10 Best Airplane Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are designed to cater well to frequent travelers and those seeking a quality audio experience while on the go. One of their key strengths is the Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) feature, which effectively blocks out ambient noise, making them ideal for airplane use. Coupled with personalized spatial audio and a rich sound profile, users can enjoy an immersive listening experience, whether for music or calls.

Comfort is another highlight, as these over-ear headphones are designed for extended wear, making long flights more pleasant. The impressive battery life of up to 40 hours means users can listen for a whole week without needing to recharge, and a quick 10-minute charge provides an extra 4 hours of playtime—perfect for when you're in a rush.

In terms of connectivity, the Beats Studio Pro offers seamless pairing with both Apple and Android devices, providing versatility for users of different platforms. The Bluetooth range is excellent, reducing dropouts during use, which is a significant plus for mobile use. However, the headphones are not without drawbacks. They are relatively bulky compared to some other options, which could be a concern for those looking for portability. While they come with a carrying case, the overall weight may be a factor for some users who prioritize lightweight travel gear.

Additionally, while sound quality is generally praised, some audiophiles might find the bass-heavy tuning of Beats headphones less appealing for certain genres of music. Lastly, the lack of water resistance means they are not suitable for use in wet environments, limiting their versatility.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are well-suited for travelers and casual listeners who appreciate excellent noise cancellation, superb battery life, and a rich sound experience, but may not be the best choice for those who prioritize portability or require a more neutral sound profile.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are a solid choice for airplane travelers seeking high-quality audio and effective noise cancellation. These earbuds feature world-renowned active noise cancellation, which excels at blocking out ambient noises, making them ideal for flights. The sound quality is rich and satisfying, with deep bass and customizable EQ settings through the Bose QCE app, catering to different listening preferences.

Comfort is well-addressed with multiple eartip and stability band sizes included, ensuring a snug fit for prolonged use. Battery life is reasonable, providing up to 8.5 hours of playtime on a single charge, with an additional 2 hours available from a quick 20-minute charge using the wireless case. However, frequent travelers might find this battery life just adequate for longer flights without recharging. The earbuds are lightweight and portable, but the charging case adds some bulk to the overall package.

Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth 5.3, allowing seamless connection to multiple devices and a decent range of up to 30 feet. One downside could be the absence of a headphone jack, which some users might miss if they prefer wired connections in certain scenarios. Additionally, the IPX4 rating means they are water-resistant but not fully waterproof, which might be a consideration for those looking for higher water resistance. For those who prioritize noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort in their travel headphones, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are a strong contender.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth headphones are a strong choice for travelers and anyone wanting peace on noisy flights. They use active noise cancellation to block out ambient sounds effectively, which is a big plus on airplanes. Comfort is a highlight here—plush ear cushions and a padded headband make them easy to wear for long periods without discomfort. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours of wireless listening, which easily covers long trips.

Sound quality is clear and balanced, with the added benefit of an adjustable equalizer so you can fine-tune bass, mids, and treble to your liking. The headphones also include two listening modes: full noise cancellation and an aware mode to stay alert when needed. Portability is decent; they come with a protective carrying case and are lightweight enough to carry around comfortably, though their over-ear design means they’re a bit bulkier than earbuds. You can also use them wired if the battery runs out, which adds convenience during travel.

One minor downside is that the charging time is about 2.5 hours, which may feel a bit long if you’re in a hurry, but a 15-minute quick charge gives you a couple of hours of playback. The multipoint Bluetooth feature is great for switching between devices seamlessly. These headphones are well-suited to frequent flyers or anyone seeking effective noise cancellation and comfort on the go, though if you prioritize ultra-compact size, smaller earbuds might be better.