Noise is omnipresent, whether it’s the sound of your neighbor’s lawnmower, the distracting chat in the workplace, or the buzz of the air conditioner. This sound can disrupt focus, cause stress, and lead to fatigue over time. A few hours of solitude from all this noise can feel more precious than gold. Noise control is a set of techniques used to manage or eliminate unwanted sounds in a variety of environments. In recent years, technological advances have made it easier to manage unwanted noise in personal spaces. Two primary methods stand out for sound control: noise cancellation and noise isolation. Both techniques aim to block external sounds but work in different ways.
In this article, we will take you through these two technologies including what they are, their differences, comparisons, benefits, and downsides. Get into the article to explore more about Noise Cancellation vs. Noise Isolation.
What is Noise Isolation?
Noise isolation is a method that physically blocks external sounds by using barriers. These barriers do not involve any electrical or electronic components but rely on materials that create a seal around or inside the ear. It is different from Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which uses electronic processing, by preventing outside noise from entering the ear canal. Hence, Noise Isolation is sometimes referred to as “Passive Noise Cancellation.”
Usually, the physical barrier “isolates” your ear from noise or reduces noise levels. Regardless of its efficiency, external sounds will still seep into your ears depending on the fit, design, and materials used.
The working principle behind noise isolation is very simple. It focuses on blocking sound waves using physical materials. The materials used, such as thick padding or dense foam, create a seal that prevents external noise from entering the ears.
Types of Noise-Isolating Devices
Over-ear headphones are one of the most popular noise isolation devices. These headphones use cushioned ear cups that wrap around the ear to create a physical barrier. The cushioning, usually made from materials like memory foam or synthetic leather, helps block sound.
In-ear monitors (IEMs) are another form of noise isolation devices. Musicians, audiophiles, and some regular users prefer IEMs because they use foam or silicone tips that fit tightly in the ear canal. This provides an effective barrier against outside sounds and also the benefit of being highly portable.
For industrial and personal use, earplugs and earmuffs are very common for noise isolation in louder environments. Construction workers, factory employees, and concert-goers often use these simple devices. Earplugs fit directly into the ear canal, while earmuffs sit over the ears.
Pros of Noise Isolation
- No power source or electronics needed
- More affordable options available
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Often lighter and more comfortable for extended wear
Cons of Noise Isolation
- Limited effectiveness in environments with deep bass or low-frequency noises
- Requires a tight seal, which can lead to discomfort after prolonged use
What is Noise Cancellation?
Noise cancellation is a technology that actively reduces or eliminates unwanted external sounds by producing soundwaves that directly counteract or “cancel out” the incoming noise. This process relies on electronic components working in real time.
The working of Noise Cancellation is completely different to that of Noise Isolation. A set of miniature microphones “listen” to the surrounding sounds while a purpose-built chipset (application specific integrated circuit or ASIC) analyzes these external sounds. Using some algorithms, it generates an opposing soundwave (180 degrees out of phase) that cancel out all the external sounds, which is essentially noise.
As the process involves actively monitoring external sounds and cancelling them through electronic means in real time, Noise Cancellation is often as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Types of Noise-Cancelling Devices
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) technology is prominently present in two types of devices: over-ear headphones and high-end earbuds. ANC Headphones, with over-ear designs that cover the entire ear, are the most common type of Active Noise Cancellation devices.
This design not only adds a physical barrier to external sounds but also uses advanced electronics to eliminate external sounds.
High-end earbuds with ANC are smaller but use similar technology to block out noise. Popular models like Apple’s AirPods Pro or Sony’s WF-1000XM series have excellent ANC mechanism.
Pros of Noise Cancellation
- Blocks low-frequency sounds better than most other technologies
- Active technology adjusts automatically to changing noise environments
- Ideal for noisy environments like airplanes, trains, and offices with loud air conditioning
Cons of Noise Cancellation
- Requires power, either from a battery or a direct plug-in source
- Typically, more expensive compared to noise-isolating headphones
- Can create ear pressure, leading to discomfort for some users over time
- May produce a slight background hiss, especially in quieter environments
Comparison Table: Noise Cancellation vs. Noise Isolation
| Feature | Noise Cancellation | Noise Isolation |
| Audio Quality | Doesn’t offer accurate sound quality | Delivers exceptional sound quality |
| Performance | Efficiently reduces low-frequency sounds | Effectively reduces both mid-frequency and high-frequency sounds |
| Technology | Microphones and sound wave cancellation | Physical barriers or materials to block noise |
| Power Source | Requires batteries or power source | Don’t require batteries or power sources |
| Portability | Available in portable headphone/earbud form | Limited portability, such as earmuffs or earplugs |
| Comfort | Causes some discomfort or pressure on the ears | Can be worn comfortably for long hours |
| Safety | May not be safe at all times | Completely safe |
| Use Cases | Airplanes, offices, commuting, music listening | Sleeping, studying, industrial environments, concerts |
| Cost | More expensive | Budget-friendly |
Key Differences Between Noise Cancellation and Noise Isolation
Technology
Noise isolation is a simple technique that relies on physical barriers to block unwanted sounds. This technology functions by creating a seal around the ear, preventing outside noises from entering. Ear cups in over-ear headphones or in-ear tips in earphones act as shields.
The efficiency of noise isolation depends entirely on how well the ear or ear canal is sealed off from the external environment. Manufacturers often use dense foams, silicone, or other sound-absorbing materials to improve isolation.
Noise cancellation uses active electronic processing to minimize external sounds. Tiny microphones built into the headphones capture ambient noise, and the system analyzes these sound waves. Once the headphones identify the incoming noise pattern, they generate an “anti-noise” sound wave that directly counteracts the incoming sound.
Effectiveness in Different Noise Ranges
Noise isolation performs better at blocking mid-to-high frequency sounds. These frequencies include human voices, office noise, or sounds from everyday surroundings. Noise isolation can reduce mid-to-high-frequency noise by 15 dB to 30 dB.
The effectiveness of noise isolation depends on the material of the headphones/earphones and how well the ear or ear canal is sealed off from the external environment.
With a tight seal, high frequency sounds like traffic, conversations, and other sharper noises get muffled. However, deep, low-frequency sounds, like the hum of an airplane engine or subway rumbling, can still penetrate the physical barriers.
On the other hand, noise cancellation thrives in environments filled with low-frequency sounds. Engines, air conditioners, and ambient airplane noises fall into this category.
However, the technology struggles to eliminate sudden, sharp noises like voices, honking, or keyboard typing.
Comfort and Wearability
Noise isolation devices, both over-ear headphones or in-ear monitors, are generally lightweight. Since they do not require any electronics, they remain compact and easier to carry.
Noise-cancelling headphones tend to have a bulkier design due to the additional hardware required (batteries, microphones, and processors, circuit boards) for active sound processing. The pressure that noise cancellation creates on their ears can cause discomfort to some users.
The electronic feedback mechanism used to counteract sound may produce an odd sensation or even mild ear fatigue.
Price Range
Noise isolation headphones and earphones are more affordable compared to their noise-cancelling counterparts. Since noise isolation relies on physical materials rather than electronics, manufacturers can produce high-quality models at a lower cost. A good pair of noise-isolating earphones or over-ear headphones can start from as low as $50.
Conversely, noise-cancelling headphones come with a higher price tag due to the technology involved. The microphones, processors, and batteries necessary for active noise cancellation increase manufacturing costs. Additionally, premium brands like Bose or Sony, charge between $300 and $500 for some of their high-end ANC headphones.
Power Source
One significant difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation is their power requirements. Noise isolation requires no external power source. Users can simply wear their headphones or earphones without worrying about charging them.
Headphones with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) need a built-in battery to operate their noise-cancelling features. Most models have a battery life between 20 to 40 hours.
Although most ANC headphones still function as regular headphones without power, their main feature becomes inaccessible without proper charging.
Safety
Generally speaking, both noise-isolating and active noise-canceling headphones are safe to use as long as you are aware of your surroundings.
As noise isolation headphones or earbuds don’t seal the background noises completely, they are safe to use even while walking, commuting, or traveling.
You should not use active noise-canceling headphones (or use them with extreme caution) while walking down the street, in crowded places, riding, or jogging. Newer models come with some sort of transparent or ambient sound mode where you can quickly disable ANC or switch to a different mode.
Use Case Scenarios
When to Choose Noise Isolation
Noise isolation is more suitable for people who find themselves in moderately noisy environments such as offices, libraries, or quiet cafés. These environments have a manageable amount of background noise, such as the hum of computers, soft conversations, or the sound of people walking.
In such settings, noise isolation can block out unwanted noise without needing any fancy technology.
Another reason people choose noise isolation lies in its lightweight and cost-effective nature. Many noise-isolating earphones or headphones weigh less than their noise-cancelling counterparts. For students, office workers, and travelers who prefer simple setups, noise isolation headphones are a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option.
When to Choose Noise Cancellation
On the other hand, noise cancellation works better for people who regularly find themselves in high-noise environments such as airports, airplanes, or factories. Airplanes, in particular, produce low-frequency noise from engines that traditional noise isolation struggles to block.
Noise-cancelling technology shines in these situations making it the ideal choice for frequent flyers or people who work in loud industrial settings.
Urban commuters and people living in noisy cities also tend to benefit most from noise cancellation to deal with constant honking, chatter, and construction noise.
Noise Cancellation vs. Noise Isolation – FAQs
Ans: Both noise isolation and noise cancellation are good at blocking external sounds. But comparatively, noise cancellation technology is more efficient in cutting off ambient sounds completely.
Ans: Undoubtedly, noise-canceling headphones. They work well for constant, low-frequency noise like car engines, fans, hums, and even human voices.
Ans: Yes, of course. However, we recommend going with a set of Active noise-canceling headphones if you want to drown out the noise so you can hear your tracks.
Ans: Passive noise-cancellation devices are ideal for listening to music in its purest form. These devices uniformly disperse pressure on your ears, reducing fatigue significantly.
Conclusion
This is a small guide on all the basics of noise cancellation and noise isolation. Most users mistakenly think that both these are the same, but isn’t true. There are a lot of factors that differentiate them. We hope this article helped you understand the concepts of noise isolation and noise cancellation completely along with their differences. Both of these technologies are awesome and efficient, within their limitations.
