What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active Noise Canceling Headphones?
We live in a noisy world. From busy city streets and the roar of traffic to the irritating hum of laptop fans and the conversations of those around us, there’s always something vying for our attention. That’s why the market for noise-canceling headphones has grown by leaps and bounds in the past several years.
Noise-canceling headphones enable us to enjoy our favorite playlists or podcasts—or just absorb the peace and quiet—without distraction. But which type should you buy for the best audio experience? Here’s what you need to know about the differences between passive and active noise canceling.
What Are Passive Noise Canceling Headphones?
Passive noise-canceling headphones, sometimes also known as noise-isolating headphones, are designed to block out as much noise as physically possible using as little electronic assistance as possible. As such, these headphones will often include sound-absorbing materials within the earcups, such as memory foam or soft leather, which helps to reduce the amount of background noise you can hear through your headphones.
Pros
When used properly, passive noise-canceling headphones can provide a good quality of sound and a significant reduction in background noise.
They are not dependent on a power source and are generally cheaper than active noise-canceling headphones.
Passive noise-canceling headphones block out a wide range of frequencies, from lower tones like subway rumblings to higher-pitched frequencies like a neighbor’s chatting.
Cons
Passive noise-canceling headphones are not as effective as active noise-canceling headphones in blocking out loud noises such as the roar of traffic.
They do not offer the same level of comfort and convenience as active noise-canceling headphones.
What Are Active Noise Canceling Headphones?
Active noise-canceling headphones are designed to block out background noise using state-of-the-art electronics. The headphones contain two microphones—one to detect incoming sound waves and another to generate sound waves of the exact opposite frequency. As the waves meet and combine, the sound cancels itself out, leaving you with only your music or the sound of silence.
Pros
Active noise-canceling headphones are much more effective when it comes to blocking out noise that is particularly loud, such as the hum of an airplane engine.
Since they are completely electronic in design, active noise-canceling headphones also offer more comfortable and convenient listening experience than passive headphones.
Cons
Active noise-canceling headphones tend to be more expensive than passive headphones.
Battery life can be a limitation—although most of the higher-end models offer battery life of around 20-25 hours.
Active noise-canceling headphones will only work with the sound they’re designed to cancel out, so they’re not very effective in filtering out low-frequency noises like the rumble of traffic.
Which Option is Best?
When it comes to choosing between passive and active noise-canceling headphones, there are pros and cons to both. Generally speaking, passive noise-canceling headphones are a good choice for those who want to block out casual background noise while they listen to music or podcasts—and who don’t want to worry about charging or replacing batteries.
On the other hand, active noise-canceling headphones are the best choice for people who need the most reliable noise-canceling experience—especially over long periods of time, such as during a long flight or train ride. Active noise-canceling headphones are also great for blocking out low-frequency noises like a steady roar, whereas passive noise-canceling headphones can struggle with these kinds of ambient sounds.
When choosing between passive and active noise-canceling headphones, there’s no “one size fits all” answer. It ultimately depends on your listening needs and budget. However, with a better understanding of the pros and cons of each type of noise-canceling headphones, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on the right option for you.
