Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane: Tested and Reviewed RatingRiffs, August 3, 2024October 14, 2024 Flying can be an exhilarating experience, but the constant drone of airplane engines, chatter from fellow passengers, and other ambient noises can quickly turn it into a test of endurance. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or gearing up for a much-anticipated vacation, investing in a pair of top-tier noise cancelling headphones can dramatically enhance your journey. These headphones are designed to create a personal bubble of tranquility, allowing you to relax, enjoy your favorite tunes, or catch up on sleep without the intrusive background noise. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve tested and reviewed some of the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel on the market, specifically focusing on their performance in the challenging environment of an airplane cabin. Our goal is to help you find the perfect pair that not only suits your needs but also transforms your flying experience into a serene and enjoyable one. List of the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane: IMAGEPRODUCTRATINGBose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphone4.5/5View On AmazonlabelSony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphone4.5/5View On AmazonlabelSennheiser Consumer Audio Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones4.5/5View On AmazonlabelApple AirPods Max Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones4.5/5View On AmazonlabelBose 700 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphone4.5/5View On Amazonlabel Check out the thorough review of the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane below. 1. Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphone The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are designed to deliver an unparalleled audio experience, especially suited for airplane travel. With legendary noise cancellation technology, these headphones effectively block out external sounds, providing a serene listening environment amidst the hustle and bustle of air travel. This product effortlessly combines advanced active noise cancelling with passive noise isolation, allowing you to enjoy your music without distractions. Transitioning between different environments is seamless with the Quiet and Aware Modes. The Quiet Mode offers complete noise cancellation, perfect for uninterrupted in-flight entertainment, while the Aware Mode lets you stay alert to your surroundings when needed. The high-fidelity audio, enhanced by an adjustable EQ, ensures a balanced sound profile, allowing you to customize the bass, mid-range, and treble to your liking. Comfort is another standout feature. The plush earcup cushions and padded headband are designed for extended wear, making long-haul flights more enjoyable. With up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge and an additional 2.5 hours of playtime from a 15-minute quick charge, these headphones are reliable travel companions. The multi-point toggle feature allows for seamless device connectivity, and the included microphone cord provides an option for wired use. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: Legendary noise cancellation technology. Quiet and Aware Modes for adaptable sound control. High-fidelity audio with adjustable EQ. Up to 24 hours of battery life. Multi-point toggle for seamless device connectivity. Pros: Superior noise cancellation, ideal for airplane travel. Premium comfort for long listening sessions. Customizable sound with high-fidelity audio. Long battery life with quick charge capability. Seamless connectivity across multiple devices. Cons: Limited color options. View On Amazon 2. Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphone The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stand out as the ultimate solution for airplane travelers seeking unparalleled noise cancellation. Equipped with two processors controlling eight microphones, these headphones deliver exceptional noise-canceling performance. The Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer automatically adjusts based on your environment and wearing conditions, ensuring optimal noise reduction whether you are at 30,000 feet or on the ground. The sound quality is engineered to perfection, powered by the new Integrated Processor V1, which enhances the already impressive HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1. These headphones offer crystal-clear hands-free calling with four beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing, ensuring your voice is heard clearly in noisy environments. Battery life is another strong point, with up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, a quick 3-minute charge provides an impressive 3 hours of playback, perfect for last-minute preparations before a flight. The lightweight design with soft-fit leather ensures long-lasting comfort, making them ideal for extended listening sessions during long flights. With intuitive touch controls, multipoint connection capabilities, and a carry case included, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are both convenient and versatile. These features make them an excellent choice for travelers who demand the best in noise cancellation and audio quality. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation with Auto NC Optimizer. High-fidelity audio with Integrated Processor V1. Crystal-clear hands-free calling with four beamforming microphones. Long battery life of up to 30 hours with quick charging. Ultra-comfortable design with soft-fit leather and lightweight construction. Pros: Exceptional noise cancellation, ideal for airplane travel. Superior sound quality and customizable audio settings. Long-lasting battery with rapid charging capability. Comfortable for extended wear. Multipoint connection for seamless device switching. Cons: Some users report connectivity issues. View On Amazon 3. Sennheiser Consumer Audio Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones offer a premium audio experience, making them an excellent choice for airplane travel. Equipped with a 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive, these headphones deliver Sennheiser’s signature sound with maximum audio resolution. The Adaptive Noise Cancellation feature ensures that you remain undisturbed by external noises, making them ideal for in-flight use. Additionally, the Adjustable Transparency Mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when necessary. One of the standout features is the impressive 60-hour battery life, ensuring that the headphones can last through even the longest flights. A quick charge feature provides additional convenience, allowing for fast top-ups on the go. The lightweight, foldable design, coupled with a padded headband and cushioned ear pads, ensures exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions. For those who value clear communication, the four digital beamforming microphones deliver crystal-clear call quality, automatically suppressing wind noise. The Sennheiser Smart Control App allows for personalized sound adjustments, catering to individual listening preferences through an integrated equalizer, presets, and sound modes. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: 42mm transducer system with aptX Adaptive for high-resolution audio. Adaptive Noise Cancellation with Adjustable Transparency Mode. Up to 60 hours of battery life with fast charging. Lightweight, foldable design for comfort and portability. Four digital beamforming microphones for crystal-clear calls. Pros: Superior audio quality with Sennheiser signature sound. Long-lasting battery life, ideal for long flights. Effective noise cancellation for a distraction-free experience. Comfortable design suitable for extended wear. Personalized sound settings via the Sennheiser Smart Control App. Cons: Mixed opinions on build quality and touch controls. View On Amazon 4. Apple AirPods Max Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones set a high bar for audio excellence and noise cancellation, making them an ideal companion for airplane travel. With Apple-designed dynamic drivers and computational audio powered by the Apple H1 chip, these headphones deliver breathtaking high-fidelity audio. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) ensures that external noises are effectively blocked, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your music or movies, a significant advantage for in-flight entertainment. The Transparency Mode is a standout feature, enabling users to hear and interact with their surroundings without removing the headphones. This is particularly useful during announcements or interactions with flight attendants. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking creates an immersive listening experience, enhanced by Dolby Atmos support for select content. Designed for comfort, the AirPods Max feature a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions that provide a snug fit and excellent sound isolation. The battery life extends up to 20 hours with ANC and Spatial Audio enabled, sufficient for most long-haul flights. Additionally, the seamless integration with Apple devices and intuitive controls via the Digital Crown enhance user convenience. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: Apple-designed dynamic driver and computational audio. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Up to 20 hours of battery life with ANC and Spatial Audio. Knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions for comfort. Pros: Exceptional audio quality with high-fidelity sound. Effective noise cancellation, ideal for airplane use. Immersive listening experience with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos. Seamless integration with Apple devices. Comfortable design for extended wear. Cons: Mixed reviews on comfort for prolonged use. View On Amazon 5. Bose 700 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphone The Bose Headphones 700 are a powerful contender in the realm of noise cancelling headphones, ideal for airplane travel. Featuring 11 levels of active noise cancellation, these headphones provide a customizable listening experience, effectively blocking out the ambient noise of a busy flight. Whether you prefer a quieter environment or need to stay aware of your surroundings, the adjustable ANC levels cater to your needs. The sound quality is impressive, delivering crisp, clear details and deep, full bass across all volume levels. This ensures an immersive and balanced audio experience whether you’re enjoying music, podcasts, or movies during your flight. The revolutionary four-microphone system excels in noisy and windy environments, guaranteeing crystal-clear call quality, which is particularly useful for travelers who need to stay connected. Comfort is another strong suit of the Bose Headphones 700. The lightweight stainless steel headband and ergonomically tilted earcups ensure long-lasting comfort, making them suitable for extended wear on long-haul flights. With up to 20 hours of battery life, you can rely on these headphones for continuous use without frequent recharging. The intuitive touch controls on the earcups allow for easy access to voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, adding convenience to your travel experience. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: 11 levels of active noise cancellation. Crisp, clear sound with deep bass. Four-microphone system for clear calls. Lightweight, ergonomic design. Up to 20 hours of battery life. Pros: Superior noise cancellation, perfect for airplane use. High-quality sound at all volume levels. Excellent call clarity in noisy environments. Comfortable for long periods of wear. Intuitive touch controls and voice assistant integration. Cons: Mixed opinions on connectivity and functionality. View On Amazon 6. Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphone The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are an outstanding choice for airplane travel, thanks to their premium noise cancellation and long battery life. Equipped with Dual Noise Sensor technology, these headphones deliver superior active noise cancellation, effectively blocking out the ambient noise of a busy flight. This feature allows you to immerse yourself in your music, podcasts, or movies without distractions. The WH-1000XM4 offers an impressive 30-hour battery life, ensuring they last through even the longest flights. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of playback, perfect for last-minute power-ups before boarding. The touch sensor controls on the earcups make it easy to pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, and access voice assistants without needing to reach for your device. Comfort is a key advantage of the WH-1000XM4, with an updated design that relieves pressure for long-lasting comfort during extended use. The Speak-to-Chat feature automatically reduces the volume during conversations, while the wearing detection pauses playback when the headphones are removed, conserving battery life. The multipoint connection allows seamless switching between devices, enhancing user convenience. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: Dual Noise Sensor technology for premium noise cancellation. Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging. Touch sensor controls for easy operation. Speak-to-Chat and wearing detection features. Adaptive Sound Control for personalized listening. Pros: Exceptional noise cancellation, ideal for airplane use. Long battery life with quick charge capability. Comfortable design for extended wear. High-quality sound with DSEE Extreme upscaling. Seamless multiple-device pairing. Cons: Some users question build quality. View On Amazon 7. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Noise Cancellation Headphone The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Over-Ear Headphones are designed to deliver an exceptional audio experience, making them an excellent choice for airplane travel. With enhanced noise cancellation and a 24-bit DSP paired with custom-designed 40mm drivers, these headphones offer high-fidelity sound that faithfully reproduces music as the artist intended. The Qualcomm aptX Adaptive ensures high-resolution audio transmission, creating a truly immersive listening experience. Comfort is paramount with the Px7 S2e, featuring luxurious memory foam earpads and a fabric finish that cushions your ears for extended listening sessions. The sleek design, highlighted by metal detailing, adds a touch of elegance, making these headphones as stylish as they are functional. The 30-hour battery life ensures that they can handle even the longest flights, and quick-charge support provides several hours of playback from a short charging session. The Px7 S2e also excels in call quality, thanks to six microphones that deliver clear, noise-free conversations. The Bowers & Wilkins Music App allows for easy customization of your audio environment, with direct streaming and voice assistant support. These headphones are available in striking finishes, including Forest Green, to suit any personal style. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: 24-bit DSP and custom-designed 40mm drivers. Enhanced noise cancellation with six microphones. 30-hour battery life with quick-charge support. Luxurious memory foam earpads and fabric finish. Bowers & Wilkins Music App for audio customization. Pros: High-fidelity sound quality ideal for airplane use. Effective noise cancellation for a distraction-free experience. Long-lasting battery life with quick charging. Comfortable design for extended listening. Elegant and stylish finishes. Cons: Some users report fit issues. View On Amazon 8. Soundcore Life Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphone The Soundcore by Anker Life Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are an excellent choice for airplane travel, thanks to their advanced noise cancellation technology and impressive battery life. Equipped with dual noise-detecting microphones, these headphones filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience. The three customizable noise cancellation modes—Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor—adapt to various environments, effectively minimizing airplane engine noise, traffic, and office chatter. The 40mm drivers in the Life Q30 deliver Hi-Res audio, reproducing thumping bass and crisp treble up to 40kHz for enhanced clarity. This ensures you can hear every detail of your favorite songs, providing a rich and immersive audio experience. The headphones offer an outstanding 40-hour playtime in noise cancelling mode, which extends to 60 hours in standard mode. Additionally, a quick 5-minute charge provides up to 4 hours of playback, making them perfect for long flights. Comfort is a key feature, with ultra-soft protein leather earcups and memory foam padding that fit snugly over your ears. The lightweight design ensures they are comfortable for extended listening sessions. Multipoint connection allows seamless switching between devices, enhancing their convenience and versatility. Key Features, Pros, and Cons Key Features: Hybrid active noise cancellation with dual microphones. Customizable ANC modes: Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor. Hi-Res sound with 40mm drivers and silk diaphragms. Up to 40-hour playtime in ANC mode, 60 hours in standard mode. Pressure-free comfort with ultra-soft protein leather earcups. Pros: Effective noise cancellation, ideal for airplane use. High-quality sound with rich bass and clear treble. Long battery life with quick charge capability. Comfortable design for long listening sessions. Multipoint connection for seamless device switching. Cons: ANC not compatible with AUX cable connection. Some users report variability in performance. View On Amazon Why Do You Need Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane? Flying can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with its fair share of discomforts and distractions. One of the most significant issues passengers face is the constant noise from the airplane’s engines, air conditioning systems, and the hustle and bustle of fellow travelers. This is where noise cancelling headphones become an essential travel companion. Here are several reasons why investing in a pair of high-quality noise cancelling headphones can make a substantial difference during your flights: 1. Reducing Fatigue and Stress Airplane noise is not just an annoyance; it can also be physically and mentally draining. The constant hum of engines and background chatter can lead to increased stress levels and fatigue, especially on long-haul flights. Noise cancelling headphones help create a serene environment by actively reducing these ambient sounds, allowing you to relax and feel more refreshed upon arrival. 2. Improving Sleep Quality Getting quality sleep on a plane can be challenging, but it’s crucial for arriving at your destination feeling rested. Noise cancelling headphones can block out disruptive noises, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. This is particularly beneficial for overnight flights or when crossing multiple time zones, as better sleep can help minimize jet lag. 3. Enhancing Audio Experience Whether you’re listening to music, watching a movie, or following an in-flight podcast, noise cancelling headphones significantly enhance your audio experience. By eliminating background noise, these headphones allow you to enjoy clearer sound without having to crank up the volume, which can be harmful to your hearing over extended periods. 4. Maintaining Concentration and Productivity For business travelers or anyone needing to get some work done while in the air, noise cancelling headphones are invaluable. They help create a focused work environment by drowning out distractions, making it easier to concentrate on tasks such as reading, writing, or even preparing presentations. 5. Protecting Your Hearing Prolonged exposure to the loud noise levels on an airplane can potentially damage your hearing. Noise cancelling headphones reduce the need to increase the volume of your audio devices, thus protecting your ears from high decibel levels. This is especially important for frequent flyers who are exposed to these conditions regularly. 6. Enjoying Personal Entertainment Most modern aircraft offer a range of in-flight entertainment options. With noise cancelling headphones, you can immerse yourself in your chosen movies, TV shows, or music playlists without interference from the surrounding noise, making your flight more enjoyable. 7. Better Communication with Cabin Crew While it may seem counterintuitive, noise cancelling headphones can actually improve communication with flight attendants. Many models have a transparency mode that lets you hear announcements and conversations clearly without removing the headphones, ensuring you don’t miss important information. How to Choose the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane? Understanding Noise Cancelling Technology Before you make a purchase, it’s important to understand how noise cancelling technology works. Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) headphones use microphones to pick up external sounds and then create inverse sound waves to cancel them out. This results in significantly reduced background noise, allowing you to enjoy your music, movies, or simply silence. Key Features to Look For Superior Sound Quality When it comes to headphones, sound quality is paramount. Look for models with a balanced sound profile that suits your preferences. Some headphones emphasize bass, while others offer a more neutral sound. Consider what you’ll primarily use them for—music, movies, or podcasts—and choose accordingly. Effective Noise Cancellation Not all noise cancelling headphones are created equal. Some excel at eliminating low-frequency sounds like engine noise, while others are better at reducing higher-frequency sounds like human voices. Brands like Bose and Sony are known for their exceptional ANC performance. Try to find reviews or test the headphones in-store to see which one best suits your needs. Comfort and Fit For long flights, comfort is key. Look for headphones with plush ear pads and an adjustable headband. Over-ear headphones typically provide better noise isolation and comfort compared to on-ear or in-ear models. However, if you prefer a more compact design, some in-ear models with ANC can also be very effective. Additional Considerations Battery Life Long battery life is crucial for travel. Aim for headphones that offer at least 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. Many modern headphones also support quick charging, providing several hours of use from just a few minutes of charging time. Portability and Durability Travel headphones should be easy to carry and robust enough to withstand the rigors of travel. Look for foldable designs and a sturdy carrying case. Durable materials and a good warranty can also give you peace of mind. Connectivity Options While most noise cancelling headphones offer Bluetooth connectivity, having a wired option can be handy for in-flight entertainment systems. Make sure the headphones come with an audio cable that’s compatible with airline seat ports. Frequently Asked Questions when Selecting the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane 1. What are noise cancelling headphones, and how do they work? Answer: Noise cancelling headphones use active noise cancellation (ANC) technology to reduce unwanted ambient sounds. They have built-in microphones that detect external noise and generate sound waves that are the exact opposite (anti-phase). This process effectively cancels out the unwanted noise, allowing you to enjoy your audio without interference from background sounds like airplane engines. 2. Why are noise cancelling headphones useful for airplane travel? Answer: Airplane cabins can be quite noisy due to the constant hum of the engines, air conditioning systems, and chatter from other passengers. Noise cancelling headphones help to significantly reduce these ambient noises, creating a quieter and more comfortable environment. This makes it easier to enjoy music, movies, podcasts, or simply rest during your flight. 3. What are the key features to look for in noise cancelling headphones for airplanes? Answer: When choosing noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel, consider the following features: Effective Noise Cancellation: Look for models known for their superior ANC performance. Sound Quality: Ensure the headphones offer high-quality audio with a balanced sound profile. Comfort: Opt for headphones with comfortable ear pads and an adjustable headband for long-lasting comfort. Battery Life: Choose headphones with at least 20 hours of battery life to last through long flights. Portability: Consider foldable designs and a sturdy carrying case for easy transport. Connectivity: Look for headphones with both Bluetooth and wired options for versatility. 4. Which brands are known for the best noise cancelling headphones for airplanes? Answer: Some of the top brands known for their excellent noise cancelling headphones include Bose, Sony, and Sennheiser. These brands have consistently received high ratings for their ANC performance, sound quality, and overall comfort. 5. How important is battery life for noise cancelling headphones on long flights? Answer: Battery life is crucial for noise cancelling headphones, especially on long flights. You want headphones that can last the entire duration of your journey without needing a recharge. Aim for headphones that offer at least 20 hours of battery life. Many modern models also feature quick charging capabilities, providing several hours of use from just a short charging period. 6. Can I use noise cancelling headphones with in-flight entertainment systems? Answer: Yes, most noise cancelling headphones come with a wired option that allows you to connect them to in-flight entertainment systems. This is particularly useful as Bluetooth connectivity might not always be available or compatible with the airplane’s entertainment setup. Make sure your headphones come with the necessary audio cable to plug into the seat’s audio jack. Conclusion Choosing the best noise cancelling headphones for air travel is a personal decision that depends on your priorities and budget. Whether you value supreme comfort, unparalleled sound quality, or the most advanced noise-cancellation technology, our tested selections offer something for every traveler. Invest in one of these top-performing headphones, and you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy your in-flight entertainment or simply relax in blissful quietude on your next airplane journey. Enjoyed this guide of the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane? Then be sure to check out our other guides. Best Acoustic Guitars Under $1000 Best Digital Pianos Under $1000 Best Subwoofers Under $500 Best Sound Bars Under $500 Best Headset for PS5 Best Microphones for Acoustic Guitar Best Headphones for Bass Best Endgame Headphone Less Than $2000 Headphone airplaneBestHeadphonenoise cancellingReview