Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose did make sure that noise cancelling worked, and the reason this was worth writing about in 2008 is the reason it is worth owning now: on a long flight, removing the engine drone is the difference between arriving tired and arriving wrecked.
What has changed since this review:
- Bose no longer has it to themselves. Sony's over-ear line is at least as good and often better, and the category is genuinely competitive. Bose still tends to win on comfort over many hours, which for a long-haul flight is the specification that matters most.
- Wireless became standard, and with it two flight-specific problems: the battery, and the fact that Bluetooth audio does not work with most in-flight entertainment systems. Carry the cable, and check the headphones work passively when flat.
- In-ear models now cancel nearly as well and pack to nothing, which is a real argument for them in a small bag.
What noise cancelling is and is not. It works extremely well on constant low-frequency sound, which is exactly what an aircraft cabin is. It does far less for voices and a crying baby. If your problem is people rather than engines, foam earplugs are more effective and cost nothing.
One thing worth knowing: the cheapest meaningful upgrade to a flight is a set of proper moulded earplugs. They beat headphones for sleeping, weigh nothing, and never need charging.
And pack the adapter if you fly on older aircraft with two-pin sockets. Airlines are phasing them out; some remain.
Part of the guide to gadgets and power.