As the number of people working from home has increased in recent years, so has the need to minimize distractions from pets, family members, and neighborhoods around us. Whether you’ve got kids watching a noisy television program or you’ve got a neighbor with a constantly barking dog, high-quality noise-canceling headphones are a great way to reduce noise from your environment. Let’s take a look at how noise-canceling technology works and what to look for in a good set of headphones.

1. Understand how noise-canceling technology works. 

Noise-canceling technology works by either actively or passively obstructing sound, and it’s important to understand the difference when shopping for headphones. 

Passive technology, also referred to as “noise-isolating” headphones, uses a physical, non-powered, and passive means of blocking outside noise. It depends entirely on the headphone’s structural design and sound-absorbing materials to reduce the amount of sound that gets to your ears.

Active technology, on the other hand, uses a digital signal processor (DSP) feature to drive an internal microphone within the headphone. It then produces frequencies that are opposite of any current noise outside so that they effectively cancel each other out. This is called destructive interference.

2. Determine your needs. 

Will you use them daily? What types of distractions do you encounter? Remember, the goal is to eliminate noise from your environment. If you need to hear your surroundings for safety reasons, noise-canceling headphones can be a dangerous idea. If you’re sharing a space with housemates and get distracted by their phone chatter and television-watching, they’re perfect.

3. Evaluate different styles and fits. 

For peak performance, opt for an over-ear headphone that covers your entire ear. Also known as full-sized headphones or circumaural headphones, these are typically at the higher end of the price spectrum but provide the most complete coverage. 

Tune in and hear what the world's top musicians hear. JBL CLUB ONE headphones with Legendary JBL Pro Sound immerse you in your playlist and keep you in the moment with True Adaptive Noise Cancelling. These pro-inspired, Hi-Res certified headphones deliver audio tailor-made for your ears, thanks to EQ personalization and the My JBL Headphones App. High-quality materials and premium design details like durable metal hinges, a leather headband, and comfortable, cushioned, over-earcups, mean you will never want to take them off. Listen like a pro anywhere. 

JBL Club One Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black

On-ear headphones, also called earpads or supra-aural headphones, perform adequately, but the fit isn’t as tight. You may also find the pressure painful for your ears. 

Introducing the JBL TUNE 600BTNC active noise-canceling wireless on-ear headphones, a flat-folding lightweight and compact solution for everyday use. The JBL TUNE600BTNC features 32mm JBL drivers that help deliver JBL Pure Bass sound. The sound can be enjoyed without unnecessary noise for up to 12 hours wirelessly and can be fully recharged in only 2 hours. And thanks to the additional detachable cable, music can be enjoyed endlessly in wired mode, with or without Active Noise-Cancelling. Made with durable materials and designed in four fresh colors, the JBL TUNE600BTNC allows you to connect to your world quickly thanks to buttons on the ear cups that allow for easy hands-free management of calls and music. 

JBL Tune 600 BTNC On-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Headphones, Black

Earbuds fit inside your outer ear. These are small, transportable alternatives to larger over- and on-ear models, but the sound isn’t as full. 

From the subway to your desk to the gym, music powers your day. JBL CLUB PRO+ TWS earbuds give you the ultimate in true wireless performance. Connect seamlessly, no matter which earbud you grab out of the case first. Change how much of the outside world you want to let in, based on where you are and what you’re doing. When you take a call, three microphones let you talk without distracting noise. All-day comfort, plus effortless nothing-to-plug-in wireless charging—and, naturally, legendary JBL Pro Sound—take true wireless to the next level. 

4. Investigate different models and brands. 

Shop around to find which models offer the best performance in terms of comfort, battery life, and wired vs. wireless connectivity. Decide whether you need a microphone attachment for making phone calls. Research the warranty and maintenance coverage on each selection to help you determine which model gives you the best value for your budget.

5. Set your budget.

Determine how much you’re willing to invest once you know what’s out there. If you consider how much work you’ll be able to get done when you minimize distractions, you may discover that noise-canceling solutions are the perfect investment.

The Takeaway

While noise-canceling headphones often come at a premium, you don’t have to splurge for the most expensive model available to get a decent product that will help you concentrate on your work. That said, if you’re looking for a higher-quality device that offers great audio and active noise cancellation, be prepared to make an investment. Do your research, read the reviews, and shop our site for availability. You’ll be sure to find a set of headphones that works just right for your needs.

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