Are Bose/Sennheiser sound canceling headphones significantly better than standard in-ear (Sony) headphones?

Question

I'm planning on buying some new headphones in the near future. I currently own a set of the Sony in-ear headphones and they're pretty good. I was wondering if Bose/Sennheiser noise canceling headphones are significantly better than standard in-ear ones. Also looking to buy a nice pair of speakers for my laptop if anyone has any suggestions. Thanks.

I own these:

Sony MDR-EX71SL In-The-Ear Headphones

I'm looking to buy these:

SENNHEISER HD 280PRO Circumaural PROFESSIONAL Headphone

Answer 1

I've got a great Sony earbud but the standard Sennheiser is even greater. You can easily feel the difference.

Answer 2

those sennheisers are GREAT. i would wholeheatedly recommend those. they are one of the best values in audio around today. you will notice a big improvement from your sonys. earbuds cannot compare to full size headphones. no matter how expensive they are. unless you can drop 1200 on custom fitted ultimate ears earphones however...check grado too. they make great audiophile grade headphones.