In noise cancellation technology, PNC (Passive Noise Cancellation), ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation), and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) are three common methods used to reduce unwanted sound. Each works differently and is suited for specific scenarios. Below is a detailed breakdown of these technologies:
1. PNC (Passive Noise Cancellation)
PNC blocks noise through physical design, such as earcups or earplugs, without using electronic noise cancellation techniques.
✅ Advantages:
✔ No Power Required – Relies solely on materials and design, consuming no battery.
✔ Effective for High-Frequency Noise – Blocks sounds like voices, keyboard clicks, and high-pitched disturbances.
✔ No Audio Quality Loss – Does not alter or degrade music sound quality.
❌ Disadvantages:
✘ Less Effective for Low-Frequency Noise – Cannot block deep humming sounds like airplane engines or air conditioning units.
✘ Requires a Tight Fit – For effective noise isolation, the earphones or headsets must seal tightly, which may cause discomfort over long periods.
✅ Best Use Cases:
In-ear earphones – Use silicone or memory foam tips to block external noise.
Over-ear headphones – Large earcups enclose the ears to reduce ambient noise.
Industrial and safety earmuffs – Designed for high-noise environments like construction sites and shooting ranges.
2. ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation)
ENC is mainly used for voice call noise reduction. It employs multiple microphones to capture speech while filtering out background noise, ensuring your voice is heard clearly by others.
✅ Advantages:
✔ Enhanced Call Clarity – Removes background noises such as wind, keyboard clicks, and traffic sounds.
✔ Works in Noisy Environments – Ideal for customer service, conference calls, live streaming, and delivery drivers.
✔ Advanced AI Integration – Some high-end ENC devices use AI to further optimize voice quality.
❌ Disadvantages:
✘ Only for Calls – ENC does not reduce the noise that the user hears; it only improves outgoing audio.
✘ Dependent on Microphone Quality – Low-end ENC products may struggle with accuracy, leading to incorrect noise filtering.
✅ Best Use Cases:
Business calls (Zoom/Teams meetings, call centers)
Live streaming and broadcasting (where clear speech is essential)
Noisy environments (subway, outdoor areas, construction sites)
3. ANC (Active Noise Cancellation)
ANC captures external noise using built-in microphones and generates opposite sound waves to cancel it out. This actively reduces ambient noise, making it ideal for music, focused work, and immersive experiences.
✅ Advantages:
✔ Effective for Low-Frequency Noise – Cancels deep sounds like airplane engines, subways, and air conditioning hums.
✔ Enhances Music & Video Experience – Creates a quieter environment for better sound immersion.
✔ Adjustable Noise Levels – Some high-end ANC headphones allow users to customize noise cancellation intensity.
❌ Disadvantages:
✘ Requires Power – ANC mode consumes battery life.
✘ May Affect Audio Quality – Some ANC headphones slightly alter music sound or create a "pressure" feeling in the ears.
✘ Limited High-Frequency Noise Reduction – Less effective against voices, barking dogs, and keyboard typing.
✅Best Use Cases:
Airplanes, trains, and offices – For creating a quiet environment.
Long listening sessions – Ideal for extended music playback or focused work.
Reducing distractions – Helps users concentrate in noisy surroundings.
4. Choosing the Right Noise Cancellation
✔ For music lovers & noise reduction in the environment → ANC headphones (Best for commuters, office workers, and frequent travelers)
✔ For frequent calls & speech clarity → ENC headsets (Ideal for business meetings, customer service, and outdoor calls)
✔ For natural noise reduction without electronics → PNC earphones/headphones (Budget-friendly and suitable for daily use)
5. Oleap’s Noise Cancellation Technology
Oleap’s advanced noise cancellation headsets integrate:
✅ ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) – Ideal for business meetings and outdoor calls.
✅ AI-Powered Noise Cancellation – Uses deep learning to enhance voice clarity.
✅ 50dB Noise Reduction – Perfect for extreme noise environments such as airports, subways, and conferences.
Which noise cancellation is more important to you: listening to music or making crystal-clear calls? Choose the best product based on your needs!
