Joybuy Insights

Choosing noise-cancelling headphones: a buying guide for music, the office and travel

Noise-cancelling headphones are designed to reduce distracting background noise while working reliably with your smartphone, laptop or tablet. In practice, however, wireless headphones can vary considerably in comfort, battery life, call quality and app features.

If you focus only on a high decibel rating or a well-known brand name, you may miss important details. Three common buying mistakes are particularly easy to make:

  • An ANC figure on its own tells you very little: Noise cancellation may work well on the steady low frequencies of a train, while voices and sudden noises remain audible.
  • Long battery life isn’t always like-for-like: Manufacturers often quote battery life with ANC switched off. With noise cancellation enabled, listening time can be significantly shorter.
  • Bluetooth compatibility doesn’t guarantee sound quality: Hi-Res Audio, LDAC or aptX Lossless require a compatible smartphone and the right settings. Otherwise, a more basic codec will be used.

Check these technical specifications before buying

1. Design and fit

Over-ear headphones surround your ears and provide an extra barrier against outside noise through their passive isolation. They’re often well suited to the office, flights and long listening sessions, but can be larger and heavier.

In-ear headphones sit directly in your ear canals. Multiple ear tips in different sizes are important to ensure the earbuds fit securely and provide an effective passive seal. A lightweight design can be practical for sport or varied everyday activities. Comfort is personal, though, so you shouldn’t judge it by the product name alone.

2. ANC, transparency mode and microphones

When choosing noise-cancelling headphones, look for a transparency or ambient mode as well as ANC. It lets in surrounding sounds, which can be useful when crossing a road, at a station or in the office.

For calls, multiple microphones and digital voice processing are worth considering. Terms such as beamforming and ENC describe technical methods for capturing your voice and reducing background noise. Call clarity still depends on your surroundings, fit, network and software.

3. Battery, connections and connectivity

Check the battery life with and without ANC. A quick-charge feature can be more useful day to day than a high maximum battery life. Multipoint Bluetooth is also handy if you want to connect your headphones to your work computer and smartphone at the same time.

For music lovers, LDAC, aptX Lossless and Hi-Res Audio are possible extra features. They require compatible devices and may need to be enabled in the app. A 3.5 mm cable or USB-C audio can also come in handy when the battery runs out or you prefer a wired connection.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
EarFun Air Pro 4+ Hi-Res Dual Driver ANC Earbuds

EarFun Air Pro 4+ Hi-Res Dual Driver ANC Earbuds

Why this product suits this profile: These compact in-ear headphones combine ANC, Bluetooth 6.0 and LDAC with a stated total battery life of up to 54 hours with the charging case. They’re a good fit for commuters and anyone who wants to save space in their rucksack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The five included ear tips help you find a more personalised fit and seal. Battery life is listed separately for the earbuds and the charging case.

Key benefits and strengths

Dual-driver system, multipoint connectivity, IP55 rating and low latency in gaming mode.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Why this product suits this profile: These over-ear headphones are designed for music lovers and professionals who want to combine ANC, LDAC, multipoint Bluetooth and comprehensive app controls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list battery life separately with ANC on and off. There’s also a wired 3.5 mm connection.

Key benefits and strengths

LDAC support, multiple microphones, app EQ, quick charging and simultaneous connection to two devices.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
Soundcore by Anker Space One Pro Wireless Headphones

Soundcore by Anker Space One Pro Wireless Headphones

Why this product suits this profile: These foldable Bluetooth headphones are well suited to travel and the office if you want compact storage, over-ear comfort and long battery life.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications distinguish between up to 40 hours with ANC and 60 hours without it. According to the manufacturer, the foldable FlexiCurve design makes the headphones more compact to pack.

Key benefits and strengths

Adaptive noise cancellation, quick charging, stated LDAC support and a padded headband for longer listening sessions.

Ideal for: The office, working from home and long working days
Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Why this product suits this profile: At a stated weight of 192 grams and with up to 35 hours of battery life with ANC, these headphones appeal to anyone looking for a lightweight pair to wear regularly throughout the working day.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description gives battery life figures with ANC both on and off, as well as a three-minute quick-charge feature. Multipoint makes it easier to switch between your laptop and smartphone.

Key benefits and strengths

Low stated weight, Ambient Sound mode, DSEE, multipoint Bluetooth and a 3.5 mm connection.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a comprehensive, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Practical tips for everyday use

  • Don’t automatically switch on ANC in situations where you need to hear what’s going on around you, such as when cycling or in traffic.
  • Clean your in-ear headphones and charging ports regularly with a dry cloth. Sweat and moisture can affect the contacts.
  • Before buying, check that the app you want to use is compatible with your smartphone and whether features such as LDAC or multipoint need to be enabled manually.
  • Avoid listening at high volume for long periods. Keep the volume at a comfortable level.

Frequently asked questions about noise-cancelling headphones

How does ANC work in Bluetooth headphones?

Active noise cancellation picks up surrounding sounds through microphones and produces an opposing signal. It can often reduce steady low-frequency sounds, such as those from train or aircraft engines. Voices and irregular noises may still be audible.

How long do noise-cancelling headphones last?

Battery life depends on the battery, charging cycles, volume, software and whether noise cancellation is switched on. When deciding what to buy, use the manufacturer’s battery life figure with ANC enabled. If the battery is built in, it’s also important to protect it from heat and moisture and use the right charging accessories.

Do ANC headphones have ongoing costs?

There are usually no ongoing costs for using Bluetooth and ANC alone. You may incur extra costs for optional apps, paid software features, replacement ear pads or new charging accessories. For translation features, check whether they require an internet connection or a service that may become chargeable later.