In a world that’s getting noisier by the day, finding a moment of peace can be challenging. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a student studying in a bustling café, or an audiophile seeking the purest sound, noise-cancelling headphones have become essential.
This blog post aims to provide a detailed review of the best noise-cancelling headphones under $200 available in 2024. We’ll highlight their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the perfect pair.
Why Noise-Cancelling Headphones Matter
Noise-cancelling (NC) headphones aren’t just a luxury; they are a necessity in today’s fast-paced world. They offer the ability to shut out ambient noise, making it easier to focus, enjoy music, or simply relax. These headphones are incredibly useful for various scenarios like commuting, studying, or even working from home.
Criteria for Evaluation
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s essential to understand the criteria we used to evaluate these headphones.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is paramount. We look at clarity, bass, mids, and highs to ensure a balanced audio experience. A good pair of headphones should provide rich, immersive sound without distortion.
Noise Cancellation
The effectiveness of active noise cancellation (ANC) is a critical factor. We assessed how well each pair blocks out environmental noise, allowing you to enjoy your audio without distractions.
Battery Life
Battery life can make or break your experience. We evaluated the longevity per charge and the availability of quick charging options.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is crucial for extended wear. We considered ergonomics, the quality of ear cushioning, and the overall fit of the headphones.
Build Quality and Design
Durability and aesthetics matter. We looked at the materials used, the overall build quality, and the design appeal.
Connectivity and Controls
Ease of use is essential. We checked for Bluetooth version, multi-point connectivity, and the intuitiveness of touch or physical controls.
Additional Features
Features like transparency mode, app support, and voice assistant integration can significantly enhance your experience.
Price and Value for Money
Finally, we assessed the cost-effectiveness of each pair, considering the features offered relative to their price point.
Top Picks for 2024
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best noise-cancelling headphones under $200.
Sony WH-CH710N
Overview
Sony’s WH-CH710N offers solid performance at a budget-friendly price. These headphones are a great entry point into the world of noise cancellation.
Pros
- Effective ANC
- Comfortable fit
- Decent battery life
Cons
- Average build quality
- No aptX support
Sound Quality
With an 8/10 rating, the WH-CH710N delivers balanced sound with good bass response. It’s suitable for most music genres.
Noise Cancellation
These headphones score an 8/10 in ANC, effectively canceling noise in most environments.
Battery Life
Expect up to 35 hours of playtime with ANC on. The quick charge feature allows for a short 10-minute charge, providing 60 minutes of playback.
Comfort and Fit
The lightweight design and plush ear cushions make these headphones comfortable for extended wear.
Build Quality and Design
The plastic construction may not feel premium, but the minimalist design is appealing.
Connectivity and Controls
Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC pairing make connectivity a breeze. Physical buttons offer straightforward control.
Additional Features
Ambient sound mode and voice assistant support are handy extras.
Price
At $199, these headphones offer a great balance between performance and cost.
Ideal User
Budget-conscious users seeking reliable ANC performance will find the WH-CH710N a solid choice.
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Overview
Anker’s Soundcore Life Q30 packs impressive features into an affordable package.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- Strong ANC
- Customizable sound
Cons
- Slightly bulky design
- Average call quality
Sound Quality
With a rating of 8.5/10, these headphones deliver rich sound thanks to customizable EQ settings.
Noise Cancellation
The ANC scores 8.5/10, with multiple modes to suit various environments.
Battery Life
Enjoy up to 40 hours of playtime with ANC on. The quick charge feature provides 4 hours of listening with a 5-minute charge.
Comfort and Fit
The soft ear cups and adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit.
Build Quality and Design
The sturdy plastic build and foldable design add to their portability and durability.
Connectivity and Controls
Bluetooth 5.0, multi-point connectivity, and touch controls make these headphones user-friendly.
Additional Features
App support, transparency mode, and voice assistant integration add significant value.
Price
Priced at $99, the Soundcore Life Q30 offers tremendous value for money.
Ideal User
Users seeking extensive features and strong ANC at a great price will appreciate the Q30.
JBL Live 660NC
Overview
JBL’s Live 660NC combines signature sound with effective noise cancellation.
Pros
- Punchy bass
- Good ANC
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Bass-heavy sound may not appeal to all
- Average battery life
Sound Quality
With an 8/10 rating, the Live 660NC delivers JBL’s signature sound, characterized by strong bass.
Noise Cancellation
These headphones score an 8/10 in ANC, effective in most situations.
Battery Life
Expect up to 30 hours of playtime with ANC on. The quick charge feature provides 4 hours of listening with a 10-minute charge.
Comfort and Fit
The comfortable ear cups and secure fit make these headphones ideal for extended wear.
Build Quality and Design
The durable construction and sleek design are noteworthy.
Connectivity and Controls
Bluetooth 5.0, multi-point connectivity, and physical buttons ensure seamless operation.
Additional Features
Ambient Aware, TalkThru, and voice assistant support enhance functionality.
Price
At $199, the Live 660NC offers a well-rounded package.
Ideal User
Bass enthusiasts and users seeking robust build quality will find these headphones appealing.
Honorable Mentions
Sennheiser HD 450BT
Overview
The HD 450BT by Sennheiser offers balanced sound with decent ANC.
Pros
- Good sound quality
- Decent ANC
- Robust build
Cons
- Slightly tight fit for some users
Price
At $149, these headphones are a solid mid-range option.
Skullcandy Crusher ANC
Overview
Skullcandy’s Crusher ANC features adjustable sensory bass and effective ANC.
Pros
- Adjustable bass
- Good ANC
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- Bass can be overwhelming
- Average battery life
Price
Priced at $199, these are a great choice for bass lovers.
Comparison Chart
| Feature | Sony WH-CH710N | Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | JBL Live 660NC | Sennheiser HD 450BT | Skullcandy Crusher ANC |
| Sound Quality | 8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Noise Cancellation | 8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Battery Life (hrs) | 35 | 40 | 30 | 30 | 24 |
| Comfort and Fit | 8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8/10 |
| Build Quality and Design | 7.5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Connectivity and Controls | 8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Additional Features | 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8/10 |
| Price | $199 | $99 | $199 | $149 | $199 |
How to Choose the Right Noise-Cancelling Headphones for You
Usage Scenarios
Different usage scenarios require different features. For travel, prioritize strong ANC and battery life. For office use, look for comfort and effective ANC. For general listening, balance sound quality and additional features.
Budget Considerations
Assess the most critical features versus the price. Sometimes it’s worth spending a bit more for better performance and durability.
Brand Preferences
Consider brand loyalty and user interface preferences. Some brands offer unique features or better app support.
Conclusion
Choosing the right noise-cancelling headphones under $200 can be a game-changer. Our top picks—Sony WH-CH710N, Anker Soundcore Life Q30, and JBL Live 660NC—each offer unique advantages. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a student, or an audiophile, there’s a perfect pair for you. Remember to consider your specific needs and usage scenarios when making your choice.
FAQs
How to maintain noise-cancelling headphones?
Maintain your headphones by keeping them clean and storing them in a protective case. Regularly check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance.
What is the best way to clean headphone ear cups?
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the ear cups. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging the headphones in water.
Do more expensive headphones always offer better noise cancellation?
Not necessarily. While higher-priced models often offer advanced features and better build quality, many mid-range options provide excellent noise cancellation.
How important is app support for customizing headphone settings?
App support can significantly enhance your experience by allowing you to customize sound profiles and update firmware. It’s beneficial but not always essential.