I compared nearly 20 of the best noise-cancelling headphones, and the two best cheap options have great deals right now
Summary
Discover budget-friendly solutions for soundproofing your space with effective noise-blocking products. The article highlights various affordable options that can help create a quieter environment, perfect for enhancing comfort and focus in any setting.
Key Insights
How does active noise cancellation (ANC) in headphones work?
Active noise cancellation uses built-in microphones to detect external ambient noise, analyzes its frequency and amplitude, and generates an inverse 'anti-noise' sound wave that is exactly out of phase (180 degrees opposite). This creates destructive interference, where the opposing waves cancel each other out, effectively reducing low-frequency sounds like engine hums.[1][2][3]
Why can't noise-cancelling headphones block all sounds, especially high-frequency noises?
ANC excels at low-frequency constant sounds (e.g., airplane hums) due to their longer wavelengths, but struggles with high-frequency sounds, which have shorter wavelengths requiring precise placement near the eardrum. High frequencies are blocked passively by the headphones' physical seal, such as ear cushions.[1][3]