August 27, 2025 By Eduard Kun

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
AirPods Pro 2

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
AirPods 4 con ANC

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
AirPods 4 con ANC

🔍 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

FeatureAirPods Pro 2AirPods MaxAirPods 4 with ANC
TypeIn-ear (with silicone tips)Over-ear (large headphones)In-ear (without silicone tips)
Noise cancellationUp to 2x more effectiveSuperior, with additional passive isolationEffective, but weaker than Pro 2
Battery lifeUp to 6h with ANCUp to 20hUp to 5h with ANC
ComfortSecure and customizable fitMemory foam ear cushionsOpen design with no pressure
CompatibilityiOS 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 linkShop Duty FreeShop Duty FreeShop 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.