Comparing ANC vs ENC Headphones

ANC headphones cancel outside noise so you hear your music better, while ENC headphones clear background noise so others hear you better on calls.

• ANC works best against steady, low-frequency noise, such as engine hum or air conditioning.
• ENC works best at improving voice clarity during calls in noisy settings.
• Some headphones combine both technologies for listening and calling.
• The Insta EMI Card offers a card loan offer of up to Rs. 3 lakh, repayable across 3 to 60 months.

Once you have decided which technology suits you, find your headphones at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 in India. Convert the cost into Easy EMIs and check your loan eligibility before getting started.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) headphones reduce ambient noise using sound wave cancellation, which makes your listening experience more immersive, especially in loud environments. Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) headphones, on the other hand, filter out background noise specifically during calls, which improves how clearly the other person hears your voice.

In short, ANC focuses on quieting the world around you, while ENC focuses on keeping your voice clear to others. Both improve your overall audio experience, just in different situations.

Both ANC and ENC use microphones to detect unwanted sound, but they apply that information differently depending on what they are trying to fix.

• ANC: Microphones built into the headphones pick up ambient noise around you, and the device generates a sound wave that is the exact opposite of that noise, cancelling it out before it reaches your ears.
• ENC: Microphones on the headphones or earbuds detect background noise near your voice during a call, and the device filters that noise out of your outgoing audio before it reaches the other person.

ANC tends to work best against steady, low-frequency sounds, such as an aeroplane engine or an air conditioner humming in the background. ENC, by contrast, is built specifically around speech clarity rather than blocking ambient sound for you.

Your choice between ANC and ENC really comes down to what you use your headphones for most often. Neither technology is better in every situation, since they solve different problems.

If you take frequent calls in noisy environments but also want quiet, immersive listening at other times, look for headphones that combine both ANC and ENC rather than choosing just one.

While ANC headphones improve your listening experience, they typically need more battery power to run continuously, which can shorten your headphones' battery life between charges. If battery life matters more to you than active noise blocking, this is worth factoring into your decision.

Prices for both ENC and ANC headphones range widely in India, depending on the brand, battery life, and call or noise-cancellation performance you are looking for. Comparing a few popular models side by side makes it easier to set a realistic budget before you shop.

• ENC earbuds are generally available at lower price points, since the technology focuses on call clarity rather than complex sound-cancelling hardware.
• ANC headphones and earbuds tend to cost more, especially in over-ear designs with stronger noise-blocking performance.
• Budget ANC options have become more common, with some models now priced close to standard ENC earbuds.
• Premium ANC headphones from established audio brands can cost significantly more than most ENC-only earbuds.

Disclaimer: Each model's features, availability, and pricing are subject to change and may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official brand website or a partner store.

Please note: Easy EMIs are applicable on purchases above Rs. 5,000.

If your chosen headphones are priced under Rs. 5,000, consider clubbing the purchase with a few relevant accessories, such as a carry case or charging cable, to bring your total invoice above Rs. 5,000.

Thinking of buying new headphones?

Before you do that, explore the latest offers from Bajaj Finance. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Bajaj Finance offers two ways to convert your headphones purchase into affordable monthly payments. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 in India.

How to choose?

Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card suits shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time, while the Easy EMI Loan suits buyers financing a higher-value purchase in a single transaction.

Buying new headphones is simple and affordable with in-store financing options. The entire process usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Explore the range of headphones available on Bajaj Mall. Compare brands, features, and prices before heading to the store.
2. Find a partner store near you: Use the store locator to find a nearby partner outlet, such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
3. Check the headphones in person: Visit the store and try out available models. Check ANC and ENC performance, comfort, and battery life to find the one that suits your needs.
4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm the available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
5. Complete payment and take your headphones home: Once approved, your purchase is processed immediately, and you can start using your new headphones right away.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, which helps you plan your purchase better.

Bajaj Finance’s Smart Savings Calculator helps you unlock maximum savings every time you shop at partner stores. It brings together all available brand, dealer, and scheme offers—so you can see your total savings instantly and shop smarter with Easy EMIs.

1. Dealer offers - Grab exclusive in-store deals at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across India. Enjoy local discounts and special prices you will not find online.

2. Brand offers - Access limited-time discounts from top brands across electronics, appliances, and more. Discover brand-specific savings selected just for you.

3. Bajaj offers - Unlock exclusive Bajaj Finance deals on popular products—available only to our customers. More rewards, more value.

4. Scheme offers - Take advantage of time-sensitive offers on select EMI schemes. Get extra benefits after paying just 3 EMIs—visible during EMI selection at checkout.

Calculate your extra savings today!