![[Hands-On] Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Commuters (Under $150)](https://samsantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/ideogram-v3.0_A_close-up_of_a_person_s_hand_holding_a_pair_of_sleek_modern_noise-cancelling_ea-0.png "[Hands-On] Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Commuters (Under $150)")
Introduction
Daily commuting can be exhausting—traffic noise, crowded trains, and constant chatter make it hard to focus or relax. Good noise-cancelling earbuds are no longer a luxury; they’re a commuter essential.
The challenge? Finding reliable noise-cancelling earbuds under $150 that actually perform well in real-world conditions. In this hands-on guide, we break down the best ANC earbuds for commuters, focusing on comfort, call quality, battery life, and real noise reduction—not just specs on paper.
What Commuters Should Look for in Noise-Cancelling Earbuds
Before jumping into recommendations, it’s important to understand what truly matters for daily travel.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Performance
Not all ANC is equal. For commuting, earbuds should effectively reduce:
- Traffic and engine noise
- Train and metro rumble
- Background chatter
Hybrid or adaptive ANC usually performs better than basic ANC systems.
Comfort and Fit for Long Commutes
Earbuds should stay comfortable for 1–2 hours without ear fatigue. Look for:
- Lightweight design
- Multiple ear tip sizes
- Ergonomic or angled nozzles
Call Quality for On-the-Go Use
If you take calls while commuting, microphone quality is crucial. Features that help include:
- Dual or triple-mic systems
- AI noise reduction
- Wind noise suppression
Battery Life and Fast Charging
For commuters, battery anxiety is real. Ideal specs include:
- At least 6–8 hours with ANC on
- 20+ hours with charging case
- Fast charging (10 minutes = 1–2 hours playback)
Transparency / Ambient Mode
Transparency mode lets outside sound in when needed—useful for announcements, traffic, or quick conversations.
Quick Comparison Table: Top ANC Earbuds Under $150
| Earbuds Model | ANC Quality | Battery (ANC On) | Call Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soundcore Liberty 4 NC | Excellent | 8 hrs | Very Good | Overall commuting |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds FE | Very Good | 6 hrs | Excellent | Android users |
| JBL Tune 230NC TWS | Good | 8 hrs | Good | Bass lovers |
| EarFun Air Pro 3 | Very Good | 7.5 hrs | Very Good | Value seekers |
| OnePlus Buds Z2 | Good | 5.5 hrs | Good | OnePlus users |
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Commuters (Hands-On Picks)
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC – Best Overall Under $150
Why it stands out:
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC delivers some of the strongest ANC you’ll find in this price range, rivaling much more expensive earbuds.
Key Features:
- Adaptive hybrid ANC (up to 98% noise reduction)
- 11mm dynamic drivers with punchy bass
- Multipoint Bluetooth support
- Custom EQ via Soundcore app
Real-World Commuting Experience:
On buses and metro trains, low-frequency noise is significantly reduced. Voices fade into the background, especially with music playing at low volume.
Pros:
- Class-leading ANC under $150
- Long battery life with ANC on
- Comfortable for long wear
Cons:
- Case is slightly bulky
- Touch controls need customization
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE – Best for Android Commuters
Why it stands out:
Optimized for Samsung and Android users, Galaxy Buds FE offer excellent call quality and a secure fit.
Key Features:
- Effective ANC with voice detection
- Excellent microphone tuning
- Compact charging case
- Seamless Galaxy integration
Real-World Commuting Experience:
Call clarity remains strong even on busy streets. Transparency mode is natural and useful for announcements.
Pros:
- Excellent voice call performance
- Secure fit for walking or standing
- Polished app experience
Cons:
- No multipoint Bluetooth
- ANC slightly weaker than Liberty 4 NC
EarFun Air Pro 3 – Best Value for Money
Why it stands out:
EarFun consistently delivers impressive features at lower prices, and the Air Pro 3 is no exception.
Key Features:
- QuietSmart 2.0 adaptive ANC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound support
- Wireless charging
- Strong battery life
Real-World Commuting Experience:
Great balance of ANC and sound quality. Handles train noise well and stays comfortable even after long sessions.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Wireless charging included
- Solid sound tuning
Cons:
- App UI could be better
- Transparency mode is average
JBL Tune 230NC TWS – Best for Bass Lovers
Why it stands out:
If you enjoy punchy bass during commutes, JBL’s signature sound delivers energy without distortion.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation with Smart Ambient
- JBL Pure Bass sound
- IPX4 water resistance
- Lightweight earbuds
Real-World Commuting Experience:
Bass-heavy tracks mask outside noise well. ANC is decent for traffic but less effective for voices.
Pros:
- Fun, bass-forward sound
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Good battery life
Cons:
- ANC not class-leading
- Call quality is average
OnePlus Buds Z2 – Best for OnePlus Users
Why it stands out:
Designed to complement OnePlus phones, these earbuds offer smooth performance and fast charging.
Key Features:
- Up to 40dB noise cancellation
- Dolby Atmos support (OnePlus devices)
- Warp Charge fast charging
- IP55-rated earbuds
Real-World Commuting Experience:
Good for short commutes. Fast charging makes up for slightly lower battery life.
Pros:
- Extremely fast charging
- Clean and balanced sound
- Strong build quality
Cons:
- Average battery with ANC
- Best features limited to OnePlus phones
FAQs: Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Commuters
Are noise-cancelling earbuds safe for commuting?
Yes, when used responsibly. Transparency or ambient modes allow you to hear announcements and traffic when needed.
Do ANC earbuds work without music playing?
Yes. Active noise cancellation works independently, though combining ANC with music provides better isolation.
Which earbuds have the best call quality under $150?
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offer the clearest call performance in noisy environments.
Is ANC worth it for daily travel?
Absolutely. ANC reduces listening fatigue, protects hearing, and improves overall comfort during long commutes.
How long do ANC earbuds last over time?
Most quality earbuds last 2–3 years with proper care. Battery performance may slowly decline with heavy use.
Read more: Smartphone Camera Shootout: Midrange Phones That Punch Above Weight
Conclusion
For daily commuters, noise-cancelling earbuds under $150 now offer exceptional value. You no longer need to spend premium prices to enjoy effective ANC, solid call quality, and all-day comfort.
If you want the best overall experience, Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is the top recommendation. Android users will appreciate the polish of Samsung Galaxy Buds FE, while value seekers should look closely at EarFun Air Pro 3.
As ANC technology continues to improve, budget-friendly earbuds are closing the gap with flagship models—making this the perfect time to upgrade your daily commute audio experience.
