Headphones & earbuds

Noise cancelling headphones aren't blocking noise properly

This usually means noise cancelling mode isn't actually enabled, the ear seal is poor, or it's a type of noise (like voices) that active noise cancelling isn't designed to block well. Checking the mode setting first solves most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–20 minutes

Symptoms

  • Background noise still comes through clearly
  • Noise cancelling seems weaker than before
  • Works well for low hums but not for voices or sudden noises
  • Feature seemed to stop working after an update

Likely causes

  • CommonNoise cancelling mode not actually turned on, or set to 'transparency/ambient' mode insteadMany headphones have multiple listening modes and it's easy to be in the wrong one.
  • CommonPoor seal between ear cups/tips and your earsActive noise cancelling relies heavily on a good physical seal; glasses, hair, or wrong-sized tips can break it.
  • CommonNoise cancelling is inherently less effective on certain soundsANC works best on constant low-frequency noise like engine hum, and is much less effective on voices or sudden sharp sounds.
  • PossibleLow battery reducing ANC performanceSome headphones reduce or disable ANC processing when battery is critically low.
  • PossibleFirmware bug affecting ANC after an updateSoftware updates occasionally introduce ANC-related bugs that get fixed in later patches.

What to do

  1. Check the app or button controls to confirm you're actually in 'Noise Cancelling' mode and not 'Transparency' or 'Off'.
  2. Adjust the fit: reposition ear tips/cups, remove glasses temporarily, or tie back hair to test if seal improves cancellation.
  3. Try different sized ear tips if using in-ear style ANC earbuds.
  4. Charge the headphones fully, since some reduce ANC strength at low battery.
  5. Check for a firmware update in the companion app, since ANC bugs are often addressed in updates.
  6. Test the ANC specifically against steady background noise (like a fan) versus voices, since the difference is normal and expected.
  7. Reset the headphones to factory settings if ANC seems weaker than it used to be for no clear reason.

Tools and parts

Replacement ear tipsSearch: “replacement ear tips noise cancelling earbuds”

When to call a pro

If ANC has clearly and permanently weakened compared to when new, even with a good seal and full battery, contact the manufacturer's support, as the ANC microphones may need service.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.