Let’s find the best noise-canceling headphones of 2024 that offer exceptional sound quality, comfort, and peace from surrounding distractions.
Imagine escaping the constant buzz of traffic, the chatter in busy cafes, or the roar of airplane engines—all with the flick of a switch.
This dream comes true with noise-canceling headphones, which block out all background noise so you can focus on your music, podcasts, or talks.
Because noise is everywhere these days, good noise-canceling headphones are not just a nice-to-have; they’re a must.
According to Statista, In 2023, the revenue of the global headphones market reached roughly 18 billion U.S. dollars, an increase of almost four percent compared to the previous year. The headphones market has benefitted from the rise in the number of people working and learning from home, as they look for headphones to support them in meetings or for noise cancellation to aid concentration.
Finding the right pair of headphones can change the way you listen, whether you’re a regular traveler, a remote worker who needs to focus, or a music lover who wants to feel every note.
We’ll show you the best for every budget, style, and brand choice. We’ll help you find the right one, whether it’s a well-known brand like Bose, Sony, or Apple or a newer, cheaper one.
Once you finish reading this, you’ll know what to look for in features, comfort, and sound quality to get the most out of your next pair.
Are you ready to hear sound in its simplest form?
Read on to learn how to find the best noise-canceling headphones for you.
Finding the perfect noise-canceling headphones can be challenging with so many great models on the market.
Below, we cover two top choices that consistently stand out in quality, comfort, and noise cancellation: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5.
Both excel in sound performance and offer features that cater to various listening needs, making them excellent investments for audio enthusiasts.
Best Overall Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- SPATIAL AUDIO HEADPHONES: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones with spatial audio give you an immersive experience that makes music feel more real; CustomTune technology offers personalized sound, shaped to you
- NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES: These wireless noise cancelling headphones feature Quiet Mode, Aware Mode and Immersion Mode, which combines full noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio
- HEADPHONES WITH MIC: Microphones focus on the sound of your voice and the bluetooth headphones with microphone filter out background noise for the clearest phone calls of any Bose headphones
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Soft ear cushions hug your ears, the band spreads pressure evenly and elevated materials let you make a statement with these noise cancelling over-the-ear headphones
- WIRELESS HEADPHONES BLUETOOTH: Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 offers connection within 30 feet of your device; SimpleSync allows you to sync with a Bose smart soundbar so you can listen to TV at your own volume
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra sets a high standard in noise-canceling headphones, renowned for its superior noise-cancellation technology and remarkable sound clarity.
Bose’s QuietComfort technology adjusts actively to ambient noise, ensuring uninterrupted listening even in noisy environments like airplanes, cafes, or open offices.
These headphones deliver a balanced audio profile, making them suitable for various genres, from bass-heavy music to podcasts.
Their lightweight design and plush ear cushions provide hours of comfort, making them perfect for long flights or extended work sessions.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra also boasts impressive battery life, giving users up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge.
This ensures that your listening experience isn’t interrupted by frequent recharging.
- NOISE CANCELLATION: Immerse yourself in the world of music with these noise cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5. They come equipped with an advanced noise cancellation feature, powered by two processors controlling eight microphones. Experience the magic of noise cancelling headphones bluetooth technology, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience free from external disturbances. This unique, distraction-free listening experience sets the Sony WH-1000XM5 apart from other headphones in the market.
- HANDS-FREE CALLING: Step into the future of communication with the Sony WH-1000XM5, a pair of over-ear headphones that make crystal clear hands-free calling a reality. They come equipped with four beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing. These over ear headphones ensure your voice is heard clearly, even in noisy environments. This feature is a boon for professionals and individuals who value clear, crisp communication.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Say goodbye to battery anxiety with the Sony WH-1000XM5, a wireless headset that offers up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge. These head phones also feature a quick charging option that provides 3 hours of playback with just a 3-minute charge, ensuring uninterrupted music enjoyment. (USB Type-C Cable included)
- COMFORT & STYLE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and style with the Sony WH-1000XM5's lightweight design and soft fit leather. These headphones are designed for maximum comfort, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without any discomfort. Sound quality and comfort go hand in hand with these headphones, making them an ideal choice for music lovers.
- TOUCH CONTROLS: Take control of your music with the Sony WH-1000XM5's intuitive touch controls. With a simple touch, you can pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls. This feature makes the Sony WH-1000XM5 a must-have for those who value convenience and control.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is another industry-leading option known for its top-tier noise-canceling capabilities and exceptional audio quality.
Sony’s Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on your activity, whether commuting, relaxing, or engaging in outdoor activities.
The headphones have two processors controlling eight microphones, providing top-notch noise reduction and crystal-clear call quality, even in busy environments.
The WH-1000XM5 also impresses with a warm, detailed sound profile that enhances every listening experience.
Battery life is also substantial, with up to 30 hours of playtime, and the quick-charge feature offers an additional 3 hours of use with only 10 minutes of charging.
Their sleek design, comfort, and ease of use make them versatile for daily listeners and audiophiles.
Both of these headphones are standouts. They combine comfort, battery life, and advanced noise-canceling features that set the bar for high-quality, immersive listening.
Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Headphones
If you’re looking for high-quality noise-canceling headphones on a budget, the Edifier W820NB Plus and EarFun Wave Pro offer impressive features at affordable prices.
Both models are great options for those who want effective noise cancellation and good sound quality without spending a fortune.
The Edifier W820NB Plus delivers remarkable noise-cancellation performance for its price.
Equipped with Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, these headphones effectively reduce ambient sounds, making them ideal for commuting or working in noisy spaces.
The audio quality is clear and balanced, providing decent bass and clarity that enhances the listening experience for various music or podcasts. With a lightweight design and comfortable ear cushions, the W820NB Plus ensures comfort during extended use.
It also offers an impressive 49-hour battery life, providing long-lasting playtime to sustain users through several days of regular listening.
The Edifier W820NB Plus is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who want to maintain comfort and noise-canceling effectiveness.
The EarFun Wave Pro stands out in the budget noise-canceling category, offering strong ANC capabilities and dynamic audio performance.
With advanced Bluetooth connectivity and a compact, lightweight design, these headphones are fabulous for travelers.
The ANC mode effectively reduces background noise, allowing users to focus on their music or calls without distraction.
The sound quality is balanced and versatile, with extra bass that makes it enjoyable for pop, hip-hop, and electronic music fans.
Battery life is also reliable. Up to 40 hours of playtime are delivered on a full charge, and a fast-charge feature provides 2 hours of listening with just a 10-minute charge.
For budget buyers who still value premium features, the EarFun Wave Pro is a fantastic option that combines portability, good sound, and effective noise-canceling at an accessible price.
Both options are ideal for anyone seeking quality noise-canceling headphones on a budget.
They combine affordability with features that enhance everyday listening and immersive experiences.
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds
For those who prefer the convenience of earbuds while still enjoying top-notch noise cancellation, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) and Sony WF-1000XM5 are the best options in this category.
These earbuds deliver exceptional ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and provide excellent sound quality, making them ideal for listeners who want powerful performance in a compact design.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) set a high standard in noise-canceling earbuds.
With upgraded hardware and the new USB-C charging port, these earbuds deliver better ANC than previous generations, effectively reducing background noise across different environments.
Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 2 ensures immersive sound with enhanced bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
The Transparency Mode has also been improved, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Spatial Audio and personalized sound profiles adapt to the unique shape of each listener’s ear, enhancing comfort and sound quality.
With up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge and a quick-charging case offering an additional 24 hours, these earbuds are ideal for users seeking premium noise cancellation, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and top-tier audio quality.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are another outstanding choice for those looking for effective noise-canceling earbuds.
Sony’s advanced noise-canceling processor in the WF-1000XM5 provides a powerful ANC experience, making it ideal for noisy commutes or busy environments.
The WF-1000XM5’s sound profile is rich and detailed, with deep bass, vibrant mids, and clear highs that make these earbuds versatile across various genres of music.
Equipped with Adaptive Sound Control, the WF-1000XM5 automatically adjusts its ANC settings based on the user’s surroundings, making it intelligent and convenient.
Battery life is strong, with up to 8 hours on a single charge and 24 hours on the case. Quick charging provides 1 hour of playback with just a 5-minute charge, perfect for users who are always on the go.
With high-quality ANC, customizable sound, and long battery life, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is ideal for those who value a premium, immersive listening experience in a compact design.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 offer some of the best ANC experiences available in earbuds, catering to users needing top-notch noise cancellation in a convenient and portable format.
Best High-End Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Regarding the high-end segment of noise-canceling headphones, the Apple AirPods Max and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e offer premium sound quality, sophisticated design, and exceptional noise-cancellation technology.
These models cater to audiophiles and those who value luxury in both sound and style, combining cutting-edge features with immersive listening experiences.
The Apple AirPods Max deliver a top-tier listening experience with a design that stands out for its craftsmanship and comfort.
Equipped with Apple’s H1 chips in each earcup, these headphones provide adaptive noise cancellation that dynamically adjusts to your surroundings, making them perfect for diverse environments.
The AirPods Max also offer Transparency Mode and spatial audio, enhancing the immersive effect of the sound.
The audio quality is meticulously balanced, with deep bass, warm mids, and clear highs, delivering exceptional detail across a range of genres.
The knit mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit for prolonged wear, and the high-quality materials give them a premium feel.
Although they lack the longest battery life (around 20 hours), their smart case conserves battery when not in use, making them a solid choice for those looking for refined sound quality and seamless Apple ecosystem integration.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e headphones offer an audiophile-grade listening experience with a sophisticated design and high-end noise-canceling capabilities.
Renowned for its sound engineering, the PX7 S2e delivers an immersive sound profile with powerful bass, natural mids, and crisp highs.
The adaptive noise cancellation is tailored to provide an undisturbed listening experience, effectively blocking ambient noise while preserving sound quality.
Designed for comfort, these headphones feature lightweight carbon-fiber construction and soft memory foam ear cushions, allowing users to enjoy extended listening sessions comfortably.
Battery life is impressive, offering up to 30 hours on a single charge. Fast charging provides 7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge, which is ideal for users on the move.
With a focus on luxurious materials and high-fidelity sound, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e stands out as a top choice for those seeking premium noise-canceling headphones with a stylish edge.
Both the Apple AirPods Max and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are designed for discerning listeners.
They offer state-of-the-art noise cancellation and superior sound quality, making them perfect investments for those looking for high-end audio experiences.
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones by Brand
Bose has long been synonymous with top-notch noise-canceling technology, and its latest offerings continue to lead the market.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds offer outstanding noise-canceling performance, impressive audio clarity, and user-friendly features, making them highly popular choices for a variety of listening preferences.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are designed for those who prioritize comfort without sacrificing sound quality.
With Bose’s new CustomTune technology, these headphones adjust the audio and noise-canceling settings based on the user’s ear shape, delivering a more personalized listening experience.
They feature both Quiet Mode, which provides Bose’s renowned noise-canceling performance, and Aware Mode, which lets in surrounding sounds for better situational awareness.
These headphones produce a balanced sound profile with deep bass and clear highs, ideal for various music genres.
Additionally, the earcups are crafted for long-term comfort, allowing users to wear them for extended periods without fatigue.
With a solid 24-hour battery life and quick-charging capabilities, the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are ideal for frequent travelers or those needing all-day use.
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are an excellent choice for those who prefer earbuds without compromising on noise-canceling power.
These compact yet powerful earbuds deliver the same level of noise cancellation that Bose is known for, effectively blocking out distractions even in noisy environments.
With adjustable noise cancellation levels, users can switch between complete immersion and a more aware listening mode depending on their surroundings. The QuietComfort Earbuds also provide rich audio quality, with deep bass, clear vocals, and detailed instrumentals.
Designed with comfort and stability in mind, they fit securely, making them suitable for workouts or daily commuting.
Battery life is strong for true wireless earbuds, with up to 6 hours on a single charge and additional charges available via the portable charging case.
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are a fantastic choice for those seeking high-quality noise cancellation in a lightweight, wireless format.
Both the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and QuietComfort Earbuds showcase Bose’s expertise in noise-canceling technology and audio excellence, making them perfect options for users who want dependable, immersive sound experiences in various settings.
Sony consistently ranks as one of the top brands in noise-canceling technology, offering a versatile range of headphones for different needs.
Known for its exceptional sound quality and advanced noise-canceling features, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 over-ear headphones and WF-1000XM5 in-ear earbuds stand out as some of the best in their categories.
Sony WH-1000XM5 (Over-Ear)
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are the latest in Sony’s celebrated WH-1000X series, renowned for class-leading noise-canceling technology and superior audio quality.
These over-ear headphones use dual processors and multiple microphones to adaptively block out external noise, allowing listeners to immerse fully in their music or calls.
Sony’s custom-designed 30mm drivers provide a well-balanced sound profile, delivering deep bass, clear mids, and detailed highs.
The WH-1000XM5s also offer various listening modes, including an Adaptive Sound Control feature that adjusts noise cancellation based on your environment and activity.
With a 30-hour battery life on a single charge, these headphones are perfect for frequent travelers, remote workers, or anyone looking for long-lasting, high-quality audio.
The WH-1000XM5 model also includes comfortable, lightweight earcups for prolonged use and intuitive touch controls on the earcups, making it easy to adjust settings on the go.
Sony WF-1000XM5 (In-Ear)
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds bring the powerful noise-canceling capabilities of Sony’s WH-1000XM series to an in-ear design.
Compact yet highly effective, these earbuds use dual feedback microphones and a new Integrated Processor V2 to cancel out a wide range of ambient sounds, creating a peaceful listening environment even in busy settings.
The WF-1000XM5 earbuds deliver impressive audio quality, with support for high-resolution audio and a broad soundstage that brings out the finest details in music.
The earbuds are designed for comfort and stability, featuring a lightweight, ergonomic design that fits snugly in the ear without causing discomfort over time.
With 8 hours of playback on a full charge, along with extra charges from the case, the WF-1000XM5s are excellent for extended listening sessions.
They also offer seamless Bluetooth connectivity, multipoint pairing, and customizable controls through Sony’s app, making these earbuds a top choice for audiophiles who want premium noise cancellation in a compact form.
Both the Sony WH-1000XM5 and WF-1000XM5 showcase Sony’s innovation in noise-canceling technology and audio quality, making them ideal for users who demand both comfort and exceptional sound clarity in a variety of listening environments.
Apple delivers an impressive range of noise-canceling options for those immersed in the Apple ecosystem, prioritizing audio quality, seamless device integration, and sleek design.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 and the Apple AirPods Max each bring their own strengths to the table, catering to users with different preferences for in-ear and over-ear experiences.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 builds upon the success of the original AirPods Pro, offering enhanced noise-canceling technology and richer audio quality in a compact, in-ear design.
Equipped with the new H2 chip, these earbuds are capable of delivering more immersive sound, enhanced noise cancellation, and longer battery life.
The AirPods Pro 2 utilize adaptive transparency and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to dynamically respond to changing environmental sounds, blocking out unwanted noise effectively.
With Spatial Audio, listeners get an added layer of dimension to their audio experience, which can be personalized based on ear shape for a custom fit.
The AirPods Pro 2 also have a longer battery life than their predecessors, offering up to 6 hours on a single charge, with additional charges available in the MagSafe charging case.
Compact, lightweight, and water-resistant, these earbuds are ideal for on-the-go listeners who want Apple’s seamless connectivity and robust sound quality in a small form factor.
Apple AirPods Max
For those seeking a luxurious, over-ear experience, the Apple AirPods Max deliver exceptional sound quality and industry-leading noise cancellation in a refined, ergonomic design.
Featuring Apple’s H1 chip in each ear cup, the AirPods Max provides an ultra-smooth listening experience with active noise cancellation, Transparency mode, and Spatial Audio for immersive sound.
The AirPods Max uses computational audio to adjust audio levels on the fly, optimizing for the best sound experience in real time.
Designed with memory foam ear cushions and a breathable knit mesh canopy, the AirPods Max prioritizes comfort even during extended wear.
The Digital Crown allows for precise control of volume and playback, while Siri support and automatic switching between Apple devices make it a seamless option for those within the Apple ecosystem.
The AirPods Max also offers up to 20 hours of playback with active noise cancellation enabled, ensuring they’re ready for travel, work, or daily listening.
Together, the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max deliver top-tier noise cancellation and audio performance, designed specifically for Apple users who value seamless integration, elegant design, and premium sound quality across their devices.
Sennheiser is known for its high-quality audio products, and its noise-canceling headphones offer outstanding sound quality, build, and immersive experiences.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless and Sennheiser Accentum Plus represent the brand’s dedication to delivering both clarity and comfort, appealing to those who value a premium listening experience with excellent noise-cancellation features.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a top choice for anyone seeking premium sound quality paired with cutting-edge noise cancellation.
These over-ear headphones feature adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that adjusts to your environment, blocking out a wide range of external noises for a more focused listening experience.
Renowned for its rich, balanced sound profile, the Momentum 4 delivers powerful bass, clear mids, and detailed highs, which audiophiles appreciate for both music and calls.
Additionally, the headphones offer an impressive 60-hour battery life, making them ideal for long travels and extended use.
With a comfortable fit, intuitive touch controls, and customizable sound settings via the Sennheiser Smart Control app, the Momentum 4 Wireless brings a complete package for users who prioritize audio quality and convenience.
The Sennheiser Accentum Plus headphones offer high-end noise-canceling performance at a more accessible price point, catering to users who seek premium features without a premium price tag.
These headphones use Sennheiser’s hybrid ANC technology, effectively reducing background noise in various settings, whether on commutes or in noisy work environments.
The Accentum Plus features dynamic 40mm drivers, delivering impressive bass depth and clarity across frequencies, ideal for an immersive audio experience.
Designed with comfort in mind, the Accentum Plus has plush ear cups and an ergonomic headband, making them suitable for prolonged use.
The headphones offer up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge, supporting an extended listening period, while fast charging allows for quick top-ups when on the go.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless and Accentum Plus stand out as top picks for listeners who value detailed soundscapes and effective noise-canceling, showcasing Sennheiser’s dedication to quality, comfort, and accessible luxury in audio technology.
Top Picks for Specific Needs
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Travel and Airplanes
For frequent travelers, the right noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference in creating a peaceful, comfortable environment on flights or busy transit.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and Sony WH-1000XM5 are two standout options designed specifically for travel, combining advanced noise-canceling technology with comfort for long flights and durability for the journey.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are highly acclaimed for their industry-leading ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) technology, which is particularly effective in airplane cabins or bustling airport terminals.
Featuring 11 levels of noise cancellation, these headphones allow you to adjust the amount of ambient sound to your preference, perfect for tuning out airplane hums or crowd noise.
The headphones are lightweight with a sleek, modern design, and the plush ear cups ensure comfort even on long-haul flights.
Bose 700 also excels in clarity, offering crisp audio for music, movies, or podcasts, making every moment of your journey more enjoyable.
With up to 20 hours of battery life, these headphones will last through lengthy flights without needing a recharge.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are another top pick for travelers, offering a blend of powerful noise-canceling capabilities and high-fidelity audio.
The XM5’s dual processor controls eight microphones that enhance the ANC, making it particularly effective at canceling out high-frequency sounds like voices or in-flight announcements.
These headphones also offer customizable sound settings through Sony’s Headphones Connect app, allowing users to adapt the audio and noise-canceling settings based on the environment, ideal for dynamic travel scenarios.
With an ultra-soft fit, 30-hour battery life, and quick-charging features that add 3 hours of playback in just 3 minutes, the WH-1000XM5 is an exceptional choice for travelers seeking immersive sound and extended comfort.
For those seeking the best noise-canceling headphones for travel, both the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and the Sony WH-1000XM5 deliver exceptional performance, making flights quieter and travel more enjoyable with outstanding ANC, lasting comfort, and superior audio.
Best for Comfort and Extended Wear
When it comes to long listening sessions, comfort is key, and both the JBL Live 770NC and Sony CH-720N excel at providing hours of comfortable wear alongside effective noise cancellation.
The JBL Live 770NC is crafted for those who want a comfortable fit with premium sound quality.
Known for its cushioned ear cups and lightweight frame, the 770NC allows users to listen for extended periods without feeling pressure or discomfort around the ears.
With its adaptive noise-canceling technology, the headphones automatically adjust to the surrounding noise levels, letting you fully immerse yourself in music, podcasts, or calls without interruptions.
The 770NC also features JBL’s renowned sound profile, which emphasizes deep bass and balanced mids, offering a rich audio experience.
The battery life extends up to 50 hours without ANC, and 40 hours with it enabled, making these headphones perfect for all-day use.
Sony’s CH-720N headphones are an ideal pick for anyone prioritizing both comfort and reliable ANC in a lightweight design.
Engineered with comfort in mind, the CH-720N features padded ear cushions and a feather-light structure, so users can wear them for hours on end without strain.
Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology efficiently blocks out background noise, ensuring you can focus on what you’re listening to, whether at home or on the go.
The sound profile offers a balanced listening experience, with clear highs and deep bass, ideal for all genres. With a 35-hour battery life with ANC and the convenience of quick charging, the Sony CH-720N provides users with a seamless, comfortable, and immersive audio experience that lasts all day.
For those who prioritize comfort, the JBL Live 770NC and Sony CH-720N are both outstanding options, delivering superb comfort, impressive battery life, and effective noise cancellation—perfect for extended wear.
Best for Work and Calls
In today’s remote work environment, having headphones that excel in both sound quality and call clarity is crucial.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 stand out as top choices for professionals who frequently engage in calls and virtual meetings.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are designed with cutting-edge technology to provide an unparalleled audio experience, making them ideal for work and calls.
Their advanced Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) feature ensures that you remain focused on your conversations by blocking out background distractions, whether you’re in a bustling café or a noisy office.
The earbuds come with multiple microphones specifically engineered to enhance voice clarity, ensuring that your voice comes through loud and clear during calls.
The comfortable, secure fit also allows for extended wear without discomfort, making them perfect for long meetings.
With a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge (and an additional 12 hours with the charging case), these earbuds are as functional as they are comfortable.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 headphones are another excellent option for work and calls, offering exceptional sound quality and versatility.
Equipped with Jabra’s Advanced ANC technology, these earbuds effectively eliminate background noise, allowing you to concentrate on your tasks or conversations.
The earbuds also feature a powerful multi-microphone system designed to enhance voice clarity, ensuring you’re heard clearly on calls.
One standout feature is their HearThrough mode, which allows you to listen to your surroundings without removing the earbuds, making it easy to stay aware of your environment while on a call.
With a battery life of up to 8 hours and 30 hours total with the charging case, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 headphones are perfect for those who require reliable performance throughout their workday.
Both the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 are exceptional choices for professionals.
They provide superb sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life, ensuring you can handle work and calls with ease and clarity.
Key Features to Look for in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
When choosing noise-cancelling headphones, it’s essential to consider several key features that can significantly impact your listening experience.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) vs. Passive Noise Isolation
The first consideration is the type of noise cancellation technology employed.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses microphones to pick up external sounds and produces counteracting sound waves to minimize those noises, making it highly effective for constant background noise, like engines on an airplane.
On the other hand, Passive Noise Isolation relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out sound, effectively creating a seal around your ears.
Many high-quality headphones utilize a combination of both to provide an immersive listening experience.
Battery Life and Quick Charge Features
Battery life is another critical factor, especially for those who plan to use their headphones for extended periods.
Look for models that offer a long battery life, ideally upwards of 20-30 hours on a full charge.
Quick charge features can also be a game-changer, allowing you to get a significant amount of playtime from just a short charging session—perfect for busy lifestyles or last-minute travel plans.
Comfort and Fit for Long-Term Wear
Comfort is paramount, particularly if you intend to wear your headphones for long durations.
Features such as cushioned ear cups, adjustable headbands, and lightweight designs can enhance comfort.
Choosing headphones that fit securely without causing pressure on your ears is advisable, ensuring a pleasant listening experience during extended use.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability is essential, particularly for travelers or those who frequently use their headphones on the go.
Look for headphones made from high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.
Models that offer water resistance can also be beneficial for outdoor use or workouts, ensuring your headphones can endure various conditions.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Compatibility
Bluetooth connectivity is crucial for wireless headphones.
Ensure the model you choose has a strong Bluetooth range and quick pairing capabilities.
Compatibility with various devices—like smartphones, tablets, and computers—can also enhance your user experience, so opt for headphones that seamlessly connect across multiple platforms.
Additional Features: Customizable EQ, Adaptive Noise Cancellation
Finally, consider any additional features that may enhance your experience.
Customizable EQ settings allow you to tweak the sound profile to your preferences, ensuring optimal audio quality for different genres of music.
Adaptive Noise Cancellation adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on your environment, providing a more tailored listening experience.
These features can set your headphones apart and make them more enjoyable for everyday use.
By paying attention to these key features, you can choose noise-cancelling headphones that best meet your needs, ensuring you enjoy the perfect balance of sound quality, comfort, and functionality.
How We Tested These Noise-Cancelling Headphones
We used a thorough testing method to see how well each model worked in real-life situations while deciding which were the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market.
We tested the headphones in both controlled and real-life settings, so we could see how well they worked in a range of situations, from commuting and flying to using them at home.
Each pair went through strict sound tests where we listened to a variety of music styles, from classical to heavy bass tracks, to see how well they blocked out noise and maintained the quality of the sound.
We also used background noises like city traffic and talk in coffee shops to see how well each model could block out annoying sounds.
To make sure the evaluation was complete, we came up with clear guidelines for judging the most important aspects.
The most important thing was the sound quality, with a focus on balance, clarity, and depth across all frequencies.
We also looked at Comfort, which included how each headphone felt after long periods of use.
This included the weight, the padding on the ear cups, and the general fit. To test Battery Life, it was kept track of how long each pair lasted when used nonstop and how fast they charged to full power.
Lastly, we looked at Connectivity by testing how easy it was to pair Bluetooth devices, how far they could reach, and how stable they were.
This multifaceted method lets us give detailed information about each headphone’s pros and cons, ensuring that our suggestions fit the needs and tastes of a wide range of users.
What Should I Consider When Buying Noise-Cancelling Earbuds?
When buying noise-cancelling earbuds, consider the following factors:
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Quality: Look for earbuds that effectively block out ambient noise.
Sound Quality: Choose models that deliver clear audio and deep bass.
Battery Life: Check the battery performance, including usage time with and without ANC activated.
Comfort and Fit: Ensure a secure and comfortable fit for extended wear, which can include different ear tip sizes.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Verify compatibility with your devices and look for features like quick pairing and range.
Additional Features: Consider options like customizable sound profiles, touch controls, and water resistance.
Conclusion on Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
In conclusion, finding the best noise-canceling headphones tailored to your needs can significantly enhance your listening experience, whether commuting, working, or enjoying your favorite tunes.
Our top picks across all categories, from the high-performance Bose QuietComfort Ultra to the budget-friendly Edifier W820NB Plus, highlight the diverse options available for every user.
As you choose the right noise-canceling headphones, consider key factors such as sound quality, comfort, and battery life to ensure they fit your lifestyle seamlessly.
We encourage you to explore the latest models and advancements in noise-canceling technology, which continue to evolve, providing more personalized features and superior performance.
No matter your preference or budget, there’s a perfect pair waiting to transform how you listen to the world around you.
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FAQs on Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
What's the best headphone brand?
Some of the best headphone brands include Bose, Sony, Sennheiser, Apple, and Audio-Technica, known for their sound quality and innovative technology.
What are headphones used for?
Headphones are used for listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and other audio content, as well as for communication in calls and gaming.
What is the best noise-cancelling headset?
The best noise-cancelling headsets include the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5, both renowned for their effective noise cancellation and sound quality.
Are noise-cancelling headphones worth it?
Yes, noise-cancelling headphones are worth it for those seeking to reduce ambient noise, improve focus, and enhance audio experience, especially in loud environments.
What are true noise-cancelling headphones?
True noise-cancelling headphones use active noise cancellation technology, which employs microphones and sound waves to actively block out external noise.
Does noise cancellation block all noise?
No, noise cancellation does not block all noise, but it significantly reduces ambient sounds, especially low-frequency noises like engine hums or chatter.
Does noise cancelling drain the headphones' battery?
Yes, noise-cancelling technology consumes additional battery power, so using it can reduce the overall battery life of the headphones.
Does noise cancelling impact sound quality?
Noise cancellation can impact sound quality, but many high-quality models are designed to maintain or enhance audio performance even while cancelling noise.
Can I use noise-cancelling headphones with Dolby Atmos audio?
Yes, noise-cancelling headphones can be used with Dolby Atmos audio, providing an immersive listening experience with spatial sound.
Are noise-cancelling headphones waterproof?
Most noise-cancelling headphones are not waterproof, but some models are water-resistant, designed to withstand sweat or light rain. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for water resistance ratings.
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