Difference Between Noise Cancelling and Noise Isolating

Difference Between Noise Cancelling and Noise Isolating

Reduce distracting background noise with passive noise isolation or active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones. Find the right fit for your commute, work or everyday listening. Buy headphones on Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance.

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In summary

 
 

Noise isolation and noise cancellation help you listen with fewer distractions, but they work differently.

  • Noise isolation: Uses ear cups or ear tips to physically block outside sound.
  • Active noise cancellation: Uses microphones and electronic processing to reduce certain external noises.
  • Power needs: Passive noise isolation does not need power, while ANC usually needs a battery.
  • Best use: Choose isolation for simple listening or ANC for environments with persistent background noise.

You can buy a new headphones on Easy EMIs at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales.

What is the difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation?

Noise isolation blocks outside sound physically, while active noise cancellation uses technology to reduce certain external noises. Your choice depends on your surroundings, listening habits and comfort preferences.


Noise isolation relies on a snug fit and materials that create a barrier between your ears and the surrounding environment. ANC uses microphones and electronic processing to generate signals that counter some incoming noise.


Some headphones combine both methods. Their ear cups or ear tips provide physical isolation, while ANC reduces additional background noise. The result depends on the design, fit and type of noise around you.


You can buy new headphones through Easy EMIs when your preferred model is eligible and available at a partner store, making it simple to upgrade without paying the full amount upfront. Here is what the process looks like.

  • Visit more than 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000+ cities, including Jaipur, Lucknow, Kochi, and Bhopal
  • Choose your preferred model and use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan
  • Convert the purchase cost into Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget

➜ Pro tip: Zero down payment is available on select models, so ask the store executive if your chosen headphones qualify before you check out.

How does noise isolation work?

Noise isolation reduces outside sound through a physical barrier. Over-ear headphones use padded ear cups, while in-ear headphones use ear tips that fit inside your ear canals.


A secure fit matters because gaps can let sound enter. Noise isolation can reduce some nearby conversations and environmental sounds, although performance varies by headphone design and sound frequency.


Passive noise isolation does not require battery power. This makes it useful when you want a straightforward listening experience without relying on electronic noise-control features.

How does active noise cancellation work?

Active noise cancellation uses microphones to detect external noise. Electronic processing then creates sound signals designed to counter some of the incoming noise.


ANC can be effective against steady, low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of an aircraft cabin or train. It may be less effective against sudden noises, sharp sounds and changing conversations.


ANC does not make your surroundings completely silent. Keep your listening volume comfortable and use an appropriate awareness mode when you need to hear announcements or nearby activity.

How do noise isolation and ANC headphones compare?

Compare the technologies based on noise reduction, power needs and your usual listening environment.


FeatureNoise isolationActive noise cancellation
How it worksUses a physical barrier to reduce outside soundUses microphones and electronic processing to counter certain sounds
Power requirementPassive isolation does not need powerANC usually requires battery power
Steady background noiseReduces sound depending on fit and designCan reduce certain steady, low-frequency sounds
Nearby conversationsEffectiveness depends on fit and headphone designResults vary with the type of sound and ANC system
Battery usePassive isolation does not consume battery powerANC can affect battery life
ComfortDepends on ear tips, ear cups and headband designDepends on the physical design and fit
Best suited forEveryday listening without electronic noise controlTravel, commuting and noisy workspaces

What is the price difference between noise isolation or ANC headphones?

You can choose headphones for everyday listening at a lower price or spend more for active noise cancellation. Compare these options based on their noise-control features and your listening needs.


Headphone typeModelPriceBest for
No ANCSony MDR-ZX110/B wired headphonesRs. 799Basic wired listening with physical noise isolation
No ANCJBL Tune 520BT Bluetooth headphonesRs. 2,499Wireless listening with a lightweight on-ear design
ANCboAt Rockerz 551 ANC ProRs. 3,999Wireless listening with active noise cancellation
ANCJBL Tune 770NCRs. 5,799Commuting and listening in noisy environments
ANCSony WH-CH720NRs. 9,990Travel and everyday listening with active noise cancellation

Last updated: 13th October 2026


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 website.


Note: Although you can only use Bajaj Finance’s financing options to split any purchase above Rs. 5,000 into Easy EMIs, you can always club your product with other electronics and home appliances to meet the minimum amount and enjoy the same benefits.


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

What are my financing options to buy headphones?

Bajaj Finance offers two financing options at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. Here is how they compare:


OptionLimitKey features
Bajaj Finance Insta EMI CardCard loan offer up to Rs. 6 lakh3 to 60 months tenure; works at 1.5 lakh partner stores; 1 million eligible products
Bajaj Finance Easy EMI LoanLoan limit up to Rs. 5 lakhQuick loan approval; 3 to 60 months tenure; basic KYC documents needed; ideal for higher-value purchases

How to choose? Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card is ideal for shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time. The Easy EMI Loan suits buyers looking to finance a higher-value purchase in a single transaction.

How do I buy headphones on EMI at a Bajaj Finance partner store?

The process is simple and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes once you are at the store.

  1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Compare options on Bajaj Mall before visiting a store.
  2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
  3. Check the headphones in person: Check the key features, specifications, size, and performance to choose the product that best suits your needs and budget.
  4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
  5. Complete payment and schedule installation: The in-store process is quick, and most partner stores offer installation as part of the purchase.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better before visiting the store.

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Why use the Smart Savings Calculator?

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.

  • 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.
  • Brand offers - Access limited-time discounts from top brands across electronics, appliances, and more. Discover brand-specific savings selected just for you.
  • Bajaj offers - Unlock exclusive Bajaj Finance deals on popular products—available only to our customers. More rewards, more value.­
  • 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!

Frequently asked questions

General

EMI details

Is noise isolation the same as noise cancellation?

No. Noise isolation uses a physical barrier to reduce outside sound. Active noise cancellation uses microphones and electronic processing to counter certain external noises. Some headphones combine both methods.

ANC can help reduce the steady, low-frequency hum of an aircraft cabin. A good physical fit also helps reduce outside sound. Compare comfort, battery life and noise-control settings before choosing headphones for travel.

Yes. Comfortable, well-fitting headphones can reduce some surrounding noise and help you focus. If you study in a place with persistent low-frequency noise, ANC may be useful. Choose based on your environment and listening needs.

Many ANC headphones let you switch the feature off, but controls vary by model. Check whether your chosen headphones support passive listening and how switching off ANC affects battery use.

No. ANC reduces certain sounds but does not eliminate all noise. Performance depends on the headphone design, fit and surrounding environment. Sudden sounds and changing conversations may remain audible.

Yes, you can easily bring home your preferred headphones using Bajaj Finance’s Easy EMI options. Whether you already have the Insta EMI card or are new to it, here is how to begin:


If you have the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI card:

  • Explore products on Bajaj Mall: Choose from a wide range of the latest and most popular models.
  • Visit a partner store: Check out the product in person at any of Bajaj Finance’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India.
  • Use your Insta EMI card at checkout: Convert the cost into Easy EMIs that fit your monthly budget.
  • Zero down payment on select models: Take your chosen product home without paying anything upfront.

If you do not have an Insta EMI card:

Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If you are eligible, apply instantly and enjoy a smarter, more affordable way to buy your favourite product on Easy EMIs.

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Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page. 

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.