While remote work and schooling made our lives convenient, dealing with ambient noise can be a challenge. It could be the barking dogs, the sound of your neighbor’s lawnmower, kids playing, and whatnot. During these situations, the best noise cancelling headphone under 200 will be heaven-sent.
Headphones with noise-cancelling technology counter background noise. This allows you to tune out the noise in your surroundings, so you can focus on the task at hand.
However, it’s important to note that noise-cancelling headphones can’t block every noise. While most work well for common household noises, you can’t expect these headphones to cancel out aircraft-loud sounds.
Overall, noise cancelling headphones are intended to minimize, as much as possible, any noise through passive or active reduction. And if you’re looking for the most effective options that will suit your budget, you should put these 7 picks into consideration:
| NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick! Sony WH-CH710N Noise-Cancelling Headphones |  | Check Price |
 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones | | Check Price |
 | WYZE Bluetooth Wireless Headphones | | Check Price |
 | Audio-Technica QuietPoint Headphones | | Check Price |
 | Skullcandy Hesh Noise- Cancelling Headphones |  | Check Price |
 | JBL Live 460NC Noise Cancelling Headphones | | Check Price |
 | PreSonus Eris HD10BT Noise Cancelling Headphones |  | Check Price |
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under 200 – Top 7 Picks!
OUR #1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: Sony WH-CH710N Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Product Name: Sony WH-CH710N Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Product Description: When it comes to the best noise cancelling headphones under 200, I swear by the Sony WH-CH710N. This has an active noise cancellation technology that automatically senses ambient sounds through its Dual Noise Sensor Technology. Aside from that, these headphones have two microphones that cancel noise in a feeding forward and backward method. This offers better noise cancellation than passive types alone. On the other hand, these Sony headphones have the Ambient mode, which allows you to listen to your surroundings. This way, there’s no need to take off the headphones when someone is talking or if you’re walking on a busy street.
Offer price: $$$
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Sound Quality
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Noise Cancellation
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Build and Design
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Value for Money
Overall
Summary
For the best sound quality, these wireless headphones are equipped with a 30 mm driver. This delivers crisp audio with a wide range of highs and lows. I’m also impressed by its 35-hour battery life, which gives users an uninterrupted listening experience. It’s also quick-charging that a 10-minute charge is enough to give you an hour of playback. These headphones are also designed for all-day comfort, thanks to their adjustable metal slider as well as soft earpads. The earcups swivel flat for easy storage wherever you go. Overall, these are functional headphones. However, the housing is made of typical plastic, which gives it a slightly flimsy feel. Also, I wish they don’t use the same button for the Ambient and NC modes.
Pros
Dual Noise Sensor Technology
Up to 35 hours of continuous playback
Voice assistant compatible
Travel-friendly design
NFC-enabled for quick connection
The noise cancellation also applies to the microphone.
Cons
The controls are a bit tricky.
It’s not the best choice for classical music listening.
RUNNERS-UP
Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones
The Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones are probably one of the most popular options in the market. Aside from being under 200 bucks, this pair has three levels of noise cancellation to block out as much noise as possible. You can also adjust the noise cancellation level from low to high.
Moreover, these headphones use a dual-microphone system for clear voice pick-up and excellent audio quality. This is aside from the balanced audio performance on any chosen volume level.
Aside from that, I like the NFC pairing feature of these headphones for easy and quick connection. It’s also equipped with a voice prompt that will guide you through the process of how to use this feature.
This device is also equipped with an action button for users to access Alexa anytime. This way, you can switch to various streaming platforms without having to use your phone. For more audio controls, you can use the Bose Connect App.
Overall, these wireless headphones will give you up to 20 hours of playback time for every charge. It’s also IPX4 water-resistant, which can repel moisture and light drizzle.
Compared to other headphones I’ve used before, this pair is lightweight and won’t hurt your ears when worn for long periods.
However, I noticed that the microphone of these headphones is quite sensitive. It hot-mic instantly, so you have to be careful if you’re on a call.
WYZE Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
The WYZE Bluetooth Wireless Headphones boast hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) that you can turn on and off. It uses four noise-cancelling microphones as well as a fast processor that neutralizes the noise to whisper level. This way, you can focus better and enjoy the music even more.
Aside from that, these wireless headphones use voice-isolating microphones for clearer calls even in a noisy room.
This uses 40 mm drivers that provide the most immersive listening experience. For this driver size, these headphones are surprisingly affordable.
You’ll also enjoy up to 20 hours of battery life with a 10-minute quick-charge that provides instant 4 hours of playback.
I also like the fatigue-free fit of these headphones, thanks to their 20 mm memory foam padding and elongated earcups. This provides a snug fit that’s comfy enough for all-day wearing. You can also connect this to two devices at once.
Like most high-quality noise-cancelling headphones, this WYZE model has a built-in Alexa for hands-free access to your apps. It also has a Transparency Mode, which basically turns off the noise cancellation feature, so you can hear your surroundings in an instant.
Audio-Technica QuietPoint Headphones
If you prefer a wired option for guaranteed reliability, I recommend the Audio-Technica QuietPoint Headphones. This is powered by 40 mm sound drivers for the fullest and clearest sound quality. It’s also paired with neodymium magnet systems for the most satisfying bass.
Moreover, these headphones have inline controls and a microphone for ease of use. It works well for calls, music streaming, gaming, and so on. Overall, it’s ideal for computers, laptops, DVD players, and even smartphones.
Aside from that, these Audio-Technica headphones live up to their model name ‘QuietPoint’. It’s equipped with noise-cancelling circuity that neutralizes up to 90% of ambient noise.
Despite their powerful sound quality, these Audio-Technica headphones remain light and easy to store. The earcups swivel in a flat position, so it consumes less space when stashing them in your luggage. Some also likened these travel headphones to having your own in-flight concert while on the plane.
Overall, I can say that these headphones offer the best value for the price. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s not expensive either. So if you want the right balance between cost and features, this Audio-Technica model will be a good pick.
Skullcandy Hesh Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Skullcandy Hesh Noise Cancelling Headphones offer excellent sound in an aesthetic package. This wireless model boasts active noise cancellation that blocks ambient noise. It’s also engineered with ANC that rivals bigger and more expensive brands.
For the Hesh model, you’ll enjoy convenient and easy controls along with the earcups. You can also use your device’s voice assistant for hands-free access to your apps.
Aside from that, these Skullcandy headphones have a rugged design made to withstand daily use. I also like the Tile Finding Technology of these headphones. Basically, it lets you ‘ring’ the headphones if you misplace them using the Skullcandy mobile app. This is a feature you’ll rarely find on other models.
As for battery life, you’ll enjoy up to 22 hours of playback for every charge. And in case you need to use your headphones right away, a 10-minute charge will give you up to 3 hours of listening.
I also like the flat-folding design of these headphones that make them easy to store. And instead of cheap foam that peels off after a few months, this one has a PU leather covering. It remains soft while wicking sweat and making the earpads last longer.
JBL Live 460NC Noise Cancelling Headphones
For JBL fans, the Live 460NC Noise Cancelling Headphones are worth the consideration. This pair has 40 mm sound drivers that deliver the best audio quality. It’s also engineered with a sound signature used in the most famous venues worldwide.
Moreover, these headphones have adaptive noise cancelling technology that blocks ambient noise. Meanwhile, you can also use the Ambient Aware technology, which keeps you safe when walking along a busy street. There’s also the TalkThru music feature, which is lowered while you chat with someone.
The JBL 460NC Noise Cancelling Headphones have an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours.
But if you forgot to charge it, a 10-minute rapid charge will give you up to 4 hours of playback fun. For this price range, this is already a steal.
I also like that the earcups swivel and fold for easy storage. The earcups are also mid-sized and won’t feel too hot on the ear. They also used faux leather to cover the foam, so it wicks moisture and no peeling foam cover gets inside your ear.
Just remember that these headphones require a device with at least Android 6.0 OS or higher to access all the Alexa features. Other than that, I don’t have major complaints – it’s a JBL model after all.
But as a reminder, these headphones aren’t suitable for users with large heads and equally large ears. This is due to the smaller size of the earcups.
PreSonus Eris HD10BT Noise Cancelling Headphones
My last pick for this list is the PreSonus Eris HD10BT Noise Cancelling Headphones. This pair is equipped with active noise cancelling (ANC) technology that optimally reduces environmental noise.
For added passive noise cancellation, these headphones have a closed-back and over-ear design. It provides added sound isolation while blocking outside noise even more.
As for sound quality, you’ll be treated to 40 mm drivers that deliver a studio-quality listening experience. It also boasts extended bass and superior audio clarity, whether you’re listening to music, streaming movies, or answering calls. I also like that the bass is well-balanced and not exaggerated just to sound full.
Moreover, these headphones will give you a true audiophile listening experience for under 200 bucks. It’s already a steal since it also has a sturdy and premium-looking build. Just to highlight, they added faux leather-covered padding on the headband and the same cover for the earcups.
If there’s something I don’t like about these headphones, it would be the fact that the noise cancellation doesn’t apply to the microphone. While it blocks noise when recording audio through the built-in mic, it still picks up ambient sounds.
How to choose the best noise cancelling headphone under 200
There are many affordable noise-cancelling headphones on the market, but not all of them will live up to expectations. So if you really want noise cancelling headphones that work, you should consider the following points first:
✔️Wireless vs. wired
The first thing you have to think about is whether you like wireless or wired headphones. Both are excellent options, but there are some pros and cons to consider.
First, wireless headphones are convenient. Unlike wired types, there are no pesky cables that may snag or get pulled as you move around. Also, wireless headphones give you the freedom to leave your connected device at a distance without losing connection.
However, wired headphones tend to have an advantage when it comes to sound quality. Since it’s wired directly into the device, there’s little risk of distortion, delay, or lag. You also get to skip audio compression, so the audio quality would be fuller.
But to be fair, many wireless headphones are now designed to match the sound quality of wired types. However, it’s often available at a higher price tag.
✔️Headphone size
Next, you should check the headphone size you’re going to purchase. Overall, you should expect noise-cancelling headphones to be slightly bulkier than other options since it uses over-ear earcups.
If you prefer the best noise-cancelling option, you should opt for one with large earcups. This has a better passive noise-cancelling effect as the large earcups and foam serve as physical barriers around your ears.
Nevertheless, you can still find smaller earcups as headphone designs get more innovative over time. While smaller earcups can still cancel noise, it’s not as effective as over-ear/around-ear options.
✔️Sound quality
Aside from its ability to block sounds, it’s also crucial to check the audio quality of the headphones you’re going to buy.
Headphones with large sound drivers often deliver louder volume levels. Together with other components, quality sound drivers have added ‘oomph’ to the headphones’ sound quality.
Overall, the best way to check the sound quality of the headphones is to actually use them. But if you’re not physically able to do so before purchasing, I suggest that you stick with well-reviewed brands.
The likes of Sony, Bose, Audio-Technica, Skullcandy, and so on are just some of the brands that produce good-quality headphones. Still, their products aren’t made equal, so you should always check the specs.
✔️Noise cancellation
Headphones are usually equipped with two modes of noise-cancellation: passive and active.
Passive noise cancellation is done through the use of physical components like earcups, thicker foam, and the likes to block ambient noise.
Meanwhile, active noise cancellation utilizes a set of microphones and speakers to cancel out noise in varying frequencies. The active ANC technology in the headphones picks up low-frequency sounds and neutralizes them before it reaches your ears.
Moreover, active noise cancellation uses a microphone to pick up the noise and a built-in ANC chip to cancel it. Once the headphones detect ambient noise, the ANC chip will then release an opposite sound wave of equal magnitude to cancel the noise.
While passive noise cancellation does a lot in reducing background noise, it’s not sufficient to block louder sounds. This is why you should consider getting headphones with ANC for the most immersive listening experience.
✔️Battery life
If you’re opting for wireless noise-cancelling headphones, it’s important to check the battery life of the device.
High-end headphones can often provide up to 30 hours of continuous playback. This is a champ, especially if you’re planning to use the headphones as an all-around device for work, leisure, and more.
But for those on a budget, 5 to 8 hours of playback per charge is already decent. The good thing is that even affordable options are now powered with better built-in batteries.
✔️Connectivity
Most noise-cancelling headphones work on a Bluetooth connection. This is the standard among wireless headphones as it guarantees compatibility across devices.
Nevertheless, you can also find options with UHF or ultra-high frequency connections. This technology is often used in older devices that aren’t equipped with Bluetooth. So far, modern headphones are no longer designed with this connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is noise cancelling headphones worth it?
A: Noise cancelling headphones are worth it if you wish to cancel out background noise. It’s also a good way to protect your hearing and enjoy the music you’re streaming even more. The good thing is that you don’t have to spend a fortune just to get a decent pair. There are affordable headphones in the market that you can get for under 200 or less.
Q: Do noise cancelling headphones cancel all noise?
A: Noise cancelling headphones aren’t made to cancel virtually all noise. It can only reduce the background noise to some extent, depending on the design and overall acoustics of the earcups. For example, noise cancelling headphones can make the loud roar of an airplane engine quieter, but they can’t make the surroundings totally silent.
Q: Why can I still hear with noise cancelling headphones?
A: Noise cancelling headphones won’t block all the ambient noise. Instead, it can only cancel out some frequencies and muffles very loud sounds. Also, the noise-cancelling feature of the headphones depends on the design of the device. It’s important to note that noise cancelling headphones aren’t made equal; some are more efficient while others will still allow ambient noise to get into your ears.
Q: Do noise cancelling headphones hurt the ears?
A: Noise cancelling headphones don’t really hurt the ears. Overall, the noise cancelling technology isn’t related to any possible hearing problems. However, a very tight pair of headphones will surely make your earlobes sore due to the clamping force of the earcups. Also, listening to music at very high volumes will be damaging to your hearing.
Q: Do noise cancelling headphones block out snoring?
A: Since noise cancelling headphones are very effective in blocking out ambient noise, they will help a lot in cancelling out the sound of snoring. The structure of the headphones prevents external sound from getting into your ears. You can also play music to further dampen loud snoring.
Final words
Are you struggling to focus because of the noise? Instead of getting frustrated, you can use the best noise cancelling headphone under 200 instead. These devices effectively neutralize ambient noise, so you can focus on your work, studies, and other tasks.
The good thing is that these headphones deliver excellent quality without costing you a fortune. These picks are also equipped with an array of features for you to choose from.
What do you think of these noise cancellation headphones? Let us know your thoughts!