A good noise cancelling headset with a microphone can make all the difference when it comes to productivity. The ability to eliminate background noise while clearly communicating on calls or recordings is invaluable in many work environments. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best one to suit your needs and budget.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through what to look for in an effective noise cancelling headset with a mic and provide recommendations on some of the top models available today. We’ll cover key factors like sound quality, noise cancellation capabilities, microphone performance, comfort, and design. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to select the perfect productivity headset for blocking distractions and enhancing concentration.

Benefits of Noise Cancelling Headsets

There are a number of reasons why a noise cancelling headset with mic can be a smart investment for improving daily work performance:

Minimizes Distracting Noises

Ambient noises like chatter, phones ringing, typing and even HVAC systems can greatly undermine focus. Noise cancelling technology actively blocks out these external sounds so you can zero in on the task at hand without constant disruption. This allows for deeper concentration, faster work speeds and greater accuracy.

Enhances Call and Recording Clarity

The microphone capabilities on noise cancelling headsets are engineered to isolate your voice from surrounding commotion. This results in crisp, clear calling and voice recording even in noisy environments. Customers, coworkers and managers will be able to hear you without distraction.

Reduces Fatigue and Ear Strain

Trying to hear over background noise causes extra effort and fatigue. By eliminating excess noise, noise cancellation alleviates that strain. Working in sustained quiet conditions is easier on both concentration stamina and actual ear comfort. You’ll stay energized and productive longer without distraction or discomfort.

Improves Immersion and Productivity

With external noises muted, it’s easier to get into flow states and completely immerse yourself in the work. Uninterrupted concentration results in greater productivity and efficiency. You experience less wasted time and frustration.

Provides Privacy

Noise cancelling headsets allow you to work confidentially regardless of your environment. Surrounding conversations or chatter won’t distract or disrupt you. This privacy will be appreciated if you ever need to take a call or listen to recordings in public spaces.

For anyone who works in open offices, shared workspaces or public areas, a good noise cancelling headset with mic can be a worthwhile investment. Next we’ll go over the key features to evaluate when choosing one.

What to Look for in a Productivity Headset

What to Look for in a Productivity Headset

To choose the best noise cancelling headset with mic for your needs, keep the following features in mind:

Noise Cancellation Technology

This is the cornerstone feature of these headsets, so the quality of noise cancellation should be a top priority. Look for models with advanced noise cancelling tech that offer maximum external noise reduction. The best will block out ambient distractions without creating an uncomfortable pressure sensation.

Sound Quality

In addition to noise cancellation capabilities, the general sound quality for music or calls should be excellent. Seek out headsets with top-notch audio drivers and speakers that deliver immersive, high-fidelity sound that makes listening a pleasure instead of a chore.

Microphone Quality

For clear calling, recordings and voice commands, the microphone needs to pick up your voice while filtering out surrounding noise. Prioritize headsets promoting quality built-in mics or microphone options. Noise cancellation in the microphone itself is also a useful feature for the clearest communication.

Comfort

For prolonged wear, comfort is key. Look for generously padded earcups that won’t put excessive pressure on your ears. Adjustable, padded headbands will also promote comfort over long periods. Compact, lightweight designs are ideal for portability and preventing neck fatigue.

Battery Life

Since active noise cancellation requires power, battery life is an important factor. Seek out headsets delivering at least 15+ hours of continuous use for uninterrupted productivity between charges. Quick charging capabilities are also useful for times when you need a fast battery boost.

Wireless Connectivity

For flexible use around the office or home opt for wireless over wired models. Bluetooth connectivity allows easy pairing with smartphones, computers and tablets. Longer wireless range gives you the freedom to move as needed.

Call and Voice Assistant Integration

Maximize productivity by choosing headsets with direct integration for calls, recordings, voice commands and AI voice assistants like Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant. Streamlined controls for music, calls and voice commands keeps everything easily accessible.

Durability

Look for durable construction that can withstand being tossed in your bag and the wear and tear of daily use. Damage-resistant materials ensure longer lifespan. Sweat-proof and water-resistant models allow use during exercise.

Getting a headset that delivers well in all these categories will ensure an excellent user experience that upgrades productivity. Keep these factors in mind as we review some top noise cancelling headset with mic options.

Top Noise Cancelling Headset Picks for Productivity

With so many headset models on the market it can be hard to determine which are truly the best for blocking noise and improving concentration.

Based on extensive hands-on testing and research, the following are recommended as some of the top productivity-enhancing noise cancelling headsets available:

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Key Features:

  • World-class noise cancellation with adjustable 11 levels
  • Crisp, premium audio quality
  • Clear microphone system
  • Alexa and Google Assistant integration
  • 20 hours battery life
  • Sleek, comfortable over-ear fit

The Bose 700 Headphones are widely considered one of the best pairs of noise cancelling headphones on the market. Their microphone system excellently isolates voice while filtering out ambient noise for superior call clarity. The adjustable 11 levels of industry-leading noise cancellation allow you to customize the amount of isolation you need. With Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa built-in, you can control music, get information and manage tasks completely hands-free. The lightweight stainless steel headband and plush earcups provide business-class comfort. The Bose 700s may come at a premium price point, but deliver an overall experience that is hard to beat.

Sony WH-1000XM4

Key Features:

  • Best-in-class noise cancelling technology
  • 30 hours battery life
  • Superior sound quality
  • Multipoint Bluetooth pairing
  • Touch sensor controls
  • Lightweight, comfortable fit

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 model has earned wide acclaim as one of the leading noise cancelling headphones available today. The intelligent noise cancelling adapts to your surroundings for an immersive listening experience with or without music. The integrated mic delivers crystal clear call quality by cutting out ambient noise. The plush earcups isolate sound while remaining comfortable for all-day wear. With touch sensor controls and a speak-to-chat feature, you can manage music, calls and virtual assistants without ever taking off the headset. If you want some ambient sound filtered in, simply cup your hand over the earcup to activate quick attention mode. The 30 hours of battery life will get you through even the longest workdays. For one of the very best noise cancelling experiences, the Sony WH-1000XM4 should top your list.

Jabra Elite 85h

Key Features:

  • Powerful adaptive noise cancellation
  • Rain-resistant durability
  • Customizable sound
  • 36 hours battery life
  • One-touch access to voice assistants
  • Lightweight comfort-fit

Jabra’s Elite 85h headphones deliver premium noise cancellation and sound in a comfortable, wireless package. The advanced noise cancelling uses built-in microphones to constantly analyze environmental noise and cancel it out with opposite antiphase waves. Just tap a single button to engage HearThrough mode when you need to tune into your surroundings. Fully certified for Microsoft Teams, the headset optimizes call quality while permitting seamless collaboration. The intuitive Jabra Sound+ app allows you to customize the audio with various equalizer and profile presets to suit your preferences. With an impressive 36 hours of battery life, the Elite 85h allows you to keep your focus for full work days and beyond.

Anker Soundcore Life Q20

Key Features:

  • Active noise cancellation up to 90% reduction
  • 40-hour playtime per charge
  • Hi-res audio certification
  • Rotating earcups for perfect fit
  • Lightweight and adjustable
  • Budget-friendly price point

The Soundcore Life Q20 by Anker offers surprisingly robust noise-cancelling capabilities at an affordable price point. The hybrid active noise cancellation can block out up to 90% of ambient sounds by monitoring the environment and generating opposite frequencies. This allows you to focus in noisy environments despite the budget price. The soft memory foam earcups rotate to allow a custom fit for all-day comfort. With an incredible 40 hours of playtime between charges, you can go multiple days without recharging. If you need a quick boost, 5 minutes of charging yields 4 hours of use. For taking calls, the noise-reduction microphones ensure your voice is transmitted clearly. Overall, the Anker Life Q20 punches well above its weight class to deliver premium noise cancellation at a fraction of the cost.

Beats Solo Pro

Key Features:

  • Effective active noise cancelling (ANC)
  • Apple H1 headphone chip for iOS connectivity
  • 22 hours total listening time
  • On-ear, adjustable fit
  • Sweat and water resistant
  • Voice capability with Siri

With Beats renowned audio engineering, the Solo Pro delivers robust noise cancelling in a slick, on-ear design. The active noise cancelling blocks external distractions while providing immersive sound quality. The convenience of Apple’s H1 chip provides easy connectivity, long range and hands-free “Hey Siri” capability for iOS devices. Tap the earcup to toggle between ANC and Transparency mode when you need to chat. With 22 hours of combined playback and ANC, you can power through busy workdays. And water and sweat resistance allows you to wear them during workouts without worry. For Apple users wanting noise cancellation, quality sound and stylish design, the Beats Solo Pros make an excellent pick.

Cowin HE2 Bluetooth Headphones

Key Features:

  • Budget-friendly ANC option
  • 30 hours battery life
  • Plush memory foam cushions
  • Streamlined Bluetooth 5.0
  • Built-in microphone
  • Lightweight over-ear design

The Cowin HE2 prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy quality noise cancellation. At just a fraction of the cost of premium models, these headphones still manage to block ambient distractions thanks to their active noise cancelling technology. This lets you focus without breaking the bank. Bluetooth 5.0 provides a quick, reliable wireless connection to your devices. The built-in microphone enables clear hands-free calls. While audio quality doesn’t match more expensive options, it still delivers satisfying immersive sound. With soft cushions that allow all-day wear and 30 hours of battery per charge, the Cowin HE2 punches well above its weight given the affordable price point.

Plantronics Voyager Focus 2

Key Features:

  • Class-leading active noise cancellation
  • Immersive stereo sound
  • Boom mic with noise cancellation
  • Smart sensors for auto-play/pause
  • 20 hour battery life
  • Comfort-fit ear cushions
  • Microsoft Teams version available

Designed expressly for professional work environments, the Plantronics Voyager Focus 2 provides top-notch noise cancellation to improve concentration and productivity. This headset actively blocks out disruptive office noise allowing you to better focus on the task at hand. The boom microphone intuitively mutes when flipped up while cutting out ambient noise when in use for crisp call clarity. Sensors detect when the headset is being worn to automatically pause media when set down and resume when put back on. With soft ear cushions that allow comfortable all-day wear and 20 hours of battery life, the Voyager Focus 2 is purpose-built for optimizing productivity. For those who work extensively with Microsoft products, the Microsoft Teams version integrates directly with that ecosystem.

Avantree Leaf Long Range Wireless Headset

Key Features:

  • 100 foot Bluetooth range
  • 40mm drivers for crisp sound
  • On-ear leather design
  • Active noise cancellation
  • Built-in boom mic with ENC tech
  • 15 hours battery life
  • Can connect two devices at once

With an incredible 100 foot Bluetooth range, the Avantree Leaf headset grant you unparalleled freedom of movement while eliminating distracting noises. The active noise cancellation successfully blocks out ambient distractions for improved concentration even at a distance. Sound quality shines thanks to the large 40mm audio drivers delivering stellar treble and booming bass. The built-in boom mic utilizes dual microphone ENC technology to isolate your voice for crisp call clarity. Multipoint technology allows easy switching between two connected devices. And with 15 hours of battery life, you can make it through your entire work day on a single charge. If you need flawless wireless performance across large distances, the Avantree Leaf is an excellent choice.

This covers some of the top options currently available for noise cancellation, sound quality and microphone performance. Be sure to consider your budget, preferred fit and work environment to select the best model for upgrading your productivity.

Shopping Tips for Finding the Right Productivity Headset

To make sure you end up with the ideal noise cancelling headset for your needs and budget, keep these shopping tips in mind:

Identify Your Key Priorities

Before starting your search, determine your must-have features. Do you care more about best-in-class noise cancellation, premium audio, top call quality, extended battery life or maximum comfort? Rank what matters so you know what to look for.

Set Your Budget

Headset pricing ranges from under $100 into the hundreds depending on features. Setting a firm budget in advance keeps your search focused only on affordable options.

Read Professional Reviews

Experts like Wirecutter, Tom’s Guide and SoundGuys offer in-depth, hands-on assessments of headphone models. Their rankings, ratings and reviews can help surface the best choices.

Compare Specifications

Dig into specs provided by manufacturers to compare battery life, noise cancellation effectiveness, audio quality, fit, included accessories and other key details.

Try Them on First If Possible

When available, go hands-on with headsets to get a feel for comfort and fit. This ensures you’ll be happy wearing the pair you choose for hours on end.

Consider Your Usage Habits

Think about when and how you’ll use the headset to make sure you get one well-suited to your daily habits and work environment.

Look for Bundles With Extra Accessories

Kits that include extra batteries, cables, adapters or carrying cases provide added value compared to solo headset purchases.

Choose Your Preferred Design

On-ear, over-ear and earbud styles each have pros and cons. Decide which is most comfortable for you and best fits your work needs.

Doing your homework by identifying priorities, setting a budget and evaluating options will help you select an exceptional noise cancelling headset that upgrades productivity and minimizes distractions.

Improving Focus and Concentration at Work

Improving Focus and Concentration at Work

The right noise cancelling headset creates a quiet workspace to improve productivity anywhere. But certain work habits can augment your concentration even further:

  • Minimize multi-tasking – Focus on one task at a time instead of constantly switching between tasks and apps which can deplete focus. Give your full attention to the current project.
  • Take regular breaks – Short breaks help recharge mental focus. Even just a quick walk around the office or snack break can boost productivity long term by counteracting fatigue.
  • Mute notifications – Disable app notifications during periods of concentrated work to avoid distracting pings and popups.
  • Listen to focus music – Play instrumental or focus music with headphones to help tune out ambient noise without being distracting itself.
  • Use noise cancelling in noisy environments – Make use of noise cancelling capabilities when working from loud public spaces like coffee shops to minimize disruptions.
  • Prioritize and plan – Outline the most important tasks and projects. Planning what to tackle and when can optimize your time and focus efforts.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality noise cancelling headset with mic improves productivity by eliminating distracting ambient noise. Key features like effective noise cancellation, premium sound and a clear microphone allow you to concentrate better for extended periods. Leading options from Bose, Sony, Jabra and others deliver on these must-haves to tune out distractions.

With smart work habits like minimizing multitasking, taking breaks and setting task priorities, the right headset upgrades your ability to stay focused and maximally productive. Yealink headsets: A complete guide to choosing the right one for you explores the essential factors such as budget, fit, and usage needs like wireless range, ensuring that, with the perfect noise-canceling headset, professionals and students can gain the isolation and concentration necessary to excel at individual or collaborative work, making the benefits of concentration and work effectiveness truly worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does noise cancellation in headphones work?

A: Noise cancelling headphones use built-in microphones to detect ambient sound waves and generate opposite sound waves to effectively cancel out and block the environmental noise. This active cancellation removes distractions without needing to blast volume.

Q: Do noise cancelling headphones require power to work?

A: Yes, the active noise cancellation technology requires battery power, whether replaceable AA batteries or a rechargeable built-in battery. For travel, using an in-flight adapter can help conserve battery life.

Q: Is there any audio quality difference with noise cancellation on or off?

A: With some headphone models, turning noise cancellation off can slightly change the audio quality and signature the headphones produce. Test your headphones’ audio both ways.

Q: Can you safely sleep with noise cancelling headphones on?

A: Sleeping with active noise cancelling headphones is not generally recommended. The headphones may shift and create uncomfortable pressure. Earbuds specifically designed for sleep would be a safer choice.

Q: Are noise cancelling headphones bad for your hearing health?

A: Noise cancelling itself does not cause hearing damage. But be sure to keep volume levels moderate. Prolonged extremely loud music exposure can negatively impact hearing over time.