Differences Between Noise Canceling and Noise Isolating Earbuds

If you have shopped for a new set of earbuds, you have probably seen brands that say that they are either "noise canceling earbuds" or "noise isolating earbuds" and you may wonder what the difference is or which one is better. Essentially, both types are meant to improve how you hear music by canceling ambient noise around your ears.

Noise isolating earbuds essentially employ a physical barrier to keep outside noise from interfering with your listening experience. In this way, they are a little like ear plugs. Noise isolating earbuds can be made using foam pieces, plastic sleeves, or rubber molds which are molded to closely fit the ear. The earbud is then inserted into the ear snuggly and blocks out external noise. Noise isolating earbuds do not require batteries or power.

Noise canceling earbuds on the other hand use sensitive electronic technology to take a sound sample of outside noise within the ear cup and then digitize it. The electronics that take the sample then generate an inverse wave of the one that is made by the outside noise so that your ear does not pick up the noise. This technology is very sophisticated and was originally prohibitively priced, but recent innovations have made noise canceling or noise isolating earbuds far more affordable. You will probably need small batteries that will operate the circuitry within the earbuds, so you will need to replace these from time to time depending on how much you use them.

Due to the differences in the technology behind these two types of earbuds, you will want to select a pair based on where and how you usually listen to music. If you choose to purchase either noise canceling earbuds or noise isolating earbuds, you will need to spend some time searching for the right pair. Each person's ears are shaped differently, and to get the most benefit from the pair you buy, you will need to find one that fits your ear properly. Some brands come with interchangeable tips which may be a good option.

In general, noise canceling earbuds are great for listening to music in your home, on airplanes or buses, or other areas where there is likely to be a lot of ambient noise. Noise isolating earbuds are a good choice for casual use of portable music devices that will be used while exercising or doing other activities that require a lot of moving around.