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10 Best Airplane Headphones: Top Picks for Comfort in 2026
When it comes to air travel, comfort is key, and having the best airplane headphones can significantly enhance your flying experience. Whether you’re looking to drown out engine noise, enjoy in-flight entertainment, or simply relax with some music, finding the right pair can make all the difference. The best airplane headphones combine excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 airplane headphones available on Amazon in 2026, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed choice.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Features
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 offer an unparalleled listening experience with their sophisticated noise cancellation technology. They come equipped with a microphone system that isolates your voice for clear calls and voice commands, plus touch-sensitive controls for easy operation.
Pros:
- Outstanding noise cancellation
- Impressive sound quality
- Good battery life (up to 20 hours)
Cons:
- High price point
- Touch controls can be finicky
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
Sony WH-1000XM4
Features
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are revered for their top-tier noise-canceling capabilities and rich, clear audio performance. The headphones feature adaptive sound control that adjusts the noise-canceling settings based on your activity, further enhancing your audio experience.
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Long battery life (up to 30 hours)
- Customizable sound profile through an app
Cons:
- Can be costly
- Some users may find them bulky
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: Premium noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback) (USB Type-C Cable included)
- TOUCH SENSOR CONTROLS: Pause play skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls.
- SPEAK-TO-CHAT: Automatically reduces volume during conversations
- SUPERIOR CALL QUALITY: Precise voice pick up combines five built-in microphones with advanced audio signal for clear calls
Sennheiser PXC 550-II
Features
The Sennheiser PXC 550-II headphones are designed specifically for travelers. They come with adaptive noise cancellation and a long battery life of up to 30 hours. The intuitive touch controls and voice assistant compatibility make them user-friendly for passengers on the go.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit for prolonged use
Cons:
- Touch controls can be unintuitive
- Bulkier than other models
- Immersive HD stereo sound: Engineered with precision, a built-in 5 Band EQ, customizable sound modes for a personalized listening experience, and hybrid ANC for noise-free audio
- Hybrid ANC: Whether at work, at the gym, or outdoors, you can immerse yourself in your music with Active Noise Cancellation or stay aware of your surroundings thanks to the Transparency Mode
- Get the best possible sound: Connect your ACCENTUM headphones and laptop with the Bluetooth dongle and experience the finest high-definition music your wireless Bluetooth headphones can offer
- Plug it in, pair it, and forget it: Connect your desktop or laptop computer to your Bluetooth headphones with this easy-to-use USB-A/USB-C Dongle - Compatible with both PC and Mac
- Use the controls on your headphones: The controls for calls and music on your headphones will still work. Use them for media and calls
Apple AirPods Max
Features
The Apple AirPods Max provides a premium design and high-fidelity audio experience. Their computational audio capabilities offer crisp and immersive sound quality, while adaptive EQ and transparency mode adjust the sound based on the environment.
Pros:
- Superior sound quality
- Premium build and design
- Effective noise cancellation
Cons:
- Pricey compared to competitors
- Heavier than standard headphones
- ULTIMATE OVER-EAR LISTENING EXPERIENCE — Apple-designed dynamic driver provides high-fidelity audio. Computational audio combines custom acoustic design with the Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences.
- FIVE FRESH COLORS — AirPods Max come in five fresh colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange. A color-matched Smart Case is also included.
- FOCUS ON WHAT’S PLAYING — Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation removes up to 2x more background noise, so you can immerse yourself in music.*
- HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — Transparency mode lets you comfortably hear and interact with the world around you.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, AirPods Max deliver an immersive listening experience that places sound all around you.* You can also listen to select songs, shows, and movies in Dolby Atmos.
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Features
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on sound quality. They feature hybrid active noise cancellation and come with multiple EQ modes for personalized sound experiences.
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Impressive battery life (up to 40 hours)
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Noise cancellation not as effective as competitors
- Build quality feels less premium
- Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology: Maintain your focus with Life Q30’s hybrid active noise cancellation. Dual noise-detecting microphones pick up and filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound to ensure nothing distracts you from your music.
- Ultimate Noise Cancellation Experience: Customize Life Q30’s noise cancellation with 3 modes—Transport minimizes airplane engine noise, Outdoor reduces traffic and wind, and Indoor dampens the sound of busy offices with people talking in the background. Note: ANC is not compatible with an AUX Cable connection.
- Hi-Res Music: Hear every detail of your favorite songs thanks to Life Q30’s 40mm drivers. The highly-flexible silk diaphragms reproduce thumping bass and crisp treble that extends up to 40kHz for improved clarity.
- 50-Hour Playtime: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones play up to 50 hours of music in noise cancelling mode. Standard mode extends the playtime to 70 hours, while a short 5-minute charge gives you 4 hours of listening.
- Pressure-Free Comfort: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones have ultra-soft protein leather earcups with memory foam padding to fit snugly over your ears. The lightweight build also ensures they’re comfortable for long listening sessions.
Jabra Elite 85h
Features
The Jabra Elite 85h headphones prioritize both sound quality and comfort with their ergonomic design. They offer smart sound, which detects your environment and uses the appropriate noise cancellation level.
Pros:
- Good microphone quality for calls
- Great battery life (up to 36 hours)
- Comfortable for long wear
Cons:
- Sound profile may not appeal to everyone
- May feel bulky for some users
- BLOCK UNWANTED BACKGROUND NOISE: Jabra Elite 85h Wireless Headphones are engineered for the best wireless calls and music experience with SmartSound. Smart Active Noise cancellation responds to the environment, switching on if it detects background noise.
- SMARTSOUND AUDIO: The revolutionary SmartSound Audio technology in these Bluetooth headphones analyze your sound environment and automatically applies your personalized audio to give you the sound you need, when you need it.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE HEADPHONES: Up to 36 hours of battery on a single charge (with ANC switched on), and fast charging of 5 battery hours in 15 minutes. Listen from the start of the day to the end with these noise canceling headphones.
- UNMATCHED CALL QUALITY: The advanced technology uses 6 of the 8 built-in microphones to enhance call quality and block out background and wind noise. This enables crystal clear sound, so you can make and receive calls in total confidence.
- WATER RESISTANT: No matter the elements, you’re prepared to go anywhere with certified water and rain resistant headphone technology and nano-coating of the internal components. Plus, there are no pesky wires in these Bluetooth wireless headphones
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Features
The classic Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones maintain their status as a favorite among travelers. They come with dual microphones for noise rejection during calls and optimized noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and fit
- Reliable noise cancellation
- Good battery life (up to 20 hours)
Cons:
- Outdated design compared to newer models
- Limited controls
- Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for clear phone calls and voice access to your phone's default virtual assistant, like Siri
- Industry-leading wireless headphones let you adjust the level of noise cancellation to suit your environment
- Volume-optimized EQ makes your music always sounds its best, whether you turn it up on an airplane, or turn it down while at the office
- Bluetooth and NFC pairing with voice prompts for hassle-free wireless connections
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
Features
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro offer a compact, true wireless option with active noise cancellation and ambient sound mode. Their sleek design and multifunction capabilities make them ideal for travelers seeking convenience.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Good sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
- Connectivity issues reported
- 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
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT
Features
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT headphones are a lightweight option with effective noise-canceling technology. They come with a long battery life of up to 30 hours and sound quality that rivals higher-end competitors.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Comfortable fit
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Noise cancellation is basic
- Lacks advanced features found in pricier models
- This USB cable cord is Compatible With Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT/ATH-S200BT/ATH-ANC500BT/ATH-ANC700BT/ATH-ANC900BT/ATH-SR50BT/ATH-DSR7BT/ATH-G1WL/ATH-SR30BT wireless over-ear headphones
- 100% Brand new high quality USB 2.0 cable
- Cable Length: 5FT (1.5m).Color: Black
- Overload Protection with High Quality Wires / Anti-Interference Feature with Better Isolation Materials
- Please contact us with any questions or concerns - we are here to help
Plantronics BackBeat Go 810
Features
The Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 headphones are a budget-friendly option with decent noise canceling and sound quality. They feature a comfortable design with plush ear cups, making them suitable for long flights.
Pros:
- Good sound quality for the price
- Comfortable for long periods
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Noise cancellation is not the best
- Build quality seems less durable
- Plantronics signature audio: Over ear headphones equipped with 40 millimeter drivers that deliver rich, detailed audio so you can enjoy every note.
- Noise canceling headphones: Accessible through the backbeat fit app, dual-mode active noise canceling provides clear audio in high- and low-noise environments.
- Long lasting battery: Bluetooth headphones have upto 22 hours of wireless listening with anc and upto 28 hours of wireless listening without anc.
- Eq presets: Customize the sound of your music with balanced and bright eq presets, available through the plantronics backbeat app.
- Comfortable design: Slim, over ear headphones feature memory foam for long-lasting comfort.
Buying Guide: Best Airplane Headphones
Traveling can be stressful, and the right set of headphones can make a world of difference—especially on long flights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best airplane headphones for your needs.
Key Considerations
1. Noise Cancellation
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): Headphones with ANC use microphones and speakers to create sound waves that cancel out ambient noise. This is particularly beneficial on airplanes, where engine noise can be distracting.
- Passive Noise Isolation: These headphones block external sound through physical design and materials. Look for snug-fitting options if ANC isn’t a priority.
2. Comfort
- Fit and Padding: Choose over-ear or on-ear styles with ample cushioning. Look for adjustable headbands and rotating ear cups for a customizable fit.
- Weight: Lightweight headphones are less likely to cause discomfort during long flights.
3. Sound Quality
- Look for headphones that deliver clear, balanced audio. Bass-heavy models may be appealing for music lovers, while those seeking more neutrality for movies may prefer a different sound profile.
4. Battery Life
- Long battery life is essential, especially for long-haul flights. Aim for headphones that offer at least 20-30 hours of playback time on a single charge.
5. Connectivity
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wireless headphones can be more convenient, but ensure they can be used with an audio cable for flights if battery life is a concern. Many planes also require a wired connection.
- Bluetooth Range: If choosing Bluetooth headphones, ensure they provide a stable connection over distance, particularly if you want to move around in your seat.
6. Special Features
- Microphone: If you plan to use your headphones for calls, look for built-in microphones with good voice clarity.
- Controls: Touch or physical controls can make it easier to adjust volume or skip tracks without pulling out your device.
- Carrying Case: A compact carrying case can protect your headphones and make them easier to store in your carry-on.
7. Price Range
- Determine your budget. There are excellent options across all price ranges, but generally, you’ll find that higher-priced models tend to offer better sound quality and more advanced features.
Top Brands to Consider
- Bose: Known for exceptional noise cancellation and comfort. Popular models include the Bose QuietComfort series.
- Sony: Renowned for premium audio quality and advanced features in their WH-1000XM series.
- Sennheiser: Offers a great mix of sound quality and comfort, particularly the PXC series.
- Apple: The AirPods Max provide seamless integration for Apple users with high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation.
- Anker Soundcore: Often a more budget-friendly option that still offers great sound quality and comfort.
Recommended Models
-
Bose QuietComfort 45
- Type: Over-ear
- Noise Cancellation: Excellent ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
- Comfort: Extremely comfortable for long wear
-
Sony WH-1000XM4
- Type: Over-ear
- Noise Cancellation: Industry-leading ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
- Special Features: Adaptive sound control
-
Apple AirPods Max
- Type: Over-ear
- Noise Cancellation: Superior ANC and spatial audio
- Battery Life: 20 hours
- Design: Premium build with excellent sound quality
-
Sennheiser PXC 550-II
- Type: Over-ear
- Noise Cancellation: Effective ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
- Comfort: Lightweight design with good sound quality
-
Jabra Elite 85h
- Type: Over-ear
- Noise Cancellation: Good ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours
- Durability: Weather-resistant design
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right headphones for air travel can enhance your overall flying experience. Assess your priorities, whether it’s noise cancellation, comfort, sound quality, or additional features. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect pair that fits your travel needs. Happy travels!
