3 Best Noise Cancelling Headsets with Mic for Working from Home

Have you ever been in the middle of an important Zoom call when your neighbor decides it’s the perfect time to start their lawn mower? Or perhaps your kids chose your quarterly presentation moment to have an epic lightsaber battle in the next room? If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re not alone. The challenges of maintaining professionalism while working from home are real, and they’re exactly why investing in a quality noise-cancelling headset has become essential rather than optional.

As someone who transitioned to remote work in 2020 and never looked back, I’ve learned that the right headset can be the difference between a productive workday and a frustrating one. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about finding the perfect noise-cancelling headset with a mic for your home office setup, no matter your budget.

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Understanding Noise Cancellation Technology

Before we dive into specific product recommendations, let’s take a moment to understand what we’re actually looking for in a good noise-cancelling headset.

Active vs. Passive Noise Cancellation

There are two main types of noise cancellation you’ll encounter in your search:

Passive Noise Cancellation (PNC) is the physical blocking of sound waves through the design of the headphones. Think of it as putting your hands over your ears – the physical barrier helps reduce the amount of ambient noise that reaches your ears. Over-ear headphones with thick, cushioned ear cups naturally provide some level of passive noise cancellation.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is where the magic happens. This technology uses built-in microphones to detect external sounds, then creates inverse sound waves to cancel them out before they reach your ears. It’s particularly effective against consistent, low-frequency noises like air conditioners, refrigerator hums, or the steady drone of traffic outside your window.

The best noise-cancelling headsets typically combine both approaches – physical barriers to block high-frequency sounds and active technology to tackle those persistent low-frequency noises.

How Noise Cancellation Benefits Remote Workers

As a remote worker myself, I’ve found that good noise cancellation offers several key benefits:

1. Enhanced Focus: By reducing background distractions, you can maintain concentration for longer periods.
2. Improved Call Quality: Your clients and colleagues will hear you more clearly without background noise.
3. Reduced Fatigue: Constantly filtering out background noise mentally is exhausting. Letting your headphones do this work saves your energy for actual work.
4. Professional Impression: Nothing says “unprofessional” quite like dogs barking or construction noise during an important client call.

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3 Best Noise Cancelling Headsets with Mic for Working from Home

Feature	Noise Airwave Max 4	JBL Tune 760NC	Sony WH-CH720N
Price Range	Under ₹2,000	Under ₹5,000	Under ₹10,000
Noise Cancellation	Passive isolation only	Active (on/off)	Advanced adaptive ANC
Microphone Quality	Basic	Good with some noise filtering	Excellent with Precise Voice Pickup
Battery Life	~15 hours	Up to 50 hours	Up to 35 hours
Quick Charging	No	Yes (5 min = 2 hours)	Yes (3 min = 1 hour)
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0, single device	Bluetooth 5.0, multi-device	Bluetooth 5.2, multi-device
Comfort Level	Good for medium duration	Very good for full day	Excellent for extended wear
Sound Quality	Bass-heavy, decent clarity	Well-balanced with JBL signature	Premium balanced with customization
Additional Features	Basic controls	ANC toggle, foldable design	App support, adaptive features, speak-to-chat
Weight	245g	220g	192g
Best For	Budget-conscious users in quieter environments	Most remote workers with moderate noise challenges	Professionals needing premium performance in noisy environments

1. Budget-Friendly Option: Noise Airwave Max 4

When you’re on a tight budget but still need a reliable headset for your home office, the Noise Airwave Max 4 delivers surprising value. I was initially skeptical about finding anything worthwhile under ₹2,000, but this headset proved me wrong.

Design and Build Quality

The Noise Airwave Max 4 features a lightweight design with padded ear cups that provide decent comfort for medium-duration wear. While the construction is primarily plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy. The headband has sufficient padding and the ear cups have a pleasing leatherette covering that’s soft against the skin.

The foldable design is a nice touch for storage, though I wouldn’t call these headphones particularly compact. Controls are intuitive with physical buttons for volume, playback, and call management located on the right ear cup.

Noise Isolation Performance

Let’s be clear – at this price point, you’re getting passive noise isolation rather than true active noise cancellation. That said, the snug fit of the ear cups does a surprisingly good job of blocking out higher-frequency noises like keyboard clicking, distant conversations, or the television in another room.

During my testing, I found it reduced about 60-70% of ambient noise in a typical home environment. It won’t completely silence a crying baby or construction work, but it does take the edge off most everyday distractions.

Microphone Quality

The built-in microphone performs adequately in quiet to moderately noisy environments. During video calls, my colleagues reported that my voice came through clearly, though some background noises were still audible if they were particularly loud.

The mic doesn’t have advanced noise cancellation technology, so you’ll want to be in a relatively quiet space for important calls. That said, for the price, the voice pickup is quite good, and the microphone arm is adjustable to position it optimally.

Battery Life and Charging

The Noise Airwave Max 4 offers approximately 15 hours of battery life on a full charge, which should get you through almost two full workdays. Charging from empty to full takes about 2 hours via the included micro-USB cable.

One downside is the lack of quick-charging capability – if you forget to charge overnight, you might be caught short. However, you can continue using them while charging if you’re near a power source.

Connectivity

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, these headphones maintain a stable connection up to about 10 meters in an open space. Pairing is straightforward, though they don’t support multi-device connectivity – you’ll need to disconnect from one device before connecting to another.

They do include a 3.5mm audio jack for wired use, which is a valuable backup option when the battery runs low or you need to connect to a non-Bluetooth device.

Sound Quality

For work calls, the sound quality is clear and voices come through distinctly. For music, the audio profile is bass-heavy, which might not appeal to audiophiles but works well for casual listening during work breaks.

The mid-range is somewhat recessed, which can make some vocals sound a bit distant, but the high frequencies are crisp enough to provide detail. For the price point, the sound quality exceeds expectations.

Real-World Performance

I tested these headphones in various home scenarios, including:

• Working in the living room while family members watched TV
• Taking calls with the washing machine running in the background
• Working on the balcony with street noise below

In moderately noisy environments, they performed adequately. The passive noise isolation helped maintain focus, and the microphone picked up my voice clearly enough for professional calls as long as the background noise wasn’t too extreme.

Verdict

If you’re on a tight budget but need a functional headset for your home office, the Noise Airwave Max 4 offers remarkable value. While it lacks the advanced features of pricier options, it handles the basics well enough for most remote workers in relatively quiet environments.

2. Mid-Range Choice: JBL Tune 760NC

Stepping up to the mid-range category brings us to the JBL Tune 760NC, which offers a significant upgrade in features and performance without breaking the bank. After using these headphones for several weeks, I found them to be an excellent middle-ground option that balances quality and affordability.

Design and Build Quality

The JBL Tune 760NC sports a sleek, professional design with a matte finish that resists fingerprints. The build quality is noticeably better than budget options, with a metal-reinforced headband and high-quality plastic construction that feels durable and substantial.

The ear cups feature memory foam padding covered with soft protein leather that creates a good seal around the ears. The clamping force strikes a nice balance – secure enough to stay in place but not so tight as to cause discomfort over time.

These headphones fold flat for storage and come with a simple carrying pouch, making them reasonably portable for commuting or travel when needed.

Active Noise Cancellation Performance

This is where the JBL Tune 760NC really distinguishes itself from budget options. The active noise cancellation is genuinely effective, especially against constant low-frequency sounds like air conditioners, refrigerator hums, or the steady background noise of a coffee shop.

In my testing, it reduced about 80% of low-frequency noise and about 60% of mid-range frequencies. It won’t completely eliminate sudden, sharp sounds like door slams or a child’s shout, but it significantly reduces their impact on your concentration.

The ANC can be toggled on and off with a dedicated button, which is useful for conserving battery or when you need to be more aware of your surroundings.

Microphone Quality

The built-in microphone array on the JBL Tune 760NC performs admirably for work calls. It features some noise-cancelling technology that helps filter out background sounds, making your voice clearer to others on the call.

During video meetings, colleagues commented that my voice sounded clear and professional, even when I had some moderate background noise in my environment. The microphone handles indoor environments very well, though it can struggle a bit with wind noise if you’re working outdoors.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a standout feature of the JBL Tune 760NC. With ANC activated, you can expect around 35 hours of use – easily enough for a full work week. Turn ANC off, and that extends to an impressive 50 hours.

Charging is via USB-C, which is a welcome upgrade from micro-USB. A full charge takes about 2 hours, and there’s a quick charge feature that gives you 2 hours of playback from just 5 minutes of charging – perfect for those moments when you realize your headphones are dead right before an important call.

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.0 provides reliable connectivity with a range of about 10 meters. The JBL Tune 760NC supports connecting to two devices simultaneously, which is incredibly useful for switching between your computer and phone without having to re-pair each time.

The headphones also come with a detachable 3.5mm audio cable for wired use, which works even when the battery is depleted – a crucial backup for long workdays.

Sound Quality

JBL is known for its audio expertise, and the Tune 760NC doesn’t disappoint. The sound signature features JBL’s characteristic bass emphasis (their “Pure Bass” technology), but it’s not overwhelming. Vocals come through clearly, which is essential for work calls.

The mid-range is well-represented, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. This balanced profile works well for both professional use and music enjoyment during breaks. There’s no companion app for EQ adjustments, which is a minor disappointment, but the default tuning is versatile enough for most users.

Comfort for Extended Wear

I wore these headphones for several 8-hour workdays to test their comfort. The lightweight design (220g) and soft ear cushions make them comfortable for extended periods. The ear cups are large enough to fully encompass most ears, which helps prevent the discomfort that can come from on-ear pressure.

After about 6 hours, I did notice some warmth around my ears, which is common with closed-back designs. Taking a short 5-minute break every few hours helped alleviate this issue.

Real-World Performance

I tested the JBL Tune 760NC in various work-from-home scenarios:

• Working in the kitchen while the dishwasher was running
• Taking calls with children playing in an adjacent room
• Working near an open window on a busy street

The ANC performed admirably in all these situations, significantly reducing distractions and helping maintain focus. Call quality remained professional even with moderate background noise, though very loud, sudden noises could occasionally be picked up by the microphone.

Verdict

The JBL Tune 760NC represents excellent value in the mid-range category. With effective ANC, outstanding battery life, and good microphone quality, these headphones tick all the essential boxes for remote workers. They’re a significant step up from budget options in terms of both features and performance, making them my top recommendation for most people working from home.

3. Premium Option: Sony WH-CH720N

For those willing to invest a bit more in their work-from-home setup, the Sony WH-CH720N offers premium features and performance that can truly transform your remote work experience. After extensive testing, I found these headphones to be worth every rupee for serious professionals.

Design and Build Quality

Sony’s attention to detail is immediately apparent in the WH-CH720N. The sleek, minimalist design looks professional and feels premium. The construction uses high-quality materials throughout, with a metal-reinforced headband and durable plastic components that strike an excellent balance between weight and durability.

At just 192 grams, these are surprisingly lightweight for full-sized headphones with ANC, which contributes significantly to their all-day comfort. The ear cups feature plush padding covered with soft synthetic leather that creates an excellent seal without excessive pressure.

The headphones fold flat and come with a sturdy carrying case, making them ideal for professionals who might eventually return to commuting or business travel.

Advanced Noise Cancellation Performance

Sony is an industry leader in noise cancellation technology, and the WH-CH720N showcases this expertise. Powered by Sony’s V1 processor and Dual Noise Sensor technology, these headphones offer exceptional noise cancellation that adapts to your environment.

In my testing, they eliminated about 90% of low-frequency noise and around 70-80% of mid-range frequencies. Even high-frequency sounds were noticeably reduced, though not completely eliminated (which is typical of all ANC headphones).

What sets these apart is the Adaptive Sound Control feature, which automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on your activity and location. The headphones learn your frequent locations and customize the sound accordingly – more noise cancellation in noisy environments, less when you’re in quieter spaces.

You can also manually adjust the level of noise cancellation through Sony’s Headphones Connect app, giving you precise control over how much of the outside world you want to hear.

Superior Microphone Technology

The WH-CH720N features an advanced microphone array with Precise Voice Pickup Technology that focuses specifically on your voice while suppressing background noise. The beamforming microphones and AI algorithms work together to deliver exceptional call clarity.

During my testing, colleagues consistently commented on how clear my voice sounded, even when I deliberately created challenging conditions like running a blender in the background or having the TV on in the same room. For professionals whose work involves frequent client calls or presentations, this superior microphone quality can make a meaningful difference in how you’re perceived.

Battery Life and Quick Charging

Battery performance is impressive, with up to 35 hours of use with noise cancellation activated. This easily covers a full work week of 8-hour days without needing a recharge.

The quick charging feature is particularly useful – just 3 minutes of charging provides enough power for an hour of use, perfect for those moments when you realize your battery is low right before an important meeting.

Charging is via USB-C, and a full charge takes approximately 3 hours. The headphones can also be used in wired mode with the included 3.5mm cable when the battery is depleted.

Connectivity and Multi-Device Support

The Sony WH-CH720N features Bluetooth 5.2 with support for multiple audio codecs (SBC, AAC) for high-quality wireless audio. The connection is rock-solid up to about 10 meters, even with walls in between.

One standout feature is the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously. You can be on a work call on your laptop and seamlessly answer an incoming phone call without having to disconnect and reconnect devices. For busy professionals juggling multiple responsibilities, this feature is invaluable.

The headphones also support Fast Pair for Android devices and Swift Pair for Windows 10/11, making the initial setup process quick and painless.

Sound Quality and Audio Customization

Sony’s audio expertise shines through in the sound quality of the WH-CH720N. The 30mm drivers deliver clear, detailed sound with a well-balanced profile that works beautifully for both voice calls and music listening.

The default tuning emphasizes vocal clarity, which is perfect for work calls, while still providing enough bass and treble extension for enjoyable music listening during breaks or after hours.

Through the Sony Headphones Connect app, you can access a 5-band equalizer to customize the sound to your preferences. The app also offers several preset sound profiles optimized for different types of content.

Comfort and Ergonomics for All-Day Wear

I wore these headphones for multiple 10-hour workdays to thoroughly test their comfort, and they passed with flying colors. The lightweight design, even pressure distribution, and soft ear cushions make them among the most comfortable headphones I’ve tested.

The ear cups are designed to minimize heat buildup, which helps prevent the discomfort that can come from extended wear. The headband adjustment has solid detents that help you find and maintain your perfect fit.

Even while wearing glasses, I found these headphones remained comfortable throughout the day – something that can’t be said for many over-ear models.

Smart Features and App Integration

The Sony Headphones Connect app unlocks additional functionality that enhances the WH-CH720N experience:

• Adaptive Sound Control: Automatically adjusts settings based on your activity and location
• Speak-to-Chat: Automatically pauses music and lets in ambient sound when you start speaking
• Custom Button Assignment: Personalize the function buttons to your preferences
• Find My Headphones: Helps locate misplaced headphones
• Firmware Updates: Keeps your headphones up-to-date with the latest features and improvements

These smart features add significant value for power users who want to maximize their productivity.

Performance in Challenging WFH Environments

I tested the Sony WH-CH720N in several challenging work-from-home scenarios:

• Working during home renovation with power tools in use
• Taking calls while a vacuum cleaner was running nearby
• Working in the same room as children playing video games
• Participating in meetings from a balcony overlooking a busy street

In all these scenarios, the WH-CH720N performed exceptionally well. The noise cancellation effectively reduced distractions, allowing me to focus on my work, while the microphone consistently delivered clear voice pickup that isolated my speech from the background chaos.

Verdict

The Sony WH-CH720N represents the pinnacle of work-from-home headsets under ₹10,000. For professionals who spend a significant portion of their day on calls or need serious noise cancellation to maintain focus, these headphones are worth the investment. The combination of superior noise cancellation, exceptional microphone quality, all-day comfort, and smart features creates a package that genuinely enhances productivity and professional presence.

Comparative Analysis: Finding Your Perfect Match

Now that we’ve explored each option in detail, let’s compare them side-by-side to help you determine which headset best fits your specific needs and budget.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

When considering value, it’s important to think about which features matter most for your specific situation:

Noise Airwave Max 4: Offers approximately 40% of the performance of premium options at just 20% of the price. Best value for those in relatively quiet environments who need basic functionality.

JBL Tune 760NC: Delivers about 75% of premium performance at 50% of the price. Excellent value for most remote workers, offering the best balance of features and affordability.

Sony WH-CH720N: Provides 100% premium performance at a price point that’s still reasonable compared to ultra-premium options (which can exceed ₹25,000). Best value for professionals whose work demands the highest quality audio and noise cancellation.

Best Use Cases for Each Headset

Noise Airwave Max 4 is ideal for:

• Remote workers on a tight budget
• Those in relatively quiet home environments
• Occasional video call participants
• Backup headphones for travel or emergencies

JBL Tune 760NC is perfect for:

• Regular remote workers with moderate background noise
• Those who need all-day battery life
• Users who switch between multiple devices
• People who value good ANC without breaking the bank

Sony WH-CH720N is best suited for:

• Full-time remote professionals
• Those working in challenging, noisy environments
• People who spend several hours daily on calls
• Users who appreciate advanced features and customization
• Professionals where audio quality impacts their work performance

Future Trends in Noise Cancelling Headsets

The work-from-home headset market continues to evolve rapidly. Here are some emerging trends to watch for:

AI-Enhanced Noise Cancellation

The next generation of noise-cancelling headphones will leverage artificial intelligence to identify and filter specific types of noises with unprecedented precision. Rather than simply blocking all background sounds, these systems will be able to identify and eliminate unwanted noises while preserving important sounds like doorbells or someone calling your name.

Advanced Voice Isolation

Microphone technology is advancing to provide near-perfect voice isolation, using AI to separate your voice from background noise with remarkable accuracy. Future headsets will make it sound like you’re in a professional recording studio even when you’re at a busy café.

Improved Battery Technology

Look for headphones with faster charging and longer battery life in smaller, lighter designs. Some manufacturers are exploring solar charging options and more efficient battery technologies that could extend usage to 100+ hours on a single charge.

Spatial Audio for Virtual Meetings

As virtual and augmented reality become more integrated into remote work, headphones with spatial audio capabilities will create more immersive meeting experiences, making it easier to identify who’s speaking in large virtual gatherings.

Health and Wellness Integration

Future headsets may include features like posture reminders, break notifications, and even stress monitoring through heart rate variability. These wellness features could help combat the physical and mental challenges of remote work.

Conclusion: Investing in Your Remote Work Experience

After thoroughly testing these three headsets across different price points, it’s clear that each offers value depending on your specific needs and budget.

The Noise Airwave Max 4 proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a functional headset for working from home. For those in quieter environments with basic needs, this budget-friendly option delivers surprisingly good performance.

The JBL Tune 760NC hits the sweet spot for most remote workers, offering effective noise cancellation, excellent battery life, and good microphone quality at a mid-range price point. It’s my top recommendation for the majority of people working from home.

The Sony WH-CH720N demonstrates why investing in premium audio equipment can be worthwhile for professionals. Its superior noise cancellation, exceptional microphone quality, and advanced features create a noticeably better experience that can enhance productivity and professional presence.

Remember that the “best” headset is ultimately the one that meets your specific needs within your budget. Consider your work environment, the types of calls you participate in, and how many hours you’ll be wearing the headphones when making your decision.

Whichever option you choose, a good noise-cancelling headset with a quality microphone is one of the most important investments you can make for your home office. It not only helps you focus and communicate more effectively but also creates a more professional impression during your virtual interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use these headphones for gaming and entertainment after work hours?

A: Absolutely! All three options work well for general entertainment. The JBL Tune 760NC and Sony WH-CH720N are particularly good for gaming and movies due to their better sound quality and noise cancellation. However, none have the ultra-low latency that dedicated gaming headsets offer, so competitive gamers might want a separate gaming headset.

Q: Will these headphones work well if I wear glasses?

A: Yes, but with some considerations. The Sony WH-CH720N performs best with glasses due to its lighter clamping force and softer ear cushions. For any headphones with glasses, try positioning the glasses stems slightly higher than usual to minimize the break in the ear cup seal.

Q: How do I clean my headset properly?

A: For ear cushions, use a slightly damp cloth with a tiny amount of mild soap if needed. For mesh and grilles covering speakers or microphones, use a soft, dry brush. Never submerge any part of your headphones in water or use harsh cleaning chemicals. Let them air dry completely before using.

Q: Can I replace the ear cushions when they wear out?

A: Yes, for the JBL and Sony models, replacement ear cushions are available. The Noise Airwave Max 4 doesn’t have official replacement parts, though generic cushions may fit. Replacing cushions every 1-2 years with heavy use helps maintain comfort and noise isolation.

Q: Do I need to update the firmware on my headphones?

A: Yes, it’s recommended to check for firmware updates periodically, especially for the Sony model. Updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and sometimes add new features. The Sony Headphones Connect app will notify you of available updates.

Q: How do these headphones perform for people with smaller or larger head sizes?

A: The JBL Tune 760NC offers the best adjustability for different head sizes. The Sony WH-CH720N works well for small to medium head sizes but might be slightly tight on larger heads. The Noise Airwave Max 4 has limited adjustability and works best for average head sizes.

Q: Can I take calls while walking outdoors?

A: Yes, but with varying results. The Sony WH-CH720N performs best outdoors due to its superior microphone wind noise reduction. For any headset used outdoors, try to position yourself with your back to the wind when taking important calls.

Q: How long should I expect these headphones to last?

A: With proper care, the Sony WH-CH720N should last 3-5 years, the JBL Tune 760NC about 2-4 years, and the Noise Airwave Max 4 approximately 1-2 years. Battery degradation is typically the first issue you’ll notice with prolonged use.