12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones For Phone Calls

Hey there, Have you ever been on a very important phone call and the outside world’s noise drowned you out? It’s annoying, right? That’s when noise-canceling headphones come in handy. Having crystal-clear sound is a must in a world where every call counts.

Picture this: you’re trying to close a deal in a busy coffee shop, or maybe you’re just meeting up with a friend on the subway. There is a real fight, but don’t worry; we’re here to help you figure out which Noise-Canceling Headphones block out the most noise for those important phone calls.

This review goes into great detail about Noise-Canceling Headphones that do more than just play music. They also change the way you talk on the phone.

1. Tips for Optimizing Phone Call Quality

woman is using a Noise-Canceling Headphones with a phone in a living room.

While noise-canceling headphones play a major role in improving phone call clarity, there are several additional steps you can take to improve phone call sound further. From changing settings to picking the right surroundings, here are some helpful tips to ensure your phone calls are clear and uninterrupted:

1. Find a Quiet Environment:

One of the most effective ways to improve phone call quality is to make your calls in a quiet environment. Choose a place with minimal background noise, such as a quiet room or a private area away from traffic and other distractions. This lowers the chances of outside noise clashing with your talk, allowing both parties to hear each other clearly. Discover the ultimate in auditory bliss with our 13 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Every Environment that drown out distractions and immerse yourself in sound perfection!

2. Adjust Noise-Canceling Settings:

Many noise-canceling headphones come with flexible settings that allow you to fine-tune the amount of noise reduction based on your surroundings. Experiment with different noise-canceling types and modes to find the best setting for phone calls. In some cases, you may need to change the amount of noise reduction based on the general noise level in your surroundings.

3. Position the Microphone Properly:

The position of the microphone on your Noise-Canceling Headphones can greatly impact call quality. Ensure that the microphone is positioned close to your mouth, usually within a few inches, to pick up your sound clearly. Avoid covering or blocking the microphone with clothes or other items, as this can dull your voice and lower call clarity.

4. Maintain a Stable link:

A stable link is important for clear phone calls, especially when using wireless headphones. Ensure that your Noise-Canceling Headphones are fully charged and properly paired with your device to avoid audio dropouts or connection problems during calls. If using Bluetooth headphones, keep your device within the suggested range for best signal strength.

5. Minimize Background apps:

Running multiple apps or background processes on your device can affect call quality by eating system resources and data. Close useless apps and background processes before making or getting phone calls to ensure that your device can focus on keeping a stable link and providing clear sounds.

6. Speak Clearly and Directly Into the Microphone:

When speaking during a phone call, say your words clearly and project your voice towards the microphone on your Noise-Canceling Headphones. Speaking straight into the microphone helps ensure that your voice is recorded correctly and transmitted clearly to the other party. Avoid whispering or speaking too quietly, as this can make it difficult for the other person to understand you.

7. Use VoIP Services for Improved Quality:

Consider using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services for phone calls, especially if standard cellphone coverage is bad in your area. VoIP services utilize an internet link to make calls, often resulting in better call quality and dependability compared to traditional cellphone networks, especially in areas with strong Wi-Fi coverage.

Related:
Does Active Noise Cancellation Improve Call Quality? : Unlocking Clarity with 6 Benefits

2. Top Picks for Phone Calls

1. Sony WH-1000XM4

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Industry-leading)
Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
Touch Controls: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Design and Comfort

The Sony WH-1000XM4 boasts a sleek and comfy design, with soft ear pads and a lightweight feel. The over-ear cups provide great comfort for long listening sessions.

Sound Quality

Sony’s noise-canceling headphones are known for their excellent sound quality, and the WH-1000XM4 is no exception. It provides a well-balanced audio experience with deep bass and clear highs, making it ideal for various music styles.

Noise Cancellation

One of the standout features is the industry-leading noise-canceling technology. The WH-1000XM4 successfully blocks out environmental noise, offering an intense hearing experience, whether in a busy office or on a plane.

Battery Life

Impressive battery life ensures that you won’t have to worry about running out of power during your trips. The WH-1000XM4 can last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

Pros

Excellent noise cancellation
Impressive sound quality
Comfortable fit
Long battery life

Cons

Bulky design for some users
Touch controls can be sensitive

2. Sony WH-1000XM5

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Advanced)
Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
Touch Controls: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Design

The Sony WH-1000XM5 oozes luxury with its sleek design and attention to detail. The ear cups, made with soft-fit leatherette, offer both comfort and extra friction, giving a snug fit without losing style. The lightweight build, at 250g, ensures long-lasting comfort during extended usage, making these noise-canceling headphones ideal for various settings.

Controls

Navigating through the WH-1000XM5 is a breeze, thanks to its simple touch settings on the right ear cup. The sensitive touch screen allows users to change volume, skip songs, and engage voice help with simple movements, improving the overall user experience.

Connection

The Noise-Canceling Headphones allow both wireless and cable connections, utilizing Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs. The addition of Bluetooth multipoint allows smooth swapping between devices, catering to users with multiple gadgets. The USB-C port enables quick and efficient charging, with just three minutes giving an amazing 180 minutes of playing.

Battery Life

The WH-1000XM5 boasts an amazing battery life of up to 31 hours with Active Noise Cancellation, beating Sony’s stated length. The quick charging feature, providing 180 minutes of playing with just a three-minute charge, adds a useful touch to the overall package.

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)

The WH-1000XM5 sets a new bar for ANC performance, greatly improving over its peers. The noise-canceling headphones shine not only in reducing outdoor sounds but also in directly stopping annoying noise, improving the overall hearing experience.

Sound Signature

As expected from Sony, the sound identity of the WH-1000XM5 goes towards a bass-heavy style. While the increased bass may be a downside for some audiophiles, the Noise-Canceling Headphones Connect app provides ample tuning options, allowing users to fine-tune the settings and achieve a more balanced audio output.

Microphone

The eight-microphone arrangement and AI noise reduction system add to the excellent microphone performance. The WH-1000XM5 ensures crystal-clear call quality, exceeding standards for a portable speaker.

Pros

Builds on the strengths of the XM4
Improved noise cancellation
Clear and detailed sound

Cons

Incremental upgrade
Similar design to XM4

3. Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
Bluetooth: 4.1

Design and Comfort

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has a basic and comfy style. Its lightweight build and soft ear pads make it perfect for extended wear.

Sound Quality

Bose is known for its smooth sound character. The QC 35 II provides clear music, focusing on keeping clarity across different levels.

Noise Cancellation

The active noise cancellation on the QC 35 II is excellent, offering a quiet setting for your music pleasure. It’s highly useful for lowering low-frequency sounds.

Battery Life

With a good battery life of around 20 hours, the QC 35 II can keep up with your daily tasks without frequent recharging.

Pros

Top-tier noise cancellation
Comfortable design
Balanced sound

Cons

Older model
Lacks some modern features
No touch controls

4. Jabra Elite 85h

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Smart Active Noise Cancellation)
Battery Life: Up to 36 hours
Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Design and Comfort

The Jabra Elite 85h features a sleek design with comfy ear cups. The noise-canceling headphones are sturdy and well-built, perfect for everyday use.

Sound Quality

Jabra works on providing a well-balanced sound profile. The Elite 85h offers clear and detailed audio with customized tuning settings via the Jabra Sound+ app.

Noise Cancellation

The Elite 85h excels in adaptable noise cancellation, adapting to your surroundings for an ideal hearing experience. The “SmartSound” system instantly changes settings based on your surroundings.

Battery Life

Impressive battery life, reaching up to 36 hours with noise cancellation active, makes the Jabra Elite 85h a trusted partner for long trips.

Pros

Great build quality
Long battery life
Customizable sound through the app

Cons

Bulky design
Less effective noise cancellation compared to top competitors

5. Apple AirPods Max

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Adaptive)
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Spatial Audio: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Design and Build

The AirPods Max boast Apple’s unique design features and expensive materials. The stainless-steel frame and airy knit mesh dome ooze luxury, while the ear cups provide comfort for extended use.

Audio Quality

The adjustable EQ and dynamic drivers offer a high-fidelity audio experience. The spatial audio function creates a realistic 3D image, making these noise-canceling headphones ideal for movie fans and audiophiles alike.

Noise Cancellation

The active sound cancellation (ANC) on the AirPods Max is excellent, completely blocking out environmental sounds. Transparency mode allows users to stay aware of their surroundings without taking off the noise-canceling headphones.

Smart Integration

Seamless interaction with the Apple environment improves the general user experience. Features like automatic moving between Apple devices and Siri interaction add ease.

Pros

Premium build and materials
Excellent sound quality
Spatial audio support

Cons

Expensive
Heavy
Limited customization options

6. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Adaptive)
Battery Life: Up to 17 hours
Touch Controls: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Build Quality

Sennheiser’s careful work is clear in Momentum 3. Genuine leather, stainless steel sliders, and a folding design make these noise-canceling headphones sturdy and travel-friendly.

Sound Quality

The Momentum 3 Wireless offers a balanced sound profile with rich bass and clear highs. The built-in filter allows users to modify the music according to their tastes.

Comfort and Functionality

Plush ear cups and flexible caps ensure a snug fit. Intuitive touch settings on the ear cups make browsing easy, and the automatic pause/play mode adds a touch of ease.

Adaptive Noise Cancellation

The ANC successfully reduces unwanted noise, offering an intense hearing experience. Transparent hearing mode lets people interact with their surroundings when needed.

Pros

Premium build
Excellent sound quality
Customizable controls

Cons

Expensive
Bulky design
Slightly weaker noise cancellation compared to rivals

7. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Touch Controls: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Design and Ergonomics

The Surface Headphones 2 feature a sleek design with soft ear cups. The simple buttons on each ear cup allow users to control volume and ANC levels smoothly.

Sound Quality

Balanced audio with deep bass and crisp highs caters to a wide range of musical tastes. The spatial audio feature offers a wide field, improving the hearing experience.

Office-Focused Features

Designed with work in mind, the Surface Headphones 2 offer Microsoft 365 integration and personalized quick orders. These noise-canceling headphones instantly stop when removed and restart when worn.

Long Battery Life

With up to 20 hours of battery life, these noise-canceling headphones are great for extended work sessions or long trips.

Pros

Comfortable
Adjustable noise cancellation
Intuitive touch controls

Cons

Sound quality is good but not exceptional
slightly bulkier design

8. Bose 700 Noise-Canceling Headphones Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: No
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
RGB Lighting: Yes
Wireless Range: 12m

Noise Cancellation

Bose is known for its industry-leading noise-canceling technology, and the Bose 700 Noise-Canceling Headphones live up to that heritage. The 11 stages of ANC provide users with detailed control over their hearing surroundings.

Design and Comfort

A modern and simple design paired with plush ear cups provides a comfy fit. The stainless-steel collar adds longevity without losing style.

Touch Controls and Voice Assistant

Intuitive touch buttons on the ear cups make for easy movement. The addition of voice agents like Alexa and Google Assistant improves user ease.

Augmented Reality (AR) Ready

Bose AR support opens up options for new apps, making these noise-canceling headphones into a platform for virtual audio experiences.

Pros

Sleek design
Customizable noise cancellation levels
Good call quality

Cons

Expensive
Touch controls can be finicky

9. Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: No
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
RGB Lighting: Yes
Wireless Range: 12m

Connectivity

The Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless offers a low-latency wireless connection, ensuring a lag-free game experience. Razer’s HyperSpeed Wireless technology improves link steadiness, which is crucial for competitive games.

Realistic Audio

Equipped with THX Spatial Audio, these noise-canceling headphones offer realistic 360-degree sound. The custom-tuned 40mm drivers provide strong bass and clear highs, allowing games to spot audio cues with precision.

Comfort and Design

Designed for long game sessions, the Barracuda Pro features plush ear cups and a lightweight design. The swiveling ear cups and auto-adjusting bands provide a comfortable fit for different head shapes.

Microphone Quality

The removable cardioid microphone provides clear contact with peers. Advanced noise-canceling technology reduces background noise, making your words stand out in the heat of the fight.

Pros

Gaming-oriented features
Low latency
THX Spatial Audio support

Cons

May not match audiophile standards for music
bulky design

10. Anker Soundcore Space NC Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Touch Controls: Yes
Bluetooth: 4.1

Noise Cancellation

Anker Soundcore Space NC features hybrid active noise cancellation, successfully reducing outdoor noise for an uninterrupted music experience. Ideal for travelers or anyone looking to escape into their music.

Sound Quality

With 40mm drivers, these noise-canceling headphones offer a smooth sound profile. Deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs make them perfect for various music styles.

Long Battery Life

The Space NC boasts an amazing battery life, giving up to 20 hours of playing on a single charge. Perfect for long trips or extended use without thinking about running out of power.

Folding Design

Compact and foldable, these noise-canceling headphones are travel-friendly. The included hard-shell travel case ensures they stay safe on the go.

Pros

Affordable
Good noise cancellation for the price

Cons

Build quality, not as premium
The sound quality is decent but not outstanding

11. JBL Tune 760NC Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Battery Life: Up to 25 hours
Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
Bluetooth: 4.1

Active Noise Cancellation

affordable ANC JBL Tune 760NC brings active noise cancellation to a more budget-friendly range. Enjoy your songs without interruptions from the surrounding surroundings.

JBL Pure Bass Sound

Renowned for their bass sound, JBL Noise-Canceling Headphones don’t fail with the Tune 760NC. The Pure Bass Sound technology provides a strong and deep low end.

Comfortable Design

Soft ear pads and an adjustable cap provide relaxation during long listening sessions. The lightweight form makes them perfect for daily use.

Voice Helper Integration

Easily contact your device’s voice helper with the touch of a button. Stay connected without reaching for your phone.

Pros

Affordable
Decent sound quality
Active noise cancellation

Cons

Plastic build
May not match the premium feel of higher-end models

12. Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless

Specifications

Type: Over-ear, closed-back
Noise Cancellation: Yes (Hybrid)
Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
BassUp Technology: Yes
Bluetooth: 5.0

Hybrid Noise Cancellation

The Soundcore Life Q20 blends passive noise separation with hybrid active noise cancellation, providing a quiet listening experience at a reasonable price point.

Sound Quality

These noise-canceling headphones offer well-balanced sound with a focus on bass. The custom-designed 40mm drivers provide sharpness across different styles.

Comfy Fit

Memory foam ear cups and a customizable cap add to a comfy fit. The swiveling ear cups ensure a snug fit for different head types.

Impressive Battery Life

With up to 30 hours of playtime, the Soundcore Life Q20 shines in longevity. The fast-charging function offers several hours of playing with just a short charge session.

Pros

Budget-friendly
Good battery life
Decent noise cancellation

Cons

Build quality is not as premium
Sound quality is satisfactory but not exceptional

3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Canceling Headphones for Phone Calls

It’s important to think about a few key things when looking for the best noise-canceling headphones for calls to make sure they work well and make the user happy. Here is a full list of what you should look for:

Things to think about when picking noise-cancelling headphones for calls

Sound Quality:

In-ear noise-canceling headphones for calls are meant to offer incredibly clear sound. When looking for headphones, make sure they have good drivers that make the sound that is smooth across all frequencies. You should look for headphones that have clear highs, full mids, and clear, deep bass. You might also want to look into headphones that have built-in equalization settings or sound sets that you can change to suit your tastes.

Noise-Cancelling Power:

Noise-cancelling technology that works well is needed to get rid of background noise and make sure that phone calls are clear. Look for headphones that have active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which uses mics to pick up and block out outside sounds. Think about how much noise cancellation each headphone model offers and pick one that can block out sounds well in a variety of places, like airports, coffee shops, and busy offices.

Comfort and Fit:

Since you’ll likely be wearing your noise-canceling headphones for long times, comfort is important. Opt for headphones with soft ear pads and a flexible cap for a safe yet comfy fit. Pay attention to the materials used in the building of the headphones, ensuring they’re lightweight and flexible to avoid pain during prolonged wear. Additionally, consider the shape of the ear cups—over-ear headphones generally provide better noise insulation and ease compared to on-ear or in-ear choices.

Battery Life:

Long battery life is important, especially if you frequently use your noise-canceling headphones for phone calls while on the go. Look for headphones with longer energy life that can last through a full day of use on a single charge. Consider the charging time as well—some headphones offer quick charging features that provide several hours of playing time with just a short charging period. Unlock the secrets to prolonged listening pleasure! Explore our Top 10 Expert Tips: Maximizing Battery Life for Active Noise-Canceling Headphones and keep the music playing longer than ever before.

Connecting Options:

Versatile connecting options improve the usefulness of noise-canceling headphones for phone calls. Choose headphones that allow both wired and wireless links, giving you the freedom to use them with different devices. Look for headphones with Bluetooth technology for direct connection to smartphones, tablets, and computers. Additionally, consider headphones with NFC pairing for quick and easy device pairing.

Additional Features:

Consider additional features that can improve the usefulness and functionality of your noise-canceling headphones for phone calls. Pay attention to the quality of the built-in microphone—opt for headphones with a high-quality microphone that provides clear sound communication and reduces background noise during calls. Look for headphones with simple buttons for changing volume, taking calls, and activating noise-canceling features without trouble. Additionally, consider headphones with smart assistant integration, allowing you to access voice tools like Siri or Google Assistant hands-free.

Budget-Friendly Options without Compromising Quality

Great news: quality doesn’t always come with a jaw-dropping price tag. We’ve sniffed out some budget-friendly gems that offer bang for your buck, ensuring you get top-notch performance without burning a hole in your pocket.

So, there you have it—your path to noise-canceling headphones bliss. Follow these rules, and you’ll be on your way to a world of continuous, crystal-clear talks! Listen up! Dive into our curated list of the 18 Best Budget Noise-canceling Headphones Under $100: That Won’t Break the Bank! Quality sound without breaking the budget awaits.

Conclusion

Alright, audio explorers, we’ve started on a trip through the lands of quiet, surrounded by the hum of technology and the sounds of user experiences. Now, let’s bring it all together and wrap this headphone party up.

Recap of the Top Picks and Their Standout Features

Remember the Sony WH-1000XM4, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, and the Jabra Elite 85h? Let’s jog your mind on why these bad boys made it to our top picks. From mind-blowing noise-canceling to comfort that hugs your ears, these noise-canceling headphones are the stars of the communication world.

Final Thoughts on the Best Overall Noise-Canceling Headphones for Phone Calls

So, which one stole the show? We’ll spill the beans on which Noise-Canceling Headphones emerge as the winners for phone calls, offering the right blend of style, substance, and smooth conversation.

Encouragement for Readers to Share Their Experiences and Preferences

But wait, the show isn’t over! We want to hear from you, the hidden stars of the information change. Share your own tales of noise-canceling headphones victories, or let us know if there’s a secret gem we missed. Your voice matters in this chorus of music fans.

So, whether you’re sealing deals, catching up with loved ones, or just having some solo time with your favorite tunes, may your calls be crisp, your music soothing, and your headphones always on point. Until next time, stay tuned for more audio adventures!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why do I need noise-canceling headphones for phone calls?

Noise-canceling headphones ensure that your voice is heard clearly during phone calls by reducing background noise. Whether you’re in a busy café, on public transportation, or working from a crowded office, these headphones provide a focused and distraction-free conversation experience.

Q2: How do noise-canceling headphones work for phone calls?

Noise-canceling headphones use advanced technology to study external sounds and make sound waves that cancel out or reduce unwanted noise. This technology allows for better call quality and a more realistic conversation experience.

Q3: Are there any budget-friendly choices that still offer good call quality?

A: Absolutely! Our buying guide includes budget-friendly choices that don’t skimp on call clarity. We’ve chosen headphones that offer great sound without breaking the bank.

Q4: Do these headphones work well with both iOS and Android devices?

A: Yes, most of the suggested headphones are made to be usable with both iOS and Android smartphones. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the product specs for compatibility with your particular gadget.

Q5: Can I use these headphones for reasons other than phone calls, like music and gaming?

A: Absolutely! In fact, many of these noise-canceling headphones are flexible enough to improve your overall listening experience. They’re great for music fans, gamers, or anyone looking for intense sound in various settings.

Q6: How do I ensure comfort during long phone calls?

A: Comfort is key, especially during long phone calls. Our reviews and user comments sections provide insights into the comfort levels of each suggested headphone. Look for features like soft ear pillows, flexible headbands, and lightweight designs for maximum comfort.

Q7: What is the battery life like for these headphones during phone calls?

A: The battery life during phone calls changes among different types. Our reviews describe the talk time and idle time of each headphone, helping you choose a pair that fits with your usage habits.

Q8: Can I connect these headphones to multiple devices simultaneously?

A: Many current noise-canceling headphones offer multi-device connections. This allows you to easily switch between devices like your phone, computer, or PC. Check the product specs for information on the connection features of each headphone.

Q9: Are these headphones good for business use, such as internet meetings and conference calls?

A: Absolutely! The suggested headphones are not only great for casual phone calls but also shine in business settings. With clear voice quality and effective noise cancellation, they’re great for virtual meetings, video chats, and conference calls.

Q10: How do I buy the suggested headphones?

You can find links to buy the suggested headphones in the Additional Resources part of our report. Click on the given links to discover further information and make a purchase through trusted online sites.