Noise reducing headphones can be perfect for those who work in a noisy environment.  Assuming you don’t have a job that involves frequent interaction with your fellow employees, a good set of headphones that reduce the outside noise level can really be a lifesaver.

I used to listen to classical music when I worked in a cubicle in an office. Except for the occasional inane and interminable meeting, we were left to our own devices. As long we did what we were supposed to do, we could do pretty much anything else we wanted. My music relaxed me and helped keep the boredom at bay.

My headphones reduced noise through passive noise reduction. They used sound absorbing materials to dampen outside noise. There are no electronics involved. This means no extra batteries. It also means I look like a member of the space patrol. Yes, I mean that there are two giant black cups on my ears. Not an easy look to carry off, I assure you. Women don’t flock to guys wearing giant black headphones on their heads, at least not th ewomen you’d like to have flock to you. 

Another great thing about them is I got what I like to call sweaty ear. Yep, those leather lined cups made my ears sweat after an hour or so. You also need to take a break because the fit is a little tight. When I say tight, I mean the cups pressed firmly against your head to maintain a good acoustic seal. This can give you a headache after a while. All these drawbacks aside, I loved those giant headphones because the sound was incredible, the bass astounding, and most of the outside noise was dampened. The noise dampening allowed me to keep the music volume fairly low which probably saved my hearing.

Noise reducing headphones also come in much smaller sizes. I found earbuds that have fairly large cushions. These earbuds are especially designed to mute external sound. They are small, sound great, and are very subtle. The drawback is they are really picky about placement in the ear for best sound and noise reduction.

Whether you choose the larger headphones or the smaller ear buds, noise reducing headphones can make your days go faster and your work seem less mind deadening.