Hot take: That $80 noise cancelling headset was a total waste for my open office setup

I bought this budget pair of noise cancelling headphones thinking they'd block out the chatter at my local coworking space. Turns out they only work for low hum sounds like fans or AC units, not actual people talking three feet away. My neighbor's loud phone calls still cut right through, so I ended up just working from the library instead. Does anyone else find that cheaper noise cancelling gear is pretty much useless for voice-heavy spaces?

3 comments

3 Comments

hannahj493d ago

The real problem is cheap ANC uses feedback mics that can't handle sudden sharp sounds like voices. Even my mid-range pair struggles with human speech because the tech is designed for constant engine drone not erratic talking. Stick with passive isolation like foam earplugs if voices are the main issue, they work way better for that.

karenc203d ago

My buddy tried cheap ANC for open plan and returned it after one day.

kim_davis3d ago

Yeah @karenc20 your buddy probably dodged a bullet honestly. Cheap ANC is basically a scam for open offices since it can't keep up with random noise like voices or clattering keyboards. Passive isolation like foam plugs or even good over ears work way better for that kind of chaos. I tried the budget route once and it just made the office hum louder while voices still cut right through. Stick with what actually blocks the chatter instead of fighting it.