Top tips for selecting the ultimate noise-cancelling headphones

Whether you’re drowning out hubbub on the train, or cruising in silence on board a jumbo jet, noise-cancelling headphones are a must-have weapon in a traveller’s arsenal. But picking the perfect pair isn’t easy. Follow our top tips to guarantee your silence is golden.

Step 1: Check for passive functions
Some noise-cancelling headphones will only work in ‘active mode’ when they’re powered by batteries. That means you’ll be stuck without sound if they lose charge in the middle of your travels. For example, these Bose QuietComfort 3 headphones will only work while their batteries are charged. That’s a serious no-no.

Instead, choose a pair that’ll work in non-noise-cancelling mode without power too. These Panasonic RP-HC300 headphones will do the job, and they’re cheaper too.

Step 2: Digital or analogue
The very latest noise-cancelling headphones use digital signal processing to cut out 99% of external noise. There’s a downside, however, and it’s their high price tag. Headphones with analogue processing are less effective at shutting out sound, but cost a lot less.

Sony’s MDR-NC500D headphones use digital processing, but will set you back upwards of £190. They’re extremely effective though, so if you’re looking for the very best, these are the ones to buy.

Step 3: In ear or over ear
Just like non-noise-cancelling headphones, there’s a choice between over the ear headphones and earbud-style in ear versions.

The latter can be just as effective as their larger cousins, as well as appearing less obvious. They’ll also help you sleep on trains and planes, since wearing them won’t stop your head lolling to the side. However, they come with a large battery pack that you’ll need to plug in before the noise cancelling technology can work. If you’re keen on a clutter-free set-up, go for over the ear models, as they’re self-contained.

If your heart is set on in ear noise cancellers, check out Audio Technica’s ATH-ANC3 headphones. They’re discreet, effective, and at under £70 won’t break the bank.

Get chatting about your favourite noise cancelling headphones over at the PriceRunner forum

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