The best noise cancelling earbuds for motorcycle riding are essential for riders navigating noisy environments. These earbuds, enhanced by advanced audio technology, provide an optimal auditory experience, integrating superior sound quality with features like active and passive noise cancellation, and hands-free controls.
Our expert-backed analysis delves into models catering to motorcycle enthusiasts, ensuring a harmonious balance between immersive sound and safety.
Product Name | Noise Cancellation | Battery Life | Special Feature |
---|---|---|---|
Jabra Elite 10 | Advanced Active Noise Cancelling | 6 hrs + 21 hrs (with case) | Dolby Head Tracking |
Anker Soundcore A40 | Up to 98% Noise Reduction | 10 hrs + 40 hrs (with case) | High-Resolution Audio |
Jabra Elite 7 | Adjustable ANC and HearThrough | 8 hrs + 30 hrs (with case) | ShakeGrip technology |
Sony WF-1000XM5 | Advanced Noise Cancelling | 8 hrs + 24 hrs (with case) | Bone Conduction Sensor |
Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro | Personalized Noise Cancelling | 8 hrs + 24 hrs (with case) | HearID ANC |
Beats Studio Buds | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | 8 hrs + 16 hrs (with case) | IPX4-rated |
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II | Proprietary Active Noise Cancelling | Up to 6 hrs + 24 hrs (with case) | Personalized ANC |
Shure SE215 | Sound Isolating (up to 37 dB) | Wired (no battery) | Detachable cable |
SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 2 | Active Noise Cancellation | 5 hrs + 15 hrs (with case) | Ambient Sound mode |
MEE Professional M6 Pro | Sound Isolating Design | Wired (no battery) | Memory wire earhooks |
10 Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Motorcycle Riding
1. Jabra Elite 10
Features
- Advanced ANC
- Jabra ComfortFit technology
- Dolby Head Tracking
- 6-Mic
The Jabra Elite 10 boasts a 2X stronger noise cancellation feature, ensuring that riders can focus on their journey with minimal disturbance from the bustling world around them. The Advanced Active Noise Cancelling technology adapts to the ear canal and the environment, offering a serene, noise-free bubble even in challenging surroundings like busy streets or windy highways.
The earbuds come with Jabra ComfortFit technology, featuring a semi-open design that avoids the plugged-ear sensation, and EarGels designed to relieve in-ear pressure.
The Elite 10 delivers commendably with up to 6 hours of playback time. The wireless charging case extends the listening experience by an additional 21 hours, ensuring that riders always stay with their favourite tracks during long journeys.
The earbuds excel in connectivity with Bluetooth Multipoint, allowing riders to connect to two devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for seamlessly switching between a GPS device and a smartphone, ensuring that riders stay connected and on track without any hassle.
The 10mm speakers and head-tracking technology create a 3D audio environment, ensuring the sound moves with the rider providing an immersive listening experience. The 6-mic technology ensures clear calls by focusing on the user’s voice and filtering out background noise, a feature that’s incredibly beneficial when taking calls on the go.
Pros:
- Superior noise cancellation
- Exceptional comfort and fit
- Connectivity with multiple devices
- Immersive 3D audio
Cons:
- Premium price
2. Anker Soundcore A40
Features
- Adaptive Noise Cancellation
- Supports LDAC Mode
- Reduces Noise by up to 98%
- Wireless Charging
The A40 boasts a sophisticated noise-cancelling system that reduces noise by up to 98%, creating a quiet audio environment. This is particularly beneficial when riders encounter noise levels in city traffic or highway cruising.
The earbuds feature auto-adjustable noise cancellation, tailoring the noise reduction to the surrounding environment, ensuring optimal audio clarity for the rider.
With a design focused on user comfort, the A40 earbuds are smaller and lighter than other models in the Soundcore range. Their ergonomic shape ensures a snug and comfortable fit, ideal for prolonged use during long rides.
Impressive battery longevity is a standout feature of the Soundcore. Offering up to 50 hours of playtime, 10 hours available from a single charge, and a quick charge feature, these earbuds are well-suited for extended trips and daily commutes.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.2 technology, the A40 ensures a stable and quick connection to devices. The dual connection capability is a notable advantage, allowing seamless switching between devices for music, calls, and navigation.
Users commend the A40’s balanced sound profile, featuring robust bass, clear mids, and bright treble. The touch controls are intuitive, and the wireless charging support adds convenience. The Soundcore app enhances the user experience with customizable EQ settings and noise cancellation controls.
Pros:
- Superior Noise Cancellation.
- 50-hour battery life.
- Quick charging capability.
- High-Quality Sound.
Cons:
- Size and Fit may differ for people.
3. Jabra Elite 7 Active
Features
- Adjustable ANC
- HearThrough Technology
- ShakeGrip Technology
- Bluetooth 5.2 Technology
- Mono Mode
The Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds are equipped with intelligent noise control. They allow riders to immerse themselves in music or stay aware of their surroundings with adjustable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and HearThrough technology.
The unique ShakeGrip technology ensures that the earbuds stay comfortably in place, even during the most vigorous rides. This, coupled with their IP57 water and sweatproof rating, makes them an excellent choice for long rides.
The durability of earbuds is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, making them a reliable companion for any motorcycle enthusiast. With up to 8 hours of battery life in the buds and an additional 30 hours with the case, the Jabra Elite 7 ensures that riders are never left without their favourite tunes.
The Jabra Elite 7 offers seamless Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, ensuring riders can easily connect their earbuds to their devices without hassle. The overall user experience of the Jabra Elite 7 is enhanced by the Jabra Sound+ app, which offers industry-leading personalization options. Riders can tailor their music to suit their hearing profile, ensuring they get the best sound quality. The earbuds also support voice assistants like Alexa Built-in and Google Assistant, adding an extra layer of convenience for users.
Pros:
- Water and Sweat Resistant
- Personalized Sound
- Crystal Clear Calls
Cons:
- Battery Life may vary based on usage.
4. Sony WF-1000XM5
Features
- Bone Conduction Sensor
- Integrated Processor V2
- Adaptive Sound Control
- Speak-to-Chat Functionality
- Alexa Built-in
At the heart of the Sony WF-1000XM5 lies its superior noise cancelling capabilities, a feature that sets it apart in the market. The earbuds are engineered to deliver the best truly wireless noise-cancelling experience, ensuring that the roar of the engine and the rush of the wind are mere whispers compared to the clarity of your music.
This is complemented by Sony’s advanced AI-based noise reduction algorithm and bone conduction sensor, ensuring that your calls are as clear as your music, no matter the environment.
In terms of design and comfort, the WF-1000XM5 earbuds are a masterpiece. Small, light, and beautifully crafted, they are designed to fit seamlessly into the life of a motorcycle rider. The earbuds are not just a device but a statement of style and sophistication.
The adaptive sound control, powered by AI, adjusts to the world around you, offering an ideal listening experience that is as intuitive as it is immersive. Whether cruising through city streets or navigating open highways, these earbuds adapt to your surroundings, ensuring your music is always in harmony with your environment.
The connectivity and user experience are as smooth as the ride itself. With a powerful new Integrated Processor V2, the earbuds ensure smooth switching and a clear Bluetooth signal, keeping you connected to your music and calls without interruption.
The innovative Speak-to-Chat feature, which pauses the music when you start talking, allows for effortless interaction with the world around you, ensuring that your focus is on the ride, and not managing your music.
In essence, the overall user experience of the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds is characterized by a harmonious blend of advanced technology, intelligent design, and user-focused features, awarding it the best noise cancelling motorcycle earbuds.
Pros:
- Exceptional Noise Cancellation
- Crystal-Clear Calls
- Adaptive sound control
- Speak-to-Chat Feature
Cons:
- Expensive
5. Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro
Features
- ACAA 2.0 Technology
- HearID ANC
- Fusion Comfort Fit
- 6-Microphone Setup
At the core of the Liberty 3 Pro’s exceptional auditory experience is the ACAA 2.0 technology. This exclusive coaxial dual-driver technology ensures that every note and beat delivers extraordinary clarity and depth.
The high and low frequencies are rendered with such precision that it feels like you’re at a live concert, with the music enveloping you in a rich, immersive soundstage. Whether it’s the deep bass, the rich mids, or the sparkling highs, the Liberty 3 Pro earbuds ensure that every frequency is perfectly balanced and beautifully detailed.
The HearID ANC doesn’t just cancel noise; it personalizes the noise cancellation. By analyzing your ears and the in-ear pressure, it creates a custom profile that optimizes noise reduction for your unique hearing. This means you can be in your world, undisturbed and completely immersed in your music, no matter where you are.
The Fusion Comfort Fit ensures that the earbuds are not just sitting in your ears but are part of them. The ergonomic design, combined with the pressure relief feature, guarantees comfort for prolonged periods, making these earbuds perfect for long commutes, highway journeys, or endless hours of music indulgence.
Battery life is often a deal-breaker, but not with the Liberty 3 Pro. With up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge and an additional 3 full charges from the compact case, these earbuds ensure that your music keeps playing all day long. And with the convenience of USB-C and wireless charging, keeping your earbuds powered is as effortless as possible.
The 6-microphone setup ensures that your calls are crystal clear, filtering out background noise and enhancing your voice, so you’re heard perfectly every time. With the Soundcore app, you have many EQ modes, 3D surround sound activation, touch control customization, and much more, right at your fingertips.
Pros:
- Superior Sound Quality
- Customizable Noise Cancellation
- Fusion Comfort Fit
- High-Quality Calls
Cons:
- Fit Variability
6. Beats Studio Buds
Features
- ANC with Transparency mode
- Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity
- IPX4 Rated
- Multi-function button
The Beats Studio Buds is nothing short of exceptional. From the high-quality call performance to the ease of voice assistant interaction, every aspect is designed with the user in mind. The multi-function button on each earbud adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to control your sound effortlessly.
With its precision in drowning out ambient noise, the ANC function allows riders to immerse themselves in their favourite tunes or podcasts, transforming every ride into a personal concert. Featuring a snug and stable fit. This thoughtful design guarantees comfort over extended periods and enhances the acoustic seal, making your audio experience intimate and uninterrupted.
For the road warrior, durability is non-negotiable. The Beats Studio Buds, with their IPX4-rated sweat and water resistance, stand up to the challenge. Whether it’s a sudden downpour or the sweat of a sun-beaten path, these earbuds promise to be your steadfast companion.
With up to 8 hours of listening time (up to 24 hours combined with the pocket-sized charging case), the Beats Studio Buds ensure your playlist keeps you company throughout your journey.
The Beats Studio Buds boast industry-leading Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity, offering extended range and fewer dropouts. This means your device can stay securely tucked away while you enjoy seamless audio, making your ride not just about the destination but the journey.
Pros:
- ANC tailored for motorcycle riding
- Resistant to sweat and water
- Seamless Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- The case’s battery life could be improved.
7. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Features
- Proprietary Active Noise Cancelling
- Bose Fit Kit
- Single earbud listening feature
- Quick-charge
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II redefines noise cancellation with their proprietary Active Noise Cancelling technology. This isn’t just noise cancellation; it’s a personalized auditory sanctuary. The earbuds intelligently adapt the noise cancellation and sound performance to your ears, ensuring that engine and wind noise does not mess with the clarity of your audio.
The Bose Fit Kit, included with the earbuds, ensures all-day comfort and a secure fit. With three pairs of ear tips and three pairs of stability bands made from soft silicone, you can embark on the longest rides with the assurance that your earbuds will stay comfortably in place, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead.
With up to 6 hours of battery life and a portable charging case that fits in your pocket, these earbuds ensure that your music or podcasts are a constant companion. The quick-charge feature is a boon for riders, offering up to 2 hours of battery life from just a 20-minute charge.
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are equipped with advanced Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a strong, continuous connection within 30 feet of the paired device. The earbuds also remember the last seven paired devices, making switching between your phone, iPad, or any other Bluetooth-enabled smart device effortless.
Pros:
- Unparalleled ANC
- Customizable fit options
- Quick-charge feature
- Intuitive touch controls
Cons:
- Premium pricing
8. Shure SE215
Features
- Enhanced bass
- Sound Isolating Technology
- Secure, over-the-ear design
- Detachable cable
While the Shure SE215 Earphones do not feature active noise cancellation, they excel in passive noise isolation. The sound isolating technology blocks up to 37 dB of ambient noise, ensuring your audio experience is intimate and immersive. This feature is particularly beneficial for riders, allowing them to enjoy their music without the intrusive background noise of the wind and the engine.
The reinforced cable is durable and detachable, allowing for easy replacement or customization. The formable wire ensures secure placement, and the over-the-ear configuration keeps cables out of the way, making these earphones a reliable choice for the best motorcycle earbuds.
The overall user experience of the Shure SE215 Earphones is characterized by their exceptional sound quality and robust build. The single, vented balanced armature driver delivers striking full-range sound, allowing you to hear music how it was meant to be heard.
Pros:
- Blocks up to 37 dB of ambient noise
- Customizable fit
- Durable design with a reinforced, detachable cable
- High-quality sound delivery for an immersive audio experience
Cons:
- Not all users may not prefer a wired design
9. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Features
- Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation
- IPX7 Water Resistance
- Bluetooth 5.3
- 24-bit Hi-Fi sound quality
- Enhanced 360 Audio
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro features Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which minimizes ambient noise, ensuring that your focus remains on the journey and the music. Whether it’s the engine’s roar or the city’s hustle, the Buds2 Pro ensures you hear only what’s essential.
With a 15% size reduction compared to their predecessors, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers a secure and snug fit. Designed to be lighter and more compact, these earbuds ensure comfort even on the longest rides, making them an excellent companion for bikers.
The Buds2 Pro provides up to 5 hours of continuous playtime with ANC on and an additional 18 hours with the wireless charging case. For bikers on long trips, this means less worry about charging and more time enjoying the ride. It also has IPX7 water resistance, which can withstand sudden rain or intense workouts.
Equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, the Buds2 Pro ensures a stable and seamless connection. It auto-switches between Galaxy devices, offering a hassle-free and connected experience whether switching from your phone to your Galaxy Watch or even your Samsung TV.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro is not just about listening; it’s about experiencing sound. With 24-bit Hi-Fi sound quality and Enhanced 360 Audio, it offers a rich, immersive auditory experience.
Pros:
- Superior noise cancellation capabilities
- Long-lasting battery life
- Robust build with IPX7 rating
- High-quality sound with 24-bit audio support
- Seamless integration with Galaxy ecosystem
Cons:
- Battery life may vary based on usage
10. MEE Audio M6 Pro
Features
- Precise 5um driver diaphragm
- Sound-isolating design
- Flexible memory wire ear hooks
- Sweat-resistant design
- Detachable User-replaceable cables
While some motorcyclists do not prefer active noise cancelling, the M6 Pro boasts a sound-isolating design with a closed-back earpiece, including Comply T-Series memory foam tips. This design significantly reduces ambient noise levels, allowing riders to immerse themselves in their music without the interference of external sounds, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable ride.
The M6 Pro is renowned for its memory wire ear hooks, which offer a flexible yet secure fit that adapts perfectly to your ears. This, coupled with the seven pairs of included ear tips, ensures a personalized fit that stays comfortable throughout the day.
Built with real-world reliability in mind, the M6 Pro features a sweat-resistant design and detachable, user-replaceable cables. This robust construction ensures that the earbuds withstand the rigors of daily use.
Designed with musicians in mind, the M6 Pro delivers upgraded sound quality with a 5um driver diaphragm and aluminium voice coil, ensuring clear and full-range audio. The snug, secure fit and noise-isolating design allow riders to focus on their music and the road with minimal distraction.
Pros:
- Superior sound quality
- Memory wire ear hooks
- Replaceable cables
Cons:
- Some users may prefer active noise cancellation over passive noise isolation
# Active and Passive Noise Cancellation
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses microphones and speakers to create anti-noise sound waves, effectively cancelling ambient sounds like engine roars and wind noise. This technology is particularly beneficial for riders as it reduces the overall noise level without completely isolating them from their environment, which is crucial for safety.
Passive Noise Cancellation, on the other hand, relies on physical barriers such as the earbud design to block external sounds. While less technologically advanced, it’s still effective in muffling environmental noises and is often combined with ANC for maximum effect.
Selecting the Best Motorcycle Earbuds with Noise Cancellation
1. Battery Life
Motorcycle earbuds use more battery power when the ANC feature is turned on. The last thing a rider needs is for their earbuds to run out of power mid-journey. When choosing earbuds, consider the length of your typical ride and ensure the battery life exceeds this duration.
Many modern earbuds have charging cases that extend their usage time, a useful feature for long trips. Quick charging capabilities are also a significant plus, allowing riders to charge their earbuds rapidly during short breaks.
2. Comfort and Stability
When selecting motorcycle earbuds, the form factor is a critical consideration. Riders need earbuds that are comfortable for long periods, especially under a helmet.
Look for slim profiles that don’t press uncomfortably against the ears and models designed to stay securely in place during rides. An ideal form factor ensures easy removal and insertion without compromising the helmet’s fit.
3. Weather and Impact Resistance
Durability is key for earbuds used in motorcycle riding. They should withstand the rigors of the road, including exposure to various weather conditions and potential impacts. Water and resistance are essential, ensuring functionality during rain. Similarly, robust construction to handle vibrations and occasional drops is crucial for longevity.
4. Hands-free Controls
Hands-free controls are a safety necessity. This feature allows riders to control their earbuds – adjusting the volume, skipping tracks, answering calls, or activating voice commands – without removing their hands from the handlebars.
Such functionality not only provides convenience but also enhances safety by reducing distractions. Look for earbuds with intuitive controls that can be easily memorized and operated, even with riding gloves.
5. Earbuds That Suit Long-Haul Rides
Comfort over long distances is crucial. Earbuds should fit snugly and be made of materials that are gentle on the skin. Memory foam tips or customizable silicone tips can offer personalized comfort, reducing ear fatigue during extended use.
6. Microphone Quality
On a motorcycle, clear communication becomes a challenge amidst the hum of the engine and the rush of the wind. This is where the quality of the earbud’s microphone comes into play. It should be capable of capturing your voice clearly and minimizing background noise, a feature essential for taking calls or interacting with voice-assistance AI.
7. Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity in noise-cancelling motorcycle earbuds is crucial for a seamless experience. It ensures stable, uninterrupted connections with smartphones vital for clear communication, navigation, and entertainment. The latest Bluetooth Version enhances the ride by maintaining continuous audio without the hassle of frequent re-pairing.
FAQ’s
- 1. Which earbuds have the highest noise cancellation?
The Bose QuietComfort earbuds II set the standard for noise cancellation, outperforming others with their advanced CustomTune technology. This innovative feature tailors the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to your unique ear shape and surrounding environment, ensuring an unparalleled noise-blocking experience.
- 2. How long can you wear noise cancelling earbuds?
While there’s no strict limit on wearing noise-cancelling earbuds, prolonged use can lead to ear hygiene issues and potential hearing damage if the volume is too high.
The World Health Organization recommends not exceeding 85 decibels and limiting listening time at higher volumes. The 60/60 rule can be a good guideline, where you listen at no more than 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes before taking a break.
On the other hand, you can use Earplugs to isolate noises when not using earbuds.
- 3. Is it legal to wear noise cancelling earbuds for motorcycle riding?
The legality of wearing noise cancelling motorcycle earbuds while riding is governed by specific local laws, which vary widely. Some regions prohibit using earbuds while operating any vehicle, including motorcycles, due to concerns about distraction and safety.
Other states may allow one earbud but not both, or have exceptions for integrated communication devices in helmets. It’s essential to determine your area’s specific traffic laws and regulations and ensure compliance while riding.