First impressions
Kogan’s NC45 Ultra Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones arrive with a lot of promise for a street-price around $80. They feel like a luxury buy in a budget shell: a sturdy grey case, a USB-C charger cable, and a 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio jack for those who still value wired listening. My unit came charged and ready to pair, with the headset automatically booting into pairing mode as soon as I pressed the power button. The packaging and setup give off a simple, user-friendly vibe that’s hard to dislike for the price.
What I liked
Noise cancellation that punches above its weight. In office environments, the NC45 does a commendable job muting the clatter of keyboards and distant chatter. It doesn’t erase every sound (you’ll still hear your own breathing and some ambient noise), but it’s enough to feel quieter and more focused. On public transport, the performance is decent rather than overpowering. The addition of a transparency mode is a nice touch, allowing you to talk to a gym buddy or a barista while still listening to your tunes, without removing the headphones.
Sound quality for the price
The sound profile is balanced enough for everyday listening. There’s a hint of bass, but it’s not boomy or overpowering; mids feel clear, especially with lyrical tracks, and the high end isn’t shrill. It won’t satisfy the true audiophile who wants precise EQ control, but for casual listening, you’ll likely come away satisfied rather than disappointed. If you’re buying on a budget, it’s easy to overlook the lack of sonic customization when the overall presentation remains enjoyable.
The catch
Here’s where expectations meet reality. The NC45 relies on touchy, multifunction controls rather than dedicated hardware buttons. There isn’t a separate Bluetooth pairing button; you’ll navigate the device with a shared control surface that can be confusing at first. The ANC and volume/pause controls sometimes collide, requiring a careful touch and a quick read of the manual to avoid accidental commands. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s a notable friction point for anyone who likes quick, tactile button actions.
No on-device sound customization
Another caveat: there’s no built-in sound customization or equalizer. If you love tweaking your audio until it sounds “just right,” you’ll be disappointed. There’s a minor risk of distortion at higher volumes, which isn’t surprising at this price, but it’s worth noting for users who push audio levels loudly and consistently.
Comfort and build
The NC45 sit comfortably on the ears for most, though the fit isn’t perfect for everyone. They’re not the lightest set, and they don’t fold, so portability relies on the included case or wearing them around your neck when not in use. The build feels sturdy enough for daily commuting and casual listening, which is impressive given the price point. If you have a larger head or prefer a more compact profile, you may want to try them on first to ensure a secure seal.
The verdict
For shoppers on a budget who want effective active noise cancellation, solid battery life, and a reasonable overall sound, the NC45 Ultra Hybrid ANC Headphones deliver surprising value. The package includes a protective case, modestly good ANC, and a durable build that’s rare at this price. The downsides—finicky controls and no sound customization—are real but manageable, especially if you’re not chasing audiophile perfection and just want a dependable everyday listening experience. At around $80, Kogan has created a headphone that’s hard to beat in its tier, making it a compelling option for casual listeners, students, or gift buyers who want “more” without a big spend.
The writer received a loaner pair of Kogan NC45 Ultra Hybrid ANC Headphones for review purposes.
