In 2017, wireless noise cancelling headphones combined refined comfort with sharper digital processing, making long commutes and open offices more manageable. Buyers looked for balanced sound, reliable battery life, and lightweight builds that did not sacrifice passive isolation.
This overview focuses on the best wireless noise cancelling headphones from 2017, highlighting how ANC performance, battery efficiency, and everyday usability compared across leading models.
| Model | ANC Effectiveness | Battery Life | Weight (g) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bose QuietComfort 35 | Excellent for low-frequency rumble | 20 hours | 235 | Integrated Alexa, Hi-Def Audio |
| Sony WH-1000XM2 | Strong adaptive ANC, standing out in 2017 | 30 hours | 252 | DSEE HX, ClearAudio+ |
| Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 2.0 | Good low-end noise attenuation | 17 hours | 290 | Warm tuned sound, premium materials |
| Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b | Effective for travel, budget-friendly | 30 hours | 120 | Lightweight, simple controls |
Noise Cancelling Technology in 2017
By 2017, hybrid ANC systems used both feedforward and feedback microphones to tackle a wider range of noise. Digital signal processing ran on improved chips, allowing brands to offer smarter adaptive algorithms without draining the battery.
Low-frequency droning from engines and trains saw the biggest reduction, while high-frequency chatter benefited from well-designed ear cup seals. Users noticed fewer fatiguing pressure sensations as processing became more linear and transparent.
Sound Quality and Tuning
Manufacturers balanced noise cancelling with neutral frequency responses, producing headphones that suited both critical listening and casual streaming. Some emphasized bass for modern pop, while others aimed for accurate mids and clear instrument separation.
Amplifier tuning, ear cup size, and padding materials shaped how ANC influenced tonal balance, making it important to test recordings and, when possible, in-store demos.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Lithium-polymer packs enabled 20 to 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, often outlasting the smartphone they were meant to complement. Quick charge features provided several hours of use from a short top-up at breakfast.
Bluetooth 4.2 remained standard, with aptX support improving streaming fidelity for Android users. Multipoint pairing capabilities emerged, letting commuters switch between a laptop and a phone without manual reconnection.
Comfort and Everyday Usability
Lightweight frames, breathable pads, and low clamping force determined how forgiving the headphones were during long flights or all-day office use. Foldable designs and included travel cases made storage in crowded bags simpler.
Controls were often mapped to touch panels or physical buttons, with voice assistant integration expanding as services matured through 2017.
Recommendations and Takeaways
- Assess your primary noise targets, such as low-frequency travel rumble versus midrange office chatter.
- Check battery life specifications and whether quick charge features match your daily routine.
- Consider ear cup materials and clamp force if you plan extended wear.
- Test ambient mode settings for situations where awareness of announcements or traffic matters.
- Compare wired listening options, since some users prefer cable use to avoid battery anxiety.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will wireless noise cancelling headphones work on a long international flight?
Yes, most models support long flights with airplane mode enabled, and many rechargeable batteries exceed eight hours per charge, while some include USB pass-through for continuous wired use.
Can I still hear announcements and stay aware of my surroundings?
Many headsets include an ambient or hear-through mode that lets in external sound, which is useful for chatting with cabin crew or staying alert at crosswalks.
Do these headphones block crying babies and chatter effectively?
They reduce steady engine drones very well, but sudden high-pitched cries are harder to eliminate, although tight ear cup seals and adaptive processing still help significantly.
Is it safe to use ANC headphones for several hours each day?
Listening at moderate volumes below recommended safety levels is generally safe, though some users may feel mild pressure, so taking breaks and choosing comfortable models is advised.