Comfort is the most important thing to consider when buying noise-cancelling headphones for sleep. Because you’ll be wearing the headphones all night, they should fit well and feel comfortable. That’s why it’s best to shop for over-ear headphones, which are more comfortable than on-ear or in-ear models.
The best sleep headphones are also very light and breathable, so your ears don’t get too hot. You can hear your music (or the audio from your movie) without cranking up the volume so loud that you’ll damage your hearing. The best noise-cancelling headphones also let through some of the sounds around you so that you’ll be aware of your surroundings.
In terms of noise-cancelling tech, there are two main types of headphones: active noise cancelling (ANC) and passive noise isolation (PNI). ANC uses a tiny microphone to detect outside noise and then emits a low-frequency sound that cancels out the ambient sounds.
This can effectively block out sounds like snoring, but it won’t help as much with constant noises like traffic or an air conditioner.
Top Picks for Deep, Uninterrupted Sleep
Bose Sleepbuds II
Have you ever had trouble sleeping? Well, maybe you should try Sleepbuds. Sleepbuds are not headphones. They’re specifically designed to help you fall asleep and sleep all night. They play relaxing and noise-masking sounds that are clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster.
Plus, they’re easy to use! Download the Bose sleep app for your iPhone or Android, access the sound library’s 50 specially curated sounds, download your favourites to the earbuds, control the volume, and access features like a personal alarm.
There’s something for everyone in our sound library, from tonal environments to nature sounds. That means no matter what helps you relax —whether lying in a hammock by the beach or sitting in a comfy chair next to a crackling fireplace—there’s an option!
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose noise-cancelling headphones 700 make it easy to drift off with soothing sounds of your choice without any pesky noises trying to invade your space. With three levels of noise cancellation and up to 20 hours of wireless battery life on a single charge, you can rest peacefully, knowing that your oasis is there when you need it.
Plus, they’re lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable enough that you’ll hardly notice them while wearing them—but they’re more than noticeable if they’re not there!
They have amazing noise-cancelling capabilities, so you can snooze without being interrupted by outside sounds. They also have Bluetooth 5.0 and a revolutionary microphone system that adapts to noisy environments for hands-free calls.
MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones
MUSICOZY sleep headphones have everything you need to ensure a good night every night. These headphones are comfortable, with an ice silk lining and soft memory foam. You won’t even feel them!
And they’re quick to charge—just one to two hours of charging time gives you ten hours of music playback time. You’ll never be stuck without the music or sounds you love with our headphones.
These headphones will help you sleep well, but that’s not all they’ll do for you! These headphones also feature superior HD stereo sound and deep bass.
You can also enjoy your favourite podcast or songs with the best quality sound possible in comfortable headphones that you’ll forget it’s there. So if you want headphones that will help you sleep better, listen better, and feel great doing both, get yourself some MUSICOZY sleep headphones!
COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
With the COWIN E7 headphones, you can finally tune out the world and tune into what matters most to you—whether that’s relaxing with your favourite music, catching up on the latest blockbuster, or escaping into a good book.
These noise-cancelling headphones are equipped with 45mm large-aperture drivers that produce superior sound quality with crystal-clear clarity and well-balanced deep bass response. You can experience your favourite audio in a whole new way.
The custom protein earpads are designed to keep you comfortable for hours. With our quick-simple Bluetooth 5.0 technology, pairing with your Bluetooth-enabled devices is easier than ever.
Plus, a single full charge means 30 hours of non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode, so you can enjoy your headphones for long-haul flights or travel without worrying about running out of battery.
LC-holiday Bluetooth Sleeping Headphones
We know how hard it is to go to sleep when you can’t block out light. But with the LC-holiday Bluetooth sleep mask, that problem is a thing of the past. This mask uses Bluetooth technology and has a built-in powerful battery chip.
Plus, since you can adjust the lighting intensity and select 3 different colours, you get the benefits of total blackout, whether at home, in a hotel, or on the plane.
With its full coverage of the nose area and uniquely designed nose section, this mask effectively blocks light from entering your eyes and nose area, allowing you to enjoy the relaxing sounds of music without the annoying distraction of light leaking into your ears. And thanks to its easy-to-use buttons on the side, you get a clear view of the screen while it’s charging.
Choosing the Perfect Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall well-being, and noise-cancelling headphones can be a game-changer for achieving peaceful rest. However, selecting the perfect pair tailored for sleep requires consideration of several critical factors.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort reigns supreme when it comes to sleep headphones. Look for headphones designed with soft ear cups or earbuds that won’t cause discomfort when lying on your side. Over-ear headphones with plush padding or in-ear options with memory foam tips often provide the best fit for extended wear.
Noise Cancellation Performance
Effective noise cancellation is the cornerstone of sleep headphones. Opt for headphones with advanced noise-cancelling technology that can efficiently drown out a variety of disturbances, from snoring to traffic sounds.
Adjustable noise cancellation settings can be a bonus, allowing you to customize the level of isolation according to your preference.
Battery Life
Long battery life is essential to ensure your headphones won’t run out of juice in the middle of the night. Look for models with extended battery capacity that can last through several nights without needing a recharge.
Wireless vs. Wired
Consider whether you prefer wireless or wired headphones. Wireless options provide more freedom of movement and eliminate the risk of tangling, while wired headphones may be preferred if you’re concerned about battery life or wireless interference.
Sleep-Friendly Design
Some headphones are purpose-built for sleep, featuring low-profile designs that won’t dig into your head or interfere with your pillow. These are often compact and lightweight, ideal for bedtime use.
Sound Quality
While noise cancellation is crucial, don’t compromise on sound quality. Look for headphones that offer a balanced sound profile, as soothing music or white noise can enhance your sleep experience.
Masking Sound Options
Certain headphones come equipped with built-in sound libraries designed to mask disturbances effectively. These pre-loaded sounds can include rainfall, ocean waves, or gentle lullabies, creating a serene auditory environment conducive to sleep.
Budget
Lastly, establish your budget range. While high-end headphones offer the latest features and top-notch performance, there are also affordable options that deliver excellent value for your investment.
Types of sleep headphones
Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are traditional headphones with cushioned ear cups that cover your ears entirely. They are known for their excellent sound quality and effective noise isolation.
However, their bulkiness may not be suitable for side sleepers, and some users may find them uncomfortable depending on their preferred sleep position.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Excellent sound quality | – Bulky for side sleepers |
| – Effective noise isolation | – May not be comfortable for all sleep positions |
On-Ear Headphones
On-ear headphones are more compact and rest on the ears without fully enclosing them. They are known for their portability and decent noise isolation.
However, the pressure on the ears may cause discomfort during extended use, and they may not block out noise as effectively as over-ear models.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Compact and portable | – Pressure on the ears may cause discomfort |
| – Decent noise isolation | – May not block out noise as effectively as over-ear models |
Sleep Earbuds
Sleep earbuds are lightweight and designed for comfort, making them suitable for all sleep positions. They offer a convenient solution for those who prefer a less intrusive option.
However, their sound quality may not match larger headphones, and their battery life is often shorter.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Lightweight and comfortable | – Sound quality may not be as high as larger headphones |
| – Suitable for all sleep positions | – Shorter battery life |
Headband Headphones
Headband headphones come in a comfortable headband design, ideal for side sleepers. Some models are even washable for easy maintenance.
However, their sound quality may not be as good as traditional headphones, and they may not offer strong noise isolation.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Comfortable, especially for side sleepers | – Sound quality may not be as good as traditional headphones |
| – Some models are washable | – May not offer strong noise isolation |
Bone Conduction Headphones
Bone conduction headphones rest outside the ear and transmit sound through vibrations, allowing you to hear ambient sounds for safety.
They are suitable for outdoor sleeping or runners. However, their sound quality may not match that of traditional headphones, and they may not be as effective at blocking out noise.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Allows you to hear ambient sounds for safety | – Sound quality may not match traditional headphones |
| – Ideal for outdoor sleeping or runners | – May not be as effective at blocking out noise |
Wireless vs. Wired
Sleep headphones come in both wireless and wired models. Wireless models provide freedom of movement, while wired models don’t require charging.
However, wireless models need periodic recharging, and wired headphones can be less convenient for sleep.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Wireless models provide freedom of movement | – Wireless models need periodic recharging |
| – Wired models don’t require charging | – Wired headphones can be less convenient for sleep |
Noise-Cancelling vs. Noise-Isolating
Sleep headphones may offer noise-cancelling or noise-isolating features. Noise-cancelling headphones effectively block out external sounds through active technology, while noise-isolating headphones physically block noise with ear cups or tips.
However, noise-cancelling models can be more expensive, and noise-isolating models may not be as efficient at blocking noise.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Noise-cancelling headphones effectively block out external sounds | – Noise-cancelling models can be more expensive |
| – Noise-isolating headphones physically block noise | – Noise-isolating models may not be as efficient at blocking noise |
These descriptions provide an overview of each type of sleep headphones and their respective pros and cons.
Conclusion
The best noise-cancelling headphones for sleep are active headphones. They’re more expensive than passive headphones, but they have a small battery-powered amplifier that sits in the ear cup and cancels out external sounds.
These headphones need to be on your head and play some sound — otherwise, the noise cancellation doesn’t work.
Best Overall
The best noise-cancelling headphones for sleep is the Bose Sleepbuds II. With their comfortable design, great isolation, and relatively low price point, these headphones make a great choice for anyone looking to purchase a pair of noise-cancelling headphones specifically to get some good sleep.
Best Comfortable
The most popular headphones for sleeping are the MUSICOZY sleep headphones, which have an in-ear design that blocks out more sound than regular earbuds. This is the most comfortable pair of noise-cancelling headphones we tested; also, the best at blocking sound.
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