6 Best Noise Isolating Headphones – Expert Reviews

By: Editorial Team

Owning a pair of the best noise isolating headphones is totally worth the investment. As much as they are a bit expensive, they will offer peace of mind, hearing protection, and many more benefits.

As you probably know, noise isolating headphones use passive noise control to reduce unwanted ambient sounds.

You just have to get your hands on a good pair of headphones for you to enjoy music without excessive volume.

Since there are so many noise-isolating headphones, we decided to narrow down the list to six of the best headphones.

This way, you will have an easy time picking a pair of decent ones.


Position
First Place
Runner Up
Best Budget
Snapshot
Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II - Black
V-MODA Crossfade LP2 Vocal Limited Edition Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone - Matte Black
Edifier H840 Audiophile Over-The-Ear Headphones - Hi-Fi Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Audiophile Closed Monitor Stereo Headphone - Black
What You Need To Know About The Headphones

Noise isolation at its finest.

Aside from superb noise isolating. Sound quality is one of the best.

The best budget headphones for noise isolation.

Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
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Position
First Place
Snapshot
Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II - Black
What You Need To Know About The Headphones

Noise isolation at its finest.

Prime
Amazon Prime
Position
Runner Up
Snapshot
V-MODA Crossfade LP2 Vocal Limited Edition Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone - Matte Black
What You Need To Know About The Headphones

Aside from superb noise isolating. Sound quality is one of the best.

Prime
Amazon Prime
Position
Best Budget
Snapshot
Edifier H840 Audiophile Over-The-Ear Headphones - Hi-Fi Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Audiophile Closed Monitor Stereo Headphone - Black
What You Need To Know About The Headphones

The best budget headphones for noise isolation.

Prime
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Last update on 2024-03-19 at 12:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Preview
Name
Rating
Acoustic design | Connectivity | Frequency response | Drivers
Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II - Black

Closed | Wireless | N/F | N/F
V-MODA Crossfade LP2 Vocal Limited Edition Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone - Matte Black

Closed | Wired | 5 - 30kHz | Diaphragm 50mm
beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32 ohm Limited Edition Professional Studio Headphones, Gray

Closed | Wired | 5 - 30kHz | 45mm
Audio-Technica ATHM50XBT Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones, Black

Closed | Wired | 15 - 28,000 kHz | 45 mm large-aperture
Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2,Black

Closed | Wired | 20Hz~20kHz | 50mm
Edifier H840 Audiophile Over-The-Ear Headphones - Hi-Fi Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Audiophile Closed Monitor Stereo Headphone - Black

Closed | Wired | 20Hz~20kHz | 40mm

What Are The Best Noise Isolating Headphones?

There is quite a good number of decent noise isolating headphones, but none comes close to the Bose SoundLink II, V-MODA Crossfade LP2 and Beyerdynamic D T770 Pro.

In case your budget is a bit low, you can go for the Edifier H840 or the Vic Firth V2.

Best Noise Isolating Headphones Reviewed

Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II - Black

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Pros

  • They are comfortable
  • Have great sound
  • 15 hours of battery life
  • Great headset for phone calls

Cons

  • They are not great for bass-heavy music

Acoustic design: Closed| Connectivity: Wireless| Frequency response: N/F| Drivers: N/F | Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: N/F | Impedance: N/F

If you are looking for wireless sound-isolating headphones, you might want to try out the Bose SoundLink II. They sound as good as wired headphones, and they ooze class.

What’s better? Bose SoundLink II offers a perfect balance of performance and price. You won’t have to chuck out a lot of money on these headphones.

The sound quality of the SoundLink II is great, but nothing spectacular. We noticed that this model provides exceptional clarity but falls short in the bass department.

Don’t get us wrong, the bass is quite powerful, but it’s nowhere near the upper-tier models.

Bose is popular for making comfortable headphones, and the wireless SoundLink II is no exception.

This pair uses synthetic leather padding on the ear cups to ensure that you remain comfortable. Besides, the ear cups are deep enough to make for a hot-spot free fit.

Moving on, the Bose SoundLink Wireless II is user-friendly. It has a multifunction button and simple volume controls as well.

What’s better? Bose has an app that allows you to adjust the equalizer button.

This pair scores a solid 7 out of 10 when it comes to the portability metric. It is lightweight and can fold down a bit to ensure that it fits in the included travel case.


Best On ear Noise Isolating Headphone – V-MODA Crossfade LP2

V-MODA Crossfade LP2 Vocal Limited Edition Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone - Matte Black

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Pros

  • They are built to last
  • Comfortable on the ears and head as well
  • Top-notch sound quality
  • Comes with a portable exoskeleton case

Cons

  • The cables tend to entangle a lot
  • Its midrange could be better

Acoustic design: Closed| Connectivity: Wired | Frequency response: 5 – 30 kHz | Drivers: LP2 Dual-Diaphragm 50mm | Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: 105dB @ 1kHz 1mW | Impedance: 32Ω

The V-MODA Crossfade LP2 is the pair of headphones that will end your expensive quest for excellent sound.

This pair was designed and master crafted by serious audiophiles, artists, Grammy-winning musicians, editors, and DJs.

V-MODA has done a pretty good job when it comes to designing these headphones. They feature a military-grade construction to ensure they’ll last for years.

Everything from the metal shield to the Kevlar-braided cable feels tough and solidly built.

The Crossfade LP2 headphones are available in a matte black color scheme, but you’ll also get some flashier gunmetal shields if you want to change the color scheme.

Despite these over-ear headphones being on the weightier side, you’ll enjoy the fact they are comfortable. This can be attributed to the 50mm drivers, headband padding, and ear cup cushions.

The inner and outer rings of the dual-diaphragm drivers are great at delivering vibrant bass, vivacious highs, and vivid mids without bleeding into each other.

V-MODA comes with two cables, including the SpeakEasy 1-Button Mic cable and the Audio Only Cable.

The 1 Button Mic Cable facilitates easy communication while the Audio Only Cable is only meant for high-quality listening.

These headphones do excel at producing an exciting sound quality signature. You will notice that they are great at separating each element present in a given audio or recording.

Besides, you’ll be sure to enjoy music without necessarily worrying about sound leakage.

Traveling with the V-MODA Crossfade LP2 should not be stressful at all. You can fold the headband and store them in a compact exoskeleton case.

Best Value Noise Isolating Headphone – Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32 ohm Limited Edition Professional Studio Headphones, Gray

Where To Buy

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Pros

  • Comfortable ear cups and headband
  • Solid construction
  • Unmatched sound quality
  • Provide ample sound isolation
  • Little to no sound leakage

Cons

  • Comes with a long and heavy coiled cable
  • They’re not portable

Acoustic design: Closed| Connectivity: Wired | Frequency response: 5 – 30 kHz | Drivers: 45mm| Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: 96dB | Impedance: 32 Ω/ 80 Ω/ 250Ω

If you are looking to upgrade to a pair of headphones that will let you enjoy the intricacies of sound, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro might cut it for you.

This model was specifically made for sound technicians and professional producers, which explains why they are quite common in recording studios.

Being one of the best noise isolating headphones, you’d expect it to have incredible sound quality.

We noticed that the highs are quite pronounced while the mids are crisp. These are the kind of headphones that allow you to discern the instruments and vocals of any recording easily.

The bass of the DT770 Pro is not the strongest suit, but it still beats a good number of headphones in the same price range. You’ll be surprised by how good it is when it comes to mixing bass-heavy music.

These closed headphones do not disappoint when it comes to soundstage. They provide a layered and wide soundstage that you can’t find in other headphones.

Unlike some of the headphones, you do not have to couple the DT 770 PROs with an amp. This pair produces staggering volume levels without distorting the sound quality.

Comfort is paramount when listening to music, recording, or working on a mix for an extended period.

Luckily, the DT 770 Pro guarantees high levels of comfort- thanks to its padded metal headband and soft velour ear pads.

The DT 770 Pro features a sturdy construction. All its essential components are made using high-quality materials for longevity.

You can count on these headphones to remain strong for a couple of years.


Best Passive Noise Isolating Headphone – Audio-Technica ATH-M50X

Audio-Technica ATHM50XBT Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones, Black

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Pros

  • They’re affordable
  • Have lively, engaging sound
  • Sturdy construction
  • Good for EDM

Cons

  • Cables lack a microphone and controller
  • The design could be better

Acoustic design: Closed| Connectivity: Wired | Frequency response: 15 – 28,000 kHz| Drivers: 45 mm large-aperture | Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: 99dB | Impedance: 38Ω

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X is yet another decent pair of noise-isolating headphones that you should consider purchasing.

Originally, the ATH-M50Xs were designed to be used by DJs, but that changed after they were redesigned. Now they can be used by a larger audience.

This pair is great for anyone looking for solid headphones that have powerful bass and plenty of energy. We like the ATH-M50X simply because of their soundstage and reasonable price.

If you want a pair of headphones with a flashy design, you might as well look elsewhere.

The ATH-M50X doesn’t have an appealing look. They are designed to be sturdy, which explains the chunky headband. With their rugged design, you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged any time soon.

When it comes to sound quality, it is hard to fault the ATH-M50x headphones. This pair boasts of an excellent dynamic impact, accurate tonal balance, and spacious stereo imaging.

Having tested the older and new version of this pair of headphones, we noticed that the ATH-M50x has better sound quality. The bass is more detailed, while the midrange and treble sound clearer.

Once you purchase the ATH-M50x headphones, you’ll get two straight cords and a coiled one.

You can always interchange the cables depending on whether you are at home, in the studio, or on-the-go. The only downside is none of these cables has an inline microphone.


Best Budget Noise Isolating Headphone – Vic Firth V2

Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2,Black

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Pros

  • Longer-lasting comfort
  • Lifelike sound
  • Bigger bass
  • Incredible passive noise reduction

Cons

  • The design could be better
  • They are bulky

Acoustic design: Closed| Connectivity: Wired| Frequency response: 20Hz~20kHz| Drivers: 50mm | Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: 98dB | Impedance: 29, 35Ω

The Vic Firth V2 is one of the best value noise isolating headphones. It is a decent pair of headphones, but it might not impress you in terms of looks.

You should only go for the Vic Firth V2 if you only care about noise isolation capabilities.

The Vic Firth V2 Stereo Isolation Headphones guarantees 25dB of passive noise reduction.

This is pretty impressive, considering that your ears will always be protected against unsafe sound levels.

Amazingly, this audio kit is equipped with large 50mm drivers in the ear cups. With these drivers, you’ll enjoy a powerful low end, clear highs, and cleaner mids.

You’ll definitely enjoy the sound quality that these headphones deliver.

As much as the Vic Firth V2 lacks a flashy design, you’ll enjoy the comfort that it provides.

It has a nicely padded headband that allows you to have the headphones on for long. The large ear cups are also padded, and they are designed to rest on the ears without applying much pressure.

This pair of headphones is ideal for digital drumming, live recording, and pretty much any other performance applications.


Best Cheap Noise Isolating Headphone – Edifier H840

Edifier H840 Audiophile Over-The-Ear Headphones - Hi-Fi Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Audiophile Closed Monitor Stereo Headphone - Black

Where To Buy

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Pros

  • Optimal comfort
  • It’s affordable
  • Adjustable bass
  • It’s lightweight

Cons

  • No mic
  • Undetachable cable

Acoustic design: Closed | Connectivity: Wired | Frequency response: 20Hz~20kHz | Drivers: 40mm | Driver type: Dynamic| Sensitivity: 96dB | Impedance: 32Ω

If you are looking for entry-level monitor headphones, the Edifier H840 might be your best bet. They are one of the best sound isolating headphones under $100.

It is hard to get any decent pair of headphones at this price point, but the Edifier H840 defied the odds. Let’s see what this audio kit has to offer.

First off, the Edifier H840 does pretty well when it comes to sound quality. Its noise isolation capability is incredible, and it is up there with top-tier headphones.

It produces a very clear and clean sound. You should definitely enjoy listening to different genres of music.

The Edifier H840 comes with 40mm drivers; they are quite impressive as they can deliver an excellent low end and solid mid-range.

Moreover, you’ll appreciate how these headphones strike a perfect balance between the treble and bass.

Additionally, the Edifier H840 is designed to be durable without compromising comfort. You can adjust the headband to achieve the perfect fit.

Besides, the ear cups are made using soft pleather, and they are generously padded. You’ll be sure to enjoy your music in comfort.

What Are Noise Isolating Headphones?

These are headphones that can block out ambient sound naturally. This means you won’t hear people talking, wind, and other noises.

This type of headphones relies on design and material to prevent noise from reaching the ear canal.

Noise Cancelling Vs. Noise Isolating Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones rely on an in-built microphone to detect external noise and produce an anti-noise signal that cancels out the undesired noise.

On the other hand, noise isolating headphones block out ambient noise by creating a good seal with the ears.

Noise cancelling headphones are much better in terms of blocking ambient noise as compared to their counterparts.

Noise isolating headphones produce better sound quality as there is no active circuitry involved.

On the other hand, you might find a drop in sound quality when using noise cancelling headphones.

Are Noise Isolating Headphones Safe?

Yes, noise isolation headphones are pretty safe because they do not emit any radiation.  You do not have to worry about these headphones interfering with your health.

Final Thoughts

Having a great pair of noise-isolating headphones lets you enjoy your music in comfort and class.

Grab yourself one of the pairs we’ve reviewed, and you’ll no longer have to worry about ambient noises ruining your music.