The 5 Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds for Long Flights in 2025 to Block Out Cabin Noise
When it comes to long flights, blocking out cabin noise can make all the difference, and choosing the right earbuds is essential. By 2025, the best models will combine sophisticated active noise cancellation—capable of reducing over 98% of both low and high-frequency sounds—with long-lasting batteries, quick charge features, and ergonomic designs for comfort during hours of use. From durable water resistance to seamless Bluetooth connections, these earbuds are designed to keep your peace, no matter how turbulent the skies get. Curious which ones make the cut?
Soundcore A40 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancelling and Long Battery Life
- Reduce Noise By Up to 98%: Space A40 has an upgraded noise cancelling system to block out a wider range of distracting noises. So wherever you...
- Automatically Tailored Noise Cancelling: Space A40 detects external noises and automatically selects a suitable level of noise cancelling for...
- 50 Hours of Personal Space: That's enough playtime to enjoy up to 1,000 songs or 25 movies. The earbuds have a 10-hour single charge playtime,...
If you want earbuds that block out noise and don’t cost a lot, the Soundcore A40 Wireless Earbuds might be a good choice. They have Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) that automatically detects sounds around you. It adjusts to cancel out up to 98% of the noise. So, you can listen to your music or watch a show without distraction. The earbuds also have double-layer drivers that give clear, high-quality sound. The bass is punchy, the mids are smooth, and the treble is bright. If you want even better sound, LDAC mode offers high-resolution wireless audio.
These earbuds are light, comfortable to wear, and water-resistant. They fit well and stay in place, even during long use or physical activities. They are a good pick for travel, daily commuting, or sports.
Best For: travelers, commuters, and sports fans who want affordable noise-canceling earbuds that last a long time and are comfortable.
Pros:
- Very long 50-hour battery life with fast charging
- Noise cancellation can block up to 98% of outside noise
- Lightweight and comfortable fit for all-day wear
Cons:
- The sound range is good, but some may find it less detailed than premium models
- Limited options to customize controls on the earbuds
- Noise cancelling is not perfect and may be less effective in very noisy places
These earbuds provide a great mix of noise cancellation, long battery life, and comfort. They are easy to use and worth considering if you want reliable earbuds that won’t hurt your wallet.
Plantronics BackBeat GO 410 Wireless Headphones
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Bluetooth headphones with a small and lightweight design sit flush with your ears for a discreet and comfortable listening...
- NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES: Accessible through the BackBeat FIT app, dual-mode active noise canceling provides clear audio in high- and low-noise...
- LONG LASTING BATTERY: Bluetooth headphones have up to 8 hours of wireless listening with ANC and up to 10 hours of wireless listening without...
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 410 wireless earbuds are a good choice for travelers. They are light, weighing just 1.23 ounces, and comfortable to wear all day. The rounded tips fit well in your ears, making them easy to wear for long flights or busy days.
These earbuds have dual-mode active noise canceling (ANC). This feature helps block out cabin noise, wind, and chatter. It makes it easier to focus or enjoy your music during loud flights. With up to 8 hours of battery life, you can listen without needing to charge often. You won’t have to think about finding a charging port mid-flight.
The earbuds come with magnetic sensors. When you take them out, they stay around your neck, so they won’t get lost easily. They also connect to your devices through Bluetooth, and you can pair them with more than one device at a time. Some users say the connection can sometimes drop, but most find them useful.
Overall, the BackBeat GO 410 is a flexible and simple choice. It’s best for travelers who want noise canceling and a comfortable fit for long trips, though some may experience connection issues.
Best For: People who fly often and want earbuds with noise canceling, all-day comfort, and a long battery life.
Pros:
- Light and comfortable to wear all day
- Good noise canceling to block out loud sounds
- Can connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth
Cons:
- Sometimes the sound cuts out unexpectedly
- Easy to have trouble turning functions on or off
- Wind noise and durability might be issues for some users
EarFun Air Pro 4 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation
- Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Canceling up to 50dB. Premium noise cancelling powered by adaptive ANC technology and QuietSmart 3.0. EarFun Air Pro...
- Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless. Featuring Qualcomm QCC3091 SoC with aptX Lossless Audio, Certified Snapdragon Sound, and Hi-Res...
- AI Algorithm and 6 Mics ENC. Enhanced by 6 built-in microphones, advanced AI algorithms, and Qualcomm cVc 8.0 tech, the noise canceling earbuds...
If you take long flights, noise from engines and chatter can really bother you. The EarFun Air Pro 4 wireless earbuds can help. They have active noise cancellation (ANC), which makes loud sounds much quieter. This helps you enjoy your music or podcast without distraction.
These earbuds have Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound. This means they support high-quality music formats like aptX Lossless, LDAC, and LE Audio. The sound is clear and detailed, so your music sounds great. The hybrid ANC can reduce noise by up to 50dB. That blocks out engine rumble and background noise on planes.
The EarFun Air Pro 4 also has six AI microphones. These make phone calls clearer, even on a noisy plane. You get about 11 hours of listening time with one charge. The earbuds charge quickly with USB-C. They use Bluetooth 5.4, so your connection stays stable and lags are minimal. The design is lightweight and fits comfortably, perfect for long trips.
These earbuds are a good choice for travelers. They give you effective noise blocking, high-quality sound, and all-day comfort.
Pros:
- The noise cancellation blocks up to 50dB of sound, great for noisy places like planes.
- High-quality sound with advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon features.
- Up to 11 hours of use on one charge, with fast charging and easy device switching.
Cons:
- Not water-resistant, so they might not be best in rain or sweaty workouts.
- Fit may vary for different users, and some might not get perfect noise isolation.
- Price is higher than basic earbuds, but it matches the features and quality.
Plantronics BackBeat GO 410 Wireless Headphones
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Bluetooth headphones with a small and lightweight design sit flush with your ears for a discreet and comfortable listening...
- NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES: Accessible through the BackBeat FIT app, dual-mode active noise canceling provides clear audio in high- and low-noise...
- LONG LASTING BATTERY: Bluetooth headphones have up to 8 hours of wireless listening with ANC and up to 10 hours of wireless listening without...
Looking for earbuds that can last through long flights and stay comfortable? The Plantronics BackBeat GO 410 are a good choice. These small, lightweight Bluetooth earbuds sit snugly in your ears and are easy to wear for hours. They work well with a travel pillow, so you stay comfortable sitting for a long time. You can turn on dual-mode active noise canceling using the BackBeat FIT app. This helps block out engine noise or chatting passengers. The earbuds offer up to 8 hours of noise canceling use — or 10 hours if you don’t use noise canceling. They have smart sensors that turn off when not in use, saving battery life. You can connect them in different ways, either with Bluetooth or with a wired cable.
Best For: travelers and busy commuters who want discreet, comfortable earbuds with noise canceling and flexible wired or wireless options.
Pros:
- Small and light, so they sit comfortably and stay out of the way
- Active noise canceling that you can control with the app
- Long battery life — up to 10 hours without noise canceling and 8 hours with it
- Sensors turn off the earbuds when you take them out to save power
Cons:
- They don’t block out all noise, so some sound might still get in
- You need to use the app to switch noise canceling on and off
- No extra features like custom sound profiles or touch controls
Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds with Noise Cancellation
- SOUND WITHOUT COMPROMISE: Seize the day your way and defy distractions using these wireless Bluetooth earbuds with world-renowned noise...
- POWERFUL, PROVEN AUDIO: Get into it while you get after it, these IPX4-rated Bluetooth wireless earphones feature remarkable sound quality for a...
- SEIZE-THE-DAY STAYING POWER: These Bluetooth noise cancelling earbuds let you listen for up to 8.5 hours* and a quick 20-minute charge in the...
If you like to have peace and clear sound on long flights, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds might be a good choice. These earbuds do a great job blocking out noise. They make engine sounds and chatter quieter so you can focus or rest. The sound quality is good too, with deep bass and clear audio. You can change how they sound using the Bose QuietComfort app. You can turn the noise-canceling on or off and adjust the sound setting easily. The earbuds are comfortable and come with nine different ear tips and bands. They are also sweat and splash-proof because they have an IPX4 rating. This makes them good for people who move around a lot or exercise outdoors.
Best For: Travelers and commuters who want noise cancellation, good sound, and a comfortable fit.
Pros:
- Great noise canceling that blocks out background sounds
- Custom sound control through the Bose app
- Long battery life, up to 8.5 hours of use
- Wireless charging case makes it easy to charge
Cons:
- Sometimes the earbuds lose connection when not moving or sitting still
- The app can be slow and tricky to use
- Some people find the earbuds slip out during exercise or movement
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Canceling Earbuds for Long Flights
When choosing noise-canceling earbuds for long flights, you’ll want to consider how well they block out engine noise and background sounds; after all, silence makes that three-hour nap way more likely. Battery life is vital, too—nothing’s worse than your earbuds dying just as you’re finally getting comfortable—and quick charging features are a bonus. And of course, comfort and durability matter, so you don’t end up with sore ears or earbuds that can handle a bit of accidental spilled water on that mini tray table.
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
Noise cancelling works by blocking out sounds so you can enjoy music or relax. Different earbuds have different levels of noise cancellation. Some can cut out up to 98% of outside noise. That means you can barely hear what’s going on around you.
The way noise cancelling works is called Active Noise Cancelling, or ANC. It uses tiny microphones to listen to the sounds outside. Then, it creates anti-noise signals that cancel out those sounds. Some earbuds mix two types of microphones—front and inside the ear—to get a better noise reduction. These are called hybrid ANC systems. They work well for loud noises like engine sounds or busy streets.
Some earbuds let you change how much noise cancelling they do. This helps you find a balance between blocking noise and hearing your surroundings. Keep in mind that quiet low hums, like airplane engines, are easier to block. Sudden or high-pitched sounds, like sirens or shouting, are harder to cancel.
Battery Longevity and Charging
Long flights can be long without good earbuds. That’s why battery life matters. Look for earbuds that can play music or podcasts for at least 8 to 10 hours. This way, you won’t run out of sound in the middle of your trip.
Fast-charging is helpful too. If your earbuds can give you a few hours of use in just 10 to 15 minutes of charging, that can save your day. Sometimes, the charging case can add even more listening time—sometimes up to 20 or 50 hours. This extra power means you can keep listening on long travel days.
Wireless charging can make finding a power source easier. You just set your case down on a pad, and it charges without plugging in. But remember, it’s best to keep your earbuds’ batteries charged. Letting the battery drain all the way can make the batteries wear out faster. Keep them charged so they last longer and work well every time you need them.
Comfort and Fit
Choosing the right earbuds for all-day wear is about more than just size. Look for a design that feels natural and stays in place without causing discomfort. Earbuds with ergonomic, lightweight shapes and oval or rounded tips fit your ears better and help you wear them longer without fatigue. Having different sizes of tips or adjustable tips means you can find a snug fit that blocks noise and doesn’t slip out. Some earbuds are flexible or have bendable parts and ear wings that spread pressure evenly. This helps avoid sore spots and feels more comfortable. Features like ear hooks or wings give extra stability, so your earbuds stay put even if you move around or nod your head. A secure, gentle fit helps prevent slipping and keeps you comfortable all day.
Durability and Water Resistance
When you pick earbuds for long flights, think about how tough and water-resistant they are. Look for earbuds with an IPX4 rating or higher. That number means they can handle splashes, sweat, and light rain. So if you spill coffee or get caught in a shower at the airport, your earbuds will be okay. Strong materials like tough plastic or metal help them last through travel and handling. If your earbuds fold or have compact shapes, check that the hinges and clasps are sturdy. This keeps them safe when you toss them in your bag. Always look at the specs from the maker to make sure they can handle water and rough treatment. You want earbuds that can handle your trip just like you do—no fragile parts needed.
Connectivity Stability
A steady Bluetooth connection makes listening easier, especially on long flights. Look for earbuds that use newer Bluetooth versions like 5.2 or higher. These give you a better range and a more reliable link. Multi-point pairing is helpful because it lets you switch quickly between your phone and tablet. A good connection can work up to 15 meters or more, so you won’t lose sound if you move around. Features like automatic reconnection and low latency also help keep the sound smooth, even if there’s wireless interference. Some earbuds are better at keeping a stable link in tough environments. Picking models that are tested for good, steady performance can save you frustration. On a noisy flight, the last thing you want is your earbuds cutting out in the middle of your favorite song.
Portability and Storage
Having small, noise-canceling earbuds that fit comfortably in your ears can make a big difference on a long flight. Look for earbuds that are compact and foldable. They come with small carrying cases that make packing easy and save space in your bag. Weighing less than 1.5 ounces, these lightweight earbuds help you stay comfortable during a trip. Wireless cases that fit in your pocket are a great way to store them and get quick access. They remove the hassle of tangled cords. Earbuds with an ergonomic shape stay in place, even if you move or shake your head suddenly. Multiple ear tip sizes and adjustable fittings help you get a snug, noise-isolating fit without needing extra bulk. This makes for a peaceful listening experience, even if the cabin is noisy.
FAQs
How Do Noise-Canceling Earbuds Affect Battery Life During Long Flights?
You notice noise-canceling earbuds drain battery faster during long flights because active noise cancellation uses power continuously. To extend usage, you can turn off ANC when not needed or choose models with longer-lasting batteries.
Are Wireless Earbuds Safe for Use During Takeoff and Landing?
During takeoff and landing, wireless earbuds are safe, but you should keep the volume low and follow airline regulations. Using Bluetooth devices might be restricted during critical phases, so check with the crew for safety guidelines.
Can Noise-Canceling Earbuds Cause Discomfort or Ear Fatigue on Long Use?
You might experience discomfort or ear fatigue with prolonged use of noise-canceling earbuds, especially if they fit too tightly. Take breaks, guarantee proper fit, and listen at moderate volumes to reduce discomfort during extended listening sessions.
How Do Waterproof or Sweatproof Features Impact Noise Cancellation Performance?
Waterproof or sweatproof features don’t usually impact noise cancellation performance directly. You get durable, sweat-resistant earbuds ideal for workouts or travel, so you enjoy uninterrupted noise-canceling in various environments without sacrificing sound quality or convenience.
Do Any Earbuds Offer Travel-Friendly Features Like Carry Cases or Foldability?
You’ll find many earbuds with travel-friendly features like compact carry cases and foldable designs, making them easy to carry, protect, and store during trips. These features enhance convenience and help you stay organized while traveling.
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Last update on 2025-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API