Explained: Different types of noise cancellation techniques used on TWS earbuds – Times of India

One term that we often find brands highlighting about their TWS earbuds is “Noise Cancellation”. While it is an important feature as it is responsible to reduce or eliminate unwanted background noise from the audio experience. The thing is that there are different types of noise cancellation and you must have come across them while shopping for a new pair of wireless earphones. They are Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Passive Noise Cancellation (PNC) which is often referred to as regular Noise Cancellation (NC) or Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC). Wondering how the two main noise cancellations differ? Read on to know:
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is the most advanced type of noise cancellation available in TWS earphones. It uses advanced algorithms and microphones to actively analyse and cancel out ambient noise in real-time. ANC works by creating an “anti-noise” sound wave that is the exact opposite of the background noise, effectively cancelling it out. This results in a much more immersive audio experience, with little to no background noise interfering.
Passive Noise Cancellation:
Passive noise cancellation is the simplest and most common type of noise cancellation in TWS earphones. It uses physical barriers, such as the earbuds themselves, to block out ambient noise. Passive noise cancellation works by creating a tight seal around the ear canal, which helps to prevent outside noise from entering the ear. The earbuds themselves also act as a physical barrier, blocking out a significant amount of noise. Environmental Noise Cancellation or AI Noise Cancellation or just Noise Cancellation, all three of them are mostly terminologies used by manufacturers and are somewhat a little tweaked version of Passive Noise Cancellation.
Hybrid Noise Cancellation:
Hybrid noise cancellation is a combination of both active and passive noise cancellation. TWS earphones with hybrid noise cancellation feature both ANC and passive noise cancellation technology. This allows them to effectively block out both ambient noise and external sounds, resulting in an even more immersive audio experience. Hybrid noise cancellation is considered to be the best of both worlds, as it combines the advanced technology of ANC with the simplicity of passive noise cancellation.