Wireless Noise Canceling Over-Ear Headphones

Active noise cancellation works by listening to the sound around you and generating its inverse, which cancels much of what would otherwise reach your ear. It is most effective on steady low-frequency noise: engine hum, air conditioning, train rumble, the constant background of an open-plan office.

Over-ear cups do half the work before the electronics start. By enclosing the ear rather than sitting in it, they block a portion of higher-frequency sound passively, and the cushioning distributes pressure so the headphones stay comfortable across a long flight or a working afternoon.

Wireless Bluetooth connection means no cable to catch on a bag strap or a chair arm. A note on hearing: noise cancellation reduces background sound, which lets you listen at a lower volume, so use that headroom rather than turning it up. Prolonged listening at high volume can damage hearing. Stay aware of your surroundings when walking or cycling, and never use noise cancellation where you need to hear traffic.

• Active noise cancellation targets steady low-frequency sound
• Over-ear cups add passive isolation and long-wear comfort
• Wireless Bluetooth connection, no trailing cable
• Use the quieter background to listen at lower volume
• Stay aware of traffic and surroundings when outdoors