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10 Best Airplane Headphones of 2026 for Ultimate Comfort and Sound Quality
When it comes to traveling, especially by airplane, comfort is key. One essential element of comfort is quality sound, and that’s where the best airplane headphones come in. These devices not only shield you from the noise of the aircraft but also enhance your enjoyment of music, movies, and podcasts during your journey. In 2026, a variety of products on Amazon stand out for their features, performance, and overall user satisfaction. Below, we’ve compiled a detailed review of the top ten airplane headphones available, ensuring that you can make an informed choice for your travel needs.
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Bose has long been a trusted name in audio products, and the QuietComfort 35 II truly embodies comfort and performance.
- 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
Best for: Exceptional noise cancellation and comfort during long flights.
Product Review: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones feature industry-leading noise cancellation technology. They allow users to enjoy crystal-clear audio while effectively blocking out the ambient sounds of an airplane. With a lightweight design, extended battery life of up to 20 hours, and Bluetooth connectivity, it’s a favorite among travelers. Users also appreciate the ability to access voice assistants with a simple button press.
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit for long hours
- Long battery life
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- High price point
- Some users may find it bulky
2. Sony WH-1000XM4
Another heavyweight in the noise-canceling arena is the Sony WH-1000XM4, which offers an impressive feature set.
- 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
Best for: Tailored sound profiles and advanced features.
Product Review: The WH-1000XM4 comes with adaptive sound control, allowing it to sense your environment and adjust the noise cancellation accordingly. With 30 hours of battery life and quick charge functionality, these headphones are perfect for long-haul flights. The touch-sensitive controls make it easy to manage your audio experience seamlessly.
Pros:
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- 30-hour battery life
- Touch controls
- Excellent sound quality
Cons:
- Pricey compared to some options
- Slightly heavier than competitors
3. Sennheiser PXC 550-II
For those who prioritize sound quality, the Sennheiser PXC 550-II is an excellent choice, offering rich audio and superior noise cancellation.
- 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
Best for: Audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality.
Product Review: These headphones boast a minimalist design with plush ear cups and adjustable noise cancellation settings. A battery life of up to 30 hours makes the PXC 550-II ideal for extended travel. It also features touch-sensitive controls and voice assistant compatibility, making it a versatile option for travelers.
Pros:
- Rich sound quality
- 30 hours battery life
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Customizable noise cancellation
Cons:
- Pricier than average options
- Some users report connection issues
4. Apple AirPods Max
Apple’s offering in the high-end headphone market has gained considerable attention, particularly for their active noise cancellation and design.
- 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.
Best for: Apple ecosystem users who value style and performance.
Product Review: The AirPods Max features a sleek design and premium materials. The spatial audio feature enhances sound quality for a more immersive experience. With up to 20 hours of battery life and seamless integration with Apple devices, these headphones are perfect for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Incredible sound and spatial audio
- Excellent noise cancellation
Cons:
- High price tag
- Heavier than traditional headphones
5. Jabra Elite 85h
Jabra is well-known for its audio products, and the Elite 85h is no exception, combining style, comfort, and quality sound.
- 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
Best for: Those seeking great value and solid performance.
Product Review: The Jabra Elite 85h offers 36 hours of battery life and robust noise cancellation features. Its SmartSound feature adjusts sound based on your environment, ensuring an optimal listening experience. These headphones are also water-resistant, making them versatile for various conditions.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- SmartSound technology
- Comfortable ear cups
- Water-resistant design
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Noise-cancellation could be better
6. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Anker has made its mark in the audio space, offering affordable options that don’t compromise on quality.
- 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.
Best for: Budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
Product Review: The Soundcore Life Q30 provides excellent noise cancellation combined with a 40-hour battery life. Users can enjoy customizable sound profiles through the accompanying app, ensuring the right audio experience tailored to personal preferences. The lightweight design enhances comfort for longer flights.
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Customizable sound profiles
- Comfortable design
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Noise cancellation not as effective as premium brands
- Limited brand recognition
7. Panasonic RP-HZ047
For those looking for a simple yet effective wired option, the Panasonic RP-HZ047 offers good sound quality and comfort at a lower price point.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers needing reliable headphones.
Product Review: The RP-HZ047 specializes in providing comfortable passive noise isolation without the frills of more expensive models. These over-ear headphones are lightweight, making them suitable for long flights. They offer a decent sound quality that exceeds expectations for their price range.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Comfortable for extended use
- Good sound quality for the price
Cons:
- No active noise cancellation
- Less durable than higher-end products
8. Philips SHB9850NC/00
Offering a balanced mix of comfortable fit and quality sound, the Philips SHB9850NC/00 is a contender among mid-range options on the market.
- 🎧Compatibility : ACCOUTA Earpads Cushion/Handband Compatible with Philips SHB9850NC Headphone/Headset
- 🎧Protein Leather: Made of premium protein leather, offering a soft, skin-friendly touch that feels gentle on your ears and enhances long-lasting comfort.
- 🎧 Easy Installation: Perfect fit for your headphones, easily replaceable in few minutes, contact us if you need help.
- 🎧1-Year Warranty: Buy with confidence! If you experience any quality issues, simply contact us for a free replacement or a refund.
- 🎧Brand-New Experience: It's time to Remove your old earpads and replace them with our Professional Ear Cushion. Enjoy your "NEW" headphone
Best for: Balanced performance and pricing.
Product Review: These headphones feature noise-canceling technology and built-in Bluetooth for wireless convenience. The intuitive design ensures a comfortable fit, making them great for long flight durations. With a 16-hour battery life, they strike a nice balance between quality and cost.
Pros:
- Good noise cancellation features
- Comfortable for extended use
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Shorter battery life
- Sound quality not as strong as higher-end models
9. Skullcandy Crusher ANC
For those who enjoy a heavy bass experience, the Skullcandy Crusher ANC headphones offer customizable sound settings that make them unique.
- PATENTED MULTI-SENSORY CRUSHER BASS TECHNOLOGY. Featuring two full-range 40mm audio drivers plus additional dual bass drivers, your music and movies will come alive with a sound experience you can actually feel
- ADJUSTABLE 4-MIC ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING. Designed with adjustable 4-mic active noise canceling that allows you to hush the chaos around you
- UP TO 60 HOURS BATTERY + RAPID CHARGE. Get hours of uninterrupted listening with up to 60 hours of battery life with ANC off. With Rapid Charge, just 10 minutes of charging gives you 4 hours of listening
- PERSONALIZED SOUND IN THE SKULL-IQ APP. Customize your sound with Personal Sound by Mimi, adjustable hearing modes: Active Noise Canceling, Stay-Aware, and fine-tune your EQ
- MULTIPOINT PAIRING. Connect to two devices at once with seamless transitions
Best for: Bass lovers looking for fun audio experiences.
Product Review: The Crusher ANC employs sensory bass technology to let users customize their listening experience actively. With noise cancellation and up to 24 hours of battery life, they stand out for bass-heavy music genres. Additionally, their stylish design adds to their charm.
Pros:
- Customizable sound profile
- Great for bass-heavy music
- Stylish design
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Noise is not as effective for some users
10. HyperX Cloud II
Finally, the HyperX Cloud II headphones cater to gamers and general users alike, providing excellent sound quality and comfort.
- 15-25kKhz Frequency Response.Headphones fit type:Over-Ear.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
- Designed for comfort – Exceptionally comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband help keep you focused on gaming.Supreme audio quality – Large 53mm drivers provide high-quality audio. Hear in-game details better and get the in-game advantage on your opponents
- 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound – Truly immerse yourself in your games with hardware-driven virtual 7.1 surround sound for precisely located audio
- Passive noise cancellation – The closed ear cup design blocks out outside distractions to keep you in the game
- Built to last – The solid, durable aluminum frame is built to withstand the blows of daily use
Best for: Versatility across gaming and travel.
Product Review: The HyperX Cloud II offers immersive 3D sound with excellent comfort for extended use. They feature a durable design and comfortable memory foam ear cushions, making them perfect for both gaming and travel. They also include a detachable microphone, which adds utility for various scenarios.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Durable and stylish design
- Comfortable for long wear
- Versatile use
Cons:
- Bulky for travel
- Wired connection may not appeal to some
In 2026, the landscape of headphones for airplane travel is replete with quality options, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prioritize noise cancellation, sound quality, or affordability, you’re sure to find the best airplane headphones that meet your needs from this curated list.
Buying Guide: Best Airplane Headphones
Traveling can be a wonderful experience, but noise from engines, crying babies, and cabin chatter can dampen the journey. To enhance your in-flight experience, investing in a good pair of airplane headphones can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best airplane headphones for your needs.
1. Types of Headphones
a. Over-Ear Headphones
- Pros: Excellent noise isolation, comfortable for long periods, great sound quality.
- Cons: Bulkier, may not be suitable for smaller carry-on bags.
b. On-Ear Headphones
- Pros: Lighter and more compact than over-ear options, easier to carry.
- Cons: May be less comfortable for extended use, potentially less effective noise isolation.
c. In-Ear Earbuds
- Pros: Highly portable, good noise isolation, often more affordable.
- Cons: Comfort may vary, sound quality may not match over-ear headphones.
2. Noise Cancellation
a. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Description: Uses microphones and speakers to pick up and cancel out ambient noise.
- Best For: Frequent travelers, anyone seeking a quieter cabin environment.
b. Passive Noise Isolation
- Description: Relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out noise.
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, good alternatives if ANC headphones are too pricey.
3. Sound Quality
Look for headphones that provide clear audio with good bass. Audiophile-quality sound isn’t always necessary, but a clear, balanced sound profile can enhance your listening experience, especially for music and movies.
4. Comfort and Fit
- Padding: Look for soft padding on ear cups and headbands.
- Adjustability: Adjustable headbands help achieve a snug fit.
- Weight: Lightweight designs can make a big difference during longer flights.
5. Battery Life
For wireless headphones:
- ANC: If you opt for active noise-cancelling models, check battery life with ANC on/off.
- Charging Mechanisms: Some models offer quick charge capabilities, while others may come with a charging case.
6. Connectivity
- Wired: Common in airplane settings as they connect directly to the in-flight entertainment systems.
- Wireless: Ensure compatibility with your devices; consider Bluetooth connectivity for your personal devices.
7. Durability and Build Quality
Choose a model that can withstand travel wear and tear. Look for high-quality materials and a design that can handle being packed and unpacked frequently.
8. Foldability and Portability
Consider headphones that easily fold up for storage. Some models come with a carrying case, which can be an added benefit for travel convenience.
9. Additional Features
- Microphone: Useful for taking calls if you plan to use the headphones outside of travel.
- Volume Control: Easy access is a plus for adjusting sound levels quickly.
- Built-in Assistant: Look for compatibility with voice assistants (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant).
10. Price Range
Determine your budget. Airplane headphones can range from budget-friendly options under $50 to more premium models over $300. Higher-priced models may offer better sound quality, comfort, and features.
11. User Reviews and Ratings
Finally, always check user reviews and ratings to gauge performance, comfort, and reliability from actual users. Research can often uncover hidden gems or potential flaws that specifications cannot.
Conclusion
Choosing the best airplane headphones depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Prioritizing noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality will allow you to enjoy your travels to the fullest. Happy flying!
