In today’s technology-driven world, we’re constantly surrounded by a cacophony of sounds, making noise-cancelling headphones an essential for many of us.
We’ve researched and rounded up the five best noise-cancelling headphones under $150, from brands like Samsung and Skullcandy, that deliver on sound quality without breaking the bank.
Our comprehensive evaluation will not just focus on noise cancellation capabilities, but also factors such as sound quality, comfort, and battery life.
So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect pair of noise-cancelling headphones that won’t leave your wallet weeping, why not stick around and see what we’ve found?
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
If crystal-clear calls and immersive audio experience are what you seek, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds are a top choice in our noise-cancelling headphones under $150 review. They’re designed with comfort in mind and offer an impressively secure fit, thanks to various ear tips available. With the HD Voice technology, your calls are always clear, and switching between noise cancellation and ambient mode is a breeze with the Intelligent Conversation Mode.
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro aren’t just compatible with Galaxy smartphones, but also other devices. You’ll experience improved audio quality and lower latency due to the Bluetooth LE Audio support. With a battery life that lasts up to 5 hours with ANC enabled, and an additional 18 hours with the charging case, you’re all set for a day filled with high-quality audio.
Best For: Music lovers and busy professionals who desire a high-quality, immersive audio experience and need effective noise cancellation for calls and music.
Pros:
- High-quality Hi-Fi sound and effective active noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit with various ear tips and long battery life
- Intelligent Conversation Mode and compatibility with multiple devices
Cons:
- Some users reported minor issues with touch controls
3ANC Onyx True Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, Black
Boasting triple driver technology and adjustable active noise cancellation, the ANC Onyx True Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds are a top-notch choice for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality and a subtle design under $150. They’re praised for their excellent battery life, comfortable fit, and superb sound quality. You’ll appreciate the seamless wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.2 and the ability to personalize your audio experience through the EQ settings app.
However, some users reported issues with the app’s functionality and connectivity with the case. There have also been complaints about receiving used earbuds. Despite these flaws, the ANC Onyx earbuds outshine similar products in their price range, delivering deep bass, crisp highs, and noise cancellation comparable to more expensive brands.
Best For: Audiophiles seeking high-quality sound, impressive battery life, and effective noise cancellation in a subtly designed wireless earbud package.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with deep bass and crisp highs
- Impressive battery life and quick charging capabilities
- Advanced active noise cancellation comparable to high-end brands
Cons:
- App functionality needs improvement
Skullcandy Hesh ANC Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
For music enthusiasts seeking exceptional acoustics on a budget, the Skullcandy Hesh ANC Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones offer a gnarly bass and a dynamic range, ensuring a time-proven sound quality. With its 40mm drivers, you’ll experience a sound quality that’s more than okay. However, keep in mind that while these headphones do dampen noise, they won’t fully cancel it out.
You’ll appreciate the 22-hour battery life, even with active noise cancelling. The 4 Mic digital active noise cancelling experience enables you to immerse yourself in your music, making it ideal for air travel. However, be aware that users reported the mic quality as not being great and the build quality as seeming flimsy. Lastly, they come with a bonus Skullcandy charging cable and a 1-year US warranty adding value to your purchase.
Best For: Music enthusiasts seeking quality sound, long battery life, and some level of noise cancellation on a budget.
Pros:
- Exceptional acoustics with a gnarly bass and dynamic range.
- Long battery life of 22 hours, even with active noise cancelling.
- Comes with a bonus Skullcandy charging cable and a 1-year US warranty.
Cons:
- Sound dampening rather than full noise cancellation.
Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Cosmic Silver)
Music lovers seeking rich, immersive sound without breaking the bank will appreciate the Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds. With Beats’ custom acoustic platform, you’ll experience premium sound quality. They offer two distinct listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode, providing up to 36 hours of immersive listening.
These earbuds boast four pairs of silicone tip sizes for a comfortable fit, and three times larger voice-targeting microphones for clear call performance. Furthermore, they feature industry-leading wireless Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range. Despite a few cons, like a loud ringing when nothing is playing, their pros, such as strong build quality and the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously, make them a worthwhile investment.
Best For: Music enthusiasts who value rich, immersive sound, dual connectivity, and extended listening hours from their wireless earbuds.
Pros:
- Strong build quality that can withstand pressure
- Ability to connect to two devices simultaneously for seamless transitions
- Extended battery life offering up to 36 hours of listening time
Cons:
- Earbuds emit a loud ringing sound when not in use
Soundcore Anker Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you’re seeking an affordable pair of noise-cancelling headphones that offer impressive sound quality and extensive battery life, the Soundcore Anker Space Q45 could be your ideal match. With up to 50 hours of playtime in noise cancelling mode, you’re set for long journeys or workdays. The 40mm drivers provide intense bass and crisp treble, and if you’re an audiophile, you’ll appreciate the support for LDAC for Hi-Res Audio Wireless sound.
The headphones have five levels of adaptive noise cancelling for various environments. However, some users have noted that the headphones can feel bulky and may cause discomfort during prolonged use. The buttons are also small and can be difficult to see. But if you can overlook these minor issues, the Q45 offers a powerful performance for its price range.
Best For: Audiophiles seeking an affordable pair of noise-cancelling headphones with exceptional sound quality, extensive battery life, and adaptive noise-cancelling features.
Pros:
- Impressive 50 hours of playtime in noise cancelling mode and 65 hours in normal mode.
- Supports LDAC for Hi-Res Audio Wireless sound, ensuring high-quality sound performance.
- Offers five levels of adaptive noise cancelling suitable for various environments.
Cons:
- The headphones can feel bulky and may cause discomfort during extended use or when laying down.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $150
When we’re on the hunt for the perfect noise-cancelling headphones under $150, there are several key factors we need to consider.
We’ll discuss the importance of sound quality, comfort, battery life, active noise cancellation, and device compatibility.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining the best value for our money.
Sound Quality Evaluation
Delving into the realm of sound quality, we’ll explore key factors to consider when choosing affordable noise-cancelling headphones.
Sound quality is subjective and varies from person to person. However, we can look for a few universal attributes.
First, clarity – you should hear all elements of audio without distortion.
Second, balance – no frequency should overpower others. Deep bass shouldn’t drown out high trebles.
Third, detail – good headphones will allow you to hear the subtle nuances in audio tracks.
Lastly, soundstage – this describes how well headphones give the illusion of live music. It’s not just about loudness, but how sounds are positioned.
Comfort and Fit
Beyond the crucial aspect of sound quality, we also need to pay close attention to the comfort and fit of noise-cancelling headphones, especially when we’re on a budget under $150.
The weight and design of the headphones can significantly impact long-term comfort. It’s essential to find headphones that offer multiple ear tip sizes for a personalized fit. Some may even provide extra fit tests within their apps for a secure fit.
User reviews are invaluable in this regard, as they offer firsthand insight on comfort and durability during extended use.
Battery Life Importance
A crucial factor we can’t ignore when shopping for noise-cancelling headphones under $150 is the battery life. A longer battery life allows for extended use, reducing the need for frequent recharging. It’s especially important for those of us who travel or commute often, where plug-in opportunities might be scarce.
Headphones with quick charging capabilities are also a big plus, minimizing downtime when the battery does run low. It’s essential to align the battery life with your typical usage patterns. If you’re a heavy user, you’ll want headphones that can keep pace.
Active Noise Cancellation
Having covered the critical aspect of battery life, let’s now turn our attention to another key feature when selecting noise-cancelling headphones under $150 – Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
ANC uses microphones to capture external noise and counter it with opposite sound waves, effectively reducing low-frequency sounds like the hum of an airplane or rumble of a train. This feature is especially useful for travel or when you’re in a noisy environment.
Some ANC headphones even offer adjustable levels of noise cancellation, allowing you to control how much external sound you want to block. Remember, though, ANC can consume more power, impacting battery life.
Nevertheless, the enhanced listening experience, with clearer sound and improved immersion, makes ANC a worthwhile consideration.
Connection and Compatibility
Let’s dive into the crucial factors of connection and compatibility when choosing noise-cancelling headphones under $150.
It’s vital to ensure that your chosen headphones are compatible with your devices, be it smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Look for the necessary connection options – Bluetooth, USB-C, or an aux cable – that pair well with your devices.
Another valuable feature is the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, allowing for seamless switching. For added convenience, check if they’re compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa.
Don’t overlook any specific compatibility requirements either, such as app support or firmware updates. It’s all about ensuring a smooth, hassle-free connection experience.
Design and Durability
After ensuring a smooth connection experience, we must also examine the design and durability of noise-cancelling headphones under $150, another crucial factor in your decision-making process.
It’s important to consider the build quality and materials used, making sure they’ll stand up to regular use. A comfortable design for extended wear is also key, look for adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups.
Don’t overlook additional durability features like water or sweat resistance, reinforced cables, and foldable designs for easy storage. Investigate the warranty and sift through customer reviews for insights on longevity and robustness.
Lastly, remember to check if the overall construction and design align with your personal style and durability preferences.
Extra Features Worth
Now, we’re turning our attention to some extra features worth considering when choosing noise-cancelling headphones under $150.
Sound quality is essential – take note of the sound profile, soundstage, and bass quality. Evaluate how well the active noise cancellation works in your environment.
Comfort and fit are crucial, so opt for lightweight, secure designs with customizable fit options.
Consider additional features like transparency mode, voice assistant support, spatial audio, and EQ settings.
Finally, don’t overlook user feedback. Both positive and negative reviews can provide insight into the headphones’ overall performance and potential issues.
These factors can guide your purchasing decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Any of These Headphones Offer a Warranty and if So, What Are the Terms?
Yes, some do offer warranties. The terms vary, but typically, they’ll cover manufacturing defects for a year. We’d recommend checking each manufacturer’s website for specifics, as they can differ significantly.
Are Replacement Parts Easily Available for These Headphones?
Yes, we’ve found that replacement parts for these headphones are generally accessible. You’ll often find ear pads, auxiliary cables, and other essential components online. We recommend checking the manufacturer’s website or trusted electronics retailers.
Can These Headphones Connect to Multiple Devices at the Same Time?
We’ve tested this and yes, some of these headphones can indeed connect to multiple devices simultaneously. It’s a handy feature, especially for those of us juggling personal and work devices. Always check the product specifications, though.
Are These Headphones Suitable for Use During Exercise or Sports Activities?
We’ve examined this aspect as well. Yes, these headphones are suitable for exercise or sports activities. They’re sweat-resistant, snug-fitting, and offer a secure fit, so they won’t fall out even during intense workouts.
Can the Noise-Cancelling Feature on These Headphones Be Turned off When Not Needed?
Yes, we’ve found that all of these headphones allow you to turn off the noise-cancelling feature when it’s not required. This can help to extend the battery life, especially when you’re in a quieter environment.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, we’ve explored the top 5 noise-cancelling headphones under $150. From Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 Pro to the Soundcore Anker Space Q45, these headphones offer superior sound quality and noise cancellation at an affordable price.
Remember, when choosing headphones, consider your budget, the sound quality, comfort, and battery life. These affordable options don’t skimp on features, proving that you don’t need to break the bank for high-quality sound.
