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How to Buy Active Noise-Canceling Headphones

How to · Tech

How to Buy Active Noise-Canceling Headphones

Get a solid pair of over-ear headphones for about $250 without messing up your cash flow.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $250 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $250 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good pair of active noise-canceling headphones is about blocking out the world so you can actually focus or enjoy music without cranking the volume. When you spend around $250 on a set, you want something that lasts five years or more, meaning you only buy once instead of replacing a cheap pair every six months.

We should look at the release cycle before you drop any cash because audio brands drop new flagship models every fall. That is usually when last year's version gets a steep discount for doing essentially the same job.

That 0% window is a deadline, not free money, so if you still owe a balance when the 18 months are up, you will get hit with interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for the sales

    Do not pay full price for these. Black Friday and Prime Day are the two reliable windows where a $250 set usually drops by $50 or more. If your current pair is hanging on by a thread, just hold out for one of these dates.

  2. 02

    Check last year's model

    Audio tech does not change fast enough to justify paying top dollar for the absolute newest release. The previous generation often has the exact same comfort and battery life for a fraction of the cost.

  3. 03

    Set up your payment window

    If you want to break up the cost, the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. For a $250 price tag, that comes out to about $13.89 per month if you spread it evenly across the window.

  4. 04

    Test the fit

    Specs do not matter if the clamping force gives you a headache after twenty minutes. Go to a local store and wear them for a few songs before you commit to the purchase.

  5. 05

    Confirm the warranty

    Check what the manufacturer covers if the battery dies or a hinge snaps in year two. Buy from an authorized retailer so you do not accidentally void the support if something breaks.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I buy refurbished headphones to save money?

Certified refurbished pairs from the maker directly are usually fine and save you real cash. Just make sure they come with a proper warranty and new ear pads.

Do I need noise canceling if I mostly stay home?

If your home is quiet, you can save money on open-back or standard wireless pairs. Noise canceling is really for commutes, offices, or loud houses.

What battery life should I expect for $250?

At this price point, look for at least 30 hours with noise canceling turned on. Anything less than that is falling behind the current standard.

Can I use these wired if the battery dies?

Most over-ear sets include an audio cable just in case you run out of juice mid-flight. Check the specs before buying, as some cheaper models drop the port entirely.