Audio

How do I check noise cancellation?

Updated 2026-08-14

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Quick answer

To check noise cancellation, use a device with active noise cancellation (ANC) features and play audio while toggling the ANC setting to compare sound quality.

This guide provides steps to check noise cancellation on various audio devices and includes common questions and caveats.

Steps

  1. 1

    Using Headphones

    Put on your ANC headphones, play a consistent sound (like white noise), and toggle the ANC switch to hear the difference.

  2. 2

    Using Smartphones

    On devices like iPhone or Android, go to Settings > Sound > Noise Cancellation to enable or disable the feature while testing audio.

  3. 3

    Using Smart Speakers

    For smart speakers, check the app associated with the device for noise cancellation settings and follow the prompts to test.

Understanding Noise Cancellation

Noise cancellation technology reduces unwanted ambient sounds using active or passive methods. Active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones and speakers to counteract noise.

Platform-Specific Checks

The method to check noise cancellation may vary depending on the device. Below are steps for popular platforms.

Watch out for

  • Noise cancellation effectiveness can vary based on the environment and the type of noise being canceled.

FAQ

What types of noise cancellation are there?

There are two main types: active noise cancellation (ANC) which uses microphones to detect and cancel noise, and passive noise cancellation which relies on physical barriers to block sound.

Can I test noise cancellation without music?

Yes, you can test it in a quiet environment by toggling the ANC feature on and off to hear the difference in ambient noise.

Does noise cancellation work with all audio devices?

No, not all audio devices have noise cancellation features. Check your device specifications to confirm.