Picture this: you’re settling into your seat for an eight-hour transatlantic flight, the cabin hum begins, and the baby two rows back starts crying. Without proper headphones, that journey can feel endless. That’s where the best headphones for long flights come in, combining active noise cancellation, plush comfort, and marathon battery life so you arrive refreshed. In this guide, we’ve evaluated two top contenders the Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth 6.0 from TAGRY and the Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise to see which one earns a spot in your carry-on. Whether you’re a frequent flier or an occasional vacationer, these picks will transform your in-flight experience.

If you’re also looking for a versatile pair for the office or daily commute, check out our recommendations on best headphones for office use they share similar noise-canceling technology that works well in busy environments.

Buying Guide: What Makes Headphones Great for Long Flights

Noise Cancellation That Shuts Out the Cabin

For long flights, effective noise cancellation is non-negotiable. You want headphones that reduce engine roar, chatter, and wind noise without making you feel isolated from important announcements. Hybrid ANC systems, like those in both products here, use multiple microphones to cancel a wider range of frequencies. The TAGRY model boasts up to 45dB of noise reduction, while the Soundcore Q20i uses four built-in mics to filter background sounds. Both offer a transparency mode so you can hear gate changes without removing the headphones.

Battery Life That Outlasts Your Flight

Nothing ruins a long trip like dead headphones halfway through. Look for at least 30 hours of playback with ANC on, but more is better. The TAGRY headphones deliver an impressive 120 hours of playtime on a single charge, easily covering multiple long-haul flights. The Soundcore Q20i offers 40 hours with ANC, which is still solid for most trips. Both support quick charging the TAGRY via wired mode backup, and the Q20i gives you 4 hours from just a 5-minute charge.

Comfort for Extended Wear

You’ll be wearing these for hours, so comfort is key. Look for memory foam ear cushions, adjustable headbands, and a lightweight foldable design. The TAGRY headphones feature soft memory foam ear cups and a foldable frame, while the Soundcore Q20i also uses plush padding. Both are designed to avoid pressure points, making them ideal for sleeping on a plane. For additional options, explore our best headphones for travel guide, which includes similar comfort-focused models.

Sound Quality and Connectivity

Great sound makes the hours fly by. Look for headphones with rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The TAGRY uses 40mm dynamic drivers and supports Bluetooth 6.0 for low-latency streaming. The Soundcore Q20i features BassUp technology for punchy low end and Hi-Res certified audio when using the included AUX cable. Both support multipoint connectivity, letting you switch between your phone and in-flight entertainment system seamlessly. For home listening, you might also enjoy our best soundbar for LG TV picks for a different audio experience.

Final Thoughts

For most travelers, the choice comes down to battery life versus brand ecosystem. If you need maximum runtime for marathon trips and appreciate a robust feature set including 6-mic ENC for calls and a transparency mode, the Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth 6.0 is an outstanding value that will keep you covered for an entire week of travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter build, app-controlled EQ, and the reassurance of a trusted brand like Anker, the Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise delivers refined sound and reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. Both will make your next long flight significantly more enjoyable, so pick the one that best fits your flying habits and prepare to arrive relaxed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are noise-canceling headphones worth it for long flights?

Absolutely. Active noise cancellation reduces constant low-frequency sounds like engine rumble and air conditioning, which are common on planes. This lets you listen to music or podcasts at lower volumes, protecting your hearing and reducing fatigue. Both the TAGRY and Soundcore models we reviewed include hybrid ANC that adapts well to changing cabin noise.

How many hours of battery life do I need for a long flight?

For a single long haul flight (say 8 to 14 hours), you want at least 20 hours with ANC on to cover the trip plus any layovers. For multiple flights or a full travel day, aim for 40+ hours. The TAGRY headphones offer 120 hours, which is overkill for one flight but perfect for heavy travelers. The Soundcore Q20i’s 40 hours comfortably handles most itineraries.

Can I use these headphones with the in-flight entertainment system?

Yes, both models include a 3.5mm AUX cable for wired connection to airplane seat jacks. The TAGRY and Soundcore headphones also support Bluetooth, but you might need a Bluetooth adapter if your seat doesn’t have wireless pairing. We recommend bringing the AUX cable as a backup, since some airlines still use the older two-prong connector (a cheap adapter solves that).

Which is better for calls during travel: TAGRY or Soundcore?

The TAGRY headphones feature a 6-microphone ENC array that excels at reducing background noise during calls, making them ideal for remote workers who take meetings on the go. The Soundcore Q20i has four mics and also performs well for calls, but the TAGRY’s dedicated ENC system gives you a slight edge in noisy airports or coffee shops. For more tips on staying connected while traveling, see our best portable CarPlay screen article for another travel tech essential.