In the present world, noise cancellation technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) and Active Noise Cancellation(ANC) are technologies that have become imperative when commuting in a busy train, working in a noisy office or even while relaxing at home listening to your favorite music among others. However what exactly does ENC vs. ANC mean? And more importantly which one is best for you? Let’s go through it all so that you can be able to make an informed decision in the ANC vs ENC debate.
What is ENC vs. ANC?
ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) and ANC(Active Noise Cancellation) are two technologies designed to minimize unwanted ambient sounds though they achieve this differently. Here’s how it works:
ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation): Focused on improving voice clarity by isolating your voice from background noise during calls and video conferences. It takes-up audio from multiple microphones around the environment and processes it real-timely such that any interfering noises are eliminated.
ANC (Active Noise Cancellation): Essentially aimed at providing a quiet space for listening through generation of anti-noise waves against external sounds. This technology is particularly useful when enjoying music, podcasts or videos without interruptions.
Difference Between ANC and ENC
To better understand the ANC vs ENC debate, let's explore the difference between ANC and ENC technologies side by side:
|
Feature |
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) |
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) |
|
Purpose |
Enhances voice clarity during calls and video conferences |
Reduces external noise for immersive audio experiences |
|
Technology |
Utilizes multiple microphones to capture and filter ambient noise |
Generates anti-noise waves to cancel out ambient sound |
|
Application |
Focused on communication devices (e.g., earbuds, headsets) |
Commonly used in audio playback devices (e.g., headphones, earbuds) |
|
Noise Reduction Focus |
Targets background noise to improve speech quality |
Targets all surrounding noise for a quiet listening environment |
|
User Control |
Automatic, with minimal user control |
Often comes with adjustable levels of noise cancellation |
|
Battery Impact |
Minimal impact on battery life |
Can reduce battery life due to the processing power required |
|
Cost |
Typically more affordable, often integrated into budget devices |
Generally more expensive due to advanced technology |
|
Best For |
Clear communication in noisy environments |
Enjoying music or content without external distractions |
|
Popular Devices |
Integrated into many communication devices like smartphones and headsets |
Found in high-end headphones and earbuds |
ANC or ENC: Which one is better?
Ultimately, your decision will come down to the specifics of what you are after in an ANC vs ENC:
For Voice Clarity: If you need to have crystal-clear communication during phone calls or video conferences, then you should choose ENC. It helps separate your voice from background noise so that the person on the other end can hear you clearly. This is what distinguishes ANC and ENC in terms of communication.
For Immersive Audio: ANC is a better option if your interest lies in enjoying music or content without any interruptions. By cancelling out external sounds by ANC itself, it allows for a full immersion into the audio content. This ANC and ENC difference is essential for those who focus on uninterrupted audio quality.
ANC and ENC Earbuds: The Best of Both Worlds
The good news is that you don’t have to select between ANC and ENC. Many modern ANC and ENC earbuds offer both technologies which provide a complete audio experience. Examples include Elver Buds X TWS Earbuds and Elver Buds U Earbuds which integrate ANC together with ENC thus making it suitable for immersive listening as well as clear communication purposes.
If you are on a crowded train and want to listen to your favorite podcast or be audible during a video call, then Elver Buds X True Wireless Earbuds and Elver Buds U True Wireless Earbuds will offer the best solution. These earphones ensure effective balancing of ANC versus ENC features in order to provide the users with both ANC and ENC capabilities.
Conclusion
These two technologies are distinct, but not mutually exclusive. So, it is better to have headphones that have ANC and ENC earbuds like Elver TWS Earbuds which take the best out of both worlds and give you an improved sound experience. Knowing ANC and ENC differences will enable you to make an informed decision about which ones suit your personal preferences.
