Life in the quiet lane
After the peace of lockdown, noise-cancelling headphones could help ease your return to work
As life slowly returns to normal, it’s logical that we consider what that new normal looks and sounds like. Of course, we’re all excited about meeting friends and family again, but are we really looking forward to the packed commuter trains, traffic-clogged roads and the roar of planes above our heads?
If peace and tranquility has been one of the unexpected benefits of lockdown, then help may be at hand in the form of a pair of noisecancelling headphones – the aural equivalent of hanging a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door.
Unlike their in-ear counterparts, over-ear headphones offer some passive noise reduction, while active noise-cancelling blocks out sounds such as rumbling trains or loud conversations that can ruin your slice of musical heaven. So, whether you’re returning to the daily commute, going on holiday or just seeking peace and quiet in the office, a pair of wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones could be just the ticket.
In our round-up, we have gathered 11 of the best pairs of cans around right now. Not only do they all feature excellent wireless audio and top-class active noise-cancelling, but many also have ambient modes (helpful if you need to join a conversation or hear a station announcement). Some are voice controlled, so you don’t have to fiddle around with buttons – and a select few even have motion sensors that detect when you take them on and off. Many of them have a battery life of over a day, so there’s nothing to break that bond between you and your music.
So, what are the best wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones? With prices ranging from just under £200 for the AKG Y600NC and Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC, to the superb Apple Airpods Max at £550, there’s something here for most budgets. In between, we feature models from the likes of B&W, Bose and Sennheiser, while other makes such as Beats, Dali and Shure also get a look in. Last but not least, Sony’s WH range has produced two of the best pairs of over-ear noise cancellers we’ve ever tested.
If you’ve got £200 plus to invest, you’ll find the perfect pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones here. So whether you’re looking for something to ease your return to the office or for a first holiday abroad in a while, these wireless noise-cancellers will let you enjoy a quiet life.