3 Best Noise Canceling Headphones for Travel
Traveling can be chaos, but the right noise-canceling headphones can turn any airport into your personal quiet zone. Whether it’s the LEVN’s impressive 99% noise reduction and 70-hour battery life, Edifier W820NB Plus’s hybrid canceling and 49-hour playback, or Soundcore’s powerful 60-hour performance, each offers a different way to block out engine roars and chatter. Curious which one will truly silence your travel woes? Stick around, because these options could redefine your next journey.
LEVN Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
- Active Noise Cancelling: Experience ultimate silence with the hybrid active noise cancelling headphones. block up to 99% of ambient noise, allowing you to focus on music, calls, or movies in any...
- Stay Aware, Stay Connected: The hybrid active noise cancelling headphones with transparency mode allow you to stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying audio. Whether waiting for announcements on...
- HiFi Stereo Sound: Whether unwinding with your favorite playlist, getting lost in a movie, the hybrid active noise cancelling headphones bring every sound to life. The 40mm composite diaphragm drivers...
If you travel a lot or commute every day, noise can be a big problem. The LEVN Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are made to block out the noise around you. They can block up to 99% of background sounds. This includes loud engine noises on planes or busy street sounds. The headphones have a special mix of noise-canceling tools called hybrid noise cancellation. You can easily switch between different modes. There’s a mode that blocks most noise, one called transparency that lets you hear your surroundings, and a regular mode for normal listening.
The transparency mode is helpful when you want to hear what’s going on around you—like at a busy airport or on a crowded street. It’s like having superpowers—noise-canceling powers—without needing a cape.
These headphones are best for people who travel or commute a lot. They help block noise and are comfortable enough to wear for many hours.
Pros:
- They block most noises, including low sounds like airplane engines.
- They last up to 70 hours without noise canceling turned on, so you can use them during long trips.
- They are light and comfortable, with soft memory foam ear cushions and an adjustable band.
Cons:
- They are not made for heavy rain or intense workouts because they aren’t water-resistant.
- Some people find the touch controls and modes a little tricky at first.
- The headphones are big and foldable, so they might not be as small or discreet as earbuds.
These headphones are a good choice if you want to enjoy music or silence without being bothered by noise around you.
Edifier W820NB Plus Wireless Headphones with Noise Cancelling & Hi-Res Audio
- [High Sound Quality] Equipped with a large 1.6 inch (40 mm) mantle plated composite diaphragm sound-pronounced unit that supports LDAC decoding and high resolution, giving you more music details....
- [-43dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation] With the hybrid ANC technology and enclosed design, the headphones will automatically identify ambient noise and transmit the corrected signals. Allows you to...
- [Zero Pressure Patent Earcups] The new improved W820NB Plus headphones weigh only 7.9 oz (220 g), and adopts a memory foam cushion material with zero pressure sensation patented technology that gives...
The Edifier W820NB Plus headphones are great for people who want good sound quality and noise cancellation. They have a big 40mm driver that produces clear, detailed sound. You can listen to high-quality audio formats like LDAC, which makes your music sound crisp. Whether you’re streaming songs, watching movies, or playing games, these headphones give you a rich, cinema-like sound.
They have hybrid active noise cancelling (ANC) that cuts down noise by up to -43dB. This helps block out loud sounds from busy places like airports or streets. The headphones are light, weighing only 7.9 ounces. That makes them comfy to wear for hours. The soft earcups help keep you comfortable even during long use. Plus, they last a long time on a single charge — up to 49 hours. If the battery runs low, quick charging saves the day.
These headphones are good for anyone who wants immersive sound, noise blocking, and comfort during travel or daily use.
Pros:
- Clear, detailed sound with high-resolution audio
- Noise cancelling reduces background noise a lot
- Long battery life of up to 49 hours, plus fast charging
Cons:
- Few buttons; no skip or back controls
- Some people may want music louder at max volume
- Colors in pictures may look a little different from real life
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over Ear Bluetooth
- Incredible Sound Loved by 20 Million+ People
- Hi-Res Audio: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound. Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for...
- Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted more than 100,000 tests in real-life scenarios to fine-tune Life Q20’s 4 built-in ANC microphones and digital active noise...
If you are a traveler or someone who moves around a lot, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Headphones are a good choice. They help block out busy sounds like airplanes or busy streets. More than 20 million people use them, so they are popular.
These headphones have special 40 mm drivers. They make high-quality sound and can handle sounds up to 40,000 Hz. Four built-in microphones and smart noise reduction help cut down background noise by up to 90%. This works best on low and middle sounds, like engines or talking. The headphones also boost bass sound using BassUp technology. This makes music feel deep and powerful, great for genres like EDM or hip-hop.
They are light and comfortable to wear, so you can use them for a long time. They last a long time too—up to 60 hours of playtime on a single charge. This means less need to charge often, even if you use noise cancellation all the time.
These headphones are best for people who want quiet, good sound, and a long-lasting battery. They help block out engine noise, street noise, and other loud sounds.
Pros:
- Very good at canceling noise, up to 90%
- Clear, rich sound with deep bass
- Long battery life of up to 60 hours
Cons:
- They might feel a bit bulky for some people
- Not as good at blocking very high sounds
- Need to charge often if used a lot each day with noise canceling on
These headphones are great if you want an affordable way to enjoy quiet and good music while on the move.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise Canceling Headphones for Travel
When choosing noise-canceling headphones for travel, comfort becomes essential if you plan to wear them for hours—otherwise, they might turn into your arch-nemesis. You’ll also want to check the battery life, because nothing kills the mood faster than headphones dying mid-flight, and stellar noise cancellation should block out that screaming baby next door. Finally, consider how easy they are to connect and carry around, since a bulky, finicky pair is more of a burden than a bonus on busy journeys.
Comfort for Long Wear
If you will be on a plane or train for a long time, comfort is important. Look for headphones with soft foam ear cushions. These fit your ears comfortably and don’t pinch. Choose headphones with an adjustable headband. They can be made smaller or bigger to fit your head. Over-ear headphones are good because they spread pressure around your ears. This helps you stay comfortable for hours.
Pick lightweight headphones that weigh less than half a kilogram (about a pound). Lighter headphones won’t feel heavy on your head and neck. Some headphones have shapes that adapt to your head. These minimize pressure and stop aches during long trips.
Use headphones made from soft, breathable materials. High-quality leather or mesh are good choices. They keep your ears cool and comfortable, even if it gets warm or stuffy. The goal is to enjoy your trip without needing to adjust your headphones all the time or feeling like they are too tight.
Battery Life Duration
Battery life is a key point when choosing noise-canceling headphones. The longer the battery lasts, the less you worry about finding an outlet or your headphones dying when you’re traveling. Look for headphones that give you at least 35 to 60 hours of use on a single charge. That’s enough for many flights or long trips. Some models also have fast-charging. With just 10 to 15 minutes of charging, you can get 3 to 7 hours of listening. This is helpful if you forget to charge your headphones or need a quick boost.
Be aware that noise-canceling features, called ANC, use more power. So, having a long battery life helps you enjoy noise cancellation without needing to recharge often. Keep an eye on your battery level. It’s annoying to have your headphones die when you need them the most, like during an important call or movie.
Noise Cancellation Quality
Good noise cancellation depends on more than just fancy ads. It is about how well the headphones can block out background sounds. Look for headphones that can reduce loud noises, like engine roars or airplane noise. These headphones use special microphones to listen to sound around you. Hybrid noise canceling headphones use two types of microphones, feedforward and feedback, to block a wider range of sounds. They work especially well on low noises, blocking up to 99% of them.
How well the noise canceling works depends on where the microphones are placed, and how the electronics and tuning are done. Good headphones can block sound smoothly, so it feels natural and not artificial. Some headphones also have different modes, like transparency mode. This mode lets in some sounds so you can hear what’s around you if needed.
Great noise canceling makes your trips quieter and calmer. It can turn busy airports and noisy streets into peaceful places, making your travel more comfortable.
Ease of Connectivity
When you pick noise-canceling headphones for travel, easy connection matters a lot. You usually use Bluetooth to connect. Look for headphones with Bluetooth 5.0 or newer. These connect fast and stay connected within about 10 meters. That’s helpful if you walk around the airport or train station. Some headphones let you connect to two devices at once. This is called multipoint pairing. It allows you to switch easily between your phone and laptop. Wired options are also good. They give a strong connection if Bluetooth isn’t working well. Many headphones have quick setup features, like NFC or one-touch Bluetooth. These make connecting fast and simple. Make sure your headphones work with different devices. That way, you can connect to your phone, tablet, or even the in-flight entertainment system. Easy connectivity makes travel smoother and less stressful.
Portability and Design
When you pack headphones in your bag or suitcase, size and shape matter. Light, foldable headphones are easy to carry. Over-ear styles with foldable or rotatable ear cups take up less space and are less likely to get damaged. Small-sized headphones often come with cases that protect them from scratches and bumps. Soft materials like memory foam on the ear pads and slim headbands make them comfortable for long use, even on flights. Features like quick-fold mechanisms make packing and unpacking simple. These good design choices keep your headphones safe and ready to use without making your luggage bulky or heavy.
FAQs
How Long Does the Battery Last on a Single Charge?
Most noise-canceling headphones last between 20 to 30 hours on a single charge. You can enjoy extended listening without frequent recharging, making them perfect for long flights or travel days. Always check specific model details for accuracy.
Are These Headphones Comfortable for Long Flights?
Yes, these headphones are comfortable for long flights. You’ll appreciate their lightweight design, plush ear cushions, and adjustable headbands, which guarantee a snug yet gentle fit, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey without discomfort.
Do They Work Effectively With Noise-Canceling Apps?
Yes, these headphones work effectively with noise-canceling apps. You can enhance your experience by customizing settings, ensuring the best noise reduction. Just connect your device, activate the app, and enjoy a quieter, distraction-free environment during your travels.
Can They Be Used Passively Without Noise Cancellation?
Yes, you can use noise-canceling headphones passively without activating noise cancellation. Simply remove or switch off the noise cancellation feature, and their passive isolation relies on the headphones’ design and ear cups to block out sound naturally.
Are Replacement Ear Pads or Ear Cups Available?
Yes, replacement ear pads and ear cups are widely available for most noise-canceling headphones. You can typically find them through the manufacturer’s website, authorized retailers, or third-party suppliers, making maintenance simple and cost-effective.
Seema is a passionate tech enthusiast and the founder of TechTester.blog, dedicated to providing honest, in-depth reviews and practical guides for the latest AI tools, gadgets, and digital innovations.
Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
