Noise Canceling Headphones

Find the Best Noise Canceling Headphones at Abt

Noise canceling headphones let you listen to your favorite music or movies while eliminating the sounds of the world around you. They're a great option for anyone who needs to focus in a noisy environment—travelers who want to get some shuteye while flying, students trying to study in a noisy dorm, or just Mom looking for some quiet time in a rowdy household. These sonic powerhouses are available in forms that fit any lifestyle, from comfy over-the-ear headphones to the convenience of a pair of wireless earbuds.

Passive vs. Active Noise Canceling Headphones

When buying noise canceling headphones online, there are two types of noise reduction to be aware of. Passive noise canceling headphones rely on a tight seal between the headphone and the ear canal to minimize the sounds of the outside world. This feature is most often found on earbuds, which use cushy ear tips to function like a traditional earplug. Some over-the-ear headphones use large, memory foam ear cups to offer a similar seal. Passive noise cancellation generally does not add much to the price of headphones, and they do not require a power source.

The more effective type are active noise canceling headphones. These complement passive noise cancellation with technology that uses microphones to monitor outside sounds, then creates opposing soundwaves to cancel out that noise. It's a high-tech system with a simple result: the user hears less noise from the outside world. Active noise canceling headphones are best at dealing with consistent, low-frequency noises, like the drone of airplane engines or the sound of crowds talking in a busy office. Many models let the user adjust the level of noise cancellation, for times when they need to hear some of their environment. Headphones with active noise cancellation require a power source, usually in the form of an integrated, rechargeable battery.

Both passive and active noise cancelling headphones come in all styles: over-ear, on-ear, and earbuds. Each is also available with both wired and wireless headphone options. Abt's inventory includes a wide selection of the best noise canceling headphones, from top brands like Bose, Sony, and Bowers & Wilkins. Whether you're looking for maximum audio quality, extra long battery life, or something with an integrated voice assistant, we've got a model that will meet your needs. Shop our selection of noise canceling headphones above, or give us a call at 800-860-3577 to get advice from one of our audio experts.