Introduction: A budget surprise from Kogan
Kogan’s NC45 Ultra Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones have a lot going for them on paper: a price around $80, thoughtful inclusions, and a brand known for budget-friendly tech. As someone who routinely tests inexpensive gear, I went into this review expecting the typical trade-offs—compromised sound, lackluster build, or clunky controls. What I found was a set of headphones that feels premium enough to recommend in several real-world scenarios, with a few notable caveats that buyers should consider.
First impressions: value right out of the box
Packaging matters, and these arrive with a case that helps you protect the investment. Inside you’ll find a USB-C charging cable and a 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening. The unit I tested came pre-charged, and pairing was a quick, immediate process—perfect for those who want plug-and-play simplicity. The overall feel leans toward a budget-friendly luxury: solid case, respectable build, and a design that won’t scream “cheap.”
Active noise cancellation: how much is “ultra”?
The standout feature is the ANC. In an office environment, the NC45 does a credible job of muting keyboard clatters and ambient office noise, allowing your music to stand out while still keeping you aware enough to hear when someone calls your name. On buses and trains, the effect is more modest, which is common in this price tier. The transparency mode is a welcome add-on, letting you chat with a gym buddy or a coworker without removing the headphones. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s a practical feature that makes daily commutes and office life a touch more pleasant.
Sound quality: balanced but not spectacular
Let’s be honest: these aren’t aimed at audiophiles chasing studio-level accuracy. The NC45 delivers a warm bass presence with mid-tones that handle lyrical content reasonably well and highs that aren’t harsh. The result is enjoyable for a wide range of genres, from pop to podcasts, but it’s not a substitute for higher-end listening gear. If you’re hoping for crystal clarity at high volumes, you may notice some distortion when you push the volume too far. For casual listening at comfortable levels, the sound is perfectly adequate—and sometimes better than you’d expect at this price point.
Battery life and everyday use
Kogan promises up to 35 hours of ANC-enabled playback. In normal use, you can expect several days of listening between charges, especially if you’re not blasting audio all day. Real-world longevity will depend on your volume levels and whether you’re using wired or wireless modes, but the battery life is a definite plus for a budget pair.
Cautions: controls, customization, and fit
Here are the main frictions you should know before buying:
- Finicky controls: The NC45 uses a multifunction button for pairing and media controls rather than a dedicated Bluetooth button. It’s easy to trigger unintended commands if you’re not careful, and overlapping controls (power vs. volume vs. playback) take a bit of practice to master. A quick read of the manual helps set expectations.
- No sound customization: There’s no built-in EQ or advanced tuning options. The sound profile is fixed, which may disappoint audio enthusiasts who crave tailored tweaked settings.
- Comfort and build: The headband is adjustable, and the cushions are comfortable for extended listening sessions, but they don’t fold for compact storage. If you travel light, you’ll likely rely on the included case.
Who should consider the NC45?
If you’re shopping on a budget but want a reliable daily driver for commuting, remote work, or casual music listening, the NC45 offers compelling value. You get solid ANC, a respectable sound signature, and a sturdy case—packaged in a way that makes it easy to take on the go. If you crave deep customization, studio-grade clarity, or a modular design, you’ll likely want to look at higher-priced options.
Conclusion: is there a catch?
The catch isn’t hidden. The NC45 Ultra Hybrid ANC headphones deliver strong ANC, comfortable everyday wear, and a solid feature set for about $80. They aren’t meant to dethrone premium headphones, but for budget-conscious buyers, they hit well above their weight class. In short: if you want good noise cancellation and decent sound for a fraction of the price, these are worth a closer look. The reviewer received a loaner unit for evaluation.
