Let's face it, we all need a little peace and quiet in our lives. Whether you're trying to focus on work, drown out the noise of your commute, or simply enjoy your music without distractions, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. But what if you don't want to break the bank?
The good news is that you don't have to spend a fortune to get excellent noise cancellation. There are plenty of great options available for under $100. We've done the research and rounded up the best noise-canceling headphones under $100 for 2024, considering factors like sound quality, noise cancellation effectiveness, comfort, and battery life.
What To Look For When Buying Noise-Canceling Headphones
Before diving into our picks, let's talk about what you should consider when choosing noise-canceling headphones.
1. Noise Cancellation Technology:
Noise cancellation technology uses microphones and digital signal processing to identify and cancel out unwanted sounds. There are two main types:
- Passive Noise Cancellation: This relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out noise. This is usually achieved through earcups that fit tightly over your ears and provide a seal.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): This uses microphones and electronics to generate sound waves that cancel out incoming noise. ANC headphones are generally more effective at blocking out a wider range of frequencies, making them a good choice for noisy environments.
2. Sound Quality:
Naturally, you want headphones that sound good! Look for headphones with a balanced sound signature that produces clear highs, warm mids, and tight bass. Pay attention to the headphone driver size; a larger driver size generally translates to better sound quality.
3. Comfort:
You'll be wearing these headphones for extended periods, so comfort is crucial. Consider factors like earcup size, headband adjustability, and the weight of the headphones. Look for soft, breathable earpads that won't cause discomfort.
4. Battery Life:
How long can these headphones last on a single charge? Battery life is crucial, especially if you're using them for long commutes or travel. Aim for at least 10 hours of playback on a single charge.
5. Features:
Some headphones come with additional features that can be handy, such as:
- Built-in Microphone: Allows you to make phone calls hands-free.
- Volume Controls: Convenient for adjusting the volume without having to take your phone out.
- Voice Assistant Support: Allows you to control your headphones and other devices with your voice.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Ensures a wireless connection to your smartphone or other devices.
6. Water Resistance:
Look for headphones with a water-resistant rating if you plan on using them during workouts or in humid environments. A higher IPX rating indicates a higher level of water resistance.
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones Under $100 for 2024
Now that you're armed with some knowledge about the key features to look for, let's delve into our top picks for the best noise-canceling headphones under $100 for 2024.
1. TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92:
These earbuds are a top pick for their impressive noise cancellation at this price point. The TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92 boast active noise cancellation that effectively reduces background noise, allowing you to focus on your music or podcast.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation: The SoundLiberty 92 utilize active noise cancellation technology to effectively reduce ambient noise.
- Transparency Mode: When you need to hear your surroundings, simply switch to transparency mode, which allows external sound to pass through the earbuds.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 5 hours of playtime with ANC enabled, and up to 25 hours with the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: The SoundLiberty 92 come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for most ear shapes.
- IPX5 Water Resistance: These earbuds are sweat and splash-proof, making them ideal for workouts or use in humid environments.
2. Anker Soundcore Life Q10:
If you're looking for a solid pair of over-ear headphones that deliver impressive sound quality and noise cancellation at an affordable price, the Anker Soundcore Life Q10 are a fantastic choice. These headphones are known for their excellent comfort and impressive battery life.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation: The Life Q10 boast powerful active noise cancellation that effectively reduces unwanted noise from your surroundings.
- Exceptional Sound Quality: These headphones deliver a balanced sound signature with clear highs, warm mids, and deep bass, making them great for listening to music across various genres.
- Long Battery Life: With up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge, these headphones are ideal for long commutes or extended listening sessions.
- Comfortable Design: The Life Q10 feature soft earcups and a padded headband for a comfortable listening experience, even during extended sessions.
- Foldable Design: The headphones fold up for easy storage and transport.
3. JBL Tune 510BT:
These headphones are a budget-friendly option that delivers decent sound quality and impressive battery life. The JBL Tune 510BT are a great option for those who prioritize portability and convenience.
Key Features:
- Wireless Connectivity: The Tune 510BT feature Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge, ideal for extended use.
- Comfortable Design: The Tune 510BT feature soft earcups and a padded headband for a comfortable fit.
- Lightweight and Portable: The headphones are lightweight and fold flat, making them easy to carry around.
- Built-in Microphone: Allows you to take phone calls hands-free.
4. Sony WH-CH510:
If you prioritize sound quality and a comfortable fit, the Sony WH-CH510 are a fantastic choice. They deliver a wide soundstage and a comfortable fit, making them ideal for listening to music for extended periods.
Key Features:
- Excellent Sound Quality: The WH-CH510 feature 30mm drivers that deliver a clear and detailed soundstage.
- Comfortable Fit: The headphones feature soft, comfortable earcups that provide a snug fit.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 35 hours of playtime on a single charge.
- Lightweight Design: The WH-CH510 are lightweight and easy to wear for extended periods.
- Built-in Microphone: Allows you to take phone calls hands-free.
5. JBL Tune 125TWS:
These earbuds offer an impressive combination of comfort, sound quality, and battery life at a budget-friendly price. The JBL Tune 125TWS are a great option for those who prioritize portability and a secure fit.
Key Features:
- Wireless Connectivity: The Tune 125TWS feature Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 8 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 32 hours of total playtime with the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: The Tune 125TWS come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- JBL Pure Bass Sound: These earbuds deliver a powerful bass sound signature that's perfect for listening to bass-heavy genres.
- IPX4 Water Resistance: The Tune 125TWS are splash-proof, making them suitable for workouts or use in humid environments.
6. Tribit FlyBuds 3:
These earbuds are a strong contender for the best noise-canceling earbuds under $100. The Tribit FlyBuds 3 offer a great combination of sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation: The FlyBuds 3 boast active noise cancellation technology that effectively reduces ambient noise.
- Transparency Mode: When you need to hear your surroundings, simply switch to transparency mode, which allows external sound to pass through the earbuds.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 7 hours of playtime with ANC enabled, and up to 35 hours with the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: The FlyBuds 3 come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- IPX7 Water Resistance: These earbuds are waterproof, making them ideal for workouts or use in humid environments.
7. SoundPEATS TrueAir2:
These earbuds are a budget-friendly option that delivers decent sound quality and impressive battery life. The SoundPEATS TrueAir2 are a great option for those who prioritize portability and convenience.
Key Features:
- Wireless Connectivity: The TrueAir2 feature Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 30 hours of total playtime with the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: The TrueAir2 come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- IPX7 Water Resistance: These earbuds are waterproof, making them suitable for workouts or use in humid environments.
8. TOZO A1:
These earbuds are another budget-friendly option that offers good sound quality and a comfortable fit. The TOZO A1 are a great option for those who prioritize value for money.
Key Features:
- Wireless Connectivity: The A1 feature Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 25 hours of total playtime with the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: The A1 come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- IPX8 Water Resistance: These earbuds are waterproof, making them suitable for workouts or use in humid environments.
FAQs
1. What's the difference between passive and active noise cancellation?
Answer: Passive noise cancellation relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out noise. This is usually achieved through earcups that fit tightly over your ears and provide a seal. Active noise cancellation uses microphones and electronics to generate sound waves that cancel out incoming noise.
2. How long do noise-canceling headphones last?
Answer: The battery life of noise-canceling headphones can vary depending on the model. Some models can last up to 40 hours on a single charge, while others may only last for a few hours. Check the product specifications for the battery life of the headphones you're interested in.
3. Can noise-canceling headphones be used for sleep?
Answer: Some noise-canceling headphones are designed specifically for sleep. These headphones typically have a soft, comfortable design and a low-profile shape to prevent them from pressing on your ears.
4. How often should I clean my noise-canceling headphones?
Answer: It's a good idea to clean your noise-canceling headphones regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, sweat, and earwax. You can use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the earcups, headband, and other surfaces.
5. Are noise-canceling headphones safe for your ears?
Answer: It's important to use noise-canceling headphones at moderate volumes to protect your hearing. Listening to music at high volumes for extended periods can damage your hearing.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you navigate the world of noise-canceling headphones under $100. There are plenty of great options available to meet your needs, whether you're looking for earbuds or over-ear headphones.
Remember to consider your budget, the level of noise cancellation you need, sound quality, comfort, battery life, and any other important features.
With so many great options available, you can find the perfect noise-canceling headphones to help you achieve your desired level of tranquility. Enjoy the peace and quiet!