Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. But it can be difficult if you reside in a noisy environment. The best thing is to block that noise and find peace for restful sleep at night with various noise-canceling devices.
In recent years, noise-cancelling devices have gained widespread popularity. An internal microphone in noise-canceling devices inverts the sound waveforms it picks up, cancelling any ambient noise.
However, picking the best one can be challenging considering all the possibilities. You will find the best 10 Noise cancelling devices for sleeping along with the benefits and features in the following article. Additionally, a buying guide is provided to select the ideal option.
Is it Good to Sleep with Noise-canceling Devices?
Using a noise cancelling device is completely secure and won’t harm your hearing. Here are a few advantages of noise-canceling devices:
1. Improved sleep quality:
Your sleep may be improved by using a noise-canceling device to filter out outside noises like traffic, snoring, or barking dogs. According to a study in the Journal of Caring Sciences, using noise-canceling technology while you sleep can greatly increase the quality of your sleep and decrease the number of nighttime awakenings.
2. Reduced stress and anxiety
External noise can cause stress and anxiety, especially for sound-sensitive people. Noise-canceling devices can create a peaceful environment, which can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation.
3. Better concentration
For those who work or study from home, noise-canceling devices can help create a distraction-free environment, improving concentration and productivity.
What to Consider for Selecting the Best Noise-Cancelling Devices for Sleeping?
Noise-canceling devices for sleeping can help block out unwanted noise and create a peaceful environment for sleeping. But how do you pick the best choice when there are so many? Here are some things to consider when selecting the best noise-canceling device for sleeping:
Type of Noise-canceling Device
Different types of noise-canceling devices are available for sleeping, such as sound noise machines, earbuds, and headphones.
One of the functions of a sound machine is to muffle outside noises. Although they are typically used to put infants and young children to sleep, their calming impact also extends to adults.
Earbuds and headphones are more effective at blocking noise, but they can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.
Consider which type of device will be most comfortable for you and provide the level of noise reduction you need.
Noise Reduction Rating
A device’s ability to filter out ambient noise is measured by its noise reduction rating (NRR). The greater the NRR, the better the device is at blocking out background noise. Look for a device with an NRR of at least 20 decibels for optimal noise reduction.
If you are considering wearing headphones to block out noise while you sleep, you should look for models with an active noise-cancellation feature.
Comfort and Fit
Choosing a noise-canceling device that is comfortable to wear and fits well is important. Changing your sleep position or getting used to having earbuds in your ears may be necessary because sleeping with headphones in is not normal.
However, some factors exist when selecting the best headphones for slumber.
The first rule is, obviously, to stay away from any cables. The use of wireless headphones for slumber is recommended.
Over-ear noise-cancelling headphones can be a good choice if you prefer to sleep on your back (or in an upright position). The headphones’ active noise cancellation is enhanced by the fact that they surround the ear in a cup.
Earplugs are an absolute necessity for anyone who sleeps on their side. Bluetooth headphones are compact, unobtrusive, and can stay in your ears for hours thanks to their ergonomic design.
However, if you toss and change frequently during the night, a sleep band could be worth the investment. Wrapping your cranium in it and placing the headphones over your ears will be very comfortable.
Battery Life
Consider the battery life if you choose a noise-canceling device that requires batteries. Look for a device with long battery life so you don’t have to replace the batteries frequently. Some devices also come with rechargeable batteries, which can be more convenient and cost-effective in the long run.
Additional Features
Some noise-canceling devices have additional features like Bluetooth connectivity or white noise options. If your device has Bluetooth capabilities, you can sync it with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Again, white noise settings can reduce ambient noise and make your bedroom a more restful place to slumber. Consider which additional features, if any, are important to you.
10 Best Noise-Cancelling Devices for Sleeping
I have compiled a list of the top 10 noise-canceling devices for sleeping for your convenience. The finest earbuds, sleep machines, noise-canceling headphones, and sleep headphones are described in the following section. In addition, I listed the benefits and drawbacks of each product for your convenience.
1. Apple AirPods Pro
The Apple AirPods Pro is the company’s premium wireless earbuds and some of its best-sounding models. This will be a fantastic option if you use an iPhone and are looking for the best wireless earbuds.
Why is this my top pick?
- Superior Noise Cancellation: The AirPods Pro offers exceptional sound quality and deep bass. Also, their active noise cancellation technology uses microphones to block noise and provide an immersive listening experience.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: With silicone tips in three different sizes, the AirPods Pro offers a comfortable and secure fit for most ear shapes. This ensures the earbuds stay in place, even during intense physical activity.
- User-Friendly Features: The AirPods Pro is designed with user-friendliness in mind. They feature touch controls, allowing you to easily pause, play, skip tracks, and answer calls without taking out your phone. They also have Siri integration, enabling voice commands to perform various functions, and the wireless charging case makes charging them on the go quick and easy.
They are the most effective noise-cancelling headphones for sleeping due to their high active noise reduction. These AirPods include two microphones instead of one on the exterior that may be silenced by anti-noise software and one on the inside that picks up any sound penetrating the seal. Also, there are transparency modes that provide you with the best possible hearing of the outside world.
The fact that the earbuds’ noise cancellation is tweaked 200 times each second is undoubtedly among the most astounding features. There are, however, three different-sized silicone tips available for optimal comfort. The earphones’ vents maintain consistent air pressure on both ends.
Pros
- Better Noise Cancellation
- Easy-going and balanced sound
- Comes with a transparency mode
Cons
- Don’t offer standard features for Android
2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
If you’re looking for noise-canceling headphones and prioritize comfort and performance, consider the Bose QuietComfort 35. This lightweight headset offers three distinct noise cancellation modes to improve your hearing experience in any setting.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones have advanced noise cancellation technology that effectively blocks external noise, creating a peaceful listening environment. They also feature an action button to enter your phone’s voice assistant and other personalized settings.
- High-Quality Sound and Intuitive Controls: The headphones offer high-quality sound with clear vocals and balanced bass, thanks to their advanced drivers and active EQ. They also have intuitive controls that allow you to easily adjust the volume, skip tracks, and take calls without touching your phone.
- Comfortable Design and Long Battery Life: The QuietComfort 35 II headphones are designed for long-term comfort, with lightweight and durable construction and soft ear cushions that fit snugly over the ears. They also have a long battery life, providing up to 20 hours of wireless playback on a single charge, allowing extended listening sessions without frequent recharging.
The dual microphones in this headphone cancel out background noise, allowing for crystal-clear audio and conversation. At any level, this earphone provides a neutral listening experience. Due to the customizable Bluetooth options, connecting these headphones is a breeze.
The lightweight plastic construction and compact dimensions of these headphones mean you won’t need to take them off to give your hearing a break during long listening sessions. These are also highly flexible and resistant to breaking when curved or twisted in unusual ways.
With Alexa, you can use your speech to control your audio library, web browser, and more through these headphones. It works with both Apple and Google’s mobile operating systems.
Pros
- Lightweight and Comfortable
- Great audio quality
- 20 hours of estimated battery life
Cons
- A bit of Pricey
3. Homedics SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine
The Homedics SoundSleep machine is the best option for restless sleepers who want to stay sleeping for an extended period. It has six digitally recorded calming noises, including white noise, summer night, rain, ocean, brook, and thunder.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- White Noise: The Homedics White Noise Sound Machine has six digitally recorded, soothing sounds that imitate natural environments. The sound options include White Noise, Thunder, Ocean, Rain, Summer Night, and Brook.
- Baby Sleep Aid: This device is essential to your baby registry and is an ideal baby sound machine. Make your baby’s sleep routine more effective with the Baby Sleep Aid, which incorporates soothing rhythmic sounds to help them fall asleep quickly and stay asleep for extended periods.
- Compact and Portable: This Compact and Portable sound machine is incredibly lightweight and designed for convenience. You can easily carry it with you, and it fits perfectly into your purse, bag, or suitcase, making it an ideal travel companion.
One of the machine’s many uses is to aid sleep for adults with its soothing natural noises. It’s also useful for blocking daily noises like construction or howling canines, keeping a workplace quiet, or lulling a baby to sleep.
This sound machine has a timer that turns it off automatically and a level knob for easy noise regulation. Relaxation can play on repeat, or an adjustable auto-off limit of 15, 30, or 60 minutes can be set.
In addition, this compact sound device makes it ideal for use as a bedside alarm clock or as a floor speaker in the living room, bedroom, school, or workplace. With its optimal timer and dual power options, this gadget offers a high degree of personalization at a cheap cost.
Pros
- Easy Volume control
- 6 digitally recorded sounds
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- LED light that indicates the power is on can be disruptive in the dark
4. Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones are high-quality noise-canceling headphones that are compatible with a wide variety of devices. In addition to long battery life and enhanced noise cancellation, this also features Bluetooth multipoint connectivity.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Exceptional Noise Cancellation: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have advanced noise-canceling technology that effectively blocks background noise, creating a distraction-free audio experience. It adapts to your surroundings, even on flights or in crowded areas, ensuring you hear only what you want.
- High-Quality Sound and Voice Control: These headphones deliver an impressive audio performance, with a powerful bass response, clear midrange, and well-defined treble. They also feature Alexa voice control and built-in microphones for hands-free phone calls, making it easy to stay connected and multitask while enjoying your music.
- Comfortable and Convenient Design: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are designed to be comfortable and convenient for extended use. They have soft, pressure-relieving earpads that evenly distribute the weight of the headphones, reducing pressure points and maximizing comfort. These headphones also feature a 30-hour battery life, fast charging, and touch controls, making them easy to use and perfect for on-the-go listening.
Because of the dual noise sensor technology, they can effectively block out outside sounds. This feature also cancels out mid-range noises like commute conversation and sounds like vehicle rumble, allowing you to listen to undisturbed music.
The touch sensor controls make these headphones incredibly easy to use. You can pause music, change tracks, activate a speech assistant, adjust the volume, and take or end phone conversations with a touch. Additionally, this device’s speak-to-chat technology will automatically lower the volume while communication occurs.
The 30-hour battery life and fast recharge time are these headphones’ two most remarkable features. Only 10 minutes of charging time are required for five full hours of use.
Pros
- Auto pause feature
- Bluetooth multipoint
- Great noise canceling
Cons
- Bulky design
5. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones come equipped with excellent and outstanding sound blocking that is fully adjustable and has great audio quality.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Superior Noise Cancellation: These headphones feature superior noise cancellation technology that blocks out distractions, making them perfect for use in busy environments or during travel.
- Impressive Audio Quality: The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 provide an exceptional audio experience, with balanced sound and excellent clarity, making them perfect for music enthusiasts.
- Sleek and Comfortable Design: These headphones have a modern and sleek design, with comfortable ear cups and a lightweight build that makes them perfect for extended use. They also offer touch controls and voice assistants for added convenience.
These headphones give you 11 levels of control over how much outside sounds you want to let in. Also, the revolutionary microphone system can adjust to different sound conditions, so your speech will come through clearly, even when you’re outside in the breeze or in a noisy room.
Due to their superior design and comfortable construction, you can wear these headphones for hours without discomfort. These headphones are built to last with a stainless steel headpiece, and the earcups are angled for a more comfortable fit.
Also, several controls on the earcups mean you rarely have to take your hands off your linked device. The noise-cancellation slider is located in the left cup, while the power/Bluetooth and app start controls are on the right.
Pros
- Adjustable noise cancellation
- Touch controls and intuitive buttons
- Sleek design
Cons
- There are no folding hinges.
6. Douni Sleep Sound Machine
The Douni Sleep Sound Machine features 24 relaxing noises across three distinct groups, ranging from white to traditional nature sounds. In addition to the usual white sound, lullabies, and fetal tones can help toddlers drift off to slumber peacefully.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Baby Sleep Aid: It’s perfect for helping little ones, and older kids fall into deep and restful sleep. It’s easy to use, simply plug it in and enjoy.
- Soothing Sounds: The Douni white noise sound machine provides 24 calming sounds, categorized into 7 fan sounds, 7 white noise, and 10 classical nature sounds. It’s great for naps, relaxation, meditation, or concentration while studying/working.
- Timer and Memory Function: The sleep sound machine has a 30/60/90-minute timer. This sleep sound machine can play all night or shut off automatically according to your preference. It remembers your previous timer, sound, and volume settings for convenience.
Besides being functional, this sleeping sound device also looks excellent. The chic wood texture finish looks great in any setting, from a baby’s room to a playroom to a workplace.
Another great feature is that it weighs only 9.7 ounces and is only 2.3 inches in height means that it can be stowed in a backpack or suitcase, making it ideal for travel.
Moreover, this sound generator can play for 30, 60, or 90 minutes to help you drift off to slumber. In addition, you can set it to play continuously or switch it off at a specific time.
Additionally, the music, timer, and intensity settings you made on this device will be retained the next time you use it.
Pros
- High sound quality
- Compact and lightweight
- Stylish design
Cons
- There isn’t a battery option.
7. Bose Sleepbuds II
This Bose Sleepbuds II is the most comfortable earbuds you can wear all night long. Like the first version, this one also includes a set of tiny earbuds that are made to easily nestle in ears without building up pressure.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Sleepbuds, not headphones: Sleepbuds are tiny headphones that don’t play music or podcasts. They provide soothing sounds to help you sleep well. Ensure a proper fit in your ears by using snug earbud tips.
- Bose’s sleep technology: It employs advanced noise-masking technology, distinct from noise-cancellation techniques. The masking sounds, engineered by Bose, blend with the buds’ noise-blocking design to mask unwelcome nocturnal disruptions. Bose’s sleep technology has been clinically validated to aid in faster sleep onset.
- Bluetooth Supported: These Sleepbuds can be used with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support devices. Compatibility is available for Apple devices running iOS 11 or later and most Android devices with Android 6.0 or later.
These earbuds’ cutting-edge noise-masking technology and noise-blocking design work together to filter out unwanted nocturnal noises. With 50 various sound and white noise choices, they can block out even snoring and help you fall asleep and remain asleep.
However, these earbuds are made of a soft-touch silicone, which helps to counteract any pressure buildup in the ear. An anti-friction covering on the surface eliminates the distracting sounds from rubbing against a cushion. Bose, in a nutshell, has thought of everything regarding a snug and comfortable fit.
Pros
- Excellent for side sleepers
- Masks external noises brilliantly
- High-quality build
Cons
- A limited number of sounds
8. Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Eye Mask, Joseche Wireless Bluetooth 5.2 Headphones
If you are looking for high-sound-quality headphones, you can opt for these Joseche Headphones. These wireless headphones have Bluetooth and deliver high-definition HIFI music. The Bluetooth in this gadget is compatible with all your mobile devices, from smartphones to tablets.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Stereo Sound with Thin Speakers: With a thickness of only one-third of the average size, the speaker provides exceptional comfort to sleepers. Equipped with Bluetooth V-5.0 technology, it produces true HD HIFI sound, ensuring remarkable audio quality.
- Convenient Design: The Bluetooth eye mask is crafted from velvet and elastic cotton, offering a plush and cozy sensation. Rest assured, the mask won’t shrink or lose its shape.
- Washable: The fabric liner is detached from the stitching intentionally to facilitate the removal of the Bluetooth module, allowing for easy washing of the entire eye mask.
These headphones’ upgraded USB rechargeable battery has a whopping 240mAh of power. More than 9 hours of playtime after only 2 to 2.5 hours of refilling means you can listen to music or audiobooks all night without worrying about running out of power.
These headphones aid slumber thanks to their light-blocking feature. The additional cushioning also improves the seal between the mask and the nose, allowing total darkness to be cast over the eyes. The eye cover is also modifiable to accommodate a wide range of head sizes.
This Joseche is your best option for regular use, relaxation, meditation, insomnia, and airplane travel.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Affordable
- Great material quality
Cons
- Quite bulky
9. Hearprotek 2 Pairs Sleep Earbuds
The hearprotek 2 Pairs Sleep Earbuds are the best option for better sleep without damaging your ear.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Comfortable Design: Featuring a double-layered, ergonomically designed tip, this earphone conforms to the shape of the ear cavity, ensuring optimal comfort and a secure fit that effectively blocks out noise. It’s specifically designed for side sleepers, so you can enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted night’s rest without experiencing any discomfort or pressure pain.
- Easy to Use: This device has a 3-button in-line remote for phone call answering and music control and a 3.5mm jack plug for compatibility with standard audio devices. It’s perfect for falling asleep to music, audiobooks, podcasts, or calming sounds.
- Long-lasting: These earbuds boast a robust bulletproof wire construction, offering exceptional durability that can withstand constant tossing and turning during sleep. Moreover, the extra-long and thin 125CM wire provides unrestricted movement for your convenience.
These earbuds are specifically made for side sleepers and successfully block noise reduction so you can get a good night’s rest without experiencing any pressure points. These earbuds are comfortable because of how they are made. It is made of soft silicone instead of plastic, so it doesn’t dig into your ear canal and is very comfortable to wear.
A 3.5 mm jack plug works with any standard audio device, so you can easily fall asleep to your favorite audiobook, podcast, or soothing sounds.
Also, these earbuds are made of bulletproof, tough wire, so they will last a long time. The bulletproof design means you don’t have to worry about breaking the earbuds even if you toss and turn all night. Also, the wire is extra long (125 cm) and thin, so it won’t limit your movement.
Pros
- Double-layer tip ergonomic design
- Extra long thin wear
- Better sound quality
Cons
- It can cause discomfort after long use
10. SleepPhones AcousticSheep
AcousticSheep’s SleepPhones are a comfortable headband with two flat sound panels built in. It works well for playing music or podcasts late at night or enjoying ambient noise.
Why It’s a Must Buy!
- Easy to Use: SleepPhones are the leading headphones for sleeping, providing unparalleled comfort and aiding in relaxation, meditation, travel, tinnitus management, and more.
- Sleep Aid: SleepPhones helps individuals achieve faster and longer sleep without needing medication, especially for patients struggling with sleep issues.
- Machine Washable: SleepPhones feature a soft and luxurious headband that is breathable and hypoallergenic and serves as an eye mask, with the added convenience of removable speakers that make it easy to machine wash.
Incredibly lightweight and flat, these headphones are comfortable enough to wear even when lying down or on your side. They are made to be cozy when lying on one’s side. Also, they won’t fall out during the night or cause discomfort to your ears, so you can sleep with them.
Moreover, cleaning the headband is less of a hassle because the Bluetooth module and speaker drivers can be removed more easily than in rival versions.
There is a variety of hues to choose from for this headband. It can be purchased in fleece (used for this test) or in Acoustic Sheep’s patented Breeze Fabric, designed for use in warmer countries.
These headphones are easily adjustable to fit any size head, as they come in small, standard, and large versions.
Pros
- Machine washable headband
- Little sound leakage
- Comfortable
Cons
- There is no battery level indicator
FAQs
Does Noise Cancellation Make You Sleepy?
Yes, you can use noise-canceling headphones to get some shut-eye even if the world is buzzing around you. You won’t be disturbed as often by the sounds that usually keep you awake, so you’ll be able to get to sleep more quickly and remain asleep for longer.
Is It Safe to Use Bluetooth Headphones While Sleeping?
Listening to music while you slumber is perfectly safe as long as your headphones are snug enough not to fall out of your ears. Before turning in for the night, try putting on some soothing music or listening to a podcast to take your thoughts off of the stresses of the day.
Are Noise-Canceling Air Pods Safe?
Yes, it is safe. Noise-canceling headphones do not pose any health risks. The ANC technology was initially developed to shield pilots’ ears from the piercing roar of aircraft engines.
What Color Noise Makes You Sleepy?
The ability of brown noise to induce slumber and relaxation has been demonstrated in numerous scientific studies. It is an excellent choice for those who have trouble sleeping in noisy environments or simply want to block out their thoughts.
Is It Better to Have Noise Cancellation on Or Off?
Neither is better than the other; each has its own use. Most noise-canceling headphones also isolate outside sounds, which is unnecessary for operation. In reality, the only thing noise-canceling headphones do is make the outside world sound quieter.
Final Verdict
The ideal noise-canceling device can help you get a restful night’s sleep and feel refreshed upon waking. I hope the above article about the best noise-canceling devices for sleeping will help to select the best one.
For me, the Homedics Sound Machine will be a good choice for you to have a longer time of sleep. The device’s customizable timers help users keep decibel levels down.
Also, The Bose QuietComfort II Headphones offer superior relaxation and impressive sound quality. It will be an excellent option for eliminating unwanted sounds in any setting.
