If you have read any of our previous posts, you’ll know that background noise in the office can be really distracting and ruin productivity. So we’ve talked a lot about plugging headphones in and listening to ambient sound. We haven’t discussed the headphones you should choose though.
It really can make a difference. Those headphone you got with your iPhone? They’re no good at blocking out background sound. You need quality noise-cancelling headphones.
Noise-cancelling models are designed to reduce ambient sounds by creating frequencies that obviate the noise at your ear. The other advantage is that you can listen to your music on a quieter level, because it isn’t competing with background noise.
But which are the best noise-cancelling headphones?
Bose QuietComfort 20i – £259.95
These in-ear headphones bring subtlety, comfort, and deaden the ambient sound you hate so much. These even include something called “Aware Mode” that allows you to dampen the affect whenever you want – ideal when you need to speak to a shop attendant.
Goldring NS-1000 – £70
If you’re working to a budget, these headphones are going to be right up your street. They have a slick design and offer great background noise reduction for the price.
Phillips Fidelio NC1 – £152
A little pricier, but still easily affordable for most, these on-ear headphones come with a hardcase for storage and a rechargeable battery that offers up to 30 hours of noise cancelling. What’s more, the sound quality from these headphones is incredibly well balanced.
Sennheiser Momentum Wireless – £380
The most expensive headphones on our list, these wireless headphones offer one exceptional sound quality. Their noise-cancelling capability is best in class too, not to mention how comfortable they are.
The only real problem is that not many people can justify spending close to £400 on a set of headphones.
So if you’re looking for your next set of headphones to block out the background noise around you, choose one of the above. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed.