Everything you need to know about the types of noise cancelling headphones technology

There is nothing worse than hearing the constant noise of an airplane, the sound of a neighbour mowing the lawn next to you, or the sound of a child crying… At times like that, you just dream of getting away from the endless noise to a quiet place, where you can enjoy your favourite music and sounds.

And while the teleportation machine may be an option in the future, there is a good substitute currently available – noise cancelling headphones.

If you need something universal for travelling, working in a noisy environment, or listening to your favourite music in peace, noise cancelling headphones are your best choice

But how do you choose the right type of noise cancelling headphones?

What Is Noise Cancelling Technology and How Does It Work?

Generally speaking, noise cancellation refers to any method, device, or technology that helps reduce noise or even eliminate it.

There are three types of noise cancelling headphones technology – adaptive, active, and passive. These terms are often confused, but each works differently. Understanding how each one operates can help you select the best option for your lifestyle and listening needs.

What Is Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)?

Imagine that you're in a factory, and everything is running – the machines are vibrating and producing a constant, droning noise.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps you get rid of that background noise by using microphones to detect incoming sound waves and then generating inverse sound waves (antiphases) to cancel them out.

In simple terms: it listens to noise, mirrors it in reverse, and the result is silence.

This makes ANC headphones perfect for travel, commuting, and noisy office environments.

What Is Adaptive Noise Cancellation and How Is It Different from ANC?

Adaptive Noise Cancellation is a more advanced form of ANC, using algorithms and sensors to respond in real time to your surroundings and movements.

While it works similarly to ANC, adaptive noise cancellation continuously adjusts noise-blocking levels by analysing:

• Head and body movement

• Glasses or hair pressure on earcups

• The shape of your ears

• Environmental changes throughout the day

It even balances the applied noise cancellation with your music for more natural, distortion-free sound.

Ideal for those who move around a lot or wear headphones for long periods.

What Is Passive Noise Cancellation and Does It Really Work?

Passive Noise Cancellation refers to blocking sound physically, without using any electronic components.

Think of it like putting your fingers in your ears to block out noise.

• In-ear headphones use foam or silicone tips to seal the ear canal

• Over-ear headphones use padded earcups that form a tight seal around your ears

Passive NC is effective for high-frequency noise and doesn’t drain battery life.

While it doesn’t cancel noise electronically, it’s great for those who want lightweight and budget-friendly solutions.

Which Noise Cancelling Headphones Are Best for Your Needs?

It depends on several factors:

• What kind of noise are you trying to block?

• What’s your budget?

• Do you prefer in-ear or over-ear headphones?

For the most effective noise reduction, especially in changing environments, adaptive ANC is the ultimate choice.

When Should You Upgrade to Noise Cancelling Headphones?

Whether it's for work, travel, or personal enjoyment, investing in a pair of noise cancelling headphones can drastically improve your audio experience.

If you’ve been relying on regular headphones and struggling with background noise, it's time to level up.

Say goodbye to distractions and hello to clarity.

[READ MORE: WFH Productivity Boost: Noise cancelling headphones use for focus and concentration]