Picture this. It’s new music Friday, Willie Jones is flowing through your noise-canceling headphones, and suddenly a stranger waves you down. Did you drop something? Are they asking for directions? Are they talking to someone else?
Until a few years ago, the only way to find out would be to pause your music and turn off your headphones.
Today, several leading headphone makers build in passive noise options labeled with names like Transparency Mode, Hear Through, and Ambient Sound. You can tune into the outside world with a tap, pinch, or swipe without removing your headphones.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 100% independently owned and operated
We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
- Headphones with a ‘pass through’ or ‘transparency’ mode not only convenient but help with safety, the phone call experience, and even a ‘hearing aid-esque’ volume boost.
- We selected headphones based on ease of use, sound quality, and customization.
- Our top picks include Apple Airpods Max, Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2, Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WH-1000XM5
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 100% independently owned and operated
We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
Featured in this article
Our 5 Favorite Headphones with Transparency Mode 👇
We reviewed dozens of candidates for this list and ultimately landed on the products below for their quality, features, price, and processing power.
Apple AirPods Max
Apple AirPods Max
Customer Review |“There are certainly cheaper headphones with equivalent sound quality, but these are well-constructed, comfortable for extended wear, have streamlined physical controls which are satisfying to use, and work hand in glove with an iPhone — it doesn't even shut off completely, it just senses when it's off your ears, and pauses playback.” - JoMo
Are you a big Apple fan? Look no further. While these over-the-ear headphones might be one of the cheaper options on this list, they still pack in a fair amount of luxury. Nearly every aspect of this wireless pair is design-led with a heavy focus on audio quality. From cushioned ear pads to a sleek signature Apple design, active noise cancellation (plus transparency mode for accurate sound filtration), spatial audio (for a surround sound quality), and five colors options, what’s not to like?
The reviews for the Apple AirPods Max headphones are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting their exceptional comfort, stylish design, and seamless integration with Apple devices. Users appreciate the immersive sound quality and impressive noise cancellation, making them ideal for long listening sessions, travel, and even workouts—though some noted that their ears can get warm after extended use. Despite the high price tag, many feel the investment is justified given the build quality and performance. A few reviewers mentioned minor drawbacks, like battery life and initial discomfort for smaller heads, but these concerns were often outweighed by the overall experience. The AirPods Max quickly become a favorite for anyone seeking premium audio quality and comfort!
Sound quality and isolation, appearance
Mixed reviews on comfort and heaviness
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2
- Customizable Sound: Galaxy Wearable app offers tailored EQ settings and an onboard hearing test for personalized audio.
- Active Noise Cancellation: Effectively reduces external noise, allowing users to focus on music or calls in louder settings.
- Comfortable Fit: Lightweight, ergonomic design with multiple ear tip options for secure, comfortable all-day wear.
- Seamless Connectivity: Easy pairing with Samsung devices and automatic source switching for uninterrupted audio.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2 combine high-quality sound and practical functionality for a versatile listening experience.
- Enhanced Audio Control: Equipped with Samsung's Galaxy Wearable app, users can personalize sound settings, including an onboard hearing test and customizable equalizer, ensuring sound preferences align with individual needs.
- Noise Management and Comfort: The Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation effectively minimizes background noise, while the ergonomic design and multiple ear tip options provide a comfortable fit, making these earbuds suitable for extended use.
For users seeking adaptable sound quality and comfort, the Galaxy Buds Pro 2 deliver a well-rounded experience.
- Rich Sound Quality: Users appreciate the clear, immersive audio, especially for music and podcasts, though a few mention that bass levels could be slightly stronger.
- Effective Noise Cancellation: The Active Noise Cancellation performs well in noisy settings, though it may not match the strength of some high-end models.
- Comfortable Fit: Many users find the earbuds comfortable for extended wear with multiple ear tip options, but a few report occasional fit issues depending on ear shape.
- Easy Pairing and Device Switching: Galaxy Buds Pro 2 connect seamlessly with Samsung devices, allowing smooth transitions between phones, tablets, and more.
- Decent Battery Life: Battery life meets most users' daily needs, although some note it may require frequent charging for prolonged use.
- Minor Connectivity Hiccups: A few users report occasional signal drops, particularly when the device is at a different height, but most find connectivity stable and reliable.
Overall, users find these earbuds deliver solid value for versatile, high-quality audio experiences.
- Strong active noise cancellation for better focus in busy environments
- Personalized sound settings via the Galaxy Wearable app
- IPX7 water resistance for worry-free workouts and light rain
- Stable, automatic switching between paired Samsung devices
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip options
- Touch controls may be too sensitive, leading to accidental taps.
- Limited compatibility as Galaxy Wearable app isn’t available for iPhone users.
- Battery life may require frequent charging with extended active noise cancellation use
- Occasional signal drops reported when paired device is at a different height
- Noise cancellation may not match that of higher-end models
Apple AirPods Pro 2
Apple AirPods Pro 2
- Personalized Audio: Spatial Audio with head tracking provides a tailored listening experience.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 6 hours on a single charge with noise cancellation enabled.
- Seamless Apple Integration: Quick setup and automatic switching between Apple devices.
- Comfortable Fit: Comes with four ear tip sizes to ensure a snug, secure fit.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 deliver an enhanced audio experience with intelligent noise cancellation and a comfortable, customizable fit.
- Advanced Noise Cancellation: With up to twice the noise-canceling power of its predecessor, these earbuds create a focused listening experience by blocking out unwanted distractions—ideal for commutes or busy environments.
- Personalized Fit & Audio: Four sizes of silicone tips ensure a secure fit, while Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking provides immersive sound tailored to your ears.
Designed for those seeking a seamless blend of comfort, sound quality, and integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
- Impressive Sound Quality: Users highlight the clear highs and deep bass, making these ideal for music lovers.
- Effective Noise Cancellation: Many praise the substantial improvement in blocking background noise, even in busy areas.
- Comfortable Fit: The inclusion of four ear tip sizes helps achieve a secure, comfortable fit for various ear shapes.
- Longer Battery Life: Users appreciate the extended battery life, especially with Active Noise Cancellation on.
- Convenient Controls: The intuitive swipe and press controls on the stems are a favorite for quick volume adjustments and call management.
- Occasional Charging Issues: Some users report rare connectivity glitches when charging with non-Apple chargers.
- Excellent built-in hearing test
- Industry leading headphone features and Apple connectivity
- Affordable hearing aid alternative
- Limited functionality with non-Apple devices.
- Not as good in background noise
- Not as comfortable or socially acceptable for all-day wear
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WH-1000XM5
- Personalized Sound: Impressive preset options or a fully customizable EQ with five bands of adjustment.
- Battery life: Up to 30 hours on a single charge
- Comfort: Comfortable, lightweight option with vegan leather ear cups and a slightly larger size
- Phone call quality: Sony can compete with the best in shutting down background noise and isolating your voice.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers an impressive mix of advanced noise-canceling technology, comfort, and battery life. Designed to offer an immersive listening experience, these headphones are ideal for users who want uninterrupted audio quality and clear communication on the go.
- With advanced noise cancellation powered by two processors and eight microphones, these headphones reduce external sounds, creating an isolated listening environment ideal for both commutes and busy workplaces.
- The hands-free calling feature includes four beamforming microphones, allowing for clear voice transmission even in noisy settings—an essential for professionals and those who prioritize clear conversations.
Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM5 combines high-end audio, comfort, and functionality, making it a top pick for users seeking reliable sound quality and convenience in any setting.
- Rich Sound Quality: Users appreciate the high audio clarity, making music and calls sound immersive and full.
- Powerful Noise Cancellation: The noise-canceling feature is widely praised, allowing for distraction-free listening even in loud settings.
- All-Day Comfort: Many find the lightweight design comfortable, noting it’s well-suited for long listening sessions.
- Intuitive Touch Controls: Users highlight the convenience of touch controls for easy playback and call management.
- Long Battery Life: With up to 30 hours of use, battery performance is a popular feature, plus the quick charge option for added convenience.
- Slight Bulk: Some mention the ear cups feel a bit large, which can impact portability.
Overall, users find the Sony WH-1000XM5 to deliver a comfortable, high-quality experience, ideal for uninterrupted listening.
- Beautiful and comfortable design
- 30 hours of battery life
- Customizable EQ
- Works with all phone types
- Easy earcup tap and swipe controls
- Bulky for travel
- Transparency mode is not quite as good as Airpods Max
- Ears can become hot after a long wear-session
Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids
Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids
- Bluetooth streaming for seamless audio connection
- Earbud and hearing aid crossover design
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- 26-hour battery life on a single charge
- Self-fitting via the Sony app for easy customization
We chose the Sony CRE-E10 for its unique mix of convenience, sound quality, and customization, making it a standout in the in-ear hearing aid category. Here’s why it’s a top pick:
- Bluetooth Streaming: The CRE-E10 stands out as one of the few in-ear hearing aids that provides direct Bluetooth streaming from iPhones, allowing hands-free calls and media playback with clear, high-quality sound.
- Rechargeable & Long-Lasting: With up to 26 hours of battery life, this device supports all-day wear and includes a simple charging case for extra convenience, making it great for active users.
- Self-Programming: Sony’s app guides users through an intuitive hearing test, allowing personalized adjustments to fit individual hearing needs. This feature gives users greater control and convenience right from home.
At Soundly, we’ve seen firsthand how these features resonate with our customers, who appreciate the balance of tech and comfort Sony offers.
Users share excitement that Sony has entered the hearing space. Many reviewers comment on E10's streaming capabilities and comfortable fit. A few complain about the setup process.
- "I knew Sony would come through with these hearing aids and I'm very, very happy with them...my research payed off!...they've already made me a little more confident and willing to interact with people without saying WHAT? or HUH?" - Ben
- "After initial calibration, there is some fine tuning that you can perform in order to customize the hearing aids for specific situations like speech and your own voice. I liked the ability to adjust the sound EQ balance between treble and bass. This made it easier to focus on voices in higher or lower registers on-the-fly, as needed. You can also set directional hearing amplification as well to focus on sounds coming from in front, behind, or to either side rather than omnidirectional." - Phil
- "The Sony E10s are significantly smaller and lighter than what I had, but sound just as good, with the added benefit of being able to go through the app test to customize them in ways that only a doctor can on professional ones." -Fixm
- Rechargeable Modern design
- Self-fit at home
- Bluetooth streaming for iPhone users
- Not compatible with Android
- More visible than smaller options
- Sony CRE-E10 hearing aids are sold over the counter and are appropriate for those with mild-moderate hearing loss
- If you have more significant hearing loss it is recommended that you access professional care through Telehealth or local care
- Available for purchase online or at retail stores Best Buy
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
- Sony CRE-E10 is made in collaboration with hearing leader WSA audiology
- Some people compare this product to Signia Active Pro
- Sony CRE-C10 offers excellent background noise in line with premium prescription hearing aids
- Sony CRE-E10 sits in the ear like an earbud and comes with various ear tip sizes
- The device is larger than other in-the-ear hearing aids but does a good job handling occlusion
- Our team finds all in-the-ear models slightly less comfortable for all-day wear than RIC hearing aids
- Sits inside the ear like an earbud
- Only available in black
- Sony CRE-E10 has built-in rechargeable batteries
- 26 hour runtime on a single charge
- Each pair comes with a sleek, portable charging case that includes additional, on-the-go charges
- CRE-E10 only streams Bluetooth through iPhones at this time
- CRE-E10 offers hands-free calling for iPhone users
- Android users can use the hearing aid app
- Sony CRE-E10 is very easy to handle
- The recharge case includes convenient magnets that pull the product into place
- No battery changes needed
- CRE-E10 has an IP Rating of IP68, which means it can be submerged in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- The Sony Sound Control app allows users to take a test that programs their devices to match their hearing loss
- The rest of the App is very minimal, with features to control directionality, volume, and bass + treble
- The app is required to make changes (no buttons onboard)
Why Transparency Mode Matters
Sure, keeping your headphones on during a brief exchange is convenient, but it has some more meaningful benefits as well:
On Phone Calls
Talking on the phone without hearing your voice is something of a mind game. I find it very distracting and sometimes even lose my train of thought. Ambient Sound settings give you a more natural call experience.
Safety
While active noise cancelation can give you some zen in the middle of the urban jungle, it’s not that safe. ANC blocks the sound of oncoming traffic, people entering your space, and even important PSAs at train stations and in airports. Ambient sound modes are a great option when you are in an unfamiliar spot.
Amplification
If you are one of the more than 40 million people in the U.S. with hearing loss, you might even consider a feature like transparency mode as a bootleg hearing aid. Some advanced products like AirPods let you adjust the volume of the outside world beyond the levels of your natural hearing (see our tutorial here).
How Transparency Mode Works
Pass-through audio uses similar technology to active-noise cancellation. Microphones on your headphones pick up outside sounds, then process and re-create them before pushing them through the speakers in your ears.
The best pass-through devices can blend ambient sound with the sound of your music or phone call in a natural way. Most headphone makers build transparency controls into their apps.
How to Choose Headphones with Transparency Mode
Important Features to Consider
Before we get into the best pass-through headphones on the market, let’s talk about some of the key features to look out for.
- Ease of use: Look for a device that makes switching between ANC and pass-through audio simple through taps, buttons, or swipes.
- Sound quality: The best pass-through headphones work hard to amplify the outside world in a realistic way without overwhelming you with too much background noise or giving you a muffled sound.
- Customization: Look for a device that lets you customize the volume of the outside world to match your preferences. Some devices even let you customize the outside-world volume to your personal hearing profile (great for anyone with hearing loss).
Final Thoughts
Older-style earbuds like Apple’s early generation Airpods used to let lots of ambient sound into your ears. Over time, it’s become clear that active noise cancelation is more zen and healthier. Noise cancellation allows wearers to keep their volume at a reasonable level instead of blasting the music to overcome background noise.
Most premium headphones now offer a combination of ANC and transparent audio, and we don’t see that trend going anywhere.
The bottom line
- If you are an iPhone user, beating Airpods Pro 2 or Airpods Max will be tough.
- If you are an Android user, you’ll likely want Samsung Galaxy Buds or Sony’s iconic WH-1000XM5.
- If you want an earbud that can double as a situational hearing aid you might like Sony CRE-E10.
