Ask HN: Recommendation for earphone to block out external noise

If you're not going to be using them to listen to music, simple foam earplugs are comfortable, effective, and dirt cheap.

As far as actual earphones, I ended up picking a pair of Etymotic ER6i's after researching various brands a few years back. About $70, but excellent sound-blocking and audio quality.

I use the Jabra C820s. They basically copied the Bose NC circuitry. I tested then side by side at a Bose Keosk at the airport and they sound the same and are just as comfortable.

http://www.amazon.com/Jabra-Active-Cancelling-Stereo-Headpho...

I don't have a pair yet, but check out the Panasonic RP-HC55-S. Not too expensive, won't get in the way of glasses, and won't make your ears hot.

If you really want serious noise cancellation, you need over the ear ones, and get a nice (expensive) pair. Some say that taking them off periodically to let your ears cool makes it tolerable.

If you don't listen to music then surely earplugs would be better and cheaper?