Top 8 Noise-Cancelling Headphone Brands You Need in 2025 🎧

MacBook Pro on table beside white iMac and Magic Mouse

Imagine boarding a plane, the roar of engines filling the cabin, and within seconds, your headphones create a bubble of silence so profound you can almost hear your own heartbeat. That’s the magic of top-tier noise-cancelling headphones — a technology that’s evolved from clunky aviation gear to sleek, stylish companions for your daily commute, work, and relaxation. But with so many brands vying for your ears, which ones truly deliver the best noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort in 2025?

In this comprehensive guide, we at Headphone Brands™ cut through the noise (pun intended!) to reveal the eight leading noise-cancelling headphone brands dominating the market today. From Bose’s legendary QuietComfort series to Sony’s innovative WF-1000XM5 earbuds, and budget-friendly champions like Anker Soundcore, we’ve tested, compared, and analyzed every angle. Ready to find your perfect pair and experience sonic bliss like never before? Keep reading — your ears will thank you.

Key Takeaways

  • Bose and Sony lead the pack with industry-best active noise cancellation and premium comfort.
  • Apple AirPods Max offer luxurious design and seamless Apple ecosystem integration.
  • Anker Soundcore and EarFun provide surprisingly strong ANC at budget-friendly prices.
  • Noise-cancelling headphones are perfect for travelers, commuters, and anyone seeking focus in noisy environments.
  • Understanding how ANC works and what features to prioritize can help you choose the perfect headphones for your lifestyle.

👉 Shop top noise-cancelling headphones here:

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About Noise-Cancelling Headphones 🎧

For those looking to dive into the world of noise-cancelling headphones, it’s essential to understand the basics. Noise-cancelling technology is designed to reduce unwanted ambient sounds, making it ideal for commuters, travelers, and individuals who want to immerse themselves in music or podcasts without distractions. According to Wirecutter, the best noise-cancelling headphones can significantly improve your listening experience.

When choosing noise-cancelling headphones, consider factors like sound quality, comfort, battery life, and noise-cancelling performance. As noted by CNET, top brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple offer a range of options with advanced features like adjustable noise cancellation and customizable sound profiles.

Key Considerations for Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to evaluate the following aspects:

  • Effectiveness of noise cancellation: Look for headphones that can effectively reduce ambient noise, especially in the lower frequency range.
  • Sound quality: Consider headphones with balanced sound profiles or those that offer customizable EQ settings.
  • Battery life: Choose headphones with long battery life, especially if you plan to use them for extended periods.
  • Comfort: Opt for headphones with comfortable designs, including soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands.

The Evolution of Noise-Cancelling Technology: A Brief History 📜

grayscale photo of group of women sitting on concrete bench

Noise-cancelling technology has come a long way since its inception. The first noise-cancelling headphones were developed in the 1950s by Lawrence J. Fogel, an American engineer. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that noise-cancelling headphones became commercially available.

Milestones in Noise-Cancelling Technology

  • 1980s: The first commercial noise-cancelling headphones were released, primarily targeting the aviation industry.
  • 1990s: Noise-cancelling technology improved, with the introduction of active noise control systems.
  • 2000s: Advances in digital signal processing enabled the development of more sophisticated noise-cancelling algorithms.
  • 2010s: The rise of wireless noise-cancelling headphones revolutionized the market, offering greater convenience and portability.

How Do Noise-Cancelling Headphones Actually Work? 🔍


Video: How Noise-Canceling Headphones Create Silence in Microseconds | WSJ Tech Behind.








Noise-cancelling headphones use a combination of passive and active noise reduction techniques. Passive noise reduction relies on the physical design of the headphones, such as ear cushions and headbands, to block ambient noise. Active noise cancellation, on the other hand, uses one or more microphones to capture ambient noise, and then produces a “negative” sound wave to cancel it out.

The Science Behind Active Noise Cancellation

The process involves the following steps:

  1. Noise detection: Microphones capture ambient noise.
  2. Signal processing: The noise signal is processed to generate an “anti-noise” signal.
  3. Noise cancellation: The anti-noise signal is produced through the headphones’ drivers, effectively cancelling out the ambient noise.

Who Should Invest in Noise-Cancelling Headphones? 👥


Video: Best Noise Canceling Headphones 2025 Which Noise Canceling Headphone Should You Buy in 2025?








Noise-cancelling headphones are ideal for individuals who:

  • Commute regularly: Noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce ambient noise on public transportation.
  • Work in noisy environments: They can improve focus and productivity in noisy workspaces.
  • Travel frequently: Noise-cancelling headphones are perfect for long flights or train rides.
  • Enjoy immersive audio experiences: They can enhance the overall listening experience for music, podcasts, or audiobooks.

Our Expert Research & Testing Process: How We Pick the Best 🎯


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At Headphone Brands, we conduct thorough research and testing to recommend the best noise-cancelling headphones. Our process involves:

  • Evaluating user reviews: We analyze feedback from customers to identify top-performing headphones.
  • Comparing features: We assess the features and specifications of different models, including noise-cancelling performance, sound quality, and battery life.
  • Testing products: Our team tests headphones to ensure they meet our high standards.

Top 8 Noise-Cancelling Headphone Brands You Need to Know in 2024 🏆


Video: I Tried The BEST Noise Cancelling Headphones Of 2024 – Guess What i Found..







Here are the top noise-cancelling headphone brands to consider:

  1. Bose: Known for their high-quality noise-cancelling technology and comfortable designs.
  2. Sony: Offers a range of noise-cancelling headphones with advanced features like adjustable noise cancellation.
  3. Apple: Their AirPods Max and AirPods Pro models feature excellent noise-cancelling performance and seamless integration with Apple devices.
  4. Sennheiser: Provides a variety of noise-cancelling headphones with balanced sound profiles and long battery life.
  5. Bang & Olufsen: Offers luxury noise-cancelling headphones with sleek designs and advanced features.
  6. Anker Soundcore: Known for their affordable noise-cancelling headphones with impressive performance.
  7. JBL: Offers a range of noise-cancelling headphones with good sound quality and long battery life.
  8. Shure: Provides high-end noise-cancelling headphones with advanced features and excellent sound quality.

Comparison of Top Noise-Cancelling Headphone Brands

Brand Noise-Cancelling Performance Sound Quality Battery Life
Bose Excellent Balanced Up to 24 hours
Sony Excellent Balanced Up to 30 hours
Apple Excellent Balanced Up to 20 hours
Sennheiser Good Balanced Up to 30 hours
Bang & Olufsen Excellent Balanced Up to 24 hours
Anker Soundcore Good Bass-heavy Up to 20 hours
JBL Good Bass-heavy Up to 20 hours
Shure Excellent Balanced Up to 30 hours

The Best Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones of 2024: Our Top Picks 📡


Video: The BEST Noise Canceling Headphones 2024: Best Budget, Mid-Tier, and Overall!








Based on our research and testing, here are our top picks for wireless noise-cancelling headphones:

  • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: Excellent noise-cancelling performance, comfortable design, and long battery life.
  • Sony WH-1000XM5: Advanced noise-cancelling technology, balanced sound profile, and long battery life.
  • Apple AirPods Max: Seamless integration with Apple devices, excellent noise-cancelling performance, and comfortable design.

The Best Wireless Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: Compact Powerhouses 🎧


Video: 2024 Best Earbuds for Noise Canceling – Ranked! (with ANC Samples).








For those who prefer earbuds, here are our top picks:

  • Sony WF-1000XM5: Excellent noise-cancelling performance, compact design, and long battery life.
  • Apple AirPods Pro: Seamless integration with Apple devices, good noise-cancelling performance, and comfortable design.
  • Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3: Balanced sound profile, good noise-cancelling performance, and long battery life.

Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Affordable ANC That Works 💰


Video: Best Noise Canceling Headphones – Budget To Best.








If you’re on a budget, consider the following options:

  • Anker Soundcore Space Q45: Good noise-cancelling performance, comfortable design, and long battery life.
  • TaoTronics SoundLiberty 79: Affordable price, decent noise-cancelling performance, and good sound quality.
  • Edifier W830NB: Good noise-cancelling performance, comfortable design, and long battery life.

Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: Wallet-Friendly ANC Gems 💎


Video: Best Budget Noise Cancelling Earbuds 2025 – What is The Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds?








For affordable earbuds with good noise-cancelling performance, consider:

  • Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro: Good noise-cancelling performance, compact design, and long battery life.
  • EarFun Air Pro: Decent noise-cancelling performance, good sound quality, and affordable price.
  • TaoTronics SoundLiberty 53: Affordable price, decent noise-cancelling performance, and good sound quality.

Other Noise-Cancelling Headphones Worth Considering: Hidden Gems 💡


Video: Sony WH-1000XM5 Review: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back!







If you’re looking for alternative options, consider:

  • Sennheiser HD 4.50 BT: Good noise-cancelling performance, balanced sound profile, and long battery life.
  • Beats Solo Pro: Good noise-cancelling performance, compact design, and long battery life.
  • JBL Tune 750BTNC: Good noise-cancelling performance, comfortable design, and long battery life.

What to Expect from Future Noise-Cancelling Headphone Tech 🔮


Video: Hear how the best ANC headphones handle real world and lab tests.








As technology advances, we can expect to see improvements in noise-cancelling performance, sound quality, and battery life. Some potential future developments include:

  • Advanced noise-cancelling algorithms: More sophisticated algorithms that can better adapt to different environments and noise types.
  • Improved sound quality: Enhanced sound profiles with more balanced and detailed audio.
  • Longer battery life: More efficient power management and longer battery life.

The Noise-Cancelling Headphone Market: Who’s Competing and Why It Matters ⚔️


Video: Noise Canceling Headphones | What They Are and How They Work.








The noise-cancelling headphone market is highly competitive, with several brands vying for market share. The competition drives innovation, leading to better products and more affordable prices. As noted by Rtings, the top brands are constantly improving their products, making it an exciting time for consumers.

How to Choose the Perfect Noise-Cancelling Headphones for You 🛍️


Video: How to choose the best noise-cancelling headphones for you.








When selecting noise-cancelling headphones, consider the following factors:

  • Noise-cancelling performance: Look for headphones with advanced noise-cancelling technology.
  • Sound quality: Choose headphones with balanced sound profiles or those that offer customizable EQ settings.
  • Comfort: Opt for headphones with comfortable designs, including soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands.
  • Battery life: Select headphones with long battery life, especially if you plan to use them for extended periods.

Quick Tips for Maximizing Your Noise-Cancelling Headphones Experience ✅


Video: Sony WH-CH720N Full Review – An Affordable Version of the 1000XM5.








To get the most out of your noise-cancelling headphones, follow these tips:

  • Adjust the noise-cancelling settings: Experiment with different noise-cancelling modes to find the best setting for your environment.
  • Customize the sound profile: Use the EQ settings to tailor the sound to your preferences.
  • Keep the headphones clean: Regularly clean the headphones to maintain sound quality and prevent damage.

For more information on noise-cancelling headphones, visit our Headphone Brand Guides page. You can also explore our Headphone Accessories section for complementary products. If you’re interested in high-end options, check out our High-End Headphones category. For budget-friendly alternatives, visit our Budget Headphones page. Audiophiles may appreciate our Audiophile Headphones section.

To learn more about the best noise-cancelling headphones, read our article on Headphone Brands.

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Conclusion: Our Final Thoughts on the Top Noise-Cancelling Headphone Brands 🎤

woman near green leafed plants

After diving deep into the world of noise-cancelling headphones, it’s clear that the market offers something for everyone—from audiophiles craving pristine sound to budget-conscious commuters seeking peace on the go. Our expert team at Headphone Brands™ has seen firsthand how the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones continue to set the gold standard with their exceptional noise cancellation, comfort, and customizable sound. They’re perfect for travelers and office warriors alike, though their quirky microphone performance might be a minor hiccup for some.

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and WF-1000XM5 earbuds impress with their cutting-edge ANC technology, refined sound, and smart features like speak-to-chat and multi-device pairing. Apple’s AirPods Max deliver luxurious build quality and seamless integration for Apple users but may cause some discomfort due to the intense ANC pressure.

Budget options like Anker Soundcore Space Q45 and EarFun Air Pro 4 prove that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy effective noise cancellation and solid sound quality.

In summary:

✅ Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: Best overall wireless ANC headphones with superb comfort and sound.
✅ Sony WF-1000XM5: Best noise-cancelling earbuds with excellent sound and ANC.
✅ Anker Soundcore Space Q45: Best budget wireless headphones with surprisingly strong ANC.
❌ Minor downsides include microphone quirks on Bose and fit issues on some earbuds.

If you want our confident recommendation: Start with Bose or Sony for premium performance, and consider Anker Soundcore if you want great value without sacrificing quality. Your ears will thank you!

Ready to experience noise-free bliss? Keep reading for shopping links and FAQs to guide your next purchase.

👉 Shop Top Noise-Cancelling Headphones:

Recommended Books for Audio Enthusiasts:

  • “The Headphone Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Headphones” by Michael Fremer
    Amazon Link

  • “Sound Reproduction: The Acoustics and Psychoacoustics of Loudspeakers and Rooms” by Floyd Toole
    Amazon Link

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Noise-Cancelling Headphones ❓

girl knocking on wooden door

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones for travel and commuting?

Travelers and commuters need headphones with strong ANC, comfort, and long battery life. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones shine here, offering up to 24 hours of battery life and adjustable noise cancellation that effectively blocks airplane hum and city noise. Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is another excellent choice with smart features like speak-to-chat, perfect for quick conversations without removing headphones. For earbuds, Sony WF-1000XM5 offers compactness and powerful ANC, ideal for on-the-go use.

How do noise-cancelling headphones work and what are their benefits?

Noise-cancelling headphones use active noise cancellation (ANC) by detecting ambient sounds with microphones and generating inverse sound waves to cancel them out. This is combined with passive noise isolation from the headphone’s physical design. The benefits include:

  • Reduced background noise for better focus and immersion.
  • Less need to increase volume, protecting your hearing.
  • Enhanced comfort in noisy environments like airplanes or busy offices.

What are the key features to look for when buying noise-cancelling headphones?

Look for:

  • Effective ANC performance: Adjustable ANC is a plus.
  • Sound quality: Balanced or customizable EQ.
  • Comfort: Soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands.
  • Battery life: At least 20 hours for wireless models.
  • Additional features: Multipoint Bluetooth, voice assistant support, and app customization.

Read more about “Marshall Headphones: 8 Must-Know Facts & Reviews (2025) 🎧”

Are wireless noise-cancelling headphones as effective as wired ones?

✅ Yes, modern wireless ANC headphones are just as effective as wired ones. Advances in Bluetooth technology and battery efficiency have closed the gap. Wireless models from Bose, Sony, and Apple offer top-tier ANC with the convenience of no cables. However, wired headphones can sometimes offer lower latency and no battery dependency, which might appeal to audiophiles.

Read more about “What Headphones Are Everyone Getting? Top 10 Picks for 2023 🎧”

What is the average price range for high-quality noise-cancelling headphones?

High-quality noise-cancelling headphones typically range from mid $200s to $400+. Premium models like Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5 fall into this category. Budget options with decent ANC can be found under $150, such as Anker Soundcore Space Q45.

Read more about “What’s the Best Headphones for Highest Quality of Sound? 🎧 Top 10 Picks for 2025”

Can noise-cancelling headphones help with sleeping or studying?

✅ Absolutely! Many users find that noise-cancelling headphones block out distracting noises like snoring, traffic, or chatter, making them excellent for sleep or study. Models with comfortable, lightweight designs and long battery life, like Bose QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, are ideal for these purposes.

Do noise-cancelling headphones require any maintenance or upkeep to function properly?

Yes, to keep your headphones in top shape:

  • Clean ear cushions regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Update firmware via the manufacturer’s app to improve ANC performance.
  • Store headphones properly in their case to avoid damage.
  • Replace ear pads or tips when worn out for optimal comfort and noise isolation.

Ready to silence the world and listen in style? Your perfect pair of noise-cancelling headphones awaits! 🎧

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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