Noise-cancelling headphones?

Question

For noise-cancelling headphones, they blocks out outside noises right? Well, I want a headphone such that I can use it on an airplane where I turn up the music really loud (like heavy metal), and the person right next to me would not hear a thing at all. What do you recommend? Budget is under $30-$50

Answer 1

There are two issues: noise cancelling, and noise blocking.

Noise cancelling refers (or should refer) to active electronic circuitry that can cancel out unwanted sound coming from outside the headset.  NC headphones require batteries, and include small microphones on the outside of the headset.

Noise blocking uses over-the-ear insulating pads to block noise from passing in or out of the headset.

Neither technology is 100% effective.  You may have to try out 3 or 4 different brands to find one that will do what you want.