What Are the Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones?

best budget noise cancelling headphones

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In today’s chaotic world of noisy traffic, loud kids and talkers, finding the best budget noise cancelling headphones is a lifesaver.... However, there are so many options available on the market that it can be hard to pick the right one.

To save you the trouble, we have narrowed it down to the top 3 options that are not only the best at noise-cancellation, but are also budget-friendly. Let’s look at our picks of the top rated noise cancelling headphones:


These headphones have a comfortable fit and a 20-hour battery life. They are both Bose AR and Alexa enabled. The former has a multi directional motion sensor, which can take your hearing experience to the next level. This sensor changes the audio depending on where you are. On the other hand, you also get to have Alexa with you at all times. You get three different levels of noise cancellations with these headphones.

One thing to know about them, however, is that different versions of their apps offer varying features. For instance, Bose AR is only available on the app’s enhanced version, which is currently only available to iPad and iPhone users. The Android version is in development.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Pros

  • Good noise cancellation ability
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Light in weight

Cons

  • Bluetooth connectivity issues
  • In some cases, the mic tends to pick up far off noises and unwanted sounds 

Conclusion:

Although a good, comfortable option for noise cancellation, these may not be the best option for Android users (yet). Nonetheless, they offer good sound quality and are comfortable to wear.


They have a durable design, ambient sound, good audio quality and are Alexa-enabled. They have an impressive battery life of 30 hours, and come with an interesting set of features. For starters, you can increase or decrease the volume simply by swiping your finger up or down. This means that you don’t have to have your device nearby at all times. You can use the touch control to take calls and to use the voice-assistant as well.

If you do want to listen to someone, you don’t have to take your headphones off. Instead, just cover the right earcup with your hand and the headphones will use their external microphone to let the sounds in.

Pros

  • Good noise cancellation ability
  • Light in weight
  • Deeper bass 

Cons

  •  The plastic headband (instead of metal) gives a less premium feel

Conclusion:

These headphones have a longer battery life and fewer cases of microphone issues. The plastic design does make them lightweight, but also gives a less classy look. People with long hair have complained about their hair getting stuck in the headband.


The third and last option is another Sony model. These headphones cost $150 less than the previous two options. These headphones don’t offer as many features but are worth the money. They also have a 30-hour battery life and a touch control that works exactly the same. They come with a pouch, a connection cable, and a charging cable.

The lower price tag does not mean it compromises on its noise cancellation ability. Unlike the other two options, these headphones don’t offer contextual audio. They come with a boosted bass, have great sound quality, and are also Alexa-enabled.

Pros

  • Good noise-cancellation ability
  • Light in weight
  • Deeper bass  

Cons

  • The plastic headband (instead of metal) gives a less premium feel
  • Earcups can cause sweating
  • Bass can be overwhelming 

Conclusion:

These headphones are cheaper but offer good quality and serve the purpose nicely. However, the boosted bass may be too much for some people. The plastic design and lack of ambient sound are a con too.


Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones - Buying Guide

Now that we have looked at each option individually, let’s compare them. If you’re still not sure which one to buy, don’t worry. Let’s answer some basic questions:

What to Look for in Noise Cancelling Headphones?

First of all, the design should obviously be sturdy and the noise cancellation ability must be great. Other important factors to consider are the type of headphones (on-ear, over-ear, in-ear), audio quality, price, battery timing, and other added features (Alexa, ambient sound, etc.)

Which is the Best Option?

Practically, your headphones have to be wireless and must have a built-in mic. They should also come with a carrying case in addition to an audio and charging cable. All three of these options have these features.

The “best option” comes down to your requirements. If you’re not on a budget and want high-end headphones with ambient sounds, either of the first two options are great. They are almost the same prices and almost the same set of features.

On the other hand, if you’re on a budget but are still looking for a good option, the Sony WHXB900N is the best you can get. They are also a great option for music lovers that love extra bass.

Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones - FAQs

Before wrapping this post up, let’s answer some common questions that buyers usually have before making their purchase.

Is Noise Cancelling Bad For Your Ears?

No. It is a common misconception that these kinds of headphones emit low level radiations. They don’t emit any radiation and thus do not pose any danger.

How to Check Noise Cancellation?

Put the headphones on and try to hear the noise around you without turning on any music. If you can’t hear much, the noise cancellation works.

Which Type of Headphones Are the Best at Noise Cancellation?

Over-ear headphones are found to be the most effective because they cover your ear completely, making it easier to keep external sounds out.

Final Thoughts

All three options are best at what they do and come with interesting features. The Sony WHXB900N is probably the best option overall, due to its lower price and the best bang for your buck. However, if you mind high bass, feel free to go for either of the other two options.

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