In an era where remote work, virtual classrooms, and digital seminars have become a part of everyday life, the need for clear, distraction-free communication has never been more important. Whether it’s a weekly team meeting via Zoom or a daily check-in with remote coworkers, noisy environments can make virtual communication a frustrating experience. To counter this, many professionals and students are turning to noise cancelling headphones — devices once considered a luxury but now available at more accessible price points. For those seeking affordability without compromising quality, there are several outstanding options that make virtual communication smoother and more productive.
Why Noise Cancelling Matters in Online Meetings
Virtual meetings often take place in spaces that are not acoustically optimized. From barking dogs to street noise to other household members in the background, unwanted sounds can disrupt the flow of conversation and force participants to repeat themselves. This leads to reduced focus, lower productivity, and an overall poor meeting experience. Noise cancelling headphones effectively eliminate or reduce these distractions by actively blocking or dampening ambient sounds so users can concentrate on the dialogue.
Types of Noise Cancelling Headphones
Noise cancelling technology generally falls into two categories:
- Passive Noise Cancellation (PNC): This type relies on the design and materials of the headphone—such as ear cups that seal around the ear—to physically block out sound.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): These headphones use built-in microphones to pick up ambient noise, then produce sound waves that cancel out those frequencies. This type is more effective at reducing consistent background noise like fan hums or street traffic.
For online meetings, headphones that combine both ANC and PNC tend to deliver the best results by reducing background interruptions substantially.
Top Affordable Noise Cancelling Headphones for Online Meetings
While premium options from brands like Bose and Sony offer industry-leading features, there are budget-friendly alternatives that perform surprisingly well. Below are some highly rated models that combine effectiveness, comfort, and affordability.
1. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
This over-ear model is a consistent favorite among budget-conscious buyers. The Soundcore Life Q20 offers hybrid active noise cancellation and up to 40 hours of playtime. Plus, its memory foam ear cups ensure comfort during long meetings.
- Price Range: $60–$70
- ANC Performance: Very Good
- Microphone Quality: Good for conference calls
2. TaoTronics SoundSurge 85
Designed specifically for call clarity, the SoundSurge 85 delivers decent ANC while offering dual microphones for improved voice isolation. The 40mm drivers complement the call features with vibrant audio quality.
- Price Range: $50–$65
- ANC Performance: Good
- Microphone Quality: Great for voice calls
3. Tribit QuietPlus 72
Comfortable for extended wear and stylishly designed, Tribit QuietPlus 72 packs a surprising punch for its price. With 30-hour battery life and hybrid ANC, it’s particularly popular among students and remote workers.
- Price Range: $60–$80
- ANC Performance: Moderate
- Microphone Quality: Acceptable for casual meetings
4. Mpow H12 IPO
Previously a top seller on platforms like Amazon, the Mpow H12 IPO remains an excellent entry-level ANC headphone. Though the brand has limited availability now, refurbished or used options are still worth considering for under $50.
- Price Range: $35–$50
- ANC Performance: Basic but effective
- Microphone Quality: Average
5. OneOdio A10
With dual connection modes (wired and wireless), this model gives users flexibility during long work sessions. The OneOdio A10 features respectable active noise cancelling, supportive ear cups, and an overwhelmingly positive customer reputation regarding its microphone quality.
- Price Range: $70–$90
- ANC Performance: Good
- Microphone Quality: Very Good
Features to Look for in Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones
Before making a purchase, it’s beneficial to know which features are truly needed for optimal online communication. Here are some key points to consider:
- Microphone Quality: A strong ANC feature on its own won’t improve your speech transmission. Look for headphones with built-in noise-reducing mics designed for conferencing.
- Comfort & Weight: Meetings can last anywhere from 30 minutes to multiple hours. Lightweight designs with cushioned ear cups are ideal for long sessions.
- Battery Life: Wireless headphones should offer at least 20–30 hours of playtime to avoid frequent charging.
- Bluetooth vs. Wired: While Bluetooth provides mobility, wired options ensure zero latency, a plus for real-time conversations.
How to Improve the Virtual Meeting Experience
While headphones make a big difference, they’re just one piece of the picture. Here are a few extra tips to enhance the experience:
- Use a quiet room: Pair your headphones with a noise-free location for the best audio performance.
- Set up your microphone properly: Even with dual-mic systems, positioning can impact voice clarity. Adjust settings through your app for optimal results.
- Keep devices charged: It’s a simple step but easy to overlook, especially with wireless models.
Conclusion
Noise cancelling headphones are no longer reserved for tech enthusiasts or frequent flyers. Affordable, feature-rich models now cater effectively to the needs of professionals and students working or studying from home. Investing in the right pair can significantly boost communication clarity, focus, and overall productivity. Fortunately, there are plenty of capable options under $100 that rival even some premium models when used specifically for online meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Are cheap noise cancelling headphones effective for daily meetings?
A: Yes, many affordable models offer sufficient ANC and mic clarity for daily virtual meetings, especially in moderately noisy environments. -
Q: What type of noise do ANC headphones block best?
A: Active noise cancelling is most effective against constant, low-frequency sounds like air conditioning, traffic, or fan noise. -
Q: Wired or wireless headphones — which is better for meetings?
A: Wired headphones often offer clearer voice transmission with zero latency, but wireless models provide added mobility and convenience. -
Q: Can I use these headphones for both work and entertainment?
A: Absolutely. Most of these headphones offer rich audio quality that works well for music and movies in addition to virtual meetings. -
Q: Do budget headphones support video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams?
A: Yes, most affordable ANC headphones with a microphone are compatible with major video conferencing tools right out of the box.