I love listening to music and podcasts on planes, especially as a way to lull myself to sleep.
Unfortunately, that’s not always possible, with the drone of the plane engine, chattering of fellow passengers and general hubbub piercing through my music and my personal fortress of solitude.
Luckily, I’ve found an effective and affordable solution: the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024), now only £105 at Amazon.
Bose has long proved itself to be the master of noise-cancelling, and its expertise is clear to see in these excellent earbuds.
Finding a good balance between good noise-cancelling and affordability is always tricky – but Bose’s entry-level ANC earbuds impress for the price.
“Time and again, Bose’s noise-cancelling has proved itself to be a cut above the competition and the QuietComfort Earbuds don’t disappoint,” our Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024) review reads. “They do a very good job of eliminating mid- and low-frequency drones and rumbles.”
Having tested them in a busy train carriage, we’re pleased to report that rumbles were dampened down and chatter nicely subdued.
However, there’s more to the QuietComfort Earbuds than noise cancelling – as evidenced by their What Hi-Fi? Award.
The brilliant buds sound great too, which is rather important given that other sounds will be blocked out.
“If it’s drive and musicality you’re after, then the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024) deliver in spades,” our review reads. “They’re powerful and punchy performers that build an entertaining sound on the foundations of robust low frequencies, an expressive midrange and controlled highs.”
The design might be a bit stocky, but we found that Bose’s carefully engineered ear tips and stability bands to deliver a comfortable and secure fit.
Battery life impresses too, with 8.5 hours from a single charge and an extra 21 hours from the case – enough for even the longest flights. Wireless charging is included too!
To top it all off, the earbuds include Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity and IPX4 water resistance. For £105 at Amazon, this really is a bargain for an Award-winning pair of earbuds – one that could prove a lifesaver during a particularly noisy flight.
If you have a bit more of a budget, do consider these alternatives too:
