Noise Cancelling Alternative: Air Tube Headphones and Earphones (15% Off Both)

If you've been searching for noise cancelling headphones but don't want another battery-powered gadget sitting beside your ears, there's a simpler option. Our DefenderShield air tube headphones and earphones block background noise the old-fashioned way – with a proper seal around or inside your ear – and need no charging, pairing or Bluetooth at all.

For a limited time, get 15% off both with code QUIET15 at checkout, while stock lasts.

Noise cancelling vs noise isolating: what's the difference?

Active noise cancelling (ANC) uses microphones and a battery-powered chip in the earcups to create sound that cancels out noise. Noise isolation simply stops outside sound getting in, using cushions or ear tips that seal well.

Our air tube headphones and earphones are noise isolating, not ANC – there are no powered electronics at your ear, which is the whole point of the air-tube design. In practice, a good seal does a great job on everyday distractions: office chatter, keyboards, the TV in the next room, a busy café. Where ANC still has the edge is constant low rumble, such as engine noise on a plane.

For a deeper look at how air tubes work, see our complete guide to air tube headphones and earphones. This post is the short version – and the offer.

Over-ear: DefenderShield Air Tube Headphones

Best for desk work, video calls and long listening sessions at home.

• Noise-isolating over-ear cushions that seal around your ears
• Built-in microphone and control button for calls
• 3.5mm or USB-C versions to suit your device
• No battery or Bluetooth – plug in and go
• Adjustable headband and zip-up carry case included

£149, or £126.65 with QUIET15. Shop the air tube headphones

In-ear: DefenderShield Air Tube Earphones

Best for commuting, walking, the gym and keeping in your pocket.

• Seven sets of ear tips (silicone and sports) for a snug, noise-isolating fit
• Just 25 grams, with clothing clips to keep the cable tidy
• Built-in microphone and controls for calls and playback
• No charging – they're always ready in your bag
• Braided cord and zip-up carry case included

£100, or £85 with QUIET15. Shop the air tube earphones

Why get both?

Most people end up wanting two pairs: something comfortable for the desk and something small for when they're out. Over-ears stay at home for calls and focused work; the in-ears live in your coat pocket for the commute.

With QUIET15, the pair costs £211.65 instead of £249 – a saving of £37.35.

How to claim 15% off

• Add the headphones, the earphones, or both to your basket.
• Choose 3.5mm or USB-C to match your device.
• Enter QUIET15 at checkout.

Stock is limited, especially on the earphones, so the offer runs while stock lasts.

Frequently asked questions

Are these noise cancelling headphones?

No – they're noise isolating. They block background noise with a physical seal rather than battery-powered ANC, which is what lets them keep electronics away from your ears.

Do they need charging?

Never. They're wired, so there's no battery and no pairing.

Which connector should I choose?

Pick 3.5mm if your device has a headphone socket, or USB-C if it doesn't. USB-C audio can vary with adaptors, so plug straight into your device where you can.

What if they're not for me?

You have 30 days to return them. See the returns section on each product page for the details.

This article describes product features and makes no health claims. Reducing exposure is a personal choice; UK and international health bodies do not consider harm established at exposure levels below international guidelines.