Office Depot Noise Cancelling Headphones: What to Know

Office Depot sells a small selection of noise cancelling headphones, primarily from brands like Sony, Bose, JBL, and Skullcandy, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $400. However, the retailer’s in-store stock is often limited, and the best noise cancelling models are usually available online through its website. This article covers what Office Depot actually carries, how to choose among those options, and what to expect from their noise cancelling performance.

Background: What Office Depot Carries

Office Depot is not a dedicated audio retailer, so its headphone selection is narrower than what you’d find at Best Buy or an electronics-focused online store. The chain focuses on office supplies, furniture, and technology accessories, which means noise cancelling headphones are typically positioned as productivity tools for calls, travel, or open-plan offices.

Common brands you’ll see at Office Depot include:

• Sony – usually the WH-CH710N or WH-1000XM4/XM5 (online only)
• Bose – the QuietComfort 45 or 35 II (often online only)
• JBL – the Tune 760NC or Live 660NC
• Skullcandy – the Crusher ANC or Hesh ANC
• Anker – the Soundcore Life Q20 or Q30 (sometimes available)

Physical stores may only have a few models on display, and the inventory varies by location. If you want a specific model, checking the Office Depot website for store availability is the most reliable way to see what’s in stock near you.

How Noise Cancelling Works

Noise cancelling headphones use microphones to pick up ambient sound and then generate an inverted sound wave that cancels it out. This is called active noise cancellation (ANC). It works best on low-frequency, constant sounds like airplane engines, air conditioning hum, or the rumble of a train. It does not completely eliminate human voices or sudden loud noises, though some models have a “transparency” or “ambient” mode that lets you hear those sounds when you want.

Passive noise isolation, on the other hand, comes from the physical seal of the ear cups or earbuds. Over-ear headphones with thick padding and in-ear models with silicone tips block sound by simply covering or plugging your ears. Most noise cancelling headphones combine both active and passive methods, so the overall reduction is more than either alone.

One common misconception is that noise cancelling works without music. It does, but the effect is more noticeable when you’re playing audio, because the ANC removes the low-frequency background hum and your music doesn’t have to compete with it.

How to Choose at Office Depot

When you’re looking at Office Depot’s selection, the most important factors are:

• Type – Over-ear headphones generally offer better noise cancelling and battery life than earbuds. In-ear models are more portable but may not fit everyone well.
• Battery life – Look for at least 20 hours with ANC on. Sony’s WH-1000XM4 offers 30 hours, while the JBL Tune 760NC gives about 35 hours.
• Comfort – If you’ll wear them for long calls or work sessions, try the weight and clamp pressure. Heavier models can cause fatigue.
• Connectivity – Most modern models use Bluetooth 5.0 or higher. Multipoint connection (pairing with two devices at once) is useful if you switch between a laptop and phone.
• Microphone quality – For calls, check if the mic is decent. Some models have beamforming mics that reduce background noise during conversations.

If you’re buying for a specific use, that narrows it down:

• For office work – Look for a comfortable over-ear model with a good mic, like the Sony WH-CH710N or JBL Live 660NC.
• For travel – Prioritize battery life and foldability. The Bose QuietComfort 45 is a popular choice because it folds flat and has excellent ANC.
• For casual listening – The Skullcandy Hesh ANC is often cheaper and still provides decent noise cancelling.

Common Problems and Limitations

Even with a good pair, you may run into issues:

• ANC hiss – Some models produce a faint hiss when ANC is on, especially in quiet rooms. This is normal and usually not noticeable with music playing.
• Battery drain – ANC uses power, so battery life is shorter with it on. If you forget to turn it off, the battery may die quickly.
• Fit issues – In-ear models may not seal well if the ear tips are the wrong size, which reduces both comfort and noise cancelling effectiveness.
• Connectivity drops – Bluetooth interference can cause stuttering, especially in crowded areas. This is more common with budget models.

If you experience any of these, first check the ear tips (for earbuds) or the fit of the headband. Reset the headphones by turning them off and on, and make sure the firmware is updated if the manufacturer offers an app.

Comparing Office Depot Models

To give you a sense of what you’ll find, here’s a comparison of typical models available at Office Depot:

Note that prices and availability change, so check the Office Depot website for current listings. The Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QC45 are the top performers, but they cost more than the budget options. If you’re on a tight budget, the JBL Tune 760NC is a solid choice for the price.

Cost and Value

Office Depot’s noise cancelling headphones range from about $50 for basic earbuds to $400 for premium over-ear models. The price difference reflects ANC quality, build materials, battery life, and extra features like touch controls or voice assistants.

You can often find discounts during back-to-school sales or holiday promotions. Office Depot also has a rewards program that gives you points on purchases, which can be used for future discounts. If you’re not sure about a model, check the return policy – most stores allow returns within 30 days, but keep the receipt.

One thing to consider: buying from Office Depot may not give you the same selection as an online retailer like Amazon. However, the advantage is that you can see and try the headphones in person if the store has them on display. That can be worth the slightly higher price if you’re picky about comfort.

Safety and Health Considerations

Using noise cancelling headphones is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Volume level – Even with ANC, you might be tempted to crank up the volume. Prolonged exposure to sound above 85 decibels can damage your hearing. Keep the volume at a moderate level, especially if you listen for hours.
• Ear hygiene – Over-ear headphones can trap sweat and bacteria. Wipe them down regularly and avoid sharing them without cleaning.
• Situational awareness – Wearing ANC headphones in traffic or while cycling can be dangerous because you may not hear approaching vehicles. Many models have an ambient mode, but it’s not a substitute for being alert.
• Comfort pressure – Some people experience headaches from the clamping force of over-ear headphones. If that happens, take breaks and adjust the headband.

If you have a medical condition like tinnitus or ear infections, consult a doctor before using ANC headphones, as the pressure change might affect you.

Alternatives to Office Depot

If Office Depot doesn’t have what you want, consider these alternatives:

• Best Buy – Has a larger selection and often a demo area to try headphones.
• Amazon – The widest variety, but you can’t try before buying.
• Direct from manufacturer – Sony, Bose, and JBL sell on their own websites, sometimes with exclusive deals.
• Other office supply stores – Staples also carries a similar range of headphones, and sometimes has different models.

For budget options, you might also look at Anker’s Soundcore line, which is often available at Office Depot but also on Amazon. If you need the best ANC, the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra are top-tier, but they may not be at Office Depot – check online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Office Depot sell noise cancelling headphones in stores?
Yes, but the selection is limited. Most stores carry a few over-ear models from JBL, Skullcandy, or Sony. Higher-end models like the Bose QuietComfort are usually only available online. Check the Office Depot website for store availability before visiting.

Are Office Depot’s prices competitive?
Generally, Office Depot prices are similar to other retailers, but you might find better deals online, especially during sales. The advantage is the ability to buy in-store and possibly try the headphones. If you have a rewards membership, you can save a bit more.

Can I return noise cancelling headphones to Office Depot?
Yes, Office Depot has a 30-day return policy for most electronics, including headphones. You’ll need the original receipt or packing slip. If you bought online, you can return by mail or to a store.

What’s the best noise cancelling headphones at Office Depot?
If you’re looking for top performance, the Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort 45 are the best, but they’re pricey. For a budget pick, the JBL Tune 760NC offers good ANC and battery life for around $100.

Do Office Depot headphones come with a warranty?
Most headphones come with a manufacturer’s warranty, typically 1 year. Office Depot also offers extended protection plans for an additional fee. Check the product listing or ask a store associate for details.

Template for Comparing Headphones

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