August 27, 2025
The best noise-cancelling headphones for your next flight

Are you ready to transform your flying experience? Imagine immersing yourself in your favorite music, a movie, or even a podcast, without the airplane noise interrupting you. The key is choosing the right headphones. In this article, we compare Apple’s AirPods models with active noise cancellation: AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, and AirPods 4 with ANC, to help you find the perfect travel companion for your next trip.
🎧 Comparison of AirPods with Active Noise Cancellation
1. AirPods Pro 2
- Type: In-ear with silicone tips.
- Active noise cancellation: Up to 2x more effective than previous models.
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours with ANC enabled.
- Comfort: Secure fit with customizable tips.
- Compatibility: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia or later.
- Approximate price: €269.95.
👉 Buy AirPods Pro 2 at Shop Duty Free

2. AirPods Max
- Type: Over-ear (large headphones).
- Active noise cancellation: Superior, with additional passive isolation.
- Battery life: Up to 20 hours with ANC enabled.
- Comfort: Memory foam ear cushions.
- Compatibility: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia or later.
- Approximate price: €558.17.
👉 Buy AirPods Max at Shop Duty Free

3. AirPods 4 with ANC
- Type: In-ear without silicone tips.
- Active noise cancellation: Effective, but less than Pro 2.
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours with ANC enabled.
- Comfort: Open design with no ear pressure.
- Compatibility: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia or later.
- Approximate price: €196.34.
👉 Buy AirPods 4 with ANC at Shop Duty Free

🔍 Which one is best for your flight?
- AirPods Pro 2: If you want a combination of excellent noise cancellation, comfort, and battery life, AirPods Pro 2 are ideal for frequent travelers.
- AirPods Max: If you prioritize sound quality and long battery life, and don’t mind the extra size and weight, AirPods Max are perfect for long-haul flights.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: If you prefer a lighter, more open design, with effective noise cancellation at a more affordable price, AirPods 4 with ANC are an excellent choice.
Comparison of the best AirPods with noise cancellation for travel
Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Max | AirPods 4 with ANC |
---|---|---|---|
Type | In-ear (with silicone tips) | Over-ear (large headphones) | In-ear (without silicone tips) |
Noise cancellation | Up to 2x more effective | Superior, with additional passive isolation | Effective, but weaker than Pro 2 |
Battery life | Up to 6h with ANC | Up to 20h | Up to 5h with ANC |
Comfort | Secure and customizable fit | Memory foam ear cushions | Open design with no pressure |
Compatibility | iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia+ | iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia+ | iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia+ |
Approximate price | €269.95 | €558.17 | €196.34 |
Purchase link | Shop Duty Free | Shop Duty Free | Shop Duty Free |
🛒 Buy your AirPods at the best price
Don’t forget you can purchase your AirPods at Shop Duty Free, where you’ll find competitive prices and a wide range of models.