Debating whether active noise cancelling (ANC) technology or wireless Bluetooth technology has been the most practical headphone development of the 21st century is a bit like debating whether the macaroni or the cheese is the biggest contributor to a mac ‘n’ cheese. Both play a huge role in making music listening convenient and, most crucially, enjoyable on the move; they go hand in hand like smitten newlyweds walking down the aisle.
While Bluetooth is universal in wireless headphones and earbuds today – no more radio frequency (RF) transmission, thank you very much – ANC has only in recent years rolled out to models beyond those of premium asking prices and flagship status. Now, you can get decent noise-blocking ability from well-performing in-ears and over-ears below £100 / $100 / AU$200, as you can see in our best noise-cancelling headphones buying guide.
