Editorial Policy

Purpose and Independence

The ANC Lab exists to help readers achieve reliable quiet and clear calls in their real environments. Our content is independent, data‑driven, and free from advertiser influence. Brands cannot buy rankings or positive coverage.

How We Choose What to Review

We prioritize models based on reader demand, market relevance, and potential to improve outcomes in key environments (plane, subway, office, street/wind, study, gym, gaming). We aim to cover multiple price tiers for each use case.

Evidence Standards

Our recommendations must be supported by measured results (Quiet Maps, call clarity, wind handling) and hands‑on evaluation (comfort, controls, reliability). Subjective impressions are labeled as such and are secondary to data.

Method Transparency

We disclose our test setups, calibration practices, and scoring logic on our How We Test page. We publish the firmware version and testing date for each product and note known issues or updates.

Corrections and Updates

If we make a mistake, we will correct it promptly and add a visible note describing what changed and why. When firmware materially alters performance, we retest and update rankings accordingly.

Samples, Loans, and Purchases

We purchase many products at retail. We also accept loaner units for testing with the understanding that loaners confer no editorial benefit. Loaners are returned when testing ends unless otherwise agreed. We do not accept gifts that could compromise independence.

Monetization and Affiliate Links

We may use affiliate links to retailers. If you buy via these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate relationships do not influence testing, scoring, or recommendations. See our Privacy Policy for additional disclosure.

Conflicts of Interest

Team members must disclose potential conflicts (e.g., consulting work, sponsored travel). Individuals with conflicts recuse themselves from related coverage.

Reader Feedback and Community Standards

We welcome reader feedback and data challenges at [email protected]. Keep discussions respectful and evidence‑based. Harassment, hate speech, and spam are not tolerated.

Use of AI Tools

We may use assistive tools for drafting or data processing, but all recommendations and final copy are reviewed by human editors. Automated outputs never override measured results.

Contact

For questions about this policy, contact [email protected].