Best Headphones For Remote Work

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission at no cost to you.

When I transitioned to working from home, I quickly realized that a quiet, controlled environment was as much a myth as a paperless office. It was not long before I discovered that my success—and sanity—depended on a simple yet crucial tool: a good pair of headphones.

Whether it’s the sound of kids yelling in the hallway or the clattering of pots from my neighbor’s kitchen, distractions are common where I work. The right headphones help me create a peaceful workspace and block out the chaos so I can stay on task.

I’m here to share my findings on the top headphones that help me stay productive. From noise-canceling headsets to comfort-first designs, today’s market offers broad options for remote workers. And these are my best picks.

Top 5 Headphones for Work From Home (And Cafe)

1. Sony WH-CH720N: The Perfect Blend of Quality and Convenience

Imagine a workday with the ultimate sound experience – that’s what the Sony WH-CH720N offers. This headphone unit isn’t just another device. It’s a silent partner that understands the demands of your remote workplace. Lightweight and designed with a slim profile, these headphones slip onto your ears with ease, providing comfort for hours on end.

The standout feature of the WH-CH720N is the Active Noise Cancellation. This technology keeps your audio experience pristine, blocking out the relentless hum of household appliances. On video calls, the built-in microphone assures that your voice is crystal clear, even if you’re speaking in more hushed tones.

One cannot overlook the stellar battery life. When you’re tethered to your desk on marathon workdays, lesser headphones might surrender. But the Sony WH-CH720N pushes through, delivering up to 35 hours of playtime. Charging is quick too; a quick 10-minute plugged in offers hours of listening.

Pros:

• Exceptional Active Noise Cancellation technology.
• Impressive battery life with quick charging capabilities.
• Integrated microphone clarity ensures clear calls.
• Lightweight design for all-day wear.

Cons:

• Some users might find the cost a bit steep.
• The design may not appeal to everyone.

2. Bose QuietComfort 45: Master Of Silence

Picture this: You’re in the comfort of your home office, about to join a critical meeting. Suddenly, the neighbor’s dog starts an impromptu bark-fest.

Enter the Bose QuietComfort 45, engineered to turn any chaotic backdrop into a serene workspace. These headphones don’t just reduce noise. They help you master silence, offering a much-needed reprieve from the world’s distractions.

The Bose QuietComfort line has long been synonymous with superior noise-cancellation technology. They detect and measure outside noise, then produce the opposite signal to cancel it. This quiet cocoon is perfect for tuning into conference calls. Or when you need deep concentration to tackle intricate projects.

Comfort is not an afterthought; it’s a promise. Bose designed these headphones with plush ear cushions and minimal clamping force. Wearing them for the entirety of the workday feels almost like wearing nothing at all. 

Additionally, the long battery life (22 hours) ensures you’re powered throughout your work hours. And with fast charging, you’re never out of action for long.

Pros:

• World-class noise cancellation that quietens your busiest environments.
• Exceptional comfort, designed for all-day wear.
• Long battery life paired with quick charge capabilities.
• Swivel design for easy storage and portability.
• Consistent connection with Bluetooth and multi-device pairing.

Cons:

• Higher price point than some competitors.
• Limited customization options in Bose app.

3. Soundcore Anker Life Q20: Exceptional Value for the Budget-Conscious

If you’re mindful of your budget but still in pursuit of quality, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 hits the sweet spot. Unlike some of its pricey peers, this set proves that you don’t have to empty your wallet for reliable functionality. Let’s take a closer look.

The battery life on the Q20 is remarkable. Offering up to 40 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation (ANC) on, it stands tall against competitors. And if you’re in a pinch, a quick 5-minute charge delivers four hours of use, making them a reliable companion for back-to-back calls and tight deadlines.

The comfort level is another win. Clad in memory foam earcups, the Q20 invites you to wear them all day without the dreaded ear fatigue. Moreover, the noise cancellation is a gem, especially in this price range. It damps down ambient sounds enough for you to focus on work without total acoustic isolation. You can still hear the doorbell with the headphones on.

Pros:

• Attractive price point.
• Solid battery life.
• Commendable comfort.
• Impressive noise cancellation for the price.
• Adequate sound quality for everyday tasks.

Cons:

• Build quality lacks premium feel.
• May not capture finer musical details compared to high-end models.

4. Apple AirPods Max: Elegance Meets Acoustics

If design and sound quality had a meeting point, it would undoubtedly be at the Apple AirPods Max. Apple’s foray into the over-ear headphones segment is as much a statement of style as it is of technology. With a seamless aluminum frame cradling cushy memory foam ear cups, they’re a good addition to your remote working gadgets.

The Apple ecosystem integration is seamless; switching from your iPad to a Macbook for a conference call is done without a hitch. And when it’s time to focus on your work, the AirPods Max brings music to your ears tailoring sound to the shape of your ear.

Putting on the AirPods Max offers a remarkable sense of presence in virtual meetings because of their spatial audio. Also, you can control the audience with voice commands or by pressing the digital crown.

The smart case ensures you’ll never fret about battery life (20 hours); it serves as both a protective shell and a power-preserving hub.

Pros:

• Immersive spatial audio enhances the remote work experience.
• High-fidelity audio for both work and relaxation.
• Premium build quality and materials for a touch of class.
• Seamless integration with other Apple devices.
• Smart case provides unique battery management.

Cons:

• Premium price point may not suit all budgets.
• Heavier design compared to other models.
• Does not support universal Bluetooth multi-point connection.

5. LEVN Wireless Headset: The Smart Workmate

Equipped with AI noise reduction technology, the LEVN Wireless Headset ensures that your voice is loud and clear, undisturbed by background chatter or ambient noise. This is beneficial during conference calls or when you’re speaking into voice-to-text software.

With the addition of a mute button and responsive on-ear controls, managing your audio settings becomes a breeze. This feature is helpful for moments when you need to quickly silence your mic for privacy. Or adjust the volume during a client call.

Comfort doesn’t take a backseat either. Ergonomic design principles have been applied to create a headset that you can wear all day without discomfort. If you’ve ever felt the strain of a tight headband, you’ll appreciate LEVN’s thoughtful design.

Battery life (65 hours) is another standout feature. Capable of powering through your workday, this headset is great for back-to-back meetings. When you’re not using it, smart standby features extend battery life, ensuring it’s ready when you are.

Pros:

• Clear voice with AI noise reduction.
• Convenient audio controls with mute button.
• Ergonomic for all-day comfort.
• Extended battery life with smart standby.

Cons

• Mics might not accurately capture your voice at all times. 
• Doesn’t fully block background noise.

FAQ 

What type of headset is best for working from home?

When it comes to the type of headset that’s best for working from home, you ideally want something with a balance between sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation. A model with a built-in microphone ensures your voice is clear during calls.

Which headphones are best for online meetings?

For the best headphones for online meetings, look for options with reliable wireless connectivity and a microphone that delivers your voice crisply and clearly. It’s not just about silence on your end – you want your clients and colleagues to hear you without any crackling or interference.

What to look for when buying headphones for remote work

Prioritize comfort for long wear, battery life to get you through the day, and active noise cancellation to help you maintain focus. It’s crucial to test them in various scenarios you encounter every day as a remote worker to ensure they are the right fit for you.

Final thoughts

So there you have it, a varied lineup of headphones, each serving the unique needs of the remote worker.

So there you have it, a varied lineup of headphones, each serving the unique needs of the remote worker. Whether it’s the feature-rich Sony WH-CH720N, the unparalleled noise cancellation of the Bose QuietComfort 45, or the Apple ecosystems seamless AirPods Max, there’s a perfect pair just for you.

Beyond the specifics, remember to keep in mind the three pillars of great work-from-home headphones: 

• Comfort for those long hours, 
• Crystal clear audio for communication, 
• Reliable connectivity to keep you tethered to your tasks without interruptions.

Choose the right pair of headphones to set yourself up for a more focused, efficient, and enjoyable work environment.

This article is AI-assisted with original thoughts and review experience from the author.