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10 Best Airplane Earbuds for Unmatched Comfort and Sound in 2026
When flying, having the best airplane earbuds can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or simply trying to drown out the noise of the cabin, the right pair can enhance your aviation journey. In 2026, a wide range of options is available on Amazon, catering to various needs—from active noise cancellation to comfortable wear. This article dives deep into the best airplane earbuds currently available, ensuring you make an informed choice for your next flight.
1. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Best for: Apple Ecosystem Users
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) have refined their already outstanding performance with improved noise cancellation and battery life. With an immersion feature that adjusts sound based on your surroundings, they are perfect for airplane travel.
−$65.92
- PIONEERING HEARING — AirPods Pro 2 unlock the world’s first all-in-one hearing health experience: a scientifically validated Hearing Test,* clinical-grade and active Hearing Protection.*
- INTELLIGENT NOISE CONTROL — Active Noise Cancellation removes up to 2x more background noise.* Transparency mode lets you hear the world around you, and Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for the best listening experience in any environment.* And when you’re speaking with someone nearby, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume of what’s playing.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — The Apple-designed H2 chip helps to create deeply immersive sound. The low-distortion, custom-built driver delivers crisp, clear high notes and full, rich bass in stunning definition. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions.*
- CUSTOMIZABLE FIT — Includes four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ear shapes and provide all-day comfort. The tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure AirPods Pro 2 in place.
- DUST, SWEAT, AND WATER RESISTANT — Both AirPods Pro and the MagSafe Charging Case are IP54 dust, sweat, and water resistant, so you can listen comfortably in more conditions.*
Product Review: The sound quality is top-notch, boasting deep bass and crisp highs. The new Adaptive Transparency mode allows you to hear important announcements while still enjoying your media.
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit for long durations
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
Cons:
- Costly compared to other options
- Some features are only available for Apple users
2. Sony WF-1000XM4
Best for: Noise Cancellation Lovers
The Sony WF-1000XM4 is renowned for its unmatched noise cancellation capabilities. If you’re seeking a serene environment while flying, these earbuds are a top contender.
−$10.99
- Tune into exceptional sound quality with Sony’s Industry leading noise cancelling technology. Powered by the new Integrated Processor V1, a superior driver unit and an array of sound enhancing features, experience every word, note, and tune with incredible clarity, no matter your environment.
- Specially developed by Sony, our new Integrated Processor V1 delivers the industry’s highest level of noise cancelling without sacrificing battery life, while the newly designed 6mm driver offers crystal clear sound, rich bass and an enhanced noise cancelling wireless headphone experience, even at low frequencies.
- Experience high resolution audio wireless with Bluetooth 5.2 and the power of LDAC, a technology that transmits 3X more data than a conventional set of Bluetooth earbuds allowing you to enjoy sound as close as possible to that of a dedicated wired connection.
Product Review: These earbuds feature a dynamic driver that delivers high-resolution audio. The ambient sound control settings allow you to customize the noise levels, which is beneficial in an airplane environment.
Pros:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Superior sound quality
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier design
- Can be pricey for budget buyers
3. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Best for: Comfort and Sound Quality
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are designed to provide exceptional comfort during flights, with an ergonomic design that cradles your ears.
- SOUND WITHOUT COMPROMISE: Seize the day your way and defy distractions using these wireless earbuds with world-renowned noise cancellation for a listening experience that makes the everyday sound epic
- POWERFUL, PROVEN AUDIO: Get into it while you get after it, these IPX4-rated wireless earphones feature remarkable sound quality for a satisfyingly rich listening experience that hits all the right notes and perfect for workouts or running
- SEIZE-THE-DAY STAYING POWER: These noise cancelling earbuds have wireless charging and let you listen for up to 8.5 hours* and a quick 20-minute charge in the wireless case extends the playback by up to 2 hours***. USB-C cable also included
- A FIT THAT WON’T QUIT: To help you achieve the perfect fit, a trio of eartip and stability band sizes are included to ensure your in ear headphones feel comfortable, snug, and secure for a personalized fit
- HANDS-FREE, HASSLE-FREE SWITCHING: Bluetooth multipoint lets you seamlessly connect the Bluetooth earbuds to multiple devices at once while Bluetooth 5.3 technology keeps you connected within up to 30 feet of your device
Product Review: Featuring custom-tuned acoustic architecture, these earbuds ensure you receive crisp highs and solid lows. The active noise cancellation is superb, making your flight experience more enjoyable.
Pros:
- Unmatched comfort
- Strong noise cancellation
- Premium sound quality
Cons:
- Bulky charging case
- Expensive compared to competitors
4. Jabra Elite 85t
Best for: Versatility
The Jabra Elite 85t is a versatile choice, suited for both travel and daily use. These earbuds offer customizable settings through an app, making them great for airplane environments.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cancels the noise you don’t want to hear; HearThrough (our word for transparency mode) lets in the sounds you do
- The Elite 85t buds have been engineered with the most cutting-edge noise cancellation technology on the market, to give you complete control over how you hear the world around you
- Fully adjustable HearThrough lets you choose how much of the outside world you want to let in using the handy slider, and then access that setting at the touch of a button
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cancels the noise you don’t want to hear; HearThrough (our word for transparency mode) lets in the sounds you do
- Our advanced digital ANC uses two microphones in each earbud to cancel the noise you don’t want to hear before you hear it
Product Review: The sound quality remains consistently good across different genres. Most notably, the earbuds feature both passive and active noise cancellation, allowing you to adjust the level as required.
Pros:
- Customizable sound profiles
- Good call quality
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Noise cancellation not as strong as others
- Average battery life
5. Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro
Best for: Value for Money
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro balances performance and price effectively, making them a great value option for travelers seeking the best airplane earbuds without breaking the bank.
−$20.00
- Matchless Noise Cancellation: Liberty 4 Pro noise cancelling earbuds boast 7 sensors—6 sound sensors and 1 barometric pressure sensor—to capture noise from every angle. From planes to trains, enjoy a serene journey with 3× stronger noise reduction.
- Real-Time Adaptive Noise Reduction: These noise cancelling wireless earbuds adapt to your ever-changing environment every 0.3 seconds, ensuring optimal, seamless noise reduction around the clock.
- Effortless Touch Controls: The touch bar and display let you fine-tune the noise-cancelling levels of these wireless earbuds at any time with a simple swipe on the case.
- Studio-Level High-Fidelity Music: Feature the enhanced ACAA acoustic architecture, a 10.5mm bass driver, a titanium-coated tweeter, and a digital crossover for peak driver performance. Indulge in crisp, full-bodied sound perfected with nuances.
- Super Fast Charging: Liberty 4 Pro noise cancelling earbuds charge 2× faster than the previous models with the 5C battery. A 5-minute recharge offers 4 hours of playtime. Enjoy up to 10 hours between charges, extendable to 40 hours with the case.
Product Review: Featuring an eight-microphone setup, these earbuds offer fantastic call quality and noise cancellation. They also support customizable sound settings via an app, enhancing your listening experience.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good sound quality
- Decent noise cancellation
Cons:
- Bulkier than some premium models
- Touch controls may be finicky
6. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Best for: Audiophiles
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are specially designed for music lovers who refuse to compromise on sound quality even at high altitudes.
−$141.98
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear.Specific uses for product : Travel,Sports and Exercise
- Superior sound powered by the TrueResponse transducer and aptX Adaptive for the highest resolution audio
- Customized audio experience via built-in equalizer and pre-sets, including Bass Boost, and Sound Personalization for bespoke audio
- Multipoint enables connection to 2 devices
- Compact, ergonomic design with Silicone ear adapters (XS, S, M, L) and fins (S, M, L) to ensure optimal comfort and a secure fit
Product Review: These earbuds come equipped with advanced audio processors that provide high-fidelity sound. The noise cancellation feature effectively blocks out cabin noise while maintaining audio clarity.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable for long wear
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Expensive
- Slightly larger case
7. Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
Best for: Samsung Users
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro offer features that integrate seamlessly with Samsung devices, making them an excellent option for those already in the Samsung ecosystem.
- REDESIGNED WITH THE BEST SOUND IN MIND: Keep your Galaxy Buds3 Pro in with a design that delivers long-lasting comfort for an immersive listening experience
- A SLEEK DESIGN MADE TO SHINE: Let your sound shine as much as you do with Buds3 Pro that light up¹
- AUDIO THAT ADAPTS TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS: Immerse yourself while staying alert to your surroundings thanks to Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation with Galaxy AI²; Your Buds will automatically adapt to help you hear what matters²
- AUDIO TAILORED TO BEST FIT YOU: Immerse yourself in the best listening experience, no matter how you wear your Galaxy Buds3 Pro; An Adaptive Equalizer for Sound Optimization with Galaxy AI allows you to get the most out of your audio²
- EXCLUSIVE 2-YEAR WARRANTY: Includes a 2-year limited Samsung warranty (Amazon exclusive)⁵
Product Review: The active noise cancellation is impressive and pairs well with the ambient sound mode that lets in important announcements. The Buds Pro delivers powerful sound with rich bass.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- Seamless integration with Samsung devices
- Advanced noise cancellation
Cons:
- Noise cancellation less effective than competitors
- Battery life could be better
8. Taotronics SoundLiberty 92
Best for: Budget Travelers
The Taotronics SoundLiberty 92 earbuds provide an excellent budget-friendly solution for those seeking quality sound without the premium price tag.
−$30.00
- Reduce Noise By Up to 98.5%: Liberty 4 NC noise cancelling earbuds have a high sensitivity in-ear sound sensor, an oversized driver, and an innovative noise isolation chamber that cancels up to 98.5% of noise for peaceful travel.
- Noise Cancelling Adapts to Ears and Environments: Adaptive ANC 2.0 makes real-time calculations and adjusts to your ear canals and external environment for maximum quiet amongst the hustle and bustle.
- Crisp Sound with 3× More Detail: 11mm custom-tuned drivers deliver consistently crisp and detailed sound. Experience Hi-Res wireless audio and LDAC technology that transfers 3× more data than regular Bluetooth—bringing wireless music to life.
- Sculpt Your Sound Profile: Not everyone listens the same, so use HearID 2.0 to find the perfect sound profile for you. If you want to mix it up, the EQ is fully adjustable or choose from 22 presets to match your audio.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: In normal mode, enjoy 10 hours of playback on a single charge or up to 50 hours with the case. With ANC on, get 8 hours between charges, extendable to 40 hours with the case.
Product Review: Despite their lower price, these earbuds manage to deliver respectable sound quality and a comfortable fit. The battery life is impressive for the price point, making them suitable for long flights.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good battery life
- Comfortable to wear
Cons:
- Build quality feels cheap
- Limited advanced features
9. Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro
Best for: Gamers on the Go
The Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro is designed for gamers, but they also make for excellent airplane earbuds. They boast ultra-low latency, which is a significant advantage for in-flight entertainment.
−$12.00
- Powered by Razer Chroma RGB: With 16.8 million colors and a suite of effects to choose from, bring out your style and stand out from the crowd with the ultimate wireless earbud flex.Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ears.Specific uses for product : Movies and Gaming.Microphone Pick Up Pattern : Omnidirectional. Headphone Connector : Bluetooth 5.2. Microphone Signal-to-Noise Ratio : 64 dB.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology: Whether you’re grooving to your favorite beats, gaming, or watching a movie, eliminate all distractions with Active Noise Cancellation that detects and nullifies unwanted ambient noise
- 60ms Low Latency Gaming Mode: Activate Gaming Mode to fire up the Razer Hammerhead True Wireless’ leading performance while gaming on Bluetooth devices for a more seamless experience
- In-Ear Design: Get a comfortable, secure, in-ear fit that offers enhanced noise isolation with our new design. Includes additional ear tip sizes for customized levels of comfort
- Dual Environmental Noise Cancelling (ENC) Microphones: Armed with smart microphones that detect, identify, and reduce unwanted background noise, voice communication on the Razer Hammerhead True Wireless is now clearer than ever
Product Review: These earbuds have customizable RGB lighting and offer high-quality audio performance. The noise cancellation feature lets you immerse yourself fully in your media.
Pros:
- Ultra-low latency audio performance
- Customizable sound profiles
- Good noise cancellation
Cons:
- May be overkill if you’re not a gamer
- Battery life could be better
10. SoundPEATS Air3
Best for: Lightweight Design
The SoundPEATS Air3 earbuds are known for their lightweight build, making them ideal for long flights where comfort is key.
−$20.00
- 【CNET 】- "The SOUNDPEATS Air5 Pro buds not only fit comfortably, but they also offer good overall performance, including solid sound quality, for the money."
- 【Dual Lossless Audio Codecs – Studio-Quality Sound Wirelessly】Experience true Hi-Res Audio Wireless with dual-certified lossless audio codecs. Featuring LDAC (up to 990kbps) and Qualcomm aptX Lossless (1.2Mbps), the Air5 Pro delivers every detail of your music with stunning clarity, rivaling wired headphones.
- 【Hi-Res Audio & Snapdragon Sound Certified for Authentic Playback】Officially certified by Hi-Res Audio Wireless and Snapdragon Sound, guaranteeing a premium, high-fidelity listening experience. This ensures you hear music exactly as the artist intended, with exceptional clarity and precision.
- 【Powerful Snapdragon S3 Sound Platform for Ultra-Low Distortion】Driven by the advanced Qualcomm S3 Gen 2 Sound Platform, these high-resolution wireless earbuds achieve an ultra-high signal-to-noise ratio and ultra-low distortion, providing a pristine and powerful audio foundation.
- 【Expansive Soundstage & Precise Instrument Separation】Break the limits of typical in-ear listening. Our expert acoustic tuning creates a wide, immersive soundstage with precise instrument separation, making you feel inside the music, whether it's a classical orchestra or a live rock band.
Product Review: These earbuds offer a great balance of quality sound and lightweight design. The battery life is decent, making them suitable for most flight types without requiring constant recharging.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Decent audio quality
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Basic features
- Noise isolation not as effective
Finding the best airplane earbuds can significantly enhance your in-flight experience, making your travel more enjoyable and comfortable. Whether you prioritize sound quality, noise cancellation, or budget, there’s a perfect pair awaiting you in 2026.
Buying Guide for the Best Airplane Earbuds
Traveling by air can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to noise and comfort. The right pair of earbuds can enhance your flying experience significantly, allowing you to enjoy music, movies, or simply block out the noise around you. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best airplane earbuds for your next flight:
1. Noise Cancellation Features
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- What is it? ANC technology uses microphones to pick up ambient noise and generate sound waves that cancel it out.
- Why it’s important: This feature is crucial for long flights, allowing you to enjoy your audio without distractions from engine noise or passenger chatter.
Passive Noise Isolation
- What is it? This refers to the physical design of the earbuds that helps block out external noise (e.g., snug fit in the ear canal).
- Why it’s important: Good passive isolation can significantly reduce ambient noise, working hand-in-hand with ANC.
2. Comfort and Fit
Ear Tip Options
- What to look for: Different sizes and materials (foam, silicone) to ensure a secure fit for extended wear.
- Why it’s important: Uncomfortable earbuds can lead to pain and fatigue during long flights. Choose earbuds that come with multiple tips for a customized fit.
Weight and Design
- What to look for: Lightweight and ergonomic designs that don’t cause discomfort.
- Why it’s important: Bulky or heavy designs can cause ear fatigue, especially during long flights.
3. Sound Quality
Frequency Response
- What to look for: A good range (20 Hz – 20 kHz) ensuring crisp highs and deep lows.
- Why it’s important: High-quality audio enhances your listening experience, whether you’re watching a movie or listening to music.
Drivers
- What to look for: Larger drivers generally produce better sound quality.
- Why it’s important: Quality drivers enhance the overall audio experience by providing balanced sound.
4. Connectivity
Wired vs. Wireless
- Wired Earbuds:
- Pros: No need to charge, typically better sound quality.
- Cons: Cables can be cumbersome.
- Wireless Earbuds:
- Pros: Freedom of movement and less clutter.
- Cons: Battery-dependent; ensure long battery life for flights.
Bluetooth Range
- What to look for: A solid Bluetooth connection to ensure uninterrupted audio.
- Why it’s important: A good connection is crucial for a seamless listening experience.
5. Battery Life (for Wireless Models)
- What to look for: Minimum of 10-15 hours of playback time, preferably longer.
- Why it’s important: Ensure your earbuds can last through long flights without needing a recharge.
6. Durability and Build Quality
- What to look for: Reliable materials, sweat and water resistance (IPX rating), and sturdy cables (if wired).
- Why it’s important: Durable earbuds will withstand travel wear and tear better, making them a better investment.
7. Brand Reputation and Reviews
- What to look for: Trusted brands with good reviews from frequent travelers.
- Why it’s important: Established brands usually offer better customer service and product reliability.
8. Price Range
- What to look for: Set a budget based on your preferences but be open to investing in quality.
- Why it’s important: Higher-priced models often offer better features, sound quality, and durability.
9. Additional Features
- In-line Controls: Convenient for adjusting volume, changing tracks, and answering calls.
- Microphone Quality: Essential if you plan to use the earbuds for calls or voice commands.
- Carrying Case: A compact case helps protect the earbuds during travel.
Conclusion
Investing in a good pair of airplane earbuds can greatly enhance your in-flight experience. Consider your specific needs—whether it’s noise cancellation, comfort, sound quality, or battery life—when making your choice. With the right earbuds, you can enjoy a more peaceful and enjoyable journey. Safe travels!
