The best tech for a peaceful commute, starting at $29

Commuting is a hassle; there are delays, disruptions, as well as distracting chatter and noisy telephone calls on busy buses, trains, and ferries. It’s sometimes enough to give us a headache, which is why we’ve looked for all the tech that helps bring a sense of peace to a commute.

Whether it’s noise-cancelling headphones, distraction-free tablets, or the latest and greatest e-readers, there’s a pick for everyone looking to relax on their commute ahead of a busy workday.

Here are some of our favourites.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds

Was $429, now $369

Find the perfect balance of high-quality noise cancellation and convenient comfort with the Apple AirPods Pro 3. They can remove up to two times more noise than the previous model using ultra-low-noise mics and foam-infused tips, with audio lasting up to eight hours in noise-cancellation mode. And if someone calls to disrupt the peace, the earbuds will automatically lower the sound of your media and background noise when you start speaking. 

Apple EarPods

$29 | Amazon

Not only are the Apple EarPods back in fashion (thank you, Y2K), but they’re the perfect commute companion. Despite costing less than $30, these headphones are pretty high quality. They never need to be charged, don’t rely on Bluetooth, and have simple button controls for convenience. Just keep a pair in your pocket or work bag for when you need them.

Amazon Kindle 16GB (newest gen) 

$197 | Amazon

The Amazon Kindle is a classic commute must-have. For days when you don’t want to lug books around in your bag, this slim e-book alternative is ideal for winding down after a busy day at work. 

Beats Studio Pro ANC Over-Ear Wireless Headphones

$529 | JB Hi-Fi

The cool thing about these headphones is that they continuously monitor real-time environmental noise and let you switch to transparency mode to hear your surroundings. So, if you’re on a train that gets delayed, you’ll hear the announcement. Perfect for peace of mind when on the move. 

Apple iPad (A16) (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 128GB)

$997 | Amazon

Thanks to its lightweight portability, the Apple iPad can be taken anywhere and everywhere. And you don’t need to worry about battery life too much, as it offers up to nine hours of mobile data surfing or 10 hours of video playback. Whether you’re reading an e-book, doodling, or working, the Apple iPad can store it all. 

Nintendo Switch Lite Console

$329 | JB Hi-Fi

If you’re more of a gamer and prefer mental stimulation before a day at work, consider a Nintendo Switch Lite Console to get lost in the world of distraction-free solo play. It’s light and portable, so it can easily be chucked in your bag or used on a busy bus.

reMarkable Paper Pure with Marker

$649 | Shop here

The reMarkable Paper Pure with Marker ensures a peaceful commute as it provides a distraction-free, paper-like digital reading and writing experience that frees you from notifications, digital noise, and more while you travel. 

Nothing Ear (A) Active Noise Cancelling In-Ear Headphones

$169 | Shop here

For complete hands-free adaptability to your surroundings, the Nothing Ear (A) Active Noise Cancelling In-Ear Headphones automatically switch between low, medium, and high noise-cancelling levels in real time to mute train rumbles and city traffic. You can check your surroundings, take calls, and more, all from the comfort of these headphones. 

READ MORE: Headphones versus earbuds: what’s worth your money?