10 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Studying (Buyer’s Guide)

Background noise is a problem for many people. Whether it’s the sound made by heavy traffic or people talking, this ambient noise can be detrimental to your ability to concentrate. Fortunately, if you want a more quiet environment to study in, there are a wide range of noise-cancelling headphones that can help.

In this article, we review some of the best noise-cancelling headphones for studying. We will also show you how to choose the right pair for you.

Our Top Picks:

  1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
  2. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
  3. Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC
  4. Sony WH-1000XM3
  5. Apple AirPods Pro
  6. Beats Studio3
  7. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
  8. Skullcandy Hesh ANC
  9. Srhythm NC35
  10. Avantree Aria AS90

Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Studying Reviews

1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Bose is a premium brand of headphones, known for its high-end products. Their QuietComfort line is their first foray into the mid-range market. It has good sound quality at a good price.

The QuietComfort 35 II is one of their best models, offering a sleek design and impressive build quality. It has active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that can cut out noise that you don’t want. It also has a built-in voice assistant that you can use without having to use your hands.

The new Bose Connect app allows you to pair the headphones with your smartphone or tablet using NFC (near field communication) technology. This means that you don’t have to worry about pairing with your device every time you want to use them. You can also use the Bose Connect app to control volume, play/pause music, check battery levels, and more.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones also include a built-in microphone that lets you take calls hands-free. This is especially useful if you are trying to study in a library, office, or other public areas.

It also includes a built-in rechargeable battery that will keep it powered for up to 20 hours of use. If you’re planning on being out for longer than this, you can always recharge it using the micro USB cable that comes with the headphones.

2. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

If you’re looking for the best noise cancelling earbuds for studying, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are the best option. Not only does it have the best active noise cancellation system, it also has a volume optimized active EQ system that lets you adjust the sound to your preferences.

The headphones are quite comfortable and stay in place thanks to their soft silicone tips. The StayHear Max eartips allow them to fit comfortably and stay in place for extended periods.

They also have three sizes of StayHear Max eartips. This means that they can fit any ear size and even cover your ear canal.

The most noteworthy feature of these earbuds is their noise-rejecting microphones. It allows you to block out all outside noise, so you can study in peace.

The volume-optimized active EQ system is also really helpful. It allows you to customize the volume level according to your needs, without having to go through the hassle of using the controls.

In terms of battery life, it holds enough charge for up to 6 hours of playtime. They have a charging case that’ll give you an additional 12 hours of battery life.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are also really light and small, so they’re easy to carry around. They’re IPX4-rated, which means they’re waterproof, but it’s not something you’d expect to see in a pair of headphones, so don’t worry about getting them wet or muddy.

3. Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC

The HD 4.50 BTNC is our top pick because it offers a great mix of sound quality and convenience, with a solid price tag to boot.

This Bluetooth wireless headphone is designed to offer the best audio experience, with a combination of powerful sound and high-quality noise cancellation. It features Sennheiser’s proprietary NoiseGard active noise cancelling technology, which combines digital and analog technology to provide effective noise reduction.

The Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC’s sound is detailed and well-balanced, with a smooth bass and a rich midrange. The sound is clear and detailed, even at high volume levels, so you can keep up a steady stream of music without worrying about distortion.

It has a long battery life; up to 19 hours on a single charge. Even if you don’t use it constantly, you’ll still get about 10 hours of playtime before you need to recharge. It also comes with a micro USB charging cable, so you can charge it while it’s in your bag or pocket.

The Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC has some nice ergonomic features as well, such as soft leatherette covered ear pads that stay put even when you wear the headphones for extended periods of time. The ear cups also swivel and fold, which makes them comfortable and easy to use. You can also adjust the length of the headband with a simple twist of the dial, which helps you keep the headphones on your head while they’re in your bag.

4. Sony WH-1000XM3

The Sony WH-1000XM3 are the best noise cancelling headphones for studying. These headphones feature LDAC, which is the latest type of lossless compression technology. It’s an algorithm that can reduce the amount of digital data required to store music without losing any quality, and it’s able to do this while maintaining high sound quality. This means that the music you play on these headphones will be preserved exactly as it was when you first listened to it.

It also uses adaptive noise cancellation, which works to cancel out ambient noise from the environment around you. This makes the headphones perfect for studying, or working in a quiet space where you don’t want to disturb others.

The Sony WH-1000XM3 offers Bluetooth and NFC tap technology, so you can connect to your phone or tablet without having to plug anything in. This allows you to play music and answer calls without having to take your device out of your pocket or bag. You can even use the tap feature to control music playback and make calls.

The headphones’ built-in rechargeable battery gives you up to 30 hours of playback time, even when the batteries are low.

The Sony WH-1000XM3 offers incredible sound quality, with 40mm drivers that produce crystal clear audio. You can study without having to worry about annoying noises or your neighbors.

5. Apple AirPods Pro

The AirPods Pro are the most advanced, sophisticated, and convenient wireless earphones yet made by Apple. With features like Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio, and the Apple H1 chip, the AirPods Pro are not only great for listening to music when studying, but also offer amazing functionality.

Let’s talk about the sound quality. The AirPods Pro are Apple’s most accurate and detailed earphones yet, thanks to their new W1 chip. This chip is the same one that powers Apple’s AirPods wireless headphones and the HomePod smart speaker. It can handle any music source with high resolution and deep bass, giving you the most natural sound you’ve ever heard in your ears.

The AirPods Pro also feature a sweat-resistant design, so they’ll stay comfortable throughout your day. With a MagSafe charging case, you can charge the AirPods Pro for up to 24 hours of total listening time. And when you’re done listening, just say “Hey Siri” and you can ask questions, get directions, call your friends, or end calls with a quick tap of the earphones.

And the AirPods Pro are water resistant, too, so you won’t have to worry about getting them wet. You can also use them in the rain thanks to a built-in accelerometer that will automatically muffle them when it detects drops of water.

6. Beats Studio3

The Beats Studio 3 has a high-performance wireless design that can be worn for long periods of time. These are wireless over-ear headphones, which means you can use them without having to worry about tangling wires.

The Beats Studio3 uses an advanced Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling (pure ANC) system that actively blocks external noise from reaching your ears. This feature is great for people who want to block out background noise during their workouts or while studying at night.

The Studio3 also has real-time audio calibration, which means it’ll adjust the sound based on the environment around you. This allows you to get the most out of your audio experience.

Beats Studio 3 comes with a detachable cable and a 10-minute fast charge, which can provide up to 3 hours of playback when the battery is low. This means you can easily take these headphones anywhere and not worry about running out of juice.

Beats Studio 3 is also compatible with iOS and Android devices, which is great for people who want to listen to their favorite music on the go.

7. Anker Soundcore Life Q30

In our research for the best noise-cancelling headphones for studying, we found that most of them cost more than $100. But there are a few that are affordable and feature great quality, and the Soundcore by Anker Life Q30 is one of them.

The Anker Life Q30 is an ANC (active noise cancellation) headphone.It’s made to be a good study buddy and an excellent companion for those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer or TV. They are designed to help you focus on your work while still keeping your surroundings from distracting you.

There are three settings for ANC; transport, outdoors, and indoors. You can choose one of them, depending on the environment you’re in. Transport mode is good for walking around outside, while Outdoor mode is better for doing other activities outdoors. Indoor mode is great for studying or working in a noisy office, and it’s the best mode for using the headphones when you’re inside.

The Life Q30 also has a great range of other features, such as dual Bluetooth functionality, a built-in microphone, and a 40-hour battery life. And if you really want to take things to the next level, there are also memory foam ear cups and a lightweight frame to keep things comfortable.

8. Skullcandy Hesh ANC

The Skullcandy Hesh ANC is a premium over-ear headphone with active noise cancelling (ANC) technology, which can help you reduce the noise around you.

The ANC function is great when you’re studying at home, where you need to focus on the task at hand. It helps block out the surrounding noise so you can stay focused and productive.

Skullcandy’s proprietary active noise cancellation technology is great for outdoor activities as well. Whether you’re running or playing sports, ANC technology will help you maintain a clear mind and keep you safe.

This Skullcandy headphone has a rechargeable battery that lasts for 22 hours on a single charge. And it has a Bluetooth connection for wireless freedom, so you can connect it to any compatible device.

Related: Best Skullcandy Wireless Earbuds

9. Srhythm NC35

The Srhythm NC35 is a set of noise-cancelling headphones that has become one of the most popular products in the Srhythm line. This model is their first model with an advanced dual noise reduction sensor to enhance noise cancellation performance for study, and crowded areas.

It also features 40mm high-definition premium speakers that produce clear, mega-bass and high-quality sound. They are compatible with all types of devices, such as tablets, phones, and laptops. And because it is rechargeable, you can use it while on the go for up to 50 hours of uninterrupted listening.

With the Srhythm NC35, you can enjoy high-quality audio, as well as clear calls. It has a built-in 1000 mAh lithium ion battery that will keep it going for hours on end. And, when you’re not using it, it can charge your smartphone or tablet in just 2 hours.

The Srhythm NC35 comes with a set of two different sizes of ear pads, so you can choose what fits you best. You can also adjust the volume with the touch buttons on the side of the headphones. It can be used with both iOS and Android devices.

10. Avantree Aria AS90

The Avantree Aria AS90 noise cancelling headphones feature 40mm Hi-Fi stereo drivers, well balanced sound, clarity and rich bass.

They feature a noise-cancelling microphone that you can use for calls, voice memos, and other conversations. This allows you to take your calls without having to hold the phone close to your ear. 

The Aria AS90 has a built-in flexible boom microphone, which allows you to take calls, listen to music, or record audio without having to hold the headset in your hand.

The ear cups have a memory foam lining that conforms to your ears, which helps keep them in place during extended wear. It also keeps your ears warm, which is a nice bonus in cooler climates.

The ear pads have a very soft, flexible design, so they won’t hurt your ears while wearing them for long periods of time.

The Avantree Aria AS90s also have a rechargeable battery, which lets you listen to music for up to 40 hours.

The Avantree Aria AS90 is one of the best noise cancelling headphones for studying, and the leather ear cups make it comfortable enough for you to wear them for hours on end. They’re also easy to pack and take on trips, so you can enjoy your favorite music wherever you are.

What Should You Look for in the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Students?

As a student, it’s hard to find a good study partner. You can’t always get a free ride to a friend’s house, or you may not have a friend that you feel comfortable enough to study with. So what are you supposed to do?

You could always just put a book in your bag, but that’s not very convenient, and you’ll probably end up falling asleep. The best solution is to use noise-cancelling headphones. These headphones block out all of the outside noise and allow you to focus on your studies without distraction.

This guide will go over what to look for when purchasing a pair of noise cancelling headphones to ensure that they’re not only great for studying but also fit your style.

Active vs. Passive Noise Cancellation

Active noise cancellation works better because it is designed to block out specific sounds, while passive noise cancellation only blocks out lower frequency sounds. This means that you will be able to hear your study partner talking, but not the people around you talking. It’s also important to remember that passive noise cancelling headphones can be used without batteries or electricity, so they are more portable and convenient.

Comfortable

The most comfortable headphones will have soft padding on the earcups and headband. They should also be made of breathable material so that your ears don’t get hot and sweaty after wearing them for a while. 

Sound Quality

Noise-cancelling headphones will block out all outside noise. However, if you don’t like the way the headphones sound, you may not enjoy listening to music while using them.

When shopping for the best noise-cancelling headphones for studying, it’s important to pay attention to the sound quality of each model. You want a pair of headphones that produce clear, crisp sounds so that you can hear the lyrics and details of your favorite songs.

Battery Life

Some of the more popular noise cancelling headphones can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, while others can last up to 30 hours. It’s important to compare the battery life of different headphones before purchasing them, so you know that you’ll have enough time with them before they need to be charged again.

Wireless Technology

Wireless headphones are great for studying because they allow you to not be tethered to your desk. This means that you can move around without worrying about getting tangled in the cord, and you can also sit on the couch or bed if you want to.

However, wireless headphones tend to have a shorter battery life than wired headphones, so if you’re going to be using them for a long time, it might be better to get a pair that is wired.

Durability

Most students will need to use their headphones on a daily basis, so durability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a model. You want a pair of headphones that won’t break easily after a few years of daily use.

The best noise-cancelling headphones will be well-made and long-lasting. A good pair of headphones will have a hard exterior shell and a soft interior material that can withstand daily wear and tear.

This will help ensure that the headphones last for years to come and will also allow for easy cleaning.

FAQs

What Are Noise-Cancelling Headphones?

Noise cancelling headphones provide a simple but effective solution, helping you drown out unwanted sounds and focus on what you want to hear. Just like noise cancelling earbuds, these headphones are typically wireless so that you can move around freely. They use active noise cancellation (ANC) technology to eliminate background noise, and they come in both over-ear and in-ear styles.

While they’re great for blocking out noise when listening to music, audiobooks and podcasts, ANC headphones can also help improve your listening experience when studying or sleeping.

Types of Noise Cancelling Headphones

There are two main types of noise cancelling headphones: active and passive. Which type is best for you depends on your needs.

Active Noise Cancellation Headphones

Active noise cancellation headphones use microphones to pick up on background noise, and then they produce an opposite frequency to block it out.

These headphones use active noise suppression technology that is very good and can help you stay focused even in a noisy place.

Active noise cancellation headphones are ideal if you work in an open office plan, don’t want to be disturbed while reading or studying, or just want to focus on your music while flying or riding the train. They can also be used while sleeping.

Passive Noise Cancellation Headphones

Passive noise cancellation headphones have a tight-fitting seal around the ear cups that blocks out ambient noise. The best passive noise cancelling headphones are made with materials that keep sound waves from getting into or coming out of the ear cups.

Since the ear cups create a snug fit around your ears, these headphones tend to be bulkier than active cancellation headphones. They’re also less expensive than active cancellation models (the materials used to produce them are less expensive).

Are Noise-Cancelling Headphones Good for Studying?

If you’re trying to study in an environment that’s noisy or distracting, noise cancelling headphones can help. They work by listening to the ambient sound around you and reproducing it out of phase with the original sound, creating a cancellation effect.

How Do I Block Out the Noise When Studying?

The first thing to do is to find the source of the noise. If it’s outside, you can try to block it out by closing doors and windows, or some other way of blocking out the sound. You can also use earmuffs or earplugs, as well as music players.

But if you’re trying to study and want to hear it clearly, try using headphones that sit over your ears. The sound will be played into your ears, but not through them. And since it’s not playing into your ears, there won’t be any sound waves vibrating in your ear canal.

If you have a problem with noise at home, check with your landlord. They should be able to advise you on how to block out the noise from other tenants in your building. If they can’t help, then consider changing rooms or changing apartments if you live in an apartment building.

Finally, make sure that you’re studying in a quiet place where there are no distractions.

Do College Students Need Noise Cancelling Headphones?

If you’re the type of college student who likes to study in your room, then the answer is probably yes. Noise cancelling headphones are a great compliment to the loud or noisy roommates you might have.

If you’re a student who studies in a library or a quiet room, then noise-cancelling headphones are probably not necessary. In fact, due to their weight and size, they can be more of a nuisance than helpful.

In general, noise cancelling headphones are meant for loud places like airplanes or busy city streets. They reduce sound by up to 75%, which is helpful in these situations because it allows you to concentrate on one thing at a time. They come in handy when you don’t want to listen to music but still want silence around you.

Does Wearing Headphones Damage Your Brain?

There is no conclusive evidence that headphones and earbuds cause damage to the brain, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore safety guidelines.

Should Students Be Allowed to Wear Headphones During Class Time?

The answer depends on the age of the students, how the headphones are being used, the rules of your school, and other factors.

Conclusion

We feel the Bose QuietComfort 35 are the best noise-cancelling headphones for students. Designed specifically for noise cancelling, it offers superior sound quality as well as high-quality noise cancelling. The special features come with a higher price tag, but will be very much appreciated by students who are looking to study in loud environments.

We hope that we were able to inform you well enough on your quest to find the best noise cancelling headphones for studying.

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