Noise cancelling headphones offer a peaceful listening experience in our busy, noisy world. These specialized headphones use microphones to detect outside sounds and then create opposite sound waves to cancel them out. This technology is perfect for travelers, office workers, or anyone looking for quiet in loud environments.
We find that noise cancelling headphones come in various styles including over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear options. Over-ear models typically provide the best noise isolation but are larger. In-ear models are more portable but may not block as much noise. Wireless Bluetooth models offer freedom of movement, while wired options never need charging.
When shopping for noise cancelling headphones, pay attention to battery life, comfort, and sound quality. The best models can run for 20+ hours on a single charge. Comfort is crucial if you’ll wear them for long periods. And while noise cancellation is important, the headphones should still deliver clear, balanced sound for your music and calls.
We spent weeks testing dozens of noise cancelling headphones across all price ranges to find the models that combine effective noise cancellation with excellent sound quality and comfort.
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
We’ve tested dozens of models to bring you this carefully selected list of top noise cancelling headphones. Our picks offer excellent sound quality while effectively blocking unwanted background noise, making them perfect for travel, work, or enjoying music without distractions.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
These Bose QuietComfort headphones offer incredible noise cancellation and sound quality that make them worth the investment for anyone seeking premium audio.
Pros
- Exceptional noise cancellation with customizable levels
- Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Impressive 24-hour battery life
Cons
- Higher price point than competitors
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Bulkier than some portable options
We recently tested the Bose QuietComfort headphones and were blown away by the noise cancellation technology. The ability to switch between Quiet Mode (full cancellation) and Aware Mode (lets in ambient sound) works seamlessly. During our flight test, engine noise practically disappeared, allowing us to enjoy music without cranking the volume.
The comfort level deserves special mention. The plush ear cushions and padded headband let us wear these for hours without discomfort. We used them for an entire workday and forgot they were even on our heads. This comfort factor can’t be overstated for anyone who plans long listening sessions.
Sound quality is where Bose really shines. The bass response is rich without being overwhelming, while mids and highs come through clearly. We appreciated the adjustable EQ in the Bose app that let us fine-tune the sound to our preferences. Multipoint connectivity also proved useful when switching between our laptop and phone throughout the day.
Battery performance lives up to the advertised 24 hours. We used these headphones for three full workdays before needing to recharge. The quick charge feature gave us 2.5 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge when we were in a hurry.
Soundcore Q20i Hybrid Headphones
The Soundcore Q20i headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and sound quality at a budget-friendly price that makes them a smart choice for everyday listeners.
Pros
- Exceptional 40-hour battery life with quick charging
- Effective hybrid noise cancellation blocks up to 90% of external noise
- Can connect to two devices simultaneously for easy switching
Cons
- Plastic build feels less premium than higher-end models
- Bass can be overwhelming on default settings
- Limited touch controls take time to master
We tested these headphones during a recent cross-country flight and were pleasantly surprised by how well they blocked engine noise. The hybrid noise cancellation system uses four microphones to detect and reduce ambient sounds, making our travel experience much more peaceful. When we needed to hear announcements, switching to transparency mode was quick and convenient.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for headphones in this price range. The 40mm drivers deliver rich, detailed audio with particularly strong bass response. We appreciated being able to customize the EQ settings through the Soundcore app, which let us dial back the bass for podcast listening and bump it up for music. The app’s 22 presets give plenty of options to find your perfect sound.
Battery life is where these headphones really shine. We used them for a full work week without needing to recharge. The fast charging feature saved us when we forgot to charge them overnight – just five minutes of charging gave us enough power for our morning commute. For travelers or busy professionals who hate dealing with constant recharging, these headphones are a fantastic option that balances performance and value.
Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
We’ve been testing the Sony WH-CH720N headphones for several weeks now, and they’ve become our go-to option for daily use. At just 192 grams, these are remarkably lightweight for over-ear headphones with noise cancellation technology. The comfort level is impressive – we’ve worn them for entire workdays without the ear fatigue that heavier models often cause.
The noise cancellation performance surprised us for headphones in this price range. Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology effectively reduces ambient noise in various environments. While not quite matching their premium WH-1000XM series, these handle office chatter, public transportation, and coffee shop ambiance admirably. We particularly appreciated the Adjustable Ambient Sound mode when needing awareness of our surroundings.
Battery life is a major strength here. We’ve consistently achieved 30+ hours with noise cancellation active, closely matching Sony’s claimed 35-hour rating. Quick charging is genuinely useful – a 3-minute charge has reliably provided about an hour of listening time when we’ve been in a pinch.
Sound quality delivers a pleasant balance for everyday listening. The bass response is punchy without overwhelming, while vocals come through clearly. The built-in DSEE technology does seem to enhance compressed audio files, though the difference is subtle. Call quality has been consistently clear thanks to the beamforming microphones.
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Impressive battery life with quick charging capability
- Effective noise cancellation for the price point
- Clean, balanced sound signature suitable for most genres
- Seamless multipoint connection between devices
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less premium than higher-end models
- Touch controls can be occasionally finicky
- Bass response might be insufficient for serious bass enthusiasts
- No official water/sweat resistance rating
- Carrying case not included
We believe the Sony WH-CH720N headphones offer excellent value for anyone seeking lightweight wireless noise cancellation without breaking the bank.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones deliver exceptional noise cancellation and immersive sound quality that make them worth their premium price tag.
Pros
- Amazing noise cancellation creates a truly quiet experience
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
- Impressive spatial audio makes music feel more immersive
Cons
- Premium price point
- Battery life drops when using spatial audio features
- Touch controls can be finicky at first
We recently tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones and were impressed by their noise-cancelling abilities. These over-ear headphones block out more ambient noise than previous Bose models we’ve tried. During a flight, they reduced the engine rumble to a barely noticeable hum, allowing us to enjoy music without cranking up the volume.
The spatial audio feature truly sets these headphones apart. When enabled, it creates a more natural soundstage that makes music feel like it’s coming from around you rather than directly into your ears. We found this especially enjoyable with orchestral tracks and live recordings. The sound quality is rich and well-balanced, with clear highs and deep bass that doesn’t overpower.
Comfort is another strong point. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, while the plush ear cushions create a gentle seal. We wore them for a six-hour stretch without any discomfort. Battery life reaches about 24 hours with standard listening, though it drops to around 18 when using the Immersive Audio mode. The included carrying case is sturdy and protects the headphones well during travel.
Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones
The Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer exceptional noise cancellation and battery life at a price that makes them a clear winner for budget-conscious listeners seeking premium features.
Pros
- Impressive 50-hour battery life with quick charging
- Three customizable noise cancellation modes
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
Cons
- Slightly bulky carrying case
- Bass can be heavy on default settings
- Not water resistant
We tested the Soundcore Life Q30 headphones for several weeks and were genuinely surprised by their performance. The noise cancellation technology works remarkably well, blocking up to 95% of low-frequency sounds. During a recent flight, we switched to Transport mode and barely heard the engine noise.
The sound quality exceeds expectations for headphones in this price range. The 40mm drivers deliver rich bass and clear highs. We particularly enjoyed using the Soundcore app to customize the EQ settings to our preferences. The default tuning is somewhat bass-heavy, but a few quick adjustments fixed this issue.
Comfort is another area where these headphones excel. The memory foam earcups with protein leather covering feel soft against the ears even during long listening sessions. We wore them for a 6-hour workday and experienced minimal fatigue. The multipoint connection also proved useful, allowing us to stay connected to both a laptop and phone simultaneously.
Buying Guide
When choosing noise-cancelling headphones, several key factors can help you make the right decision. We’ve put together this guide to simplify your shopping experience.
Noise Cancellation Quality
The most important feature is how well the headphones block outside sounds. Active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones and special technology to counter ambient noise.
Look for headphones with adjustable levels of noise cancellation. This lets you control how much outside sound you want to block.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort matters, especially for long listening sessions. Consider the weight, ear cup size, and headband padding.
Memory foam ear cushions typically offer the best comfort. Headphones should feel secure without squeezing too tightly.
Battery Life
Most noise-cancelling headphones are wireless, so battery life is crucial.
| Usage Level | Recommended Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Light use | 15+ hours |
| Regular use | 20+ hours |
| Heavy use | 30+ hours |
Sound Quality
Great noise cancellation doesn’t always mean great sound. Look for balanced audio that suits your music preferences.
Additional Features
Modern headphones often include helpful extras:
- Touch controls
- Voice assistant compatibility
- Ambient sound mode
- Multipoint connection (connecting to multiple devices)
- Companion app for customization
Price Range
Good noise-cancelling headphones typically range from $100 to $400. Higher prices usually mean better noise cancellation and build quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features to look for in high-quality noise-cancelling headphones?
Top noise-cancelling headphones should have adjustable ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) levels to customize your listening experience.
Battery life is crucial—look for at least 20-30 hours of playback time.
Sound quality remains fundamental, with balanced audio profiles and customizable EQ settings now standard in premium models.
Comfort features like memory foam ear cushions and adjustable headbands are essential for extended wearing sessions.
Connectivity options matter too. Most high-quality models offer Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3, multi-point pairing, and codec support like aptX Adaptive or LDAC for better sound quality.
Which noise-cancelling headphones are best for frequent flyers?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones remain top choices for travelers in 2025. Both offer exceptional noise cancellation specifically optimized for airplane cabin noise.
For frequent flyers, foldable designs save valuable bag space. The Bose model collapses into a compact carrying case, while the Sony has a slimmer profile when stored.
Battery life is another travel essential. The Sony offers up to 40 hours with ANC enabled, while the Bose delivers around 28 hours—both sufficient for long-haul international flights.
How do budget noise-cancelling headphones compare to premium ones?
Budget noise-cancelling headphones (under $150) have improved dramatically in 2025. Models like the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 and JBL Tune 760NC offer surprisingly effective ANC at half the price of premium options.
The main differences appear in noise cancellation effectiveness. Premium headphones cancel a wider frequency range and adapt better to changing environments.
Sound quality also differs noticeably. Budget options may have less refined bass response and less detailed treble.
Build quality is another consideration, with premium models using more durable materials and offering better warranty coverage.
What are the top-rated noise-cancelling earbuds currently on the market?
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (2025 Edition) leads with improved ANC and spatial audio capabilities. Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds offer the best overall noise cancellation and sound customization through their app.
For Android users, the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 provides seamless integration with Google services and impressive noise cancellation. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds excel in comfort for long listening sessions.
Budget-conscious shoppers should consider the Jabra Elite 8 Active, which balances good ANC performance with durability and a more affordable price point.
Can noise-cancelling headphones truly cancel all background noise?
No, even the best noise-cancelling headphones cannot eliminate all background noise.
They work best against consistent, low-frequency sounds like airplane engines, HVAC systems, and traffic hum.
ANC technology struggles with sudden or irregular noises like voices, dog barks, or doorbell rings. These unpredictable sounds often remain partially audible despite active cancellation.
Higher frequencies are also challenging to cancel completely. Most premium headphones now combine ANC with passive noise isolation (physical blocking) to address a wider range of sounds.
What are the latest advancements in noise-cancelling headphone technology for 2025?
Mid-range and premium models now have adaptive ANC that automatically adjusts to your environment. Many headphones use multiple microphones and AI algorithms to continuously optimize noise cancellation.
Spatial audio technology has also improved significantly. It now has more accurate head tracking and better virtual surround sound. This creates a more immersive listening experience, especially for video content.
Battery technology continues advancing as well. Some models now offer quick-charging that provides 5 hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charging. Solar charging has also appeared in a few high-end models, extending battery life for outdoor use.