Active noise cancelling earbuds use built-in microphones and electronics to generate opposing sound waves that cancel ambient noise, especially low-frequency hums.
If you have ever worn a pair and felt the world go quiet, you have experienced active noise cancellation (ANC) in action. Whether you are trying to focus in a noisy office or drown out an airplane engine, understanding how these earbuds work — and what they can’t do — helps you pick the right pair. The technology is common in top models from Apple and Samsung, and the way you control it varies by brand.
How Active Noise Cancellation Works
Active noise cancelling earbuds are in-ear headphones that use built-in microphones and powered signal processing to detect ambient sound and generate opposing sound waves. This process, called anti-noise, reduces what actually reaches your ear. Unlike simple passive sealing from the ear tips, ANC requires power to run its electronics.
The system is most effective against low-frequency, steady sounds — think engine rumble, HVAC hum, or the drone of a plane. For sudden or high-pitched noises like a dog bark or a siren, passive sealing from a snug ear tip still does much of the work. Together, the two approaches deliver the full isolation you feel.
How To Turn ANC On With Apple AirPods
Apple’s ANC earbuds include AirPods 4 (ANC), AirPods Pro 1, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and both generations of AirPods Max. The listening modes are controlled from your device, not the earbuds themselves.
With your AirPods in your ears and connected to an iPhone or iPad, open Settings, tap the name of your AirPods, then choose Noise Cancellation or Transparency to switch modes. On a Mac, go to the Apple menu > System Settings, then select your AirPods to change the listening mode.
If you want to use ANC with just one earbud in, go to Settings > Accessibility > AirPods and turn on Noise Cancellation with One AirPod.
How To Turn ANC On With Samsung Galaxy Buds
Are ANC Earbuds Hearing Protection?
The short answer is no. Consumer ANC earbuds are designed for listening comfort, not as certified hearing-protection devices. The distinction matters if you work in a noisy environment.
If you need hearing protection on a job site, buy a product explicitly rated for it. For everyday listening, ANC earbuds are a comfort tool, not a safety device.
| Feature | What It Does | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Active noise cancellation | Uses mics and anti-noise to cancel steady, low-frequency sounds | Planes, trains, offices, engine noise |
| Passive sealing | Physical ear-tip seal blocks high-frequency and sudden sounds | Conversations, sirens, unexpected noise |
| Transparency mode | Lets ambient sound in so you stay aware | Walking near traffic, talking to people |
| Off mode (select models) | Disables all listening-mode tech, including hearing features | Maximizing battery or full control |
If you are ready to buy, our tested roundup of the best active noise cancelling earbuds ranks today’s top performers by real-world battery life, fit, and noise rejection.
References & Sources
- Apple. “Use Active Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro.” Documents supported models, listening modes, and the Off mode on AirPods Pro 2 and Pro 3.