There are simply too many events in one’s life that call for noise-canceling headphones. The construction work outside your favorite restaurant. The dog that barks at you every single time you walk by. That guy on the plane who can’t tell from your half nod that you’re not even half listening to him.

Sometimes you just want to enjoy some quiet time to yourself with no aggravations or distractions. Enter noise-canceling headphones.

How does one figure out which noise-canceling headphones he or she should buy?

A bit of research will show you that alleviation from unwanted ambient noises is probably going to cost a pretty penny much of the time. We’re talking hundreds of dollars here.

If you don’t have the cash or don’t want to risk overspending, consider the highly recommended example are the Audio-Technica QuietPoint ATH-ANC1 headphones.

Getting married? Invest in noise cancelling headphones. Thank me later.

— Blooper Trooper (@barkingbegum) March 1, 2014

These headphones were said by an CNET reviewer to be light weight, possess a respectably high level of noise-canceling ability, and be great for frequent fliers. At a price of $79.95, they’re also the most inexpensive of the more highly recommended noise-canceling headphones.

Despite the Audio-Technica QuietPoint ATH-ANC1 headphones being cheap while also being very functional, the quality of these headphones is found wanting in the long run. Replacing the headphones repeatedly will like cost you as much as or more than the hundreds you could have saved up for a pair of headphones meant to last a long time.

The most highly recommended noise-canceling headphones of the moment belong to Bose. There are the Bose QuietComfort 20 and 20i, which are buds that fit directly into the ear. If one finds earbuds uncomfortable, there’s the over-the-ear Bose QuietComfort 15 headphones. These Bose options are all priced at about $299.99.

Bose justifies the price tag by concentrating on quality sound experience. Still, the flaws (20 and 20i headphones feature a rechargeable battery that’s not replaceable) make some feel that such headphones have too many issues to justify the price tag.

Headphones say so much about their owners Cool people = "Beats by Dre" Me = "Bose QuietComfort® 15 Acoustic Noise Cancelling® headphones"

— Colin Bloom (@Colin_Bloom) February 28, 2014

Remember, there are inexpensive noise-canceling options available. It’s just that one should be careful not to skimp on quality while trying to save money. The old adage, “you get what you pay for” still holds true. No need to spend hundreds of dollars for many noise-canceling headphones over a few years.

Whether you opt for Bose, Beats, or a different company altogether, always remember to do your research, weigh your options, and spend wisely.

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