July 17, 2025

What is noise cancellation? Understand how this technology isolates you from the world

Has this ever happened to you? You're at the office trying to concentrate, but the noise of side conversations, keyboards, or air conditioning makes it difficult to focus. Or you're at home listening to music, and the sound of the street invades your ears. It's in these situations that noise cancellation makes all the difference. But what is noise cancellation?

In this article, we will clearly explain what it is, how it works, and why noise cancellation is so valued in different contexts—from the home office to leisure.

What is noise cancellation?

This technology was developed to reduce or eliminate unwanted ambient noise, offering a cleaner, more comfortable, and immersive sound experience. It is a feature found in headphones, headsets, and other audio equipment—and has become indispensable for those who value productivity, well-being, and sound quality.

In practice, noise cancellation is a feature that minimizes sounds from the surrounding environment. This can be done through smart technology that "cancels" noise by capturing and processing external sounds.

If you work in shared environments, travel frequently, participate in many online calls, or simply seek a more comfortable sound experience, noise cancellation is an essential feature.

Even those who work from home or take care of daily tasks at home can benefit from the reduction of external sounds — from a dog barking to a car passing by on the street.

Types of noise cancellation: passive and active

To better understand how noise cancellation works, it is important to know the two main types of this technology: passive and active.

Passive noise cancellation

It's the simplest form. Technologies are used that block out external sound. In a passive noise-canceling headset, the shape of the ear cups and the
materials around the ear are designed to muffle noise, acting as a sound shield.

It is effective at blocking mid-range and high-frequency sounds, such as voices and office noise. And it does not require power or electronic processing to work.

Active Noise Canceling (ANC)

Active noise cancellation, on the other hand, is more advanced. It has built-in features that capture ambient sound in real time. A processor analyzes these sounds and generates opposite sound waves (with the same frequency, but in reverse phase). The result? The two waves cancel each other out—a kind of "anti-noise"—and what reaches your ears is surprising silence.

This technology is especially effective in environments with continuous, low-frequency sounds, such as airplane engines, fan noise, or constant traffic. It is ideal for those who travel, work in open spaces, or need total focus.

What are the benefits of noise cancellation?

Now that you understand what noise cancellation is, it's worth mentioning why it can transform your experience when using headphones or a headset:

• Greater focus and productivity: noisy environments make it difficult to concentrate. With noise cancellation, you can stay focused even in shared spaces.
• Less auditory fatigue: your ears will thank you for not having to turn up the volume to hear clearly.
• Better sound quality: without external interference, the details of music, speech, or a video conference are clearer.
• Greater privacy: during calls and meetings, noise cancellation improves voice pickup and reduces ambient noise for those on the other end of the line.
• Comfort when traveling or during long workdays: the silence provided by this technology helps you relax and maintain your mental well-being.

Invest in quality and well-being

Understanding how noise cancellation works helps you make more informed decisions when choosing your next headphones or headset. The technology has become an indispensable ally in the daily lives of those who value silence, productivity, and comfort.

If you are looking for equipment that truly delivers performance and reliability, Felitron is a benchmark in the market. We develop headset solutions that combine innovation, ergonomics, and sound quality ideal for demanding corporate and professional environments.

Do you understand what noise cancellation is? Are you thinking about improving your experience? Discover and be amazed by Pulso—Felitron's headset with ANC technology! Your productivity and well-being will thank you.