11 Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Airplane Travel in 2026

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The best noise-cancelling earbuds for airplane travel in 2026 are the Sony WF-1000XM6 for overall cabin-noise reduction, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) for comfort and strong ANC, AirPods Pro 3 for iPhone owners, and Technics EAH-AZ100 for battery life and sound. Budget travelers should consider Soundcore Liberty 5 or Sony WF-C710N.

Premium earbuds can make an aircraft’s steady engine rumble much less noticeable, but earbuds do not create silence. Fit, passive ear-tip isolation, ANC-on battery life, transparency mode, and seatback compatibility matter as much as headline noise-cancellation claims.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | Live Translation, Heart Rate...	$199.00	Buy on Amazon
2		soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise...	$24.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency...	$110.67	Buy on Amazon
4		soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise...	$26.99	Buy on Amazon

Key takeaways

• Sony WF-1000XM6 is the best overall choice for airplane ANC based on current independent testing, including 12.2 hours of ANC-on battery life in RTINGS’ test configuration.
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the strongest comfort-and-ANC alternative, but Bose rates them for up to six hours with Immersive Audio disabled and four hours with Immersive Audio enabled.
• AirPods Pro 3 are the most natural choice for iPhone, iPad, and Mac owners, while Galaxy Buds4 Pro make the most sense for compatible Samsung Galaxy phones.
• Technics EAH-AZ100 is the battery-first and sound-focused pick; RTINGS reports more than 12 hours of ANC-on endurance for Technics’ premium model in testing.
• Wireless earbuds will not automatically connect to every airplane seatback system; a Bluetooth transmitter such as Bose AirFly SE may be needed when the aircraft provides only a wired headphone jack.

What are the best noise-cancelling earbuds for airplane travel in 2026?

The Sony WF-1000XM6 is the best overall pick for most travelers who prioritize low-frequency engine-noise reduction. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are a better practical choice for travelers who find Bose’s fit more comfortable, while Apple AirPods Pro 3 are the easiest recommendation for people deeply invested in Apple devices.

The list below is an editorial use-case ranking rather than a claim that every model was personally tested. Independent coverage currently places Sony’s WF-1000XM6 near the top for ANC, Bose’s second-generation Ultra Earbuds among the strongest comfort-and-cancellation choices, Technics’ EAH-AZ100 among the strongest battery and sound options, and cheaper Sony and CMF models among reasonable budget alternatives. See the current RTINGS noise-cancelling earbud recommendations and SoundGuys’ noise-cancelling earbud coverage for the independent testing context.

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• LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
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Quick comparison

Battery figures below are included only when the supplied research provides a specific measured or manufacturer figure. “Not stated” means the evidence used for this article did not verify the exact figure or feature; it does not mean the product lacks the feature.

Prices change by retailer and date. The supplied research verified two product prices during its U.S. research pass: Bose listed the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) at $249, reduced from $299, and Samsung listed Galaxy Buds4 Pro from $249.99. Those are U.S. page prices observed during the research pass, not guaranteed current prices or permanent MSRP.

Which earbuds should each type of traveler buy?

1. Sony WF-1000XM6: best overall for airplane ANC

Buy the Sony WF-1000XM6 if reducing continuous aircraft engine noise is your first priority. Current RTINGS coverage names the WF-1000XM6 its leading noise-cancelling earbud pick and measured 12.2 hours of ANC-on battery life in its test configuration. The measured battery result belongs to RTINGS’ test, not to a universal Sony promise.

The WF-1000XM6 is particularly suited to frequent flyers who want extensive app controls, strong low-frequency cancellation, and broad iPhone and Android support. A good seal remains essential: Sony’s ANC cannot compensate for an ear tip that leaks sound.

The main drawbacks are premium pricing and fit variability. Some ears may prefer Bose’s shape, while other listeners may dislike or favor Sony’s tip design. Sony WF-1000XM6 is the best starting point for a traveler who wants the strongest all-round earbud package, not a guarantee of silence or total voice removal.

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): best for comfort and strong ANC

Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) when comfort and powerful cancellation matter more than maximum battery endurance. Bose identifies Quiet Mode as its strongest in-ear noise-cancellation mode, and independent coverage places the earbuds among the strongest ANC and comfort options.

Bose rates the earbuds for up to six hours of playback with Immersive Audio turned off and up to four hours with Immersive Audio enabled. The case stores up to three additional full charges. Bose’s U.S. page displayed a $249 price, reduced from $299, during the research pass; the sale may not remain available.

Bose is a strong choice for travelers whose ears find Sony uncomfortable. The six-hour rating is only moderate for long-haul flying, and Immersive Audio trades away battery life. The Bose app and personalization controls may also feel less extensive than Sony’s.

3. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best for iPhone users

AirPods Pro 3 are the best travel earbuds for many iPhone users because Apple integration can outweigh small differences in ANC or battery testing. Fast pairing, switching among Apple devices, and Transparency mode reduce friction during boarding, entertainment, and conversations.

AirPods Pro 3 are less compelling for Android users, who do not receive the full Apple ecosystem experience. Apple’s product information lists up to five hours of listening time on a charge under its cited configuration, with lower endurance when ANC is enabled in the specified configuration. Treat that figure as an Apple claim under stated conditions, not a guarantee for every volume, codec, or feature setting. The cited Apple buying page is Apple’s AirPods product page.

AirPods Pro 3 still may need a transmitter for a wired seatback system. Apple ecosystem integration does not make ordinary airplane entertainment jacks Bluetooth-compatible.

4. Technics EAH-AZ100: best for battery life and sound quality

Technics EAH-AZ100 is the strongest choice for travelers who want long ANC listening sessions without treating sound quality as an afterthought. RTINGS identifies Technics’ premium model as exceeding 12 hours of ANC-on battery life in testing, making the EAH-AZ100 especially attractive for long flights and airport days.

Technics may give up some deep-rumble ANC performance compared with Sony or Bose, but music-focused travelers may prefer its sound presentation. Larger or heavier-feeling shells can be less suitable for small ears, so fit should be tested before a long trip. Regional availability and exact 2026 firmware or model specifications should be confirmed before purchase.

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soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Bluetooth 5.4

• 2-in-1 Charging Case and Phone Stand: Enjoy hands-free viewing without the hassle. Simply open the back panel of the case, place your phone on the stand, and catch up on your favorite shows—watching while traveling has never been easier!
• Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling: Reduce noise by up to 42dB with an advanced active noise cancelling system. With adaptive technology, soundocre P30i detects external sound and automatically selects a level of noise cancelling optimized for your ears.
• Transparency Mode: Let in the world or focus on your audio, the choice is yours. Simply switch to transparency mode to hear the world around you when needed.
• Powerful Bass: Unleash deep, punchy bass with soundcore P30i noise cancelling earbuds' 10mm drivers, amplified by the soundcore exclusive BassUp technology for an immersive, robust audio experience.
• Long-Lasting Convenience: Enjoy up to 10 hours of playtime (6 hours with ANC) on a single charge, and up to 45 hours with the case (25 hours with ANC). A quick 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of use, perfect for your on-the-go lifestyle.

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5. Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro: best for Samsung Galaxy phones

Galaxy Buds4 Pro are the best choice for Samsung Galaxy owners who can use Samsung-specific features. Samsung lists adaptive ANC, a two-way speaker design, Samsung Seamless Codec support, and a U.S. starting price of $249.99 on its official product page during the research pass.

Samsung’s 24-bit/96 kHz and Seamless Codec capabilities depend on compatible Samsung hardware and settings. Codec specifications matter less on a plane than a stable Bluetooth connection, a reliable ear-tip seal, comfortable fit, and effective low-frequency ANC. Galaxy Buds4 Pro are less attractive for iPhone owners because several headline features are tied to Samsung’s ecosystem. Check Samsung’s official Galaxy Buds4 Pro specifications for current compatibility details.

6. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4: best audiophile alternative

Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 suits travelers who want detailed, configurable sound with credible ANC rather than category-leading cancellation. SoundGuys measured 83% average noise attenuation in its testing, which makes the earbuds a serious travel option.

Sennheiser may be less comfortable than Bose for some ears, and ANC is not necessarily the strongest in this group. The model makes the most sense when discounted or when its sound profile matters more than maximum engine-noise reduction. Check firmware and app behavior before departure rather than waiting until boarding.

7. Sony WF-1000XM5: best discounted previous flagship

Sony WF-1000XM5 is worth considering when a substantial discount separates it from the newer WF-1000XM6. The WF-1000XM5 retains flagship-oriented features and strong ANC, but the newer XM6 may justify its higher price through newer performance and battery improvements.

Prices fluctuate substantially, so compare the actual current gap rather than assuming the older model is automatically the better deal. Sony’s foam tips can also wear over time and may need replacement. The WF-1000XM5 is a value recommendation only when the discount is real and the fit works for your ears.

8. Soundcore Liberty 5: best midrange value

Soundcore Liberty 5 is the midrange option for travelers who want ANC and useful app features without paying premium-earbud prices. The model belongs on this list as a value benchmark, but the supplied evidence does not verify a current U.S. list price, sale price, battery figure, or standardized ANC result.

Expect compromises compared with Sony, Bose, and Apple in ANC refinement, microphones, and transparency behavior. Confirm the current price and recent testing at publication. Liberty 5 is a sensible shortlist option for occasional flyers, but it should not be presented as a flagship noise-cancellation performer.

9. Sony WF-C710N: best inexpensive Sony option

Sony WF-C710N is a practical affordable choice for casual travelers who want branded ANC and a compact case. SoundGuys reports ANC, touch controls, and up to 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case.

The 30-hour figure is a case-inclusive total, not 30 hours of continuous ANC-on playback from the earbuds. The WF-C710N has weaker ANC, shorter earbud-only endurance, and a less premium build than Sony’s WF-1000XM models. The model is a good inexpensive Sony option, especially as a backup pair, but not the best pick for maximum cabin isolation. See the SoundGuys testing and battery coverage for the cited case figure.

10. Nothing Ear (3): best design-forward alternative

Nothing Ear (3) is for travelers who value distinctive design, sound customization, and an alternative to the major platform ecosystems. RTINGS includes Nothing Ear (3) among its lower-midrange recommendations.

Nothing Ear (3) is not the safest choice when very noisy cabins are the central problem. Verify current availability, ecosystem features, and battery figures for the market where you will buy. A strong seal matters particularly because a lower-midrange ANC system has less margin for a poor fit.

11. CMF Buds 2 Plus: best ultra-budget backup

CMF Buds 2 Plus is the lowest-cost recommendation for occasional travelers, students, and people who want a backup pair without paying premium prices. SoundGuys includes the model among newer lower-cost ANC options.

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• ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation help reduce outside noise before it reaches your ears, so you can immerse yourself in what you’re listening to.*
• HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — The powerful H2 chip comes to AirPods 4. Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends ANC and Transparency mode — which lets you comfortably hear and interact with the world around you exactly as it sounds — to provide the best listening experience in any environment.* And when you’re speaking with someone nearby, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume of what’s playing.*
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CMF Buds 2 Plus should not be treated as equivalent to Sony, Bose, or Apple. Compromises are most likely to appear in ANC consistency, microphone quality, transparency mode, materials, and long-term support. Fit and ear-tip seal are especially important at this price, and current pricing and battery figures should be checked before publication.

What makes earbuds good for airplane travel?

Good airplane earbuds combine low-frequency ANC, a dependable passive seal, long-session comfort, ANC-on battery life, transparency controls, and a workable entertainment backup. A generic ANC ranking can miss the practical problems that occur between leaving home and landing.

• Low-frequency ANC: Aircraft engine and cabin rumble are relatively steady sounds, which is where ANC is most useful.
• Passive isolation: Correct ear-tip size blocks sound before electronics process it. A premium earbud with a poor seal can perform worse than a cheaper earbud that fits correctly.
• Comfort: A pair that becomes painful after 45 minutes is a poor long-haul choice regardless of laboratory performance.
• ANC-on endurance: Compare continuous earbud playback with ANC enabled, not only the larger total-hours figure that includes the case.
• Case capacity and fast charging: A charged case helps during airport days, while a short pre-boarding charge can rescue a low battery.
• Transparency mode: Travelers need to hear boarding announcements, flight attendants, conversations, and safety instructions without removing the earbuds.
• Multipoint: Simultaneous multipoint can switch between a phone, tablet, and laptop; quick switching is not always the same feature, so verify the manufacturer’s exact implementation.
• Call quality and Bluetooth reliability: These matter to travelers working from an airport or plane and to people pairing in crowded terminals.
• Case size and water resistance: Pocketability helps on travel days. Water and sweat resistance is useful protection, not permission to expose earbuds to rain, spills, or water.

Do earbuds completely block airplane noise?

No, noise-cancelling earbuds reduce perceived noise rather than blocking all airplane sound. ANC is strongest against steady, repetitive low-frequency rumble and less reliable against nearby speech, crying children, meal-cart rattles, sudden announcements, high-pitched mechanical sounds, and sound leaking around an imperfect seal.

Earbuds also cannot cancel noise that enters around glasses, hair, or poorly fitted tips. Test ANC with music paused so you can judge the earbud’s actual isolation. Safe listening volume still matters; ANC does not prevent hearing damage.

How important is earbud fit on a plane?

Fit is one of the most important factors because the ear-tip seal affects both passive isolation and perceived ANC performance. Use this process before travel:

1. Try every supplied ear-tip size, including different sizes in the left and right ears if necessary.
2. Run the manufacturer’s ear-fit or seal test when the app provides one.
3. Insert each earbud fully without pressing it into the ear canal hard enough to create pain.
4. Test ANC with music paused, then compare the left and right ears independently.
5. Keep the earbuds in for 20 to 30 minutes; discomfort often develops gradually.
6. Try third-party tips only after confirming that the replacement tips fit inside the charging case and do not obstruct charging.

Do not declare one model universally best for small ears. Ear anatomy varies, and Bose may suit one traveler while Sony, Technics, or a smaller budget model suits another. Buy from a retailer with a clear return policy when possible.

Are earbuds or over-ear headphones better on a plane?

Over-ear headphones are usually better for maximum isolation, while earbuds are better for portability, lower heat, and sleeping against a window. Premium over-ear models can provide larger passive earcup isolation and stronger overall cabin-noise reduction, but they take more space and can become warm.

Travelers who prioritize maximum isolation should also consider Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen), Sony WH-1000XM6, or Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless. Current flight-focused coverage continues to rate premium Bose and Sony over-ear models highly, although the earbuds above remain more portable. See SoundGuys’ airplane headphone coverage for that alternative category.

Can wireless earbuds connect to airplane seatback entertainment?

Not universally; native Bluetooth pairing depends on the airline, aircraft, cabin, route, and entertainment system. Many seatback systems still provide a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack, and some use a dual-prong connector. Wireless earbuds cannot plug directly into those systems.

A Bluetooth transmitter converts the seatback’s wired audio output into a wireless signal. Bose AirFly SE is one example: Bose lists it for wired sources such as seatback entertainment, supports one pair of headphones according to the product listing, and claims up to 20 hours of battery life. Bose’s U.S. page displayed a $34.99 price during the research pass. View the official Bose AirFly SE details before buying.

A transmitter is not a universal guarantee. Pairing limits, latency, volume behavior, a loose aircraft jack, and dual-prong compatibility can vary. Check the specific airline and aircraft when possible, and carry wired earbuds or downloaded phone and tablet content as a backup.

How do you pair earbuds with an airplane Bluetooth transmitter?

Put the earbuds in pairing mode before the transmitter searches, and eliminate nearby Bluetooth connections that could capture the pairing attempt. Use this recovery sequence:

1. Turn off Bluetooth on nearby phones, tablets, laptops, and other devices that have previously paired with the earbuds.
2. Put the earbuds into pairing mode.
3. Turn on the transmitter after the earbuds are ready to pair.
4. Keep other paired devices away from the transmitter and earbuds.
5. If pairing fails, reset the transmitter and earbuds according to their manuals, then repeat the sequence.
6. Use a wired backup if the aircraft jack is loose, dual-prong, incompatible, or too noisy.

Some transmitters support only one or two audio receivers, and audio delay can vary. Test the transmitter at home with the earbuds before the flight.

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soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Bluetooth 5.4

• 2-in-1 Charging Case and Phone Stand: Enjoy hands-free viewing without the hassle. Simply open the back panel of the case, place your phone on the stand, and catch up on your favorite shows—watching while traveling has never been easier!
• Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling: Reduce noise by up to 42dB with an advanced active noise cancelling system. With adaptive technology, soundcore P30i detects external sound and automatically selects a level of noise cancelling optimized for your ears.
• Transparency Mode: Let in the world or focus on your audio, the choice is yours. Simply switch to transparency mode to hear the world around you when needed.
• Powerful Bass: Unleash deep, punchy bass with soundcore P30i noise cancelling earbuds' 10mm drivers, amplified by the soundcore exclusive BassUp technology for an immersive, robust audio experience.
• Long-Lasting Convenience: Enjoy up to 10 hours of playtime (6 hours with ANC) on a single charge, and up to 45 hours with the case (25 hours with ANC). A quick 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of use, perfect for your on-the-go lifestyle.

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Can Bluetooth earbuds be used in airplane mode?

Yes, Bluetooth accessories may be usable in airplane mode under the applicable airline and device policy, but passengers must follow crew instructions. The FAA says portable electronic devices should be used in airplane mode or with cellular connectivity disabled; Wi-Fi may be used when an aircraft has an installed system and the airline allows it.

Enable airplane mode, then turn Bluetooth back on if the device and airline permit it. Do not assume that FAA guidance overrides a crew instruction or an airline-specific restriction. The FAA passenger safety guidance and FAA portable-electronics guidance are the appropriate references for current policy.

What should you do if the earbuds die mid-flight?

Charge the case before departure, carry a USB-C cable, disable unnecessary immersive features, and bring a wired backup for critical entertainment. Earbud-only endurance with ANC enabled is the number that matters for continuous listening, while case-inclusive endurance describes multiple charging cycles rather than one uninterrupted session.

Battery claims vary with codec, listening volume, ANC mode, spatial or immersive audio, calls, and firmware. Bose’s six-hour and four-hour figures demonstrate how a feature can change endurance: Bose rates the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) for up to six hours with Immersive Audio off and four hours with it on.

Download films, music, podcasts, maps, and other essential content before leaving reliable internet access. FAA guidance generally allows personal electronic devices with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries from 0 to 100 Wh in passenger baggage, while spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried on rather than checked. Read the FAA passenger battery guidance and FAA guidance for portable electronic devices with batteries before packing.

Why can ANC earbuds feel like they create ear pressure?

ANC does not physically change cabin pressure, but sealed earbuds and active cancellation can create an occlusion or pressure sensation for some users. Switch to transparency mode, reduce or disable ANC, change ear-tip size, or remove the earbuds temporarily if the sensation becomes uncomfortable.

Do not confuse a pressure sensation with a reason to ignore actual ear discomfort. A painful fit is a fit problem, not evidence that stronger ANC is better.

How should you prepare earbuds for a flight?

1. Charge both earbuds and the case fully.
2. Update firmware and confirm the companion app works before leaving home.
3. Test every ear-tip size and complete the seal test.
4. Pair the earbuds with the phone, tablet, and laptop you plan to use.
5. Test multipoint carefully; confirm whether the earbuds switch simultaneously or only provide quick manual switching.
6. Download entertainment for offline use.
7. Pack a USB-C charging cable, wired earbuds, and a compatible airplane adapter or transmitter if seatback entertainment matters.
8. Store the case in a zipped pocket rather than a seat pocket where it can be left behind.
9. Test transparency mode for announcements and conversations.
10. Remain attentive during safety briefings and follow crew instructions even when wearing earbuds.

Final recommendations by budget and ecosystem

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Bluetooth transmitter for wireless earbuds on an airplane?

You need a Bluetooth transmitter when the airplane seatback system has only a wired headphone output and no native Bluetooth pairing. A transmitter such as Bose AirFly SE plugs into the seatback jack and sends audio to wireless earbuds, but jack type, pairing limits, and airline equipment vary.

Are AirPods Pro 3 good for airplane travel?

AirPods Pro 3 are particularly good for iPhone users because fast pairing, Apple-device switching, and Transparency mode simplify travel. AirPods Pro 3 are less compelling for Android users, and the earbuds may still require a transmitter for wired seatback entertainment.

Which is better for flying, Sony WF-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)?

Sony WF-1000XM6 is the better overall ANC choice, while Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the better comfort-and-ANC alternative. Personal ear fit can reverse that decision because a poor seal reduces the benefit of either model.

Do ANC earbuds help with crying babies and nearby voices?

ANC earbuds reduce steady low-frequency aircraft rumble more reliably than nearby voices, crying children, meal-cart rattles, announcements, or sudden high-pitched sounds. A good passive ear-tip seal and low-volume audio can still make the cabin more comfortable.

The Bottom Line

For most travelers, buy the Sony WF-1000XM6 for the strongest all-round airplane ANC. Choose Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) if comfort is the deciding factor, AirPods Pro 3 for Apple integration, Galaxy Buds4 Pro for Samsung phones, and Technics EAH-AZ100 for battery life and sound. If the seatback system is wired, pack a transmitter or wired backup.

Quick Recap

SaleBestseller No. 1

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | Live Translation, Heart Rate Sensing, Hearing Aid Feature, Bluetooth Headphones, Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging

$199.00

SaleBestseller No. 2

soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Bluetooth 5.4

$24.99

Bestseller No. 3

Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging Case, Wireless Charging, H2 Chip

$110.67

SaleBestseller No. 4

soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing | Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Bluetooth 5.4

$26.99