When it comes to noise cancelling headphones, many of us assume that you get what you pay for. High-end brands like Bose and Sony offer top-notch noise cancellation, but at a steep price. However, with the rise of budget-friendly options, the question remains: do cheap noise cancelling headphones work?
Understanding Noise Cancellation
Before we dive into the world of affordable noise cancellers, it’s essential to understand how this technology works. Noise cancellation, also known as active noise control or active noise reduction, is a technology that eliminates unwanted sounds using one or more microphones, electronic circuits, and speakers.
The process involves the following steps:
- The microphone(s) in the headphones pick up ambient noise, such as the sound of the engine, air conditioning, or background chatter.
- The electronic circuitry in the headphones processes the sound and generates an “anti-noise” signal, which is the exact opposite of the ambient noise.
- The anti-noise signal is then played through the headphones’ speakers, effectively cancelling out the ambient noise.
The Challenges of Cheap Noise Cancelling Headphones
While the concept of noise cancellation is fascinating, implementing it in cheap headphones can be a significant challenge. Here are some of the hurdles that budget-friendly noise cancellers face:
Limited Microphone Quality
Cheap noise cancelling headphones often skimp on microphone quality, which is crucial for accurately detecting ambient noise. Low-quality microphones may struggle to capture the full range of frequencies, leading to inadequate noise cancellation.
Inferior Electronic Circuitry
The electronic circuitry in budget headphones may not be sophisticated enough to process the noise signals accurately. This can result in inadequate noise cancellation, hiss, or other audio artifacts.
Battery Life and Power Consumption
Cheap noise cancelling headphones often sacrifice battery life to keep costs down. This means that users may need to recharge their headphones frequently, which can be inconvenient.
What to Expect from Cheap Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you’re considering purchasing cheap noise cancelling headphones, here’s what you can realistically expect:
Decent Noise Reduction, Not Cancellation
While cheap noise cancellers won’t completely eliminate ambient noise, they can still provide a decent level of noise reduction. This can be sufficient for casual listeners who want to improve their overall listening experience.
Affordable Price Tag
The most significant advantage of cheap noise cancelling headphones is their affordability. You can find decent options for under $50, making them an attractive choice for those on a tight budget.
Compromises on Sound Quality
Budget headphones often sacrifice sound quality to prioritize noise cancellation. This can result in audio that’s lacking in detail, bass, or clarity.
Best Cheap Noise Cancelling Headphones
Despite the challenges, there are some excellent cheap noise cancelling headphones on the market. Here are a few options worth considering:
Anker Soundcore Space Q32
The Anker Soundcore Space Q32 is an affordable option that offers impressive noise cancellation for its price. With a battery life of up to 20 hours and comfortable ear cups, it’s an excellent choice for casual listeners.
TaoTronics TT-BH040
The TaoTronics TT-BH040 is another budget-friendly option that delivers decent noise cancellation. With a sleek design and comfortable fit, it’s an excellent choice for commuters or travelers.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Cheap Noise Cancelling Headphones
To maximize the performance of your budget noise cancellers, follow these tips:
Adjust the Fit
A snug fit is essential for effective noise cancellation. Make sure the ear cups fit comfortably around your ears, and adjust the headband to ensure a secure fit.
Optimize the Environment
Cheap noise cancellers work best in moderate noise environments, such as offices or coffee shops. If you’re trying to cancel out loud engine noise, you may not get the best results.
Use Them Correctly
Make sure you’re using your noise cancelling headphones correctly. This includes turning them on before the ambient noise starts and adjusting the volume to an optimal level.
Conclusion
Do cheap noise cancelling headphones work? While they may not offer the same level of noise cancellation as high-end brands, they can still provide a decent listening experience at an affordable price. By understanding the challenges and limitations of budget noise cancellers, you can set realistic expectations and find the perfect pair for your needs.
Remember, cheap noise cancelling headphones are not a replacement for high-end models, but they can be a valuable addition to your audio arsenal. So, silence on a shoestring? Absolutely – if you know what you’re getting into!
What is noise cancellation and how does it work?
Noise cancellation is a technology that actively eliminates unwanted ambient sounds using one or more microphones to capture ambient noise, and then producing a “negative” sound wave to cancel it out. This results in a quieter listening experience, allowing you to focus on the audio you want to hear. Noise cancellation can be especially useful in noisy environments, such as on airplanes, buses, or in open offices.
When it comes to cheap noise cancelling headphones, the technology may not be as advanced as more expensive models, but it can still provide some level of noise reduction. However, the quality of the noise cancellation may vary depending on the specific product and the environment in which it’s being used. In general, cheap noise cancelling headphones are best suited for casual use, such as commuting or studying, rather than for professional or critical listening applications.
What are the benefits of using cheap noise cancelling headphones?
One of the main benefits of using cheap noise cancelling headphones is their affordability. Noise cancellation technology is typically found in higher-end headphones, but cheaper options can offer a similar experience at a fraction of the cost. This makes them a great option for those on a budget or who only need occasional noise cancellation. Cheap noise cancelling headphones can also be a good entry point for those who are new to noise cancellation and want to try it out before investing in a more expensive pair.
Another benefit is that cheap noise cancelling headphones can be a great way to enhance your listening experience without breaking the bank. They can help you focus on the audio you want to hear, block out distractions, and improve your productivity. Additionally, many cheap noise cancelling headphones are also compact and lightweight, making them easy to take on the go.
How do cheap noise cancelling headphones compare to more expensive models?
Cheap noise cancelling headphones often lack the advanced features and high-quality materials found in more expensive models. For example, they may not have the same level of noise cancellation, and the sound quality may not be as clear or detailed. Additionally, cheap noise cancelling headphones may not be as comfortable to wear, and the build quality may not be as durable.
However, cheap noise cancelling headphones can still provide a decent listening experience, especially for casual use. They may not be suitable for professional or critical listening applications, but they can be a good option for everyday use. It’s also worth noting that some cheap noise cancelling headphones may offer surprising performance, especially considering their low price point.
What are some things to consider when buying cheap noise cancelling headphones?
When buying cheap noise cancelling headphones, there are several things to consider. First, consider the level of noise cancellation you need. If you’re looking for a high level of noise cancellation, you may want to look for headphones with multiple microphones or advanced noise cancellation technology. Additionally, think about the sound quality and whether you need a balanced sound or emphasized bass.
You should also consider the build quality and comfort of the headphones. Cheap noise cancelling headphones may not be built to last, so look for durable materials and comfortable ear cushions. Finally, read reviews and do your research to find the best cheap noise cancelling headphones for your needs and budget.
Can cheap noise cancelling headphones be used for music production or gaming?
Cheap noise cancelling headphones are generally not suitable for music production or gaming, as they may not provide accurate sound reproduction or sufficient noise cancellation. Music production requires a high level of sound quality and accuracy, which cheap noise cancelling headphones may not be able to deliver. Similarly, gaming often requires precise sound localization and immersion, which cheap noise cancelling headphones may not be able to provide.
However, if you’re a casual gamer or music enthusiast, cheap noise cancelling headphones may still be a good option. They can provide a decent listening experience and some level of noise cancellation, which can be beneficial for gaming or music listening. Just keep in mind that you may not get the same level of performance as more expensive headphones.
How do I choose the right cheap noise cancelling headphones for my needs?
To choose the right cheap noise cancelling headphones for your needs, start by considering your budget and what you’ll be using the headphones for. If you’re looking for everyday use, such as commuting or studying, a basic pair of cheap noise cancelling headphones may be sufficient. If you’re looking for more advanced features or better sound quality, you may need to pay a bit more.
Research different products and read reviews to find the best cheap noise cancelling headphones for your needs. Look for features such as noise cancellation level, sound quality, build quality, and comfort. You should also consider the brand and customer support, as well as any warranties or returns policies.
Are cheap noise cancelling headphones worth the investment?
Cheap noise cancelling headphones can be a great investment if you’re on a budget or just want to try out noise cancellation. While they may not offer the same level of performance as more expensive headphones, they can still provide a decent listening experience and some level of noise cancellation. Additionally, cheap noise cancelling headphones can be a good way to enhance your productivity and focus, making them a worthwhile investment for some users.
However, if you’re looking for high-quality sound or advanced features, you may want to consider investing in a more expensive pair of headphones. Cheap noise cancelling headphones are best suited for casual use, and may not be suitable for professional or critical listening applications. Ultimately, whether cheap noise cancelling headphones are worth the investment depends on your needs and expectations.