In our noisy world, finding moments of peace and quiet can be tough, especially for kids. Whether it’s a bustling classroom, a crowded airplane, or just an overstimulating environment, too much noise can lead to distraction, anxiety, and even hearing damage. That’s where a great pair of noise cancelling earbuds for kids or specialized earplugs come in handy, offering a sanctuary of calm.
But “noise cancelling” isn’t a one-size-fits-all term. For children, it can mean a few different things:
1. Passive Noise Reducing Earplugs: These physical barriers block out sound, ideal for sensory issues, studying, or loud events. They don’t play audio.
2. Noise Isolating Earbuds: These are standard audio earbuds with a snug fit that passively block some external sound while playing music or audio. They often lack active noise cancellation (ANC).
3. Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Earbuds: These use microphones and inverse sound waves to actively cancel out ambient noise, offering the most effective quiet experience, often while also playing audio.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you 10 top picks that cater to various needs, from true ANC to simple, effective earplugs. Our selection prioritizes safety, comfort, durability, and most importantly, effective hearing protection for children. Let’s dive in!
1. Loop Engage Kids 2 Ear Plugs (6-12yrs) – Reusable
For kids who need a break from overwhelming noise without feeling totally cut off, the Loop Engage Kids 2 earplugs are a game-changer. These aren’t audio earbuds, but they use innovative technology to filter out background noise while keeping speech clear. This means your child can still hear you, teachers, or friends, but the harsh edge of overstimulating sounds is significantly reduced. They’re perfect for boosting focus and calm in busy settings, making them an excellent choice for children with sensory sensitivities or those who need help concentrating.
Key Features:
- Noise relief for kids aged 6-12 years, filtering background noise.
- Boosts focus and concentration by keeping speech clear.
- Helps manage anxiety and overstimulation in loud places.
- Certified hearing protection for ear safety.
- Kid-approved comfort with 4 ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L).
- Reusable, easy to clean, and durable.
- Includes a portable keychain Carry Case.
Pros:
- Excellent for reducing environmental noise without isolation.
- Improves focus in school and during playtime.
- Offers certified hearing protection.
- Comfortable and secure fit for various ear sizes.
- Durable and long-lasting design.
Cons:
- These are earplugs, not for listening to audio.
- Might take some getting used to for kids unfamiliar with earplugs.
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise these Loop earplugs for helping their children feel more comfortable and focused in noisy environments like school, parties, or public transport. Many note the improved ability to concentrate without feeling completely detached from their surroundings.
2. Softvox Kids Ear Plugs (6-12 yrs) – Reusable Kids Ear Protection
Another fantastic option for passive noise reduction, the Softvox Kids Ear Plugs are designed to protect sensitive hearing and prevent ear pain, especially in loud or high-pressure environments. These soft silicone earplugs are your go-to for anything from concerts and sporting events to airplane travel and study sessions. They aim to create a comfortable, calm space for your child, helping to manage overstimulation and boost concentration. They’re a simple yet effective solution for kid-friendly ear protection.
Key Features:
- Protects sensitive hearing from loud, distracting sounds.
- Effectively manages anxiety and overstimulation in noisy places.
- Relieves ear pressure during travel (planes/trains).
- Boosts focus and calm for study, reading, or travel.
- Crafted from soft silicone for gentle, comfortable fit.
- Comes with 4 kid-friendly ear tip sizes (KXS, KS, KM, KL).
- Reusable, easy to clean, and durable.
- Includes a compact and convenient carry case.
Pros:
- Great for a wide range of loud activities and travel.
- Effectively reduces ear pressure and discomfort.
- Helps children stay calm and focused.
- Very comfortable, often barely noticeable.
- Customizable fit ensures security.
Cons:
- Not for listening to audio.
- Provides noise reduction, but not complete silence.
User Impressions: Families love these for travel, particularly airplane rides, where they significantly reduce ear pain. Parents also appreciate how well they help children regulate in busy environments, leading to fewer meltdowns and more enjoyment.
3. Wired Earbuds with Microphone for Chromebook Laptop
Sometimes, what your child needs isn’t just silence, but a way to enjoy their audio content without disturbing others, while also getting a degree of noise isolation. These wired earbuds offer high-fidelity stereo sound and come with a microphone, making them versatile for online classes, gaming, or just listening to music. While not actively noise cancelling, their in-ear design provides passive noise isolation, which can significantly reduce auditory distractions. Plus, their durable, tangle-free design makes them very practical for kids.
Key Features:
- Hifi Bass Stereo sound quality via 3.5mm jack.
- Wide compatibility with Chromebooks, tablets, smartphones, and more.
- Powerful dynamic driver for quality sound during music, movies, or games.
- Stronger, flexible stranded wire for durability and tangle-free experience.
- Upgraded 3.5mm jack connector strengthened against bends.
- Includes a case for tangle-free storage.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality for the price point.
- Highly durable and designed to resist tangles.
- Broad compatibility with many devices.
- Passive noise isolation helps reduce distractions.
- Built-in microphone for calls and online learning.
Cons:
- Wired, which some kids might find restrictive compared to wireless.
- Not active noise cancelling, relies on passive isolation.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the robust build quality and the clear sound these earbuds provide. They’re often recommended for school use with Chromebooks, noting their durability stands up well to daily kid use.
4. COOTIMOCK Wireless Earbuds for Kids, Built with Mic, 85dB Volume Limited
Here’s an actual set of noise cancelling earbuds for kids that prioritizes both fun and safety! The COOTIMOCK Wireless Earbuds come with an adorable panda design and are specifically engineered for children and adults with smaller ears. What truly stands out is the 85dB maximum volume limit, ensuring your child’s delicate hearing is protected during prolonged listening sessions. With crisp stereo sound, long battery life, and powerful compatibility, these are a fantastic all-around choice for audio enjoyment with peace of mind.
Key Features:
- Specially designed for children and adults with small ears.
- Cute panda design with water-resistant technology.
- Stereo sound with 10mm high-efficiency speakers.
- Safe 85dB maximum volume limit to protect hearing.
- Long battery life: 5 hours on a single charge, 30 hours total with charging case.
- Fast charging via Type-C cable.
- Bluetooth 5.3 for faster, more stable connection and low latency.
- One-step automatic pairing.
- Lightweight (3.5g per earbud) with easy touch controls.
Pros:
- Excellent for protecting children’s hearing with a volume limit.
- Comfortable fit for small ear canals with 3 ear tip sizes.
- Appealing and fun panda design.
- Reliable wireless connectivity and long battery life.
- Good sound quality for kids’ audio.
Cons:
- Noise cancellation is primarily passive isolation from the fit, not active ANC.
- Some parents might prefer a more discreet design.
User Impressions: Reviewers love the cute design and the comfort these earbuds offer to smaller ears. The volume limit is a huge selling point for parents concerned about hearing safety, making them a popular gift choice.
5. Wireless Earbuds for Kids, Headphones with Cute Panda Design
Another charming option in the wireless category, these panda-themed earbuds are not only adorable but also highly functional for kids. Designed with bionics and ergonomics, they promise a comfortable fit even for small ear canals, with three included ear tip sizes. While the noise cancelling aspect comes from their snug, isolating fit rather than active technology, they offer impressive battery life – up to 36 hours with the charging case – and hassle-free Bluetooth pairing. These are a great gift choice for kids who want style and functionality.
Key Features:
- Cute cat/panda unique cartoon design, popular with kids and women.
- Up to 36 hours of playback time with charging case (6 hours per earbud).
- Bionics and ergonomic design for comfortable fit, even for small ear canals.
- Includes 3 sizes of eartips for customized comfort.
- Hassle-free Bluetooth pairing with iOS/Android/Mac/Windows.
- Smart touch controls for volume, tracks, calls, and voice assistance.
- Individual earbud use option.
Pros:
- Very long battery life, ideal for travel or extended use.
- Comfortable and secure fit for various ear sizes.
- Attractive, kid-friendly design.
- Easy to pair and intuitive touch controls.
- Good passive noise isolation due to snug fit.
Cons:
- Does not specify an explicit volume limit.
- Noise reduction is passive, not active.
User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the comfort for small ears and the impressive battery life. The appealing design makes them a hit with kids, and parents appreciate the ease of use and reliable Bluetooth connection.
6. Alpine Pluggies Kids Ear Plugs for Small Ear Canals – Multi-Purpose
If your primary goal is effective hearing protection for children in diverse, noisy environments, look no further than the Alpine Pluggies. These multi-purpose earplugs are designed specifically for children and adults with smaller ear canals, making them incredibly comfortable and effective. Whether it’s for sleeping, school, flying, swimming, or loud events like fireworks, Pluggies provide reliable noise reduction at 25 dB SNR. Their patented AlpineThermoShape material molds to the ear, ensuring a secure and hypoallergenic fit.
Key Features:
- Multi-purpose: Ideal for sleep, school, flying, swimming, events, fireworks.
- Smaller size for children and adults with small ear canals.
- Patented AlpineThermoShape material molds to the ear for comfort.
- Sensitive hearing protection during developmental phase.
- Tested and certified noise reduction at 25 dB SNR.
- Hypoallergenic, sustainable, and silicone-free material.
- Award-winning Dutch design from a leader in hearing protection.
Pros:
- Highly effective noise reduction for safety and comfort.
- Extremely comfortable due to molding material.
- Versatile for many different noisy situations.
- Certified and safe for children’s sensitive ears.
- Durable and easy to clean for repeated use.
Cons:
- These are earplugs only, no audio functionality.
- May require a brief adjustment period for some children.
User Impressions: Parents rave about the comfort and effectiveness of Alpine Pluggies, especially for children who struggle with sensory overload or need protection during loud activities. Their ability to mold to the ear is often cited as a key factor in their superior comfort.
7. LUDOS Ultra Wired Earbuds in-Ear Headphones, 5 Years Warranty
The LUDOS Ultra Wired Earbuds are built to be tough, practical, and deliver quality audio, making them a solid choice for kids who need durable headphones for various activities. With a focus on longevity, these wired earbuds feature a rock-solid design and an extra-long, reinforced cord to withstand demanding use. While they don’t have active noise cancellation, they are described as “noise isolating,” meaning their in-ear design helps filter out background distractions, which is crucial for concentration during gaming, studying, or listening on the go.
Key Features:
- Practical design for gaming, running, workouts, and daily use.
- Smart microphone for communication.
- Strong, rock-solid design with an extra-long 4.2 ft cord.
- Undergone stringent quality inspection for durability.
- Delivers crisp, pounding bass and clear tones.
- Total control for calls and volume adjustment with a touch.
- Noise isolating feature to filter out background distractions.
- Includes a padded drawstring bag and protective carry tin.
- Backed by a 5-year warranty.
Pros:
- Exceptional durability, ideal for active kids.
- Good sound quality with clear bass and tones.
- Noise isolating design helps focus.
- Convenient in-line controls and microphone.
- Generous 5-year warranty provides great peace of mind.
Cons:
- Wired design might not appeal to everyone.
- Noise isolation is passive, not active noise cancelling.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the LUDOS earbuds for their impressive durability and sound quality, especially considering the price point. The 5-year warranty is a significant draw for parents looking for a long-lasting option for their children.
8. TOZO NC9 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds
For older kids or those with small ear canals who truly need top-tier active noise cancelling earbuds for kids, the TOZO NC9 offers a premium experience. While not marketed specifically for children, their ergonomic design with six earcap sizes ensures a comfortable fit for many. These earbuds boast a significant 45dB hybrid ANC, creating an immersive audio environment free from distractions. Coupled with impressive stereo bass sound, clear call quality, and a transparent mode for awareness, they’re an excellent choice for serious audio users.
Key Features:
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling with up to 45dB noise reduction depth.
- 6 Microphone Call & ENC Ambient Noise Reduction for crystal-clear calls.
- Transparent Mode to stay aware of surroundings without removing earbuds.
- Stereo Bass Sound with 10mm drivers and OrigX Acoustic 2.0 technology.
- Ergonomically designed for all-day comfort with six earcap sizes.
- TOZO app for 32EQs options and customizable sound/ANC modes.
- Long playtime: up to 59H (ANC off) / 42H (ANC on) total with case.
- IPX8 Water Resistance for active lifestyles.
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology for strong signal and low latency.
Pros:
- Superior active noise cancellation for ultimate quiet.
- High-quality stereo sound with deep bass.
- Excellent call clarity even in noisy environments.
- Transparent mode enhances safety and convenience.
- Customizable fit for comfort, potentially suitable for older kids with small ears.
- Water-resistant and durable.
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to other kid-specific options.
- No explicit volume limit (parents would need to monitor).
- Might be too advanced or large for very young children.
User Impressions: These earbuds receive high praise for their powerful ANC and impressive sound quality. Many users with smaller ear canals find them surprisingly comfortable, making them a strong contender for older kids or teens who need serious noise reduction.
9. Wired Earbuds for Chromebook Laptop School PC, 3.5mm Jack
Another reliable wired option, these earbuds are designed with the modern student in mind, perfect for Chromebooks, laptops, and other 3.5mm jack devices common in school settings. They feature a multi-function control with a built-in microphone, allowing for hands-free calls, easy song switching, and volume adjustment – all without touching the connected device. Their ergonomic in-ear design, combined with silicone ear tips, provides passive noise isolation and ensures a comfortable fit, ideal for extended listening, working, or studying.
Key Features:
- Multi-function control with built-in microphone for hands-free calls and audio control.
- Wide compatibility with Apple, Samsung, Chromebooks, Android, and other 3.5mm jack devices.
- Comfortable ergonomic in-ear design that fits natural ear curves.
- High fidelity stereo drivers and DAC chip for deep bass and crisp trebles.
- In-ear design silicone cap for excellent passive noise isolation.
- Durable nylon cables that passed rigorous bending tests.
- 24K gold-plated plugs for corrosion resistance.
- Includes three different soft silicone ear tips for various ear sizes.
Pros:
- Great all-in-one control for calls and music.
- Broad compatibility with school and personal devices.
- Very comfortable for long-term wear, reducing ear fatigue.
- Effective passive noise isolation for focused listening.
- High-quality sound and durable build.
Cons:
- Wired connection may not be preferred by all users.
- Noise reduction is passive, not active.
User Impressions: Users frequently highlight these earbuds as a fantastic value for school use, praising their comfort during long online classes and the convenience of the in-line controls. The durability of the cables is also a major plus for parents.
10. Softvox Ear Plugs for Kids (6-12 yrs), Airplane Ear Pressure Relief
Rounding out our list, these Softvox Ear Plugs are specifically tailored for kids who experience discomfort from ear pressure changes during flights, in addition to needing general noise reduction. Crafted from soft silicone, they provide a snug and comfortable fit, making travel a much more pleasant experience for little ones. Beyond airplanes, they’re equally effective for reducing loud noises at events, fostering focus during study time, and generally protecting sensitive ears from overstimulation. They’re reusable, easy to clean, and come with a portable case, making them a must-have for any travel-loving family.
Key Features:
- Effective pressure relief to prevent ear pain during flights.
- Reduces loud noises to a safe level for various events.
- Crafted from soft silicone for a snug and comfy fit.
- Helps block unwanted noise to increase children’s focus and creativity.
- Comes with a portable case for easy carrying.
- Reusable and easy to clean with mild soap.
- 25 dB noise reduction for a safe and comfortable environment.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for airplane ear pressure relief.
- Highly effective at reducing a wide range of loud noises.
- Extremely comfortable for sensitive ears.
- Helps improve focus and concentration in noisy settings.
- Convenient, portable, and easy to maintain.
Cons:
- These are earplugs only, no audio functionality.
- May not be suitable for children outside the 6-12 age range.
User Impressions: These earplugs are a top choice for families who travel frequently, with many parents reporting significant relief for their children from ear pain during take-off and landing. They are also valued for creating quiet spaces in general, boosting calm and focus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between noise-cancelling earbuds and earplugs for kids?
A1: Earplugs (like Loop or Alpine Pluggies) primarily offer passive noise reduction by physically blocking sound. They don’t play audio. Noise-cancelling earbuds (like TOZO NC9) are audio devices that use active noise cancellation (ANC) technology to electronically cancel out ambient noise while also allowing your child to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Some earbuds also offer passive noise isolation through their design, which is less effective than active ANC.
Q2: Are noise-cancelling earbuds safe for my child’s hearing?
A2: Yes, when chosen carefully. The most important feature for kid’s audio earbuds is a volume limiting technology, typically capping the sound at 85dB. This is crucial for preventing hearing damage from prolonged exposure to loud sounds. For earplugs, they simply reduce the overall sound level, making them inherently safe for hearing protection. Always monitor your child’s listening habits, regardless of the device.
Q3: How do I choose the right size noise-cancelling earbud or earplug for my child?
A3: A snug and comfortable fit is key for both effectiveness and comfort. Many products for kids come with multiple ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L) to ensure a customized fit for small ear canals. If the earbud or earplug is too loose, it won’t provide adequate noise reduction. If it’s too tight, it will be uncomfortable. Look for brands that specifically mention kid-friendly sizes and provide a range of options.
Q4: When should my child use noise-cancelling devices?
A4: Noise-cancelling devices can be beneficial in many situations:
* Travel: Airplanes (for pressure relief and engine noise), long car rides, trains.
* School: During exams, focused study time, or in noisy classrooms to improve concentration.
* Loud Events: Concerts, sporting events, fireworks, parades, parties, or crowded public places.
* Sensory Sensitivity: For children who get easily overwhelmed or overstimulated by noise.
* Quiet Time: To create a peaceful environment for reading, relaxing, or sleeping.
Q5: Can noise-cancelling devices help with focus in school or during homework?
A5: Absolutely! Many children struggle with concentration in noisy environments. By reducing auditory distractions, noise-cancelling earplugs or earbuds can help children focus better on tasks, improve their learning environment, and complete homework more effectively. For children with ADHD or sensory processing disorders, this can be particularly beneficial.
Q6: Are wireless or wired earbuds better for kids?
A6: Both have pros and cons.
* Wired Earbuds: Generally more durable, no charging needed, no connectivity issues. Can be a trip hazard or get tangled.
* Wireless Earbuds: Offer more freedom of movement, no tangles. Require regular charging, can be easier to lose, and sometimes have connectivity glitches.
The “best” choice depends on your child’s age, activity level, and your priorities for convenience versus durability.
Q7: How do I clean and maintain my child’s noise-cancelling earbuds or earplugs?
A7: Regular cleaning is essential for hygiene and longevity. For silicone earplugs and ear tips, a gentle wash with mild soap and warm water, followed by thorough drying, is usually sufficient. For earbuds, wipe them down with a slightly damp cloth (avoiding liquids getting into openings) and use a soft brush or cotton swab to gently clean earwax or debris from the mesh screens. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions.