Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Autism in 2024: Comprehensive Review by an Occupational Therapist
Sensitivity to Sound in Autism
Sensitivity to sound is a prevalent sensory challenge for many autistic children. When we overlook their unique sensory needs, it can lead to meltdowns and avoidance of activities that are crucial for their growth, like attending school, birthday parties, or even grocery shopping. As a pediatric occupational therapist working with autistic children daily, I understand how overwhelming sounds can create a sense of unsafety for them.
In this blog, I'll review three top noise-canceling headphones for autistic children in 2024: the Pro Case Headphones, Space Headphones, and Alpine Headphones. I’ll provide a breakdown across six key criteria: performance, quality, price, style, ease of cleaning, and comfort. Let’s find out which one takes the crown as the best choice.
Why Noise-Canceling Headphones are Essential for Autistic Children
Noise-canceling headphones can be life-changing for autistic children who experience hypersensitivity to sounds. By reducing overwhelming background noises, these headphones can help children feel secure and engaged in various environments, ultimately fostering their participation in essential activities. Whether in school, at social gatherings, or during family outings, noise-canceling headphones can provide relief and help manage sensory overload.
Overview of the Three Noise Cancelling Headphones
Pro Case Headphones - Known for affordability and solid performance.
Space Headphones - Versatile and easy-to-clean, ideal for younger children.
Alpine Headphones - Stylish and durable, especially suited for older children.
Quick Intro: Who We Are
Hi, I'm Sergio, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist. Together with my wife, Rosa, who is a Speech Therapist, we opened our private practice in San Antonio, Texas. We've helped many families, and 80% of the kids we work with have a diagnosis of autism.
Mission: To connect parents with the right therapists and provide clear, actionable answers for their child's development.
Comparing the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Autism
1. Performance
Tested Locations: Daycare, ABA Center, and grocery store.
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Pro Case Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Excellent at canceling noise, providing a high level of sound isolation that performed best across the board.
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Space Headphones: 4/5 Score
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Solid noise-canceling ability, reducing loud sounds but with a slightly less intense block than the Pro Case.
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Alpine Headphones: 4/5 Score
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Comparable to the Space Headphones, effectively reducing noise but not quite as intense as the Pro Case.
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3. Price
When it comes to budget, cost plays a significant role in selecting the right headphones.
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Pro Case Headphones: 5/5 Score
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The most affordable option, great for those on a budget at $14.99
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Space Headphones: 4/5 Score
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Slightly more expensive but still highly affordable at $15.99
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Alpine Headphones: 3/5 Score
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Higher in price, but with added style and comfort features at $29.99
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4. Style
Kids appreciate wearing headphones that look appealing, which can enhance their willingness to use them.
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Pro Case Headphones: 3/5 Score
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Available in multiple colors, but slightly bulky.
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Space Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Multiple styles and colors, ideal for children under five.
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Alpine Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Sleek and stylish with many color options, especially suited for older children.
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2. Quality
To test quality, I dropped each headphone from a ladder and even stepped on them to simulate the rough handling they may face with kids.
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Pro Case Headphones: 3/5 Score
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While effective, they sustained minor damage upon impact, though repairs were manageable.
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Space Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Excellent durability, showing no issues after impact testing.
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Alpine Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Withstood impacts without breaking, proving to be highly durable.
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5. Ease of Cleaning
Hygiene is essential, especially for items used frequently by children.
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Pro Case Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Easy to clean, with minimal hard-to-reach areas.
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Space Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Removable cushions make cleaning a breeze.
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Alpine Headphones: 3/5 Score
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While effective, the fabric lining makes them slightly harder to clean.
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6. Comfort
Comfort is crucial, as autistic children may need to wear these headphones for extended periods.
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Pro Case Headphones: 3/5 Score
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Heavier than the other options, which can make them less comfortable for long use.
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Space Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear.
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Alpine Headphones: 5/5 Score
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Excellent comfort and cushioning, making them suitable for longer wear times.
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Final Score Review for Noise Cancelling Headphones
Winner: Space Headphones
The Space Headphones emerged as the top choice, scoring high in comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning. Their balance between affordability and performance makes them an excellent choice for younger autistic children who need reliable noise reduction.
