If you’re sensitive to noise like myself it can be extremely difficult to study in any environment. Even a library can be an annoying setting with people coughing, walking, wheezing. Let alone a coffee shop or the public transit.

Well, noise cancelling headphones to the rescue! But wait, don’t settle for just any headset. You could be unpleasantly surprised by a weak battery life, poor or entirely missing Bluetooth connection and a host of other issues. It’s important to analyze such features and compare multiple models to get the best bang for your buck.

That’s why I decided to compare and review many noise-cancelling headphones that are recommended for studying. These 10 came out on top in terms of overall quality and price. Besides their effectiveness to block noises, I also paid special attention to battery life, connection and sound quality and last but not least, comfort.

Comfort is extremely important when you’re studying for long periods of time. There is a serious problem with noise-cancellation and headaches. Many people report ear pain as well. This has to do with the heaviness of the headset resting on the head, and the pressure applied to the ears.

The following headphones were designed for longer use in a single session, so more attention was placed on making them comfortable. Reduced or outright blocked noise and increased comfort – that’s the ideal combination for studying. So check them out and decide for yourself which model fits your preferences and budget.

Note: The links lead to Amazon product pages, where you can see the current price, customer ratings and other details. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Contents show

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Studying

MPOW H17 Noise-cancelling Headphones

Top Specs:

Active noise-cancellation technology
45 hours of playtime
Soft protein ear pads

Overall description

These headphones are no doubt highly effective when it comes to noise-cancellation for studying. It is built not only to block off low-frequency background noises but to help you concentrate on sounds that actually matter. Its noise cancellation feature is always active. This means that whether it is being used for listening or you just put it on without playing anything, it still reduces distracting noises.

The 650mAh battery provides at least 45 hours of solid playtime. Quick charging is also a convenient feature. With just a ten-minute charge, they can be used for roughly 2 hours!

Generally, headphones can be uncomfortable, considering the fact they rest on the head and put pressure on the ears. The Mpow H17 was made with this in consideration. Therefore, not only are they light weight, but the ear pads are Soft Protein Ear Pads. Not only do they rest on the ears without excessive pressure, but they’re comfortable as well. Also, the earcups are foldable, allowing for ease of storage.

These headphones also provide clear communication. Built with a CVC6.0 mic, they’re ideal for calls, online meetings, classes, and interactions. They’re compatible with both Android and iOS enabled phones.

The noise-canceling feature helps reduce and/or block out low-frequency background noises while helping you concentrate on the sound that matters. They are therefore suitable in all kinds of environments.

Pros

Effective, flexible, and can be stored easily
Comfortable
Active noise-canceling feature
Good playtime
Clear mic

Cons

Won’t block very loud noises unless you’re also playing music

Sony Noise-Cancelling (WHCH71ON) Headphones

Top Specs

Wireless
Digital Noise-cancelling with Dual Noise Sensor
35 hours of battery life

Overall Description

Sony remains a top manufacturer when it comes to electronics and these affordable headphones are proof enough. Unlike most noise-canceling headphones that just block out background noise, this one operates on a different level. With its digital Dual Noise Sensor, the headphone tracks background noises and reduces those that interfere the most. This is particularly helpful in areas where multiple things are causing distracting noise. Because rather than broadly cancelling background noises, the one with a higher level of interference is reduced instead while the less interfering noise is reduced accordingly.

The headphone is backed with a battery that can last up to 35 hours. The charging time is not overly fast but is above average. They are charged with a USB type C cords. With just 10 minutes of charging, you can listen to music for around 60 minutes.

These Sony headphones also feature solid sound quality. Additionally, there is a mic that can be used for distant and hands-free calls. The microphone provides crisp clear recording, therefore making calls more efficient and less distorted.

Pros

Comfortable
Clear sound and great mic
Material feels strong and durable

Cons

A bit pricey
The ear cups are not very flexible for folding them and this can affect its ease of storage

Toshiba (RZE-BT1200H(K)) Headphones

Top Specs

33 feet working range
20 hours of battery life
Deep bass

Overall Description

The noise-cancellation effect of these headphones is pretty decent and would work well in a coffee shop setting or public transit. It does not entirely block out noise when nothin is played, but it muffles it well. However, when in use, particularly when used for playing music, these headphones block out most of the background noise very well.

The sound quality is very good. Asides from having clear speakers that make it possible to hear even some accompanying sounds, the headphone is designed with deep bass speakers.

The Bluetooth connection is another standout feature, having 33 feet working range. This is ideal for environments where the connected device might be a hassle to take around when going a short distance.

The battery life of the headphone is around 20 hours. This is the weak point when compared with competing headphones. However, if you are a sucker for sound quality, then you might want to go for them regardless.

The headphones are comfortable and can be used for long periods without causing a headache or ear pain. The ear cups are foldable as well, making it easy to store the device. The device also comes with a case that makes carrying it around easy.

Pros

Great sound quality
Decent noise-cancellation
33 feet Bluetooth range
Comfortable
Can be easily folded to save space

Cons

Battery life could be better

Boltune (BT-BH011) Noise Cancelling Headphones

Top Specs

Hybrid headphone
Upgraded Noise-cancellation
Deep bass
Bluetooth 5.0
CVC 6.0 microphone
30-hour playtime

Overall Description

These headphones produce pretty awesome sound. They’re designed with an upgraded noise-cancellation technology that really shines when used in combination with music or sound. During such use, it boasts to block over 90% of background noise and in my experience that’s correct. This is further enhanced by its deep bass speakers.

The headphone operates on Bluetooth 5.0 which is the best Bluetooth connection currently. Put simply, there are fewer chances of disconnections and disruptions. It gives a good clear transmission of sound between the headphone and the connected device. Also, it is enabled with CVC 6.0 microphone which makes for clear and crisp sound during calls. There are very few to no distortions during calls.

This set runs on a 680mAh battery that can last 30 hours of playtime. A full charge is reached in roughly one hour. The best thing about charging is that with only a 5 minute charge, the headphone can be used for over 2 hours.

Also, the device is rather lightweight and comfortable. The earcups can be rotated, handing you more control over the headphone.

Although Bluetooth enabled, the headphones also have the wired feature. Therefore, you can enjoy the headphone with a compatible cord, ensuring you are never disconnected.

Pros

Hybrid headphone (Bluetooth enabled and wired)
Deep bass and good sound quality
Comfortable
Unique design
Decent charge time

Cons

Noise-cancellation when not playing music is above average, but not great. They’re pretty amazing when combined with music though.

Mpow H19 (BH388A) Noise-cancelling Headphones

Top Specs

Hybrid headphone
Bluetooth version 5.0
CVC 8.0 microphone
35-hour playtime when on Bluetooth

Overall Description

Mpow continues to make strides in the area of noise-cancellation headphones. Here is another great example.

First, the main feature to point out is the fact that it’s a hybrid. Therefore, it is both Bluetooth enabled and allows for connection with a compatible cord. Regardless of the form of connection, its sound quality is great and provides crisp sound both during calls and when listening to music, podcasts etc.

The headphone is built with a digital active noise-cancellation. This technology operates to detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises, compared to other headphones. When not used in combination with music, this noise-cancellation feature remains very effective.

The headphones are great for hands-free situations and calls as well. They’re built with the most upgraded Bluetooth version 5.0. In addition to this, it boasts a CVC 8.0 microphone which is way ahead of some headphones still at CVC 6.0. Accordingly, this indicates that the headphone has a very clear auditory transmission. During calls particularly, there are no distortions in voice transmission. The headphone has deep bass speakers that also attest to the higher level sound quality.

With all of these high end features you’d expect a low battery life, but that’s not the case. The charging time is decently short. With just a 10 minute charge, the headphone can be used for over 2 hours. It has a battery that gives a playtime of 35 hours when on Bluetooth connection, with a range of 33 feet by the way.

However, when on a wired connection, playtime is unlimited. For ease of carriage, the headphone is accompanied with a carrying pouch.

Pros

Hybrid connection (Bluetooth and wired)
Comfortable
Good sound
Decent charging time
Top Bluetooth connection (version 5.0) and microphone transmission (CVC 8.0)
Digital active noise-cancellation

Cons

Doesn’t block out very loud noises

Cowin (E7 Pro) Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Top Specs

Hybrid headphone
Active noise-canceling
Bluetooth 4.0 connection
30-hour playtime
Soft ear cushions

Overall Description

The Cowin E7 Pro is equipped with advanced active noise-cancellation. It simultaneously reduces background noises and helps you concentrate on more direct sounds. Direct sounds could include music and communication. Its noise-canceling feature is always active, both when used for playing sounds and without them. It’s great for many environments with medium-frequency noises.

There are two types of connection available: Bluetooth 4.0 and wired connection. Although this is one version lower than the latest Bluetooth version, it still provides a good connection in terms of speed and stability. There is also a built-in microphone for calls and recordings.

The ear cups on these headphones are soft and comfortable. They’re light so they can be worn for a long time without discomfort.

The headphone promises 30 hours of playtime on Bluetooth usage, being packed with an 800mAh battery. The wired approach can be used for unlimited connection. In all modes – Bluetooth and wired – the sound is top notch.

Pros

Active noise-cancellation
Comfortable
Hybrid headphone
Good sound
Built-in microphone

Cons

Although not necessarily bad, the headphone is enabled with Bluetooth version 4.0 instead of latest 5.0

Sony (MDRZX110NC) Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Top Specs

Wired connection only
Up to 80 hours of battery life

Overall Description

This Sony over-ear headphone is a bit different from previous ones reviewed. It is not Bluetooth enabled and the wire is the only available connection.

Its noise-cancellation, however, is very decent. It can reduce over 90% of noises, but this is often not the case. Its noise-cancellation deals with low-frequency noise more effectively, but not entirely. Its sound system is great though.

Its wired connection does not offer unending connectivity, as it operates on battery power. With this though, the battery promises around 80 hours of playtime.

These headphones are not advised for places with high-frequency noise like shooting ranges, but a coffee shop – most definitely. Important to note though is that they are pretty comfortable even when worn for an extended period of time so ideal for studying long hours.

Pros

Comfortable
Low-frequency noise cancellation
Very good battery life

Cons

Only wired connection
It does not deal with over 90% of sound as advertised

Bose (QuietComfort 35 II) Wireless Bluetooth Headphone

Top Specs

Advanced noise-cancellation
Quick and stable Bluetooth pairing
Alexa-enabled
20 hours of battery life

Overall Description

The QuietComfort 35 II from Bose is a real master of noise cancellation. Its advanced technology significantly blocks medium-frequency noises. It eliminates low to medium-frequency noises in some cases entirely.

Also, its sound quality is very good as well and the volume can be ramped up to high decibel levels. However, the speakers are not bass-centric. While they have a decent level of bass sound, they are not perfect. The bass is infused with the rest of the sound.

These headphones don’t feature hybrid connection. They can only be used through Bluetooth. Its Bluetooth connection is typically quick and stable. There was no problem of disconnection or sound distortion. They also feature a built-in microphone that is designed with noise-reduction in mind. In effect, the microphone is crisp and clear and is particularly ideal for calls.

The headphone is also Alexa-enabled. There is a separate button on the device to activate the voice command. The device is packaged with a USB cable for charging it. The cable is over 10 feet long. Most headphone users sometimes have problems with charging because the cords can be short. With a 10-feet long charging cord this problem is virtually eliminated.

Pros

Advanced noise-cancellation
Alexa-enabled
Good connection
Decent sound

Cons

Pricey (around $200 at the moment of writing)
Battery life (20 hours) could be better

Anker Soundcore (Q20) Headphone

Top Specs

Good noise-cancellation
Stronger bass
Comfortable
40 hours playtime

Overall Description

The Anker Soundcore Q20 headphones give good value for money. They’re a hybrid, which, as you know, is enabled both with Bluetooth and wired connections. The Bluetooth connection operates on 5.0 which indicates its quick and stable connection. Also, its working range is far enough to make short dashes while leaving the connected device at a spot.

The noise-cancellation deals with low to mid-frequency noises very effectively. However, the noise cancellation’s effectiveness is reduced when it’s not in Bluetooth mode.

The sound quality of the headphone is what makes it stand out positively the most. It is built with bass reinforcements that make the sounds from the headphones more pronounced and clearer. Of course, with this bass reinforcement, the bass is more concrete. This headphone is an ideal choice for my fellow bass lovers.

It promises a battery life of around 40 hours. When volume is significantly reduced, however, its battery life can extend to around 60 hours after a full charge.

Another important thing to note is the comfort that these headphones offer. The earcups are surrounded by very comfortable memory foams. Also, the earcups do not rest on the ears, rather they cover the ears. This helps with blocking out noise and giving more direct sound. In addition to this, these headphones are light and don’t put much pressure on the head. They can be used for long periods without much stress or discomfort.

For ease of storage and carriage, the headphone is accompanied with a carry pouch. For its price of around $60, this headphone is among the best value for money choices.

Pros

Effective noise-cancellation
Hybrid connection
Good sound quality and profound bass sounds
Light and Comfortable
40-60 hour battery life

Cons

Its bass can sometimes overwhelm other sounds

Cowin E7 Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Top Specs

Active Noise-cancelling
Hybrid connection
Deep bass
750mAh battery provides 30 hours of Bluetooth playtime
High-quality built-in microphone

Overall Description

These headphones were designed with a hybrid connection, Bluetooth and wired. The Bluetooth’s connectivity is stable and quick and its operation is backed with good battery life. With a 750mAh battery capacity, the headphone boasts of around 30 hours of playtime. Playtime is endless and unlimited in the wired mode.

The headphone is designed with active noise-cancellation technology. Additionally, the noise-cancellation remains effective in all connection modes equally, Bluetooth and wired.

A stand out feature is a high-quality microphone. The microphone gives clear and crisp voice transmission. This makes the headphone ideal for hands-free calls. In addition to its high-quality microphone, this headset also has high-quality sound outputs. With its deep and accurate bass response, sounds are generally clearer and less distorted than with headphones within the same price range.

The headphones are also made with comfort clearly taken into consideration. They have a comfortable around-ear fit, rather than an on-ear fit that is standard design of many headphones. The ear cups are also flexible, as it is possible to have them twisted 90 degrees.

Pros

Active noise-cancellation
Hybrid connection
Good battery life
Good sound with deep bass
Flexible and comfortable

Cons

They can be a bit heavy on the head. But the around-ear fit still makes them pretty comfortable.

Conclusion

This list of best noise cancelling headphones for studying was designed to help you narrow down your search. While these models differ in some respects, they’re still the best choice within their price range and have plenty of standout features. Most importantly, they provide comfort as well as practicality so you can study for longer with the least amount of distractions. Talk to you soon!