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How to Buy Noise-Canceling Headphones

How to · Tech

How to Buy Noise-Canceling Headphones

Get top-tier sound and quiet without paying interest all year.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $350 before anything else
Across the 0% window $19.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $350 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.

You want a pair of high-performance noise-canceling headphones to block out the world for years, not months. Buying the right set means you only buy once instead of replacing a flimsy pair next year.

Timing is everything here because tech prices drop hard during major retail sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day. If you wait for those windows, you can often grab last year's flagship model for a fraction of its original price while getting nearly identical performance.

Remember that the intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when those 18 months are up, deferred interest or standard rates can kick in and make those headphones a lot more expensive than you planned.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for a major sale

    Do not pay full price for audio gear. Major retail sales events happen a few times a year, and that is when you will see the deepest price drops on premium headphones.

  2. 02

    Target last year's model

    Brands release new versions constantly, but the updates are usually minor. When the new version drops, the previous year's model gets heavily discounted and remains an incredible piece of tech.

  3. 03

    Set your budget around $350

    A typical high-performance set sits around $350. Know your number before the sale hits so you do not get distracted by flashier options that cost way more.

  4. 04

    Spread the cost with Citi Simplicity

    If you want to break up the purchase, you can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. Spreading a $350 price tag across that window comes out to about $19.44 per month.

  5. 05

    Check the return policy

    Headphones fit everyone's head and ears a little differently. Make sure you can return them easily if the clamp force gives you a headache after an hour.

  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

Are last year's headphones still worth buying?

Yes. Audio technology moves slowly, so a flagship pair from last year usually sounds just as good as the brand-new release for a much lower price.

How long should a good pair last?

If you take care of them and replace the ear pads when they wear out, a solid pair of over-ear headphones should easily last five years or more.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can trigger late fees and might cancel your promotional rate early. Set up autopay so you never drop the ball.

Should I buy refurbished?

Refurbished units from the manufacturer are a great way to save even more cash. Just make sure they come with a warranty before you pull the trigger.