Noise Canceling Headsets: Pros and Cons

Be it regular headphones or military headsets, noise cancellation is usually listed as one of the most important factors to consider in this type of equipment.

In the race for the high-quality sound and improved communication, military and law enforcement headset manufacturers have created high-tech SWAT headsets to filter out more than 99 percent of background noise. Gaming headset providers aren’t far behind.

Whether you want to listen to music or plan a covert operation, it’s important to consider the following pros and cons of noise-canceling headsets and headphones. Let’s look at the advantages first.

Advantages of Noise-Canceling Headsets

Sound Cancellation

The obvious advantage is the ability of such headsets to reduce unnecessary background noise. Depending on the quality of the equipment you purchase, there may be some limitation on how well it cancels unwanted noises. But overall, you can forget about the majority of external sounds.

No Need For Loud Interaction

Whether you are listening to music, playing a game, or interacting with your team, the sound should be comfortably clear. People tend to increase the volume to compensate for interference but these headphones automatically block the outside noise.

With noise-canceling headsets, you can keep the internal volume low, thus reducing the negative impact on your eardrums.

Higher Concentration

Noise-canceling headphones are ideal for situations when you need high levels of concentration, be it working in a noisy office, traveling with a loud companion, or studying in a dorm.

No matter how quiet the external noises are, they affect a part of our concentration. With the headphones, you can concentrate without being distracted, thus achieving your goals faster.

Easier Voice Control  

One of the main advantages of noise-canceling headsets for tactical needs is the ability to speak quietly into the microphone. When the background noises are loud, a person usually speaks louder as well. With noise insulation, it’s easier to control the voice volume and keep sensitive communication from being easily heard by any unwanted parties.

Disadvantages of Noise Cancelling Headsets

Higher Cost

High-quality noise-canceling headsets and headphones can cost up to 10 times as much as their regular counterparts. The technologies and materials used to block out the external noise are expensive.

Boosted Power Use

The components of such headsets require a substantial amount of power. This equipment requires reliable access to a power supply, be it extra batteries or a socket for recharging. Noise-canceling headsets are hardly energy efficient for this reason.

Reduction Of Sound Quality

If you are planning to use noise-canceling headphones to listen to music, you may notice a certain reduction in the sound quality. The internal components of such headphones alter the sound slightly, which could dampen your audio experience.

Comfort Issues

Some users complain about a barely audible humming sound coming out of these headsets. While it’s a factor that takes some getting used to, many people have to say “no” to such equipment due to the pressure they feel on their eardrums.

Overall, noise-canceling headsets, while not perfect, are highly efficient for numerous purposes.