Best Over-Ear Noise Cancelling HeadphonesIf you travel on a noisy public transportation or work in a noisy office with noisy colleagues, noise cancelling headphones can provide the sonic buffer you require to remain focused. We looked at the comfort, sound quality, as well as the ability to block high-frequency continuous noises like restaurant chatter, or incidental noises of short duration such as phones ringing or keys clacking.
Sony WH-1000XM5
If you're looking for premium ANC headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM5 is a top choice. First released in 2016, the WH-1000XM5 is among the top choices for those who wants to listen to their favourite music or podcasts without distractions. This latest iteration of the series marks the first major overhaul since its first release and comes with a variety of exciting new features. The headphones are also eco sustainable, without packaging made of plastic. They provide excellent noise cancellation and clear audio.
The WH-1000XM5 is the only one that can match its noise cancellation capabilities when it is enabled. Strapping a pair to your head creates an entire cone of silence that will block out engine noises in trains and subways and the whirring of HVAC systems, and even neighboring conversations. These headphones are also among the best ANCs to block out low-frequency drones, bass hums and other sounds.
Ambient Sound Control is another excellent feature. It adjusts the headphones acoustic balance in accordance with the surroundings. For instance, if you're at home listening to your favourite album the WH-1000XM5 can switch to a more immersive listening experience. On the other the other hand when you're walking along an area with lots of traffic, they'll change to a more focused sound profile to give you greater awareness of the surroundings.
The earcups of the WH-1000XM5 have touchscreen-sensitive gesture controls on the right side which can be used to play, pause, and switch tracks. You can also use a voice assistant to find content, alter volume and make hands-free calls. The headphones provide a full stereo image and a consistent frequency response. They also feature a group delay that is extremely precise, which helps maintain an even soundstage.
The WH-1000XM5s can be linked to two devices at once. This is especially useful if you would like to listen to music on your laptop while making phone calls with your phone. They have built-in microphones and a USB-C charging port. The headphones include a cable that allows for direct analog playback. Battery life is about 30 hours. It can last for a week or even a long flight.
Bose QuietComfort 45
The Bose QuietComfort 45, the flagship model of the premium headphones manufacturer, is the most recent update. It was released in September 2021, and it is priced lower than the Sony WH1000XM4 by around PS320, $329, or 439 AU$ compared to its 700-dollar sibling. In terms of functionality it has top-of-the-line active noise cancellation, as well as features like voice assistant support as well as automatic pausing when you take off the headphones. The design is also much more comfortable than previous models. However, there are a few things you should know. Some users may be unable to adjust to the buttons that are touch-sensitive on the sides of the earcups that require pressure to activate. You can adjust ANC and switch to an "aware" setting that allows ambient sound to be heard. However, you cannot turn off the audio.
The headsets offer top-quality performance and are a great purchase for anyone who is looking for a high-end pair of headphones to wear on a plane, train or when working from home. They have a long battery life, excellent noise cancellation and clear audio. They also come with multipoint Bluetooth which means they can be paired with two devices simultaneously and switch between them at the press of a button. They also have an app that isn't quite as flexible as some of their competitors but it still has many useful features.
The QC45s also have an active noise cancelling over ear headphones cancelling mode that is very efficient. In my testing it could be slightly loud at times. The passive EQ modes, however, are more balanced and allow you to have more control over the sound quality of your music. If you're listening to songs that have lots of cymbal sparkle, you might find the headphones slightly grating. However, it is fixable by reducing 3-20kHz in the EQ of your music player.
The QC45s provide top-quality ANC at a reasonable cost. Some users may be disappointed with the omissions of some features, such as adjustable ANC/transparency and EQ, as well as an occasional drop in the quality of calls. They are also comfortable to wear for hours and have fast charging with USB-C ports.
Shure Aonic 50
Shure's Aonic 50 headphones are premium headphones that put a lot of emphasis on audio. Their drivers utilize a massive 50mm dynamic driver, and are packed with high-resolution codecs to deliver the Best over ear Headphones noise cancelling possible music playback via Bluetooth. The headphones offer a balanced sound with rich detail across the frequency spectrum and have a natural sense of space and positioning to them, so that you can feel the vibrancy of every note and the movement of sounds around you.
The headphones are a bit heavier than their competitors at 334g, however they're comfortable to wear during long listening sessions. The headband rests on top of your head without putting too much pressure. Additionally, the earcups are cushioned, making them extremely comfortable. They are also very lightweight. They fold flat and easily be put away in the carrying case.
Around the right earcup are standard controls, including volume, playback, and Best over ear Headphones noise cancelling power/pairing. The slider on the top allows you to switch between noise-cancelling, neutral mode, and what Shure calls "Environment Mode". The Environment Mode lets more outside sounds to pass through. This is useful when you want to be conscious of your surroundings. The controls are excellent however there's some delay between pressing the buttons and when it happens (i.e. If you play the button while on a call, you'll likely end up blaring your ears with music instead of picking up your mom). The phones don't come with microphones, but they have an audio response from Google Assistant. Their mics are also great for filtering out background beats noise cancelling over ear headphones when calling.
The battery is expected to last for up to 20 hours for most people. The USB cable is included to charge your phone. It's not as convenient as Bluetooth however, you have the ability to listen to music while you recharge. They're also compatible with most audio devices that have a 2.5mm port, meaning you can use them while you travel.
Monoprice BT600ANC
The Monoprice BT600ANC Bluetooth over ear noise cancelling headphones wireless-ear noise cancellation headphones have all the features you require in a pair of wireless headphones at less than the cost. They come with high-quality Qualcomm aptX HD Audio, an advanced version of Active Noise Cancelling as well as an easy-to-fold design that makes them easy to put in a backpack or carry bag. These headphones are great for students and commuters, because they feature a long-lasting battery that allows you to listen throughout the throughout the day. The headphones also come with convenient touch controls, which allow users to swipe or tap in order to adjust the volume or Best Over Ear Headphones Noise Cancelling skip tracks.
The BT600ANC headsets have an elegant design that is reminiscent of the Monoprice M1000ANC headsets that we looked at last year. The headsets are gray in color, barely branded, and aren't particularly noticeable in public. However, they do have an extremely soft and comfortable fit that is ideal for most ears. The small size of these headphones as well as the included carrying case makes them perfect for traveling.
The ear cups are encased in leatherette, and offer excellent isolation via passive. The headband offers plenty of adjustability and is soft without feeling bulky or too slouchy. The headbands are wide enough to accommodate glasses wearers. They are comfortable for the majority of people.
Monoprice's ANC is effective and doesn't sound as tinny as other brands. They have a slight boost around 100-200Hz, which provides a more full sound for bass notes. The opening of Good 4 U, by Olivia Rodrigo, shows a full response. They have a sharp drop off in the upper frequencies above ten kHz, therefore shakers and cymbals won't sound as clear and crisp.
It is possible to switch between three ANC modes that are low, medium and higher. The low setting is great for blocking out the majority of ambient noise, but it won't block out traffic or loud conversations. The medium setting works in most situations. The high setting will shield you from all other noises, except your music. The control buttons on the earcups can be a bit difficult to operate at first. Swiping upwards and downwards on the pad controls volume, while tapping the pad or swiping it left right changes tracks. Double tapping can be used to stop the music or answer the phone. It takes some time to become familiar with this system but once you are, you will find it to be extremely useful.