voice assistant integration allow you to access your phone’s default voice assistant program, such as Siri or Google Assistant, by making specific voice commands. Through this, you can easily play your music, answer calls, send messages, or check other important information online without having to take out your phone or remove your headphones.

Smart Sensors

Some headphones have smart sensors that respond when they detect movement or speech. These sensors will automatically pause your music when you’re speaking or if the headphones are removed and resume playing when worn again. This is incredibly helpful if you need to take a call or quickly listen to something without fussing with buttons.

Intuitive controls

Some headphones have more intuitive touch controls as an alternative to physical buttons for play/pause and volume. While it does take some getting used to, it can be quite convenient to swipe a finger to skip tracks or adjust volume, or simply place a palm over your ear cup to pause your music when you need to listen to essential sounds in your surroundings.

Pressure-relief technology

Active noise cancelling headphones generally come at more expensive prices than headphones with passive noise cancellation .

While expensive headphones are often better than cheap ones, it’s essential to keep in mind that a high price doesn’t always mean high quality. Sometimes, what drives up those retail prices is how stylish or popular the brand attached to them is.

Essentially, the price differences come down to the quality of the noise-canceling circuitry, drivers, and materials used.

Expensive ANC headphones are outfitted with more plush, high-quality materials that enhance the noise-canceling effect and are equipped with larger, more sensitive drivers that give listeners a more expansive “soundstage.” They also usually have a more advanced ANC technology, primarily with the use of artificial intelligence.

Budget ANC headphones , on the other hand, tend to use cheaper build materials and lower quality drivers, so the sound you’ll likely get won’t be as clear or dynamic. Some midrange ANC headphones, on the other hand, have been able to marry quality and affordability , so you’re better off just sticking to a budget and look for specific features that best suit your needs.

10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel in 2023

Here are our picks for the best noise-canceling headphones for travel:

1. Jabra Elite 85h

Key features for travel:

• Adaptive noise cancellation of up to 20-35 dB
• Eight built-in microphones for sound and call clarity
• Long battery life with fast-charge
• Wearing detection
• Rain and water-resistant
• Withstands tough temperatures

Combined with their SmartSound and HearThrough technology, the Jabra Elite 85h is designed for toughness and hands-free convenience and engineered with a sophisticated AI that adapts to your needs to deliver superior sound quality.

It’s not surprising that Jabra Elite 85h is also our top pick in the best ANC headphones under $300 category .

Zero noise wherever you go

The Jabra Elite 85h comes with adaptive noise cancellation called SmartSound Audio, which works in tandem with the eight built-in microphones. SmartSound automatically analyzes the sound levels in your environment and implements customized sound settings that enhance your listening experience, which can be helpful if you’re traveling through different places.

You can personalize the different sound settings on the accompanying app called Sound+, along with call and voice assistant settings.

Hours of convenient, hassle-free playtime

The lithium-ion battery can easily give 36 hours of ANC listening on a single full charge. Charging concerns are also no longer a worry for those who are always on the move. Thanks to the fast-charge function, a quick 15-minute charge will get you 5 hours of battery life.

The on-ear wearing detection also eliminates the need to fuss around with buttons to pause your music or mute calls. Simply remove the device from your ears, and the headphones automatically do it for you.

Tough build meant for the outdoors

One thing that brought Jabra Elite 85h on top of this article’s list is the tough build quality.

The Jabra Elite 85h is solidly built to perform in the out and open – best for venturesome travelers. The headphones’ internal mechanisms are nano-coated, making them rain and water-resistant, and able to endure temperatures ranging from -5 to 45 degrees celsius. It also comes with a 2-year warranty against water and dust, so you know you’re doubly protected.

Despite the impressive specs, the Jabra Elite 85h does have its fair share of shortcomings. The device is indeed reliable when it comes to delivering superior sound quality for music listening and ANC. Still, there are mixed reviews regarding call quality, particularly when pairing the headphones directly with a computer and taking PC calls. Additionally, some users report that the ANC may not work correctly during calls.

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• Adaptive noise cancellation that automatically adjusts to your environment
• Eight built-in microphones for optimum noise cancellation and call clarity
• Long battery life with up to 36 hours of ANC listening
• Fast-charge battery yields 5 hours of listening on a 15-minute charge
• On-ear detection pauses audio and mutes calls when the headphones are removed
• iOS and Android compatible
• 40mm drivers
• 2-year warranty against water and dust
• Comes with Sound+ app that allows you to customize your sound settings further
• Comes in 4 sleek colors
• ANC may not work correctly during calls
• May have reduced sound quality when connected directly to a PC to take calls

2. Sony WH-1000XM4

• Adaptive noise cancellation reduces noise by 25-30 dB
• Ambient sound control
• Superior sound quality
• Five built-in microphones for sound clarity
• Hands-free controls

Dubbed as having “industry-leading noise cancellation,” the award-winning Sony WH-1000XM4 comes outfitted with a slew of intelligent and adaptive tech that prioritizes premium sound quality.

Adjusts with you and the noise around you

The headphones are fitted with two microphones in each ear cup and a robust HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1 chip designed to pick up and analyze ambient noise in any setting. With these features, the ANC system can make as many as 700 real-time adjustments per second to give you the best sound quality no matter where you are.

The ANC capabilities are further enhanced with Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing, which detects the change in atmospheric pressure during flights, and Personal Optimizing, which examines the acoustic effects caused by glasses, hair, or head size and optimizes sound output accordingly.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 also comes with an adjustable Ambient Sound Control feature, which travelers can activate with a hand gesture and allows them to keep an ear out for transport calls and other audible warnings.

Listen to your favourite music like never before

The headphones are outfitted with DSEE Extreme™ software, which works in tandem with Sony’s own Edge-AI to bring superior sound quality. Together, they can better perceive the minute variations in instrumentation and vocals and enhance the overall quality by restoring compressed data almost to its original state.

The headphones are also fitted with Sony’s LDAC audio codec, which has three times the transfer rate as standard Bluetooth codecs, ensuring that less music data is lost and that you’re getting a quality sound experience on those long dreary hours in transit.

Easy controls that adapt to your needs

The Touch Sensor allows you to control your music and answer calls using simple tapping or swiping gestures over the headphones’ outer panel. Activating the Quick Attention mode is as easy as placing your palm over the ear cup. It automatically lowers music volume and lets ambient noise in – great for when you need to listen to boarding calls or voices quickly.

Its Speak-to-Chat and Precise Voice Pickup technology makes use of the five built-in microphones to listen and respond to your voice. Once you start talking, your music is instantly paused, and ambient noise is filtered in, making it easier to communicate or take calls when you can’t take off your headphones or have an armful of luggage.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 seamlessly adapts to you, regardless of where you are or what you’re doing. Wearing Detection senses when the headphones are removed and pauses playback accordingly while putting them on again resumes playback. Adaptive Sound Control also recognizes locations you frequent, which allows it to tailor your listening experience further.

Longer, more comfortable listening hours

The headband and ear cups are fitted with super-soft urethane foam and pleather padding designed to distribute pressure evenly. Its powerful battery also gives 30 playtime hours on a single full charge – great for undisturbed listening on long haul flights. The quick-charge function gives five hours of playtime on ten minutes of charging, handy when in a rush.

While the Sony WH-1000XM4 gets an undisputed five stars for its superb sound quality and adaptive noise-canceling capabilities, the hands-free controls need a bit of familiarization. Some users report that the touch controls can be confusing at first, often triggering unwanted track skips or volume adjustments.

The Quick Attention mode can be overly sensitive and activate when not needed, a feature that can be easily turned off in the accompanying app called Sony Headphones Connect. Bluetooth pairing is also done through the said app, in contrast to other headphones with a dedicated button for pairing on the device.

• Adaptive noise cancellation with sound optimizers
• Ambient sound control that allows you to listen to important sounds
• Long battery life with 30 hours of playtime
• Adaptive Sound Control adjusts sound quality based on your location
• Wearing Detection pauses playback when headphones are removed
• DSEE Extreme™ software and LDAC audio codecs ensure superior sound quality
• Quick Attention and Speak-to-Chat features enable you to communicate and hear essential sounds without removing your headphones
• High-quality plastic build with super-soft pleather and foam ear pads designed for pressure-relief
• Sensitive touch controls can sometimes trigger track skips and volume adjustments
• Bluetooth pairing is done through an app instead of a dedicated button on the device
• Quick Attention mode can activate when not needed

3. Anker Soundcore Life Q20

• Hybrid noise cancellation reduces noise up to 35 dB
• Hi-Res Audio certified sound quality
• Quick charge function
• Comfortable and adjustable build

As one of the more affordable ANC headphones in the market, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 offers decent noise cancellation and immersively clear sound quality.

Provides a more engaging listening experience

The Q20’s custom 40 mm dynamic drivers are Hi-Res Audio certified and equipped with Anker’s BassUp technology, giving listeners exceptionally clear highs, detailed midranges, and amplified bass. Sound quality is further improved by the hybrid active noise cancellation, which reduces unwanted low-frequency noise from airplane jets or car engines by up to 90%.

Use comfortably for long hours

A single full charge can yield a solid 40 hours of ANC listening, and you can get an additional 20 hours of use with the ANC turned off. If you’re transferring between flights and need to recharge your headphones quickly, you can easily get 4 hours of listening from a 5-minute charge.

The headphones are outfitted with memory foam earpads that fit snugly around the ears, 90-degree rotating ear cups, and an adjustable headband. These don’t just make them comfortable after prolonged use; it makes them easy to store in your carry-on bag too.

Hearing “popping sounds” when the ANC is activated is a common issue many users have with the Anker Soundcore Life Q20, particularly when the headphones are either jolted or exposed to percussive sounds. Some users have also reported that Bluetooth tends to disconnect at random times.

The upside is that Anker provides its customers with a 30-day money-back guarantee, an 18-month product warranty, and lifetime customer support for all its products.

• Hybrid active noise cancellation reduces 90% of low- and mid-frequency sounds
• Hi-Res Audio certified sound quality, further boosted with BassUp technology
• Long battery life with quick charge function
• Comfortable build with memory foam ear pads and adjustable headband
• Four built-in cVc 8.0 microphones for noise cancellation
• Affordable price for ANC headphones
• Comes with a micro USB charging cable and a 3.5mm audio cable
• May hear popping noises caused by jolting movement or loud sounds
• Bluetooth may randomly disconnect at times

4. Srhythm NC35

• Active noise cancellation reduces sound by up to 20-25 dB
• Lightweight, adjustable, ergonomic design
• Built-in microphones for noise cancellation and calls
• 40 mm HD Stereo drivers

Labeled as having “world-leading digital ANC,” the Srhythm NC35 combines style with portability and practical design aesthetics, making it ideal for a lifestyle on the road.

Less noise in busy surroundings

The NC35’s feedforward ANC and improved Dual Noise Reduction sensor minimizes low-frequency ambient noise by 90%, making it ideal for office work and travel. Combined with the ANC and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, the built-in cVc 8.0 microphone ensures that calls are always crystal clear, stable, and hands-free.

Outstanding comfort you can enjoy for hours

The device itself weighs in at 0.40 lbs and comes with 90°-170° multi-angle rotatable ear cups and a Japanese-designed headband that can stretch up to 8 levels to accommodate all head shapes. Soft memory foam padding and protein leather allow more breathability so that you can keep your headphones on for as long as you like – perfect for those long layovers.

And if that wasn’t enough, Srhythm goes a step further with its air pressure balance technology, which reduces the air pressure produced by the headphones’ drivers, keeping your eardrums safe even with prolonged use.

For people who are always on the go

The 800 mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 40 listening hours, thanks to the NC35s more energy-efficient ANC algorithm. Its fast charging function affords you three hours of playtime on just ten minutes of charging, so you never have to worry about running out of juice at inopportune times.

Sound quality you can love

Two powerful 40 mm HD drivers, coupled with the headphones’ one-of-a-kind sound chambers, takes care of tinny audio and delivers high-fidelity music. Simultaneously, the Bluetooth V5.0 CSR chipset also ensures a low latency audio connection up to 33 feet away.

The Srhythm NC35 gets great marks in sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation. However, some users have expressed frustration over some audio stutter issues when connecting the headphones to a PC and the lack of audible notifications for battery levels. Others have also reported the battery not charging after a few months.

• Feedforward active noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by 90%
• Good battery life with 40 hours of ANC listening
• Fast-charge function gets you 3 hours of playtime on a 10-minute charge
• Air pressure balance technology keeps your ears safe
• Built-in cVc 8.0 microphone for noise cancellation and call clarity
• Comfortable, lightweight, highly-adjustable design
• Comes with a USB-C charging cable, 3.5mm audio cable, and flight adapter
• Comes in three colors
• Audio may stutter when connected to PC
• May stop charging after a few months
• No audible notification for battery levels

5. Master & Dynamic MW65

• Hybrid noise cancellation up to 20-25 dB
• Long battery life with super-fast charging battery
• Aluminum metal build
• 40mm Beryllium drivers

Designed with remarkable attention to detail and engineered to last, the Master & Dynamic MW65 combines sophisticated style, durability, and impressive acoustics that will keep you entertained for hours.

Withstands daily wear and tear

A leather-padded headband and lambskin-wrapped memory foam earpads give the MW65 a luxurious yet comfortable feel, while the anodized aluminum metal frame provides durability against the wear and tear of everyday use and travel. The earpads are also removable and can be replaced if needed.

Suits any environmental noise

The headphones come with a dedicated ANC button and two ANC modes – high power and low power – which you can easily toggle depending on how noisy your environment is. It comes in handy if you’re moving from place to place and don’t want to remove your headphones.

Little to no downtime

A single full charge gives these headphones 24 hours of playtime, which you might think is relatively low until you realize how quickly you can get back on track once you’ve drained your battery. A speedy 15-minute charging session can yield a whopping 12 hours of playtime – enough to last an entire long haul flight.

Well-crafted sound quality you can enjoy

The MW65’s signature rich and warm sound is delivered through 40mm Beryllium drivers, giving you a balanced sound quality ideal for all music genres.

The Master & Dynamic MW65 leaves nothing to be desired for noise cancellation and sound quality; however, some users feel that the over-ear ear cups may be too small and tend to squish the ears.

Other snags include weak mic gain that can’t be adjusted separately, making conference calls slightly troublesome. Some have also noted that the headphone where the charging port is located can get particularly hot while being charged.

• Adjustable hybrid active noise cancellation
• Decent battery life with super-fast charging function
• Dual built-in microphones for call clarity and noise reduction
• Bluetooth 4.2 with AptX audio codecs
• 65-foot Bluetooth connection range
• Robust, stylish build
• Ear cups may be too small for some ears
• Weak mic gain that can’t be adjusted separately
• Fast charging function can make the headphones quite hot

6. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

• Adaptive noise cancellation reduces noise up to 20-30 dB
• Ambient Sound mode
• TILE technology
• Wearing Detection
• Decent battery life with fast-charge

Classy design aesthetics, straightforward controls, and excellent sound quality make the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless an ideal all-around pick for the stylish traveler.

Keeps you aware when it matters

The Transparent Hearing feature allows you to be alerted to essential sounds by letting in ambient noise so that you never miss out on important information while in transit and addresses safety concerns when used outdoors .

Never lose your headphones again

Sennheiser’s integrated TILE technology helps you quickly locate your headphones in the event you misplace them – excellent for forgetful folks who are always on the go. The tracking app works via Bluetooth and notifies you by setting off an alarm tone on your phone or showing you your device’s last known location on a map in the app.

Physical and gesture-based controls that make life easy

The headphones have dedicated buttons for volume control, play/pause, ANC, and voice assistance that can be easily accessed. They also have gesture-based controls such as Smart Pause, which detects if you’ve removed your headphones and pauses your music accordingly, and Auto On/Off, which automatically turns off the headphones once folded.

Some of the more common complaints from users involve poor sound quality when taking calls. Some users have also reported that the headband design can be uncomfortable for those who wear glasses . If you have glasses but are determined to go with this pair, however, feel free to check out our guide on how to wear headphones with glasses comfortably .

• Adaptive noise cancellation with three modes to suit any setting
• Transparent Hearing that lets ambient noise in
• TILE technology keeps you from losing your headphones
• Decent battery life with fast charging function
• Bluetooth 5.0 multi-device connectivity
• aptX LL, aptX, SBC and AAC supported audio codecs
• Premium leather and matte steel build
• Large memory foam ear cups
• Foldable design
• Comes with a USB-C charging cable, USB-C to A adapter, and 3.5 mm cable
• Sound quality for calls may not be the best
• Can be uncomfortable for those who wear glasses

7. Bose 700

• Hybrid noise cancellation reduces noise up to 27-35 dB
• 11 settings for Ambient Sound mode
• Eight built-in microphones for noise cancellation and clear voice pick-up
• Ultra-comfortable build

Popular for its exceptional noise-canceling capabilities and unmatched sound quality, the Bose NC 700 headphones gives you full control over what you want to hear and what you don’t. It’s hailed as “the best active noise cancellation you can buy” by PCMag and won the Red Dot Product Design Award in 2020.

Adjusts to your preferences

The headphones have a total of 8 microphones, 6 of which are dedicated to the ANC, and come with 11 different settings that allow you to customize the level of noise cancellation you’re getting. Together, they work to enhance audio quality and fine-tune the noise reduction feature.

You can choose a range of ANC modes from full noise reduction for loud, busy locations to full transparency, which lets you hear ambient noises, important warnings, or transit advisories when you need to. A single push of a button also activates Conversation Mode, which takes your headphones straight to full transparency mode without having to run through the other modes.

Truly clear calls on both ends

Six microphones work to inhibit unwanted background noise, and four microphones work to boost your voice’s clarity, To ensure you’re getting the clearest calling experience. These tweaks are consistently being done in real-time, allowing the headphones to adapt even as you move so that you can have smooth, straightforward conversations no matter where you are.

Outstanding comfort you can look forward to

The ear cups, furnished with luxurious protein leather, is designed to tilt at 15 degrees to accommodate the head and ears’ natural anatomy. So, if you’re the type of traveler that likes to shut out the world or even sleep for the entirety of a long haul flight, it shouldn’t be a problem with these headphones.

The stainless steel headband also comes with soft silicone-wrapped foam padding on its underside, and though it isn’t foldable, you can slide the ear cups up and down to adjust its size. As one of the most comfortable headphones on this list, the Bose 700 will have you looking forward to using them at any chance you get.

The most common gripe that users have with the Bose 700 has to do with the Bose Music app. According to reviews, the headphones not only require the app to fully function, but users are also required to sign up for an account. The app also tends to be buggy, causing log-in difficulties and pairing problems with PCs and phones.

• Hybrid active noise cancellation with 11 Ambient Sound settings
• Eight mics for ANC and clearer voice calls
• Premium build made for comfort
• 20-hour battery life
• Quick charging gives 2.5 hours of playtime on a 15-minute charge
• Multi-device connectivity
• Comes with 3.5 mm audio cable, USB-C charging cable, and carrying case
• Users need to download and sign-up on the Bose Music app
• Users may encounter difficulties logging into the app or pairing the headphones to a PC or phone

8. Avantree ANC032

• Active noise cancellation reduces noise up to 18 dB
• Decent battery life
• Lightweight build for on-the-go listening

What the Avantree ANC032 lacks in stellar, high-powered specs, it makes up for with a portable, practical build that provides decent sound quality and active noise cancellation for an affordable price.

Don’t let its price fool you! Despite being the most affordable, this pair of headphones is truly one of the best noise cancelling headphones for travel.

Comfortable, weightless fit

At 0.39 lbs, the Avantree ANC032 is the lightest pair of headphones on this list. More lightweight headphones feel less stuffy over the ears after prolonged use and lessen the likelihood of experiencing ear, shoulder, or neck aches. Additionally, lighter headphones mean more baggage space, especially for airlines with stricter weight limitations, making this a smart choice for travelers.

The headphones are designed for convenience and fully adjustable with swiveling ear cups padded with soft protein leather and a foldable headband that accommodates all head shapes.

Keep distractions away

The headphones are equipped with feedforward ANC that works to minimize low-frequency background noises from plane engines, buzzing crowds, or large household appliances so that you can focus longer and have a more enjoyable listening experience.

Some users have reported the Avantree ANC032’s inefficiency at blocking out irregular, high-frequency sounds. However, it’s important to note that Avantree themselves put a disclaimer on ANC032’s noise reduction capacity for high-frequency sounds.

Other users also say that the plastic build can be prone to breaking over time, but the bright side is that you’ll be covered with Avantree’s 2-year warranty.

• Hybrid ANC reduces low-frequency noises
• Good battery life yields 48 hours of wired playtime with ANC, 18 hours with Bluetooth only, and 10 hours of listening with both Bluetooth and ANC activated
• FastStream, SBC & AAC audio codecs
• 40 mm stereo drivers
• Comes with 3.5 mm audio cable, micro USB charging cable, and carrying pouch
• The ANC may not block sudden high-frequency sounds
• The plastic build may break after a few months

9. Beyerdynamics Lagoon

• Hybrid noise cancellation reduces noise by up to 20 dB
• Long battery life
• Built-in microphone with Qualcomm CVC
• Lightweight, comfortable build

The German-made beyerdynamics lagoon won recognition from the CES Innovation Awards in 2019 and Goldenes Ohr in 2020 for its excellence in sound quality and noise cancellation, as well as its intuitive MOSAYC sound personalization feature.

Hours of top-notch sound quality

Equipped with hybrid ANC, the headphones come with 3 ANC modes – off, level I, and level II – and are geared towards canceling out those ever-present low-frequency droning sounds characteristic of planes, trains, and automobiles, without compromising sound quality.

Combined with a battery that yields as much as 24 hours of ANC-activated listening and integrated Qualcomm aptX, aptX LL, and AAC audio codecs, you can rely on the Beyerdynamics Lagoon to deliver hours’ worth of pristine sound quality from your iOS or Android device.

These codecs also ensure minimal sound delays. And other than the improvement in music listening, minimal sound delays also ensure a great gaming experience. So, these ANC headphones can accompany you while playing mobile games to pass time while traveling.

Using the MOSAYC sound personalization app by Mimi Defined, you can further adjust your sound quality preferences by taking the in-app hearing test and improve the audibility of your voice for calls.

Excellent voice call quality anywhere

As a company that knows how to manufacture reliable microphones, you can be sure that the beyerdynamics lagoon won’t disappoint in that arena. The headphones are fitted with a built-in microphone with Qualcomm cVc designed to make sure all your voice calls are uncomplicatedly clear, whether indoors or outdoors, making this a great all-rounder choice for traveling.

Aside from traveling, the call quality makes these an amazing option for ANC headphones for online classes . With these, you can travel anywhere without missing a lecture.

Designed for comfort and compact storage

The rotatable circumaural ear cups are cushioned with soft, high-quality memory foam and artificial leather and are designed to accommodate the natural anatomy of the ear so that you can wear it longer without problems. The headphones can also be easily folded into a more compact size, making them easy to pack into your luggage or carry-on.

The headphones’ accompanying Light Guide System (LGS) is either a hit or miss for users. The unique lights installed inside the ear cups work by flashing in specific combinations of 6 colors and patterns to alert the user to battery levels, calls, and Bluetooth connections.

It’s an innovative idea; however, some users have found it confusing and cumbersome to remember what each pattern means without whipping out the user manual every time.

• Hybrid noise cancellation with 3 ANC modes
• Long battery life gives 46 hours of non-ANC listening and 25 hours with ANC
• Built-in microphone with Qualcomm cVc for clear calls
• MOSAYC sound personalization for further sound customization
• Qualcomm aptX, aptX LL, and AAC audio codecs
• Sturdy plastic and leather build
• Light Guide System may be challenging to get used to

10. Philips PH805

• Hybrid noise cancellation reduces noise up to 27 dB
• 40mm neodymium acoustic drivers

The Philips PH805 blends reliably good specs with a sturdy premium build and decent noise cancellation for a more affordable price, making it one of the best noise cancelling headphones for traveling.

Choose what you hear

The PH805’s effective active noise cancellation takes care of distracting background noise, so you can enjoy your music or favorite podcast without turning your volume up to ear-damaging levels. When you need to get back to the real world, activating Awareness Mode helps you stay connected with what’s going on around you without needing to remove your device.

Extended listening experience you can enjoy

The headphones’ 40mm neodymium acoustic drivers are Hi-Res Audio certified and deliver detailed, balanced sound quality with clear midrange frequencies suited for many music genres. The battery yields as much as 25 hours of ANC-activated listening, and its fast charging function gets you 6 hours on a 15-minute charge, making sure you’re covered for long flights.

While the Philips PH805 performs decently when it comes to sound quality and noise cancellation, some audiophile users have reported that the bass quality can be a little weak compared to similar models.

• Hybrid noise cancellation
• Long battery life gives 30 hours of playtime and 25 hours with the ANC on
• Rapid charge function gives 2 hours of playtime on a 5-minute charge and 6 hours on a 15-minute charge
• Awareness Mode keeps you connected to your surroundings
• Built-in microphone with echo cancellation
• Memory foam and leather-padded ear cups
• Compact, foldable design
• Bass quality may not be up to par with other headphones on this list

Ultimately, when it comes to buying the best noise cancelling headphones for travel, don’t let high prices or fancy aesthetics drive you to make a purchase. Take the time to do research and read reviews, and if you’re on a budget, choosing headphones with good ANC, sound quality, and comfort at the very least will still give you the most out of your investment.

How did you find our list? Did you like our recommendations? If you think there are other devices that should’ve been on this list, please share them in the comments section below. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Best noise canceling headphones for airplanes

Published on March 26, 2024

Your passport is ready, and you’ve packed your bags. You got through security and made it to the gate. Getting on the plane, you remember, no matter where you’re flying, airplane cabins are noisy. Ambient noise like engine hum and cabin chatter can be intrusive, and there might even be a crying child within earshot if you’re really unlucky. Flights can take a long time, so get comfortable with the best noise canceling technology . We’ve considered the factors that particularly impact folks when up in the air and whittled down the list to make your flight more pleasant—strap in for takeoff.

What's new?

• This article was updated on March 26, 2024, to add the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus to our recommendations, add captions to our isolation charts, and answer more FAQs.

The best noise canceling headphones for flying on an airplane are the Sony WH-1000XM5

With its excellent isolation and active noise canceling (ANC) technology and its comfortable fit, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is our pick for the best noise canceling headphones for air travel. It also happens to be one of the best headphones , period. But for flights, the headband of the WH-1000XM5 is supportive and light, while the ear cups effectively seal around your ears without a lot of pressure, making it easy to wear for hours, even if you fall asleep.

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Boasting 31 hours and 53 minutes of battery life on a single charge, the WH-1000XM5 will last most around-the-world trips. It may not be the most extended battery life we’ve tested, but considering what the battery is powering: DSEE Extreme , ANC, and Sony 360 Reality Audio , the figure is impressive. Using the Sony Headphones app, you can hone in on your EQ preferences , control preferences, noise canceling preferences, and codec choices.

A Bluetooth 5.2 connection with LDAC , AAC, or SBC codecs suits any accompanying device and ensures you won’t run into latency issues. Furthermore, Sony continues to support hardwired connections by including a detachable cable with a 3.5mm headphone jack . This allows you to plug into in-flight entertainment media consoles to watch TV or movies. The only downside to contend with is the price, and unlike the previous Sony flagship, Sony WH-1000XM4 , this pair does not collapse into a smaller footprint. Although, it’s worth noting that if you wear the headphones around your neck on the plane, it may not matter to you if they fold up.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have a long battery life

Sennheiser has airplanes in mind with the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless . The first sign that Sennheiser has designed the headphones for flying is the airplane adapter included in the package for use with the detachable 2.5mm to 3.5mm cable. While the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless does not have class redefining ANC on tap, it still cancels out a lot of environmental noise. Our review found that the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless feels comfortable with glasses, and the leatherette and fabric combination works well for longer listening sessions.

With an awe-inspiring battery life of 56 hours and 21 minutes, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is ready for several trips without needing a top-up charge. The fact that the case has ample storage and some rigidity to protect your investment does not go unnoticed, even though the headset lacks hinges to fold down. For many, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless’s excellent sound quality pushes the Sennheiser cans to the forefront. In addition, the AAC, SBC, and extensive aptX support (aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive ) means you don’t need to be concerned about whether latency will crop up as an issue with videos.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have features to spare

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are among the best headphones for flying, thanks to their exceptional active noise canceling (ANC) capabilities and comfort features tailored for travel. You’ll notice that the large, dense ear pads do a great job sealing to your head, leading to excellent  isolation , and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones do a rock-solid job of dispelling outside noise.

Comfort is paramount during long-haul flights, and the QuietComfort Ultra headphones don’t disappoint. They are designed with wide, soft-padded ear cups that comfortably encompass the ears, providing superior noise isolation and comfort. The headphones are impressively lightweight at 253g, minimizing head and neck strain during extended wear. The angled dynamic drivers also consider ear positioning, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

Furthermore, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a travel-friendly choice with their robust battery life, ensuring that they last for the duration of long flights without the need for frequent recharging. Including a compact carrying case with space for cables makes them easy to store and transport, adding to their convenience as a travel companion.

Apple users may want to check out the AirPods Max

We know it’s not cheap, but the Apple AirPods Max is still an incredibly comfortable, stylish, and effective noise canceling headset. Apple has produced soft mesh ear cups that airily conform to the shape around your ears while isolating out high-pitched noise.

You’re unlikely to find yourself without audio, with just over 21 hours of battery life. However, on the list of downsides, the AirPods Max requires a separate purchase of a Lighting to 3.5mm adapter if you are interested in plugging into the airplane’s entertainment system. If you mainly connect your Apple device, the H1 chip and AAC codec will ensure your connection remains stable. The AirPods Max is totally in its element for air travel.

Is now a good time to buy?

If you are an Apple user eyeing the AirPods Max, the second-generation AirPods Max 2 may arrive this year, so you may consider waiting if your next trip or vacation is far off.

What about the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)?

Each pair of headphones on this list takes up more space than a set of true wireless earbuds, like the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) . In terms of packing light, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) fits in virtually any pocket. The latest Apple buds possess some excellent noise canceling capabilities, too. For iPhone users, the H2 chip integration means you can reliably enjoy whatever media you’ve got on your device.

Of course, there are downsides compared to over-ear headphones, such as long-term comfort and shorter battery life (5 hours and 43 minutes). Also, the Bluetooth-only connection prevents you from plugging into any media console the airline provides. That said, if you’re hopping on a relatively short flight and your iPhone is readily packed with your favorite podcasts and movies downloaded, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) can cancel airplane noise very well.

Save your money with the Anker Soundcore Life Q30

The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones are an excellent choice for air travelers seeking a balance of quality, comfort, and value. The active noise cancelation significantly reduces low and mid-frequency noise, minimizing cabin noise on the plane. They are also comfortable to wear for hours at a time, with ample padding around the ears if you end up falling asleep.

The transport mode is the most useful of the three available ANC modes since it blocks out frequencies that passive isolation alone struggles to attenuate.

Our standardized testing confirmed battery life at an impressive 46 hours and 35 minutes (ANC on), which should be sufficient for most trips. But if you do need more juice, the fast charging capabilities provide another four hours of listening time with just a five-minute top-up.

For only $80, you also get a hardshell carrying case, offering convenient storage and protection during travel. And with the ability to EQ the audio through the Soundcore app, travelers can adjust the sound profile more to their liking.

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus are good value for travel

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus headphones offer a solid choice for travelers, especially those looking for middle-ground active noise canceling (ANC) capabilities without breaking the bank. Priced under $300, these headphones come with a softshell carrying case, making them relatively travel-friendly, although their inability to fold up might be a slight inconvenience for some. They feature touch controls for easy operation and offer both wired (via a USB-C port and a 2.5mm TRS socket) and wireless Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, ensuring versatility during travel.

With an impressive battery life of over 53 hours with ANC on, travelers won’t have to worry about frequent charging. The ANC performance is decent, attenuating about 80% of outside noise, suitable for reducing the hum of an airplane or train, though not entirely eliminating it. While they may not compete with top-tier ANC headphones in noise cancelation, their comfort, battery life, and connectivity options make them a practical choice for air travelers seeking good value.

Notable mentions

• Anker Soundcore Space Q45 ( $149 at Amazon ): Striking up a nice balance between price and feature set, these cans include a surprisingly good app with an equalizer, as well as good ANC. That you get LDAC and AAC codecs mean it pairs with any operating system, while the 3.5mm cable means you can use it with the airplane media player.
• Anker Soundcore Life Q20   ( $59 at Amazon ): This is the headset to get if you want barebones, no-nonsense active noise canceling (ANC) on a budget. The lack of bleeding-edge features and an outdated USB port may be a drag, but this headset does very well for the price.
• Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 ( $379 at Amazon ): This pair of premium headphones cancels out noise handily. It does not fold down and isn’t as comfortable to wear as the QuietComfort 45, which is unfortunate, given that the aesthetics are slicker. For the accident-prone, the IPX4 rating is a nice feature.
• Monoprice BT-600ANC ( $84.99 at Amazon ): For most casual listeners, these are the best bang for your buck headphones. The combination of great isolation and noise cancelation, decent sound, and premium features is a sight for sore eyes in the sub-$100 headphone category.
• Shure AONIC 50 ( $298 at Amazon ): For the folks who wear glasses, the AONIC 50 has been tested as providing a pleasant fit. It’s made of premium materials and sounds good, with a huge slew of high-quality Bluetooth codecs and wired listening options.
• Sony WH-1000XM4 ( $278 at Amazon ): The older sibling of the WH-1000XM5 topping our list, this set doesn’t isolate noise quite as well, although it still does a very good job canceling noise generally. It also has the added benefit of folding hinges to take up less space in your bag.
• Sony WH-XB910N ( $148 at Amazon ): First off, by default, these headphones are too bassy for most listeners, but they are comfortable, but you can use the Sony Headphones app to improve the sound with EQ. It costs less than the flagship WH-1000XM5, which makes it worth a closer look.

What you should know about noise canceling headphones for flying on an airplane

Airplanes are loud, but with the advent of ANC, the din of the cabin need not bother you as much. Technically, you can use noise canceling headphones on a plane and probably have a better experience than non-noise-canceling headphones. With that said, if you’re shelling out the dough, we have a few tips to make your purchase more wisely.

Some simple features to keep in mind when looking for noise canceling headphones for flying, besides the noise canceling feature, include getting closed-back headphones. All ANC headphones have closed-backs, but this is a reminder to leave the open-back headphones at home. Using open-back headphones will annoy your seatmates because they will hear virtually everything you’re listening to. Not to mention, all cabin noise will still reach your ears.

We recommend going for over-ear headphones  rather than on-ear headphones . They may take up less room, but on-ear headphones typically aren’t comfortable over long periods. In addition, from an engineering perspective, it’s simply more challenging to create an isolating seal when the ear cup pushes against your ear rather than hugging around it as with over-ear headphones. That’s also why on-ear headphones feel less comfortable, as a general rule. They’re fine for short periods but cause discomfort on a long flight. Save yourself a literal headache, and choose closed-back over-ear headphones.

What you need to know about noise canceling and flying in an airplane

Given that airplane cabin noise runs the gamut of 60dB up to 114dB, averaging 85.6dB , it makes sense that you should want to turn it down. Ideally, your noise canceling headphones will have both good isolation and ANC. Isolation typically blocks high-pitched sounds, like crying babies or constant chatter. It achieves this effect by creating a seal around your ear. Because airplanes involve prolonged listening sessions, you’ll want to balance effective isolation and comfort.

For instance, some headphones can isolate very well but have vice-tight grips, which do not bode well for hours on end. This is particularly true for people who wear glasses  because some headphones clamp down too hard for comfort.

Whereas isolation blocks those incidental high-pitched sounds, you’ll want ANC that comprehensively filters the midrange and low-pitched noises in the airplane cabin. In particular, you want your ANC to cover around 1000Hz and below. ANC is well suited for the cabin environment and the droning sounds of the aircraft’s engine. Considering that ANC works by inverting waveforms to “cancel” out the noise, a droning waveform with little variation (unlike the baby crying) is the perfect application of the technology. You want to ensure that whichever headset you pick affects the critical lower frequencies because not all ANC is created equal.

Battery life is important for flying, but so is a headphone jack

You might have moved on and away from the headphone jack, but in-flight entertainment has not necessarily moved with the same speed. Indeed, some flights feature apps that allow passengers to access media from devices and laptops, in which case your Bluetooth headphones will do just fine, but not all airplanes have this. So, you’ll want to make sure your headphones can use a headphone jack. In addition, check that the headphones you pick don’t have any odd quirks like turning off the ANC when you plug in a cable, for instance.

If the in-flight entertainment of your choice consists of downloaded podcasts, music, and videos on a personal device, then you’ll want to check that your headphones have the battery life to last your flight. Nobody wants to get caught with a dead battery during a show. Bluetooth headphones have reached a point where you don’t need to worry if the battery will last your flight if fully charged. However, if you’re planning to board with noise canceling earbuds , you’ll want to check that the battery life can handle the length of your flight. In imperfect circumstances, a fast charge function might be important if you board with a battery that is not fully charged, eking out an hour or two from a few minutes of charging.

The AAC codec is optimal for Apple devices. For Android, something like aptX or LDAC yields better audio than AAC, and if you’re watching a video, definitely aim for something better than SBC or AAC. Otherwise, you may encounter latency in audio and video synchronization.

Which accessories will make your noise canceling headphones better for flying?

Everyone has their preferences and rituals with flying, but you may want a couple of items to improve the experience. For your headphones, you probably want a case . Some of our selections already come with a case. Typically, you should look for something that occupies minimal real estate in your bag but offers some protection from crushing. Internal pockets in a case can help keep your accessories together, like the charging cable.

You might’ve noticed that some airplanes use an unusual two-pronged connector for the built-in media players. To save you the hassle of purchasing the crummy earphones airlines offer, get an airplane adapter . It’s small and pretty cheap. You can stow it in your headphones case when not in use.

Check with your airline about capacity limits, but a battery power bank can improve most travelers’ experiences. Some cabins have USB ports for convenient charging, but it’s common to discover the one at your seat doesn’t work. Since many folks fly with power-hungry devices, keeping a battery pack on hand can help if your headphones’ battery drains before you land.

How we test the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes

We subject all our headphones to the same set of tests , from standardized battery life tests to measuring frequency responses and noise canceling efficacy with our Bruel & Kjaer 5128. In addition to using our objective measurements to support our findings, we review each set of headphones hands-on to see how well they perform their intended uses. Some products are better on paper than in reality, so we test and try everything we review.

How we choose the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes

We’ve selected the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes by consulting our staff’s extensive knowledge and comparing all of our objective tests. The Best list here is not representative of a single individual’s opinions. Instead, it is the culmination of our shared expertise as an organization, as informed by objective measurements and reviews. For this list, we consider individual travelers’ variable and unique needs with necessary features. For example, we look for good noise canceling, comfort, and connectivity.

Why you should trust  SoundGuys

SoundGuys is not paid to endorse any products. Our editors and writers do not benefit financially by privileging one product over another. Furthermore, our advertising team is strictly separate from our editorial team. While SoundGuys does earn money through affiliate link sales, the money funds the organization and does not go toward individuals. Because of this, the editors and writers at SoundGuys rely on our expertise and desire to share knowledge when recommending any single product. Our editorial staff has no stake in pushing any one product unless it is measurably better than another product. Guided by our objective scoring scheme, we abide by strict journalistic ethics .

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can typically plug your headphones into a plane’s entertainment system using a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Make sure your headphones support a wired connection!

Whether to use headphones or earbuds on a plane depends on your preferences. Headphones generally offer superior noise cancelation and comfort for longer flights, making them ideal for travelers seeking to minimize cabin noise. Earbuds, however, are more compact and less intrusive, which might be preferable for convenience and portability.

No, you don’t need special headphones for airplane use. However, headphones with active noise cancelation (ANC) are highly recommended for air travel as they significantly reduce ambient cabin noise, enhancing your listening experience. Ensure your headphones or earbuds have a 3.5mm jack or an adapter for wired connections to the plane’s entertainment system. Use Bluetooth for a wireless connection to your personal devices while they are in airplane mode .

Yes, you can use Bluetooth on an aircraft. So that you know, you will need to put your device into airplane mode. Unless told otherwise by the flight attendants, you can use Bluetooth while in airplane mode. Most of the time, you’ll also need a hardwired connection to use the media player console aboard your plane.

Some airplanes use a two-prong audio jack system to deliver stereo sound to passengers. However, this is becoming less common with newer aircraft adopting standard 3.5mm jacks. The dual-prong setup was traditionally used to separate audio channels. If you encounter a two-prong system, you may need an adapter to use your own headphones that feature a single 3.5mm plug.

Yes, noise canceling headphones are designed to reduce ambient noise, making them especially effective at diminishing the consistent drone of airplane engines.

For airplanes, it’s preferable to have headphones with noise canceling capabilities to counteract cabin noise. Over-ear or in-ear styles both work, depending on your comfort preference. Also, ensure they are compatible with any devices you bring or the airplane’s entertainment system.

Here are some tips to block out loud noise on a plane:

• Wear noise canceling headphones .
• Use foam or silicone earplugs .
• Listen to music, white noise, or ambient sounds to mask the cabin noise.
• If you can, choose seats further up in the cabin, as they’re generally quieter than those near the engines.

Earbuds won’t have as effective passive isolation as headphones. Still, you can use earbuds from Bose, such as the QuietComfort Ultra , on airplanes, as the ANC is very effective.

Policies may vary by airline. Still, generally, it is okay to use noise canceling headphones so long as the device they are connected to is in Airplane Mode during takeoff and landing. Some airlines allow headphones once the aircraft is airborne, while others require passengers to wait until the plane reaches cruising altitude.