If you want officially licensed Squishmallows characters with a soft, plush aesthetic and 15 hours of playtime, choose iJoy Squishmallows; if you need the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, a massive 40-hour battery life, and true active noise cancellation for a quiet focus, choose SOAR NBA Active Noise.
• iJoy Squishmallows: The biggest strength is its unique, character-driven design that offers genuine comfort with plush ear cups, but it relies on older Bluetooth 4.0 technology which limits range and connectivity speed. This pick is perfect for fans who prioritize style and cuddly aesthetics over cutting-edge tech specs.
• SOAR NBA Active Noise: The standout feature here is the robust 40-hour battery life combined with Active Noise Cancellation and modern Bluetooth 5.3, yet it uses a standard hard plastic shell that lacks the tactile softness of the alternative. This option is ideal for serious listeners who need long-lasting power and sound isolation for deep work sessions.
The iJoy Squishmallows headphones are clearly designed for people who view their audio gear as an extension of their personality and collectibles. These aren't just functional devices; they are officially licensed products featuring vibrant designs and adorable characters that bring the beloved plush world to life. If you have a collection of Squishmallows or simply love the cozy, squishy aesthetic, these headphones offer a level of thematic integration that no other brand can match. They come in a teal colorway with fabric and plush materials, making them feel less like electronic gadgets and more like accessories you would actually want to hug.
For remote work, these headphones provide a surprisingly comfortable experience thanks to their over-ear design and plush padded ear cups. The enclosure material is a blend of fabric and plush, which creates a soft barrier against your ears during long meetings or streaming sessions. With a built-in microphone and touch controls, they handle hands-free calls effectively, allowing you to stay connected without fumbling with buttons. The hybrid noise cancellation helps block out some ambient chatter, though it is not as aggressive as dedicated ANC systems.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-28 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
However, there are clear trade-offs you must consider before buying. The Bluetooth version is 4.0, which is significantly older than what is currently available in high-end audio gear. While the 33-foot range is decent for moving around a home office, it may not be as stable or fast to pair as newer standards. Additionally, the 15-hour battery life is solid for a day of use, but it falls short if you are planning to travel or work through multiple days without charging. You should skip this product if you are looking for the absolute latest wireless performance or if you prefer a sleek, hard-shell design over something soft and plush.
The SOAR NBA Active Noise headphones are engineered for performance and endurance, specifically targeting sports fans and professionals who demand reliability from their equipment. The most striking feature is the massive 40-hour battery average life, which means you can charge this device once every week or two, even with daily heavy use. This is a game-changer for anyone who forgets to charge their gear regularly or needs headphones that last through back-to-back conference calls and long flights without dying. The model number NBA-ANC-LAL indicates a specific Los Angeles Lakers theme, appealing directly to basketball enthusiasts who want to show their team spirit while staying connected.
When it comes to audio quality and isolation, this device pulls ahead significantly with its Active Noise Cancellation system. Unlike passive isolation or hybrid methods found on budget models, active cancellation actively analyzes and counters external sound waves, creating a silent bubble essential for deep concentration. This makes it an excellent choice for rotatable ear cups clip on earbuds for remote work scenarios where background noise is constant. The outer shell is made of durable plastic, providing a sturdy frame that can withstand the rigors of daily commuting and travel. The Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity ensures a stable, low-latency connection, which is crucial for video conferencing and media consumption.
Despite these technical advantages, the design sacrifices some of the soft-touch comfort found in the competitor. The ear pads are made of fabric and foam, which are standard, but the headband and outer shell are hard plastic, meaning they will feel colder and harder against your skin compared to the plush alternative. If you wear glasses, the pressure points might become noticeable after several hours of continuous wear. You should buy this product if your primary goal is to block out the world and get work done without interruption, but you might want to look elsewhere if you prioritize a soft, huggable texture over raw audio performance.
• Best for battery life → SOAR NBA Active Noise: With a 40-hour average life versus 15 hours, the SOAR unit wins decisively for all-day usage without recharging.
• Best for comfort and texture → iJoy Squishmallows: The plush fabric and soft padding offer a superior tactile experience for those who dislike hard plastic on their ears.
• Best for connectivity speed → SOAR NBA Active Noise: Bluetooth 5.3 provides faster pairing and better stability compared to the older Bluetooth 4.0 in the iJoy model.
• Best for noise isolation → SOAR NBA Active Noise: True Active Noise Cancellation offers a deeper silence than the hybrid system found in the iJoy headphones.
• Best for collectors and fans → iJoy Squishmallows: Only the iJoy model features the official Squishmallows branding and character designs for fans of the plush toys.
• Best for sports themes → SOAR NBA Active Noise: The Lakers theme and durable plastic build make it the obvious choice for basketball fans.
• Best for portability → Tie: Both feature foldable designs, though the iJoy is lighter at 5 ounces while the SOAR is built for durability.
• Best for touch control open ear headphones for remote work users → iJoy Squishmallows: The touch controls are explicitly listed, offering easy access for adjusting volume or calls without reaching for the ear cup.
In my opinion, I would choose the SOAR NBA Active Noise for any serious remote work setup. While the iJoy Squishmallows are undeniably cute and comfortable, the technological gap between Bluetooth 4.0 and 5.3 is too wide to ignore when you are relying on your headphones for professional communication. The 40-hour battery life alone changes how you interact with your device, removing the anxiety of running out of power mid-meeting. Furthermore, the Active Noise Cancellation is essential for maintaining focus in a noisy household or office environment. The SOAR model delivers the performance and reliability required for productivity, whereas the iJoy feels more like a novelty item suited for casual listening or gifting. If you need a tool to help you work, the SOAR is the smarter investment.
Yes, both models support Bluetooth connectivity and include a 3.5mm jack for wired connections, ensuring they work with smartphones, laptops, and tablets used for work calls.
No, the iJoy Squishmallows utilizes a hybrid noise cancellation method, whereas the SOAR model features dedicated Active Noise Cancellation technology for stronger sound blocking.
The SOAR NBA Active Noise headphones offer 40 hours of playback, which is nearly three times longer than the 15-hour battery life provided by the iJoy Squishmallows.
Yes, the dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity allow for gaming, though the slightly older Bluetooth version might introduce minor latency compared to newer standards.
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