7 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Ultimate Sound Experience
Noise-cancelling headphones have become essential for anyone looking to immerse themselves in their music or podcasts without being disturbed by the outside world. Whether it’s the hum of an airplane engine, the chatter of a bustling cafe, or the noise of a busy street, these headphones help create a cocoon of silence. Over the years, technology has advanced significantly, making noise-cancelling headphones more effective and accessible to a wider audience.
When choosing the best noise-cancelling headphones, several factors need to be considered. Comfort is key, especially for long listening sessions, so adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups are important. Battery life is another critical aspect, determining how long you can enjoy uninterrupted music. Sound quality shouldn’t be compromised, as this ensures clarity and richness in audio. Features like Bluetooth connectivity and built-in microphones for calls can also enhance the overall experience. Making the right choice means looking at these features and finding the perfect balance for your needs.
We spent countless hours testing and researching various models to identify the seven best noise-cancelling headphones that can transform your auditory experience.
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
We’ve gathered the top noise cancelling headphones to help you find the perfect one. Check out our picks below for the best products to block out the world and enjoy your music.
For those seeking comfort, quality sound, and customizable noise cancellation, this product is a solid choice.
Key Specifications:
- Released on Sept 2020
- Price: $80 USD
- Weight: 260g
- Up to 40 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Impressive noise cancellation with customizable modes
- Long battery life – up to 40 hours with ANC, 60 hours in standard mode
- Comfortable fit with memory foam earpieces
- Price
Cons
- Noise cancellation not compatible with AUX cable
- Plastic build might not appeal to everyone
- Control buttons can be a bit confusing
- No dust or water resistance
For just $80, the Soundcore Life Q30 by Anker offers an excellent blend of comfort and advanced technology. The noise cancellation is impressive, with three different modes to tailor your experience based on your environment. The earcups fit snugly and comfortably, making them perfect for long listening sessions.
We’ve used these headphones extensively, and the battery life is a standout feature. You get up to 40 hours in noise-canceling mode, which is more than enough for long flights or busy workdays. Switching to standard mode extends the battery life even further, which is quite impressive. If you need a quick boost, a 5-minute charge provides an additional 4 hours of playtime.
Though the noise cancellation doesn’t work with an AUX cable connected, this is a minor inconvenience considering the overall wireless experience. While the headphones have a bit of a plastic feel, they still feel durable and come with a nice hardshell carrying case. They also feature a microphone for taking calls on the go, and in most situations, the person on the other end has no problem understanding you.
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is truly an amazing pair of headphones for under $100, offering great sound quality, comfort, and impressive battery life.
A must-have for anyone seeking top-tier noise cancellation and premium audio quality.
Key Specifications
- Released on May 2022
- Price: $399 USD
- Weight: 250g
- Up to 30 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Impressive sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Excellent microphone quality
- Custom EQ
- Multipoint connection
Cons
- High price
- Not water-resistant
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers some of the best noise cancellation we’ve experienced. With two processors controlling eight microphones, these headphones make outside noise nearly vanish, making it effortless to listen to music or take calls in busy environments. The ear sensor is particularly useful, pausing the music when you remove the headphones.
The audio quality is stellar. Thanks to the new Integrated Processor V1, the sound is rich and clear, with every note and beat standing out, making any playlist enjoyable. The clarity in hands-free calling is top-notch, with four beamforming microphones ensuring your voice is picked up perfectly.
Comfort is key with these headphones. The lightweight design and soft leather provide hours of wear without discomfort. The long battery life, lasting up to 30 hours, means less worry about constant recharging. Plus, just a 3-minute charge gives you an additional 3 hours of listening time. Switching between devices is seamless, thanks to the multipoint connection.
Despite the high price, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is worth it for anyone serious about sound quality. While it lacks water resistance, it’s designed for everyday use, not sports. The touch controls are intuitive, although there are limited customization options available.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is a standout choice for those seeking superior noise cancellation and audiophile-quality sound.
These are a great choice if you’re looking for lightweight, comfortable noise-canceling headphones with long battery life and superb sound.
Key Specifications
- Released on Mar 2023
- Price: $148 USD
- Weight: 192g
- Up to 35 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, making them comfortable for extended wear
- Impressive noise cancellation with Dual Noise Sensor technology
- Long battery life, up to 35 hours on a single charge
- Custom EQ
Cons
- Can get warm after long hours of listening
- Lacks water resistance
- Plastic build might feel less premium to some users
The Sony WH-CH720N adopts several features from the premium Sony WH-1000XM5, all for more than half the cost. We were particularly impressed with the comfort of the Sony WH-CH720N. Weighing just 192 grams, these headphones are incredibly light, making it easy to forget you’re even wearing them. They are perfect for long listening sessions or commuting.
The noise canceling is top-notch, allowing for full immersion in your music. Thanks to the integrated processor, outside noise is effectively minimized, and the sound quality is clear and vibrant. These headphones excel in busy environments.
One feature we particularly enjoyed was the battery life. With up to 35 hours of playback on a single charge, recharging is rarely a concern. The quick charge feature is also a lifesaver, providing up to an hour of listening time with just a 3-minute charge. These headphones are a solid choice for anyone in need of reliable, high-quality sound without the hassle of constant recharging.
The Sony WH-CH720N offers outstanding value, combining comfort, excellent noise cancellation, and impressive battery life in a budget-friendly package.
For those seeking top-notch sound and seamless connectivity, Apple’s AirPods Max are worth considering.
Key Specifications
- Released on Dec 2020
- Price: $549USD
- Weight: 385g
- Up to 20 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality
- Amazing noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Comfortable, premium design
- Decent battery life
Cons
- High price point
- Slightly heavy
- Limited to Apple ecosystem for full functionality
- No USB-C, still uses lightning connector
- No 3.5mm headphone jack
We were immediately struck by the luxurious feel of the Apple AirPods Max. The build quality is phenomenal, with a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions that make them comfortable to wear for hours. The ear pads are easily swappable, allowing for replacements or customization with different colors.
Using these headphones was a delight. The sound quality is fantastic, providing a clear and immersive experience. The noise cancellation is unparalleled, making it easy to focus on your music or calls without background distractions.
While the AirPods Max are amazing, they are on the pricier side, which might be a hurdle for some. They are heavier compared to other wireless headphones, but the weight distribution is well-managed. Additionally, to enjoy all the features, you need to have other Apple devices.
We think these issues are minor compared to the exceptional audio and usability these headphones offer. If you’re committed to the Apple ecosystem and willing to invest, the AirPods Max are a fantastic choice.
If you’re after comfort, great sound quality, and effective noise cancellation, these are a top choice.
Key Specifications
- Released on Sept 2021
- Price: $329 USD
- Weight: 240g
- Up to 24 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Long battery life
Cons
- Limited customization options
- Somewhat high price
- Turning off ANC is little troublesome
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones deliver spectacular noise cancellation. When we put them on, the world faded away, leaving only clear, rich sound. These headphones are ideal for long journeys or noisy environments.
They are impressively lightweight. We found the plush cushions very comfortable, even during extended listening sessions. The materials feel robust, promising longevity. The addition of USB-C charging is a welcome update, and they come with a nice hard-shell case for protection.
Despite these perks, they may not stand out visually. The design is quite plain compared to some other premium options. Also, while the sound quality is excellent, the personalization features are somewhat limited.
For those willing to invest in peace and premium performance, these headphones stand strong.
A great choice for those who prioritize long battery life and versatile connectivity.
Key Specifications
- Released on Sept 2023
- Price: $60 USD
- Weight: 254g
- Up to 40 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Custom EQ
- Long-lasting battery
- Comfortable fit
- Great Value
Cons
- Sound quality could be clearer at high frequencies
- Slightly bulky design
- Lacks premium feel
The TOZO HT2 headphones offer impressive ambient noise reduction, whether you’re on a busy street or in a noisy office. The hybrid ANC technology ensures clearer music and calls, making these headphones stand out. Plus, the ultra-soft ear cups provide long-lasting comfort.
One of the most notable features is the remarkable battery life, offering up to 60 hours of playtime (40 hours with ANC). This makes the TOZO HT2 ideal for long trips or daily use without constant recharging. The option to switch to wired mode also adds to its practicality, eliminating any battery anxiety.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks. The sound quality, particularly the high frequencies, could be improved as they seem slightly muffled. Additionally, while comfortable, the design is a bit bulky and might not suit everyone. Despite these minor issues, the TOZO HT2 remains a solid choice for noise-cancelling headphones. Often available on sale for as low as $40 USD, these budget headphones deliver excellent battery life, sound quality, and noise cancellation.
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless Headphones - Comfort and Quality Under $200
An excellent choice for audiophiles seeking superior sound and comfort in a wireless package.
Key Specifications
- Released on May 2023
- Price: $180 USD
- Weight: 222g
- Up to 50 Hours Battery Life
- Microphone
Pros
- Outstanding sound quality with balanced audio.
- Robust 50-hour battery life.
- Sleek and comfortable design for prolonged use.
- Price
- Weight
- USB-C Audio
Cons
- Higher price point.
- Noise cancellation could be stronger.
- Limited color options.
We found the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless headphones to be extremely comfortable, featuring plush ear pads that conform nicely to your ears. The adjustable headband ensures a snug fit, perfect for long listening sessions without discomfort.
The audio performance is exceptional. The headphones deliver a balanced sound profile with clear highs, detailed mids, and rich bass, suitable for all music genres. The 30-hour battery life is impressive, making them ideal for long commutes or extended use without frequent recharging. The fast-charge feature provides 5 hours of playtime in just 10 minutes, allowing you to power up on the go.
While the noise cancellation is effective, it’s not the best on the market. It works well in moderate noise environments, providing a good level of noise reduction for everyday use.
The built-in microphone and voice assistant compatibility enhance the user experience, making it convenient for calls and voice commands. We also appreciate the fast-charging feature, where a quick 15-minute charge gives you several hours of playback.
Overall, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless headphones are a great option for those who prioritize sound quality and comfort. With all these rock-solid features for a sub-$200 price point, they offer excellent value.
Conclusion
Choosing the right noise-cancelling headphones can make a huge difference in our listening experience. The models we reviewed cater to different needs and budgets.
Here’s a quick recap of our top picks:
- Anker Soundcore Life Q30: Best Bang for the Buck Under $100
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Unmatched noise cancellation and superior sound quality
- Sony WH-CH720N: Super Lightweight Noise Canceling Headphones
- Apple AirPods Max: Luxurious Sound Quality and Premium Build
- Bose QuietComfort 45: Exceptional Noise Cancellation and Comfort
- TOZO HT2 Hybrid ANC Headphones: Affordable Noise Cancelling Headphones for Everyone
- Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless Headphones: Comfort and Quality Under $200
Each of these models offers something unique. Whether we seek comfort, sound quality, or advanced features, there’s a perfect fit out there for us.
Happy listening!
