A pair of noise-canceling headphones for commuting makes a difference. Whether you are crossing the borders or going to work daily, listening to music, watching a movie, podcast or YouTube makes a wonderful travel experience.
Commuting is part of our day-to-day life. But, it can be boring without some entertainment from your ‘buddy”, a phone. Imagine receiving a video on your social media, and upon playing, everybody on board burst into laughter or stares at you? Or, there is audio you want to listen to, but the noise around could not let you?
Worse, you cannot concentrate watching an important tutorial while traveling, yet an interview, seminar, or contest awaits you. This is the reason you need to invest in quality headphones designed for travel.
So, if you want to exist in your bubble while on flights or get through your business trip and daily commute without boredom, you are in the right place. Here we have reviewed the six best headphones for commuting that lets you immerse yourself in your world without the nuisance of surrounding noise.
Read on!
What Are The Best Headphones For Commuting?
In a hurry? Here are the best headphones for commuting:
No products found. : Best Overall
This device uses active noise-canceling technology to block 90% of surrounding sound. It also features a 45mm speaker driver that delivers a deep and clear bass response.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II : Best For Quality Sound
Three levels of noise cancellation with balanced audio at any volume level.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 : Best Hybrid Headphone For Commuting
Hybrid noise-canceling headphones that can be connected wirelessly and through AUX
Sony WH-1000XM4 : Best Noise-Canceling Headphone For Commuting
Equipped with a dual noise sensor that literally mutes sound around you for a wonderful audio experience.
AILIHEN C8 : Best Wired Headphone For Commuting
Wired headphones that are compatible with most audio devices and built to isolate noise around you
iJoy Matte : Best Affordable Headphone For Commuting
Costing under $20 with an active noise feature, it is the most affordable headphones for commuting.
Comparison Table Of The Best Headphones For Commuting
| Best Headphones For Commuting | Special Features | Weight | Type | Connectivity | Warranty |
| No products found. | 30 hours playtimeInbuilt micActive noise cancellation 90°swiveling earcups | 9.9 ounces | Over-ear | Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC | 18 months |
| Bose QuietComfort 35 II | 20 hours playtime Dual microphoneActive noise cancelationAlexa enabled | 8.3 ounces | Over-ear | Bluetooth | 12 months |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q20 | Hybrid noise cancellation BassUp technologyFoldableHi-Res audio certified40 hours playtime | 9.3 ounces | Over-ear | Bluetooth 5, AUX | 18 months |
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | Dual noise sensor technology 30 hours playtimeSpeak-to-chat technologyTouch sensor controls | 9 ounces | Over-ear | Bluetooth | 12 months |
| AILIHEN C8 | CollapsibleInbuilt micTangle-free cordLightweight | 6.40 ounces | Over-ear/on-ear | Wired | |
| iJoy Matte | FoldableRadio receiver5 button control Active noise cancellation | 8.2 ounces | Over-ear | Bluetooth 4.1 | 6 months |
Tops 6 Best Headphones For Commuting In 2021
Wondering what makes the six reviewed headphones stand out among the many in the market? No worry! Read through and choose one that suits your needs and style. Here I will go into details of each product, outlining its key features, specs, pros, and cons to make an informed decision.
COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones: Best Overall
No products found.
Key Features
1. Active noise-canceling technology
2. 45mm speaker driver
3. Around ear fit
4. NFC and Bluetooth 4.0 technology
5. 30 hours playtime
6. Built-in microphone
Product Specs
| Type | Over-ear |
| Weight | 9.9 ounces |
| Dimension | 6.54 x 1.97 x 7.13 inches |
| Frequency | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Noise reduction percentage | 90% |
Pros
1. Long playtime
2. Quality built
3. Comfortable for long hours
4. Allows hands-free calls
5. Compatible with all Bluetooth enabled device
Cons
1. It does not cancel out high frequency sounds like talking, music, and snoring
Cowen has spent years of research to develop high-quality wireless noise-canceling headphones good for travel, work, and home. The device utilizes active noise canceling technology that basically mutes the world around you. Thus, you can concentrate on planes, trains, and buses as the headphones filter airplane engine noise and noise from city traffic.
Since it is wireless headphones, there is no trouble dealing with cables when packing and wearing them. NFC technology also facilitates stress-free voice prompt pairing and a stable connection that works well with all Bluetooth-enabled devices.
The audio quality is quite good as the Cowin E7 feature 45mm large-aperture drivers that deliver a deep and accurate bass response. You get to listen to your audio comfortably as the headphones come with 90°swiveling earcups with protein earpads. The skin texture and around-ear fit built further enhances the comfort.
Finally, the in-built 750mAh lithium battery offers 30 hours of playtime, which is enough to get you to and from work.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II: Best For Quality Sound
Key Features
1. 20 hours playtime
2. Alexa enabled
3. Active noise cancellation
4. Dual-mic
5. Control through Bose app
Product Specs
| Type | Over-ear |
| Weight | 8.3 ounces |
| Dimension | 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches |
| Active noise cancellation | Adjustable |
| IPX rating | IPX4 |
Pros
1. Supports voice control
2. Comfortable wear
3. Adjustable noise cancellation
4. Complete control through Bose app
5. Amazing sound system
Cons
1. Bose software update can mess up with the headphones and the paired device
QuietComfort 35 II is one of the renowned noise-canceling headphones from top tech brands around the world. Bose hires the best and most passionate engineers into new technology to produce durable products that meet customers’ needs. That is what QuietComfort 35 II delivers. It utilizes three levels of noise cancellation technology that basically mutes the noise around you so you can focus on what you do while commuting.
The dual-microphone that rejects noise is another great feature that allows you to make clear calls. And, if you decide to increase to adjust the sound volume, the audio remains balanced at any level. Besides, the device supports voice control through Alexa.
Lastly, the Bose connect app ensures stress-free Bluetooth pairing with any device. The app is also helpful in adjusting noise canceling levels and access to updates.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20: Best Hybrid Headphone For Commuting
Key Features
1. 90% noise reduction
2. 100% strong bass
3. 40 hours playtime
4. Hi-Res audio certified
5. BassUp technology
Product Specs
| Type | Over-ear |
| Weight | 9.3 ounces |
| Dimension | 7.68 x 7.09 x 3.07 inches |
| Frequency response | 16 Hz – 40 kHz |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5, AUX |
| Playtime | 40 hours |
Pros
1. Crystal clear calls
2. Foldable
3. Both wired and wireless connection
4. Hands-free calls
Cons
1. Too insulated earcups may result in excessive warmth
This is a Hi-Res audio-certified product as it delivers exceptional sound quality. It uses hybrid active noise-canceling technology that reduces the outside sound by 90%, so you only focus on audio listening. The device delivers extraordinary clear and detailed music as it is reproduced with frequencies of up to 40 kHz.
Life Q20 uses a powerful lithium battery to give you 40 hours of playtime on ANCA mode and 60 hours on standard mode. The Anker also uses BassUp technology to deliver 100% strong bass sound. When you double press the play button, the sound output is amplified for a great listening experience. The battery will not cut you short.
Sony WH-1000XM4: Best Noise-Canceling Headphone For Commuting
Key Features
1. Dual-noise sensor technology
2. 30-hour playtime
3. Speak-to-chart technology
4. Built-in Alexa
5. Multiple device pairing
Product Specs
| Type | Over-ear |
| Weight | 9 ounces |
| Dimension | 7.27 x 3.03 x 9.94 inches |
| Battery life | 30 hours |
| Noise-canceling | Industry-leading NC |
| Battery | Lithium polymer (included) |
Pros
1. Foldable for easy carry
2. Hands-free calls
3. Touch control
4. Impressive noise canceling
Cons
1. A little bulky
The list of best headphones for commuting cannot be complete without one from Sony. WH-1000XM4 is one of the industry-leading digital noise-canceling headphones that deliver quality sound. No matter your environment, you get to hear every tune, note, and word with incredible clarity. Even the phone calls are super clear due to five inbuilt microphones with advanced audio signal processing.
Sony WH-1000XM4 also features Alexa that allows you to operate the headphones through voice control. In fact, you can make calls hands-free and speak to chat without touching your phone.
This commuting headphone is equipped with touch sensors that control the changes as you listen to audio. It can adjust the volume, skip tracks, activate voice assistant, and even answer calls. With a playtime of 30-hours, you can be sure to reach your workplace without the need to recharge. Even so, you can do quick charging for 10 minutes and enjoy 5 hours of playtime.
Finally, these wireless headphones allow for seamless multiple device pairing. This makes it easy to switch the audio source from your phone to PC and vice versa.
AILIHEN C8: Best Wired Headphone For Commuting
Key Features
1. Collapsible design
2. Full-size on-ear construction for sound isolation
3. Adjustable headband
4. Compatible with tablets, kindle, iPod, and iPad, among others
Product Specs
| Types | Over-ear/on-ear |
| Weight | 6.4 ounces |
| Dimension | 7.7 x 6.9 x 3.3 inches |
| Noise control | Sound isolation |
| Material | Faux leather |
Pros
1. Lightweight and portable
2. Durable and tangle-free cable
3. Comfortable fit
4. Compatible with most audio devices
Cons
1. A little discomfort for those who wear glasses
Whether traveling or not, some people swear by wired headphones. If this is you, then AILIHEN C8 is the best option for commuting. Its collapsible design makes it convenient to carry while on the go. Besides, the full-size on-ear construction blocks the external noise significantly.
The headband is fully adjustable and thus can fit comfortably regardless of your head size. Furthermore, your comfort is taken care of by the built-in volume, remote, and mic control that lets you operate the track without touching your source device. You can thus make and pick calls hands-free.
Finally, the 3.5mm stereo play is widely compatible with most devices such as Chromebook, computer, laptop, cell phones, mp3, and mp4, among others.
iJoy Matte: Best Affordable Headphone For Commuting
Key Features
1. Adjustable headband
2. Sung pad
3. Foldable design
4. In-built mic and radio receiver
5. Active noise-canceling technology
Products Specs
| Type | Over-ear |
| Weight | 8.2 ounces |
| Dimension | 6 x 5.9 x 3.3 inches |
| Battery | 1 lithium ion |
Pros
1. Delivers deep and accurate bass sound
2. Comfortable fit
3. Soft and protective memory-protein earmuff
4. Hands-free calls
Cons
1. Signal cut out at a significant distance from the source device
For under $20, you can get yourself quality iJoy LGE-PRE-STL headphones. Despite its lower price tag, the device features premium quality construction to serve you longer. It uses active noise-canceling technology to block external sound allowing you to listen to audio comfortably when commuting. It is also ergonomically designed to make it perfect for daily use.
The adjustable headband and super soft memory-protein earmuffs deliver much-needed comfort. You can thus wear the headphones for long hours without hurting your ears.
Another amazing feature is the five-button control. This allows you to adjust the volume, answer or hang up the calls, pause or play the track without touching your source device. Built-in mic and radio receiver also allows for hands-free calls.
What Makes The Best Headphones For Commuting? (Buyer’s Guide)
So, what features should a headphone for commuting have? Check the following considerations;
Comfort
The last thing you want to experience is sore and overheating ears while commuting. So, the best headphones should be ones that provide ultimate comfort in terms of fit and weight. The device should not burden you when traveling and make it easier to pack it inside your laptop bag.
Connectivity Option: Wireless/Wired
For commuting, I highly recommend wireless options. There is no stress of dealing with cables, and it connects to almost all Bluetooth-enabled devices. However, if you love wired options, we have picked AILIHEN C8, which has been designed with commuters in mind. It features a collapsible design and tangle-free cords to make travel easy.
Price
Price is relative based on your budget. What you can pay for is not necessarily what I afford. Luckily, I have covered a wide range of products that come with varying prices. Among them are iJoy LGE-PRE-STL headphones, which you can get for under $20, with others that you will part with several hundred dollars. So, regardless of your budget, there is a device to serve your headphone commuting needs.
Sound Quality
Never compromise sound quality for anything else when buying any pair of headphones. You need a noise-canceling device for commuting, but that should not affect the audio sound. Instead, ensure the headphones deliver a clear and accurate music response.
Noise Isolation
Headphones that utilize active noise canceling technology (ANC) are the best option for commuting. They block at least 90% of the surrounding noise, allowing you to concentrate on what you are listening to, whether on a plane, train, or bus. However, some options don’t utilize ANC and still deliver amazing results.
FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of Noise-Canceling Headphones For Commuting?
1. Safeguards your ear wellbeing as the headphones reduce the external sound allowing you to listen to audios at significantly low volume levels.
2. Allow you to work, study, read or rest while on passenger planes, trains and buses. The headphones shut out all the commotion allowing you to concentrate.
3. It permits you to talk more comfortably while commuting as the headphones offer clear and quality phone conversation. For reasons of making a call, opt for devices with an inbuilt mic.
4. Listen to every audio note and word as the noise-canceling headphones allow you to adjust the volume low, and stills get every detail. This is impossible with the standard set when in a noisy place as it forces you to increase the volume and sacrifice audio quality.
5. Apart from using headphones for commuting, it comes in handy when doing studies at home. You can literally shut the world around you and focus on your learning.
Can You Use Wireless Headphones On A Plane?
Yes, you can use wireless headphones on a plane as long as you operate your device on airplane mode. You can also use already installed Wi-Fi on the plane subject to the rules and regulations of a particular airline.
Final Word
With a wide variety of headphones for commuting, your trips, both long and short, should not be boring. So invest in the best headphones for commuting reviewed here and immerse yourself in your world right in the middle of noise in commuter train or bus. The right device should shut out the external noise and give you quality sound to feel connected in a calm place.
When in doubt on which one to choose among the six, go for COWIN E7, which emerges the best overall. It is a wireless pair of headphones that utilizes active noise-canceling technology to reduce the surrounding sound by up to 90%. Moreover, it features a 45mm speaker driver that emits deep and accurate bass response. This, you got to listen to for 30 hours before you could think of recharging. For your comfort, the 90° swiveling earcups with protein earpads together with perfect around-ear fit takes care of that.
However, if you swear by wired headphones, AILIHEN C8 is the best choice. It has tangle-free cords and is collapsible to make the commuting experience better. All you have to do is to collapse the headphones and put them in your laptop bag, and it will remain perfectly in shape.
