Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for 2025

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: January 2nd, 2024
Last Updated: January 21st, 2025

🎧Noise-cancelling headphones aren’t just a luxury these days—they're practically a must-have for anyone craving a peaceful audio experience amidst the constant noise of daily life. Whether you're trying to mute the chaos of a busy café, the hum of public transportation, or just need some quiet time on a long flight, the right headphones make all the difference.

We’ve dug into top reviews and industry insights to bring you a list of the best noise-cancelling headphones for 2024. No matter what your budget or needs are, there's a perfect pair for you here.

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Overall Best: Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Bose Headphones 700, Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Over-Ear Wireless Headphones with Built-In Microphone for Clear Calls and Alexa Voice Control, Black

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are our top pick for 2024, and for good reason. These over-ear headphones excel in providing high-quality noise cancellation within a comfortable and lightweight design that’s perfect for travelers. According to our research, the intuitive touch controls and sleek design add to the premium feel, justifying their higher price tag. Sound quality is where these headphones truly shine, delivering balanced audio that doesn't drown out the mid and treble ranges. Ideal for both work calls in busy environments and peaceful listening sessions, the Bose 700s offer an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge, so you can enjoy uninterrupted audio whether you're commuting or on a long-haul flight.

Lowest at Amazon
$379.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$251.10 at Crutchfield

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Still curious about the Bose Headphones 700? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the sound quality of the Bose 700 compare to other high-end headphones?
If you're looking into high-end headphones, the Bose 700 is definitely worth considering, especially for its sound quality. From our research, it has a balanced audio profile—clear mids, detailed highs, and a bass that feels just right without being too much. This balance works well for many types of music, whether you're into classical or hip-hop. When you stack it up against other top-tier headphones like the [Sony WH-1000XM4](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0863TXGM3%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Sennheiser Momentum 3](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07VW98JY3%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), the Bose 700 doesn't lag. It has a warmer sound that a lot of people seem to like for long listening sessions. Sure, the [Sony WH-1000XM4](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0863TXGM3%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) might give you a bit more bass and slightly better noise cancellation, but the Bose 700 is often praised for its natural sound and clear vocals. Something else to note—the Bose 700 has an eight-microphone system that really shines for phone calls. This feature is mentioned a lot in reviews. Plus, its noise-canceling tech keeps the sound quality consistent whether you’re in a quiet room or a bustling café. So, while the best choice can depend on your personal taste, the Bose 700’s balanced sound, great call quality, and solid noise cancellation make it a strong pick in the premium headphone world.

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Runner-up: Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones with Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer, Crystal Clear Hands-Free Calling, and Alexa Voice Control, Midnight Blue Midnight Blue One Size Headphones

Securing the runner-up spot is the Sony WH-1000XM5, a powerhouse in noise-cancelling technology and refined sound profile. Lightweight and extremely comfortable, these headphones are perfect for extended listening. The WH-1000XM5 effectively blocks ambient noise year-round and comes packed with the latest noise-cancelling technology. Boasting a 30-hour battery life, you can enjoy your music without frequent recharges, and the quick charge feature provides an impressive 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. Additionally, aptX HD support makes them a top choice for Android users seeking high-resolution audio. Their high comfort level and stellar performance make them a worthy investment.

Lowest at Amazon
$229.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$159.99 at Bonanza

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Still curious about the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How is the sound quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
So, if you're curious about the sound quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5, here's the lowdown. From what we've gathered, these headphones really impress in terms of performance. You'll find the mids are clear, the highs are crisp, and the bass is deep, which makes them great for pretty much any type of music or audio you like. Everything sounds really well-balanced, so you won't get hit with overpowering bass or sharp high notes—just a nice, immersive listening experience. There's also a good sense of depth and detail, letting you catch all those little elements in your favorite tracks that you might miss with other headphones. What's also cool about the WH-1000XM5 is its noise-cancelling ability. The manufacturer says they use top-notch noise-cancelling tech, and based on what we've found, that's definitely true. They do a great job of blocking out ambient noise, whether you're on a plane or at a busy café, making the listening experience far more peaceful. Another thing to mention is the support for high-resolution audio formats. The manufacturer claims these headphones are compatible with LDAC, which means if you've got a device that supports it, you can stream high-quality audio that really stands out—perfect if you're an audiophile or just love high-quality sound. Comfort-wise, the WH-1000XM5s don't disappoint either. The ear cushions are super plush and the design is lightweight, so you can wear them for long periods without discomfort. This comfy fit also helps with the noise cancellation and overall sound quality, creating a good seal around your ears. So, if you're after headphones that deliver on sound quality and noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a fantastic option. They're great for both casual listening and more serious audiophile moments.

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Budget Pick: Soundcore Space One

Soundcore Space One Pro by Anker, Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Driven by 6 Mics, Super Foldable Design, 60H Lossless Audio, Ultra-Fast Charging, Hi-Res Wireless Audio, Comfortable Fit

For those on a tighter budget, the Soundcore Space One offers excellent value without compromising on quality. Priced under $100, these over-ear headphones deliver noise cancellation and sound quality that rivals more expensive models. Comfort isn’t sacrificed, as these headphones are suitable for long-term use. With an impressive 40-hour battery life even with active noise cancellation enabled, they promise uninterrupted listening sessions. The companion app allows for personalized sound adjustments, offering even greater value to this already budget-friendly choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$199.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Soundcore Space One Pro? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

Best Midrange Option: Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

Sennheiser Consumer Audio Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones - Bluetooth Headset for Crystal-Clear Calls with Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Lightweight Folding Design (Black/Copper)

If a midrange option is what you’re after, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless stands out. Known for their comfort, superior sound quality, and effective noise-cancelling capabilities, these headphones strike the perfect balance. Featuring a 42mm transducer system and the Sennheiser Smart Control App for personalized audio adjustments, they are designed to meet high expectations. The Momentum 4 Wireless includes a transparency mode and offers an astounding battery life of up to 60 hours, making them suitable for marathon workdays or long-haul flights.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$299.95 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are the touch controls like on the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless?
The touch controls on the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless are pretty straightforward and easy to use. Here's a quick breakdown of what you can do with them: ### Touch Control Features 1. **Play/Pause Music**: Just tap the right ear cup to play or pause your tunes. 2. **Volume Adjustment**: Slide your finger up or down on the right ear cup to change the volume. 3. **Skip Tracks**: Swipe forward on the right ear cup to move to the next song or swipe backward to go back. 4. **Answer/End Calls**: Tap the right ear cup once to answer a call and tap again to hang up. 5. **Activate Voice Assistant**: Hold the touchpad on the right ear cup to bring up [Siri](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsiri%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Google Assistant](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bassistant%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). 6. **Noise Cancellation/Transparency Mode**: Double-tap the right ear cup to switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode. ### Ease of Use From what we've found, most people think the touch controls work really well and are easy to get the hang of. Everything is placed where you'd expect it to be and it's simple to make quick changes without needing to dig out your phone. ### Additional Features - **Comfortable Fit**: These headphones are designed to be worn comfortably for long periods. - **Battery Life**: According to the manufacturer's product description, you get up to 60 hours of playback on a single charge, so you're not constantly looking for an outlet. - **Customizable Settings**: You can also use the [Sennheiser Smart Control App](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSennheiser%2BSmart%2BControl%2BApp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to tweak settings like the equalizer and even update the firmware. Overall, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has a great set of touch controls that make it easy to manage everything from music to calls without much hassle.
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How does the sound quality of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 compare to other high-end headphones?
When it comes to sound quality, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 really shines among other high-end headphones. The sound is well-balanced, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, so it works well with different music genres. The manufacturer lists these headphones with 42mm transducers for high-fidelity sound, which really makes for an immersive listening experience. You can hear every note and beat clearly, which is pretty impressive. Our research backs this up, with folks consistently praising the audio performance for its clarity and depth. Some even say it holds its own against other top brands like Bose and [Sony](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsony%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Many people think the Momentum 4 offers a natural and dynamic sound that audiophiles might find especially appealing. Plus, it features aptX Adaptive for low latency and high-quality audio, which is great if you're streaming music or watching videos. The active noise-canceling (ANC) is another strong point. It does a great job of cutting out external noise, so you can focus just on your music. Our data suggests that the ANC performance is up there with, if not better than, the [Sony WH-1000XM4](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0863TXGM3%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07Q9MJKBV%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Comfort and build quality are also big pluses here. The manufacturer claims they're lightweight with plush ear cushions, and our research agrees. People find them cozy enough for long listening sessions without discomfort. So, in a nutshell, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers top-notch sound quality that's right up there with other high-end headphones. Its balanced sound, advanced features like aptX Adaptive, and stellar noise-cancellation make it a solid pick in the premium market.

Best for Apple Users: Apple AirPods Pro 2

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds, Active Noise Cancellation, Hearing Aid Feature, Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio, High-Fidelity Sound, H2 Chip, USB-C Charging Without AppleCare+

For Apple devotees, the AirPods Pro 2 represent the pinnacle of noise-cancelling earbuds. Equipped with the new H2 chip, they deliver enhanced processing power and energy efficiency. These second-generation earbuds excel in both noise cancellation and transparency mode, making them versatile for various environments. Personalized spatial audio and a secure, comfortable fit mean you get a tailored listening experience. Convenient features like MagSafe and Lightning cable charging compatibility make these earbuds a seamless addition to the Apple ecosystem.

Lowest at Amazon
$199.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$69.99 at eCrater

More Answers

Still curious about the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

How good is the noise cancellation on AirPods Pro 2?
Let me give you the definitive answer: the noise cancellation on AirPods Pro 2 is genuinely exceptional – the kind of impressive that makes you wonder how you tolerated noisy environments before. ## Outstanding Noise Blocking Performance Apple claims twice the effectiveness of the original AirPods Pro, and this isn't marketing hyperbole. The improvement is immediately apparent from the moment you put them on. **Where They Absolutely Excel:** - **Air travel:** That constant engine drone disappearing completely transforms long flights into peaceful experiences - **Daily commuting:** Subway sounds, bus engines, and traffic noise become dramatically subdued - **Open office environments:** Distracting keyboard typing and conversations fade into the background - **Coffee shops and restaurants:** Ambient chatter and equipment noise virtually disappear ## The Advanced Technology Creating the Silence Multiple microphones continuously monitor environmental noise while the H2 chip performs thousands of real-time calculations to generate precise "anti-noise" that neutralizes unwanted sounds. This computational audio approach delivers consistently superior results across varying noise environments. ## Game-Changing Adaptive Transparency Mode This intelligent feature allows essential sounds (conversations, safety alerts, vehicle warnings) to pass through while maintaining protection against noise pollution. You can navigate urban environments safely while enjoying dramatically reduced background noise – perfect for city commuting and busy public spaces. ## Honest Assessment of Limitations **Complete silence isn't achievable.** Sharp, sudden sounds like car horns or direct conversation attempts will still penetrate. This intentional design prioritizes safety awareness. **Proper fit is absolutely critical.** Without an excellent ear tip seal, noise cancellation effectiveness plummets dramatically. Fortunately, Apple includes four tip sizes (XS through L) to accommodate most ear shapes. **Some users report firmware-related performance degradation.** While not universally experienced, it's worth monitoring your device's performance over time. ## Competitive Landscape Position These rank among the industry's top performers alongside Sony WF-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort earbuds. The AirPods Pro 2 particularly excel within Apple ecosystems due to seamless device integration and automatic feature optimization. ## The Transformative Bottom Line First-time noise cancellation users should prepare for a genuinely transformative audio experience. This technology becomes indispensable once experienced – particularly for frequent travelers and urban dwellers. The improvement over original AirPods Pro justifies upgrading for anyone prioritizing noise isolation in challenging acoustic environments. Remember: achieving optimal performance requires proper ear tip sizing – this single factor determines your entire noise cancellation experience. **Ready to experience industry-leading noise cancellation?** [Compare AirPods Pro 2 prices](https://shopsavvy.com/products/airpods-pro-2nd-gen) and find today's best deals from top retailers.
How long does the AirPods Pro 2 battery last?
If you're wondering whether the AirPods Pro 2 will actually last through your daily routine, I've got excellent news: Apple finally solved the battery life issue that frustrated users of the original model. ## The Real-World Battery Performance Let's cut to the chase – you're getting **6 solid hours** from the earbuds themselves, representing a substantial upgrade from the 4.5 hours of the first-generation model. That extra 1.5 hours might not sound dramatic on paper, but it makes the crucial difference between your AirPods dying during your evening commute versus lasting your entire workday. With the charging case, you're looking at **30 hours total** – enough to power you through almost a full week of moderate use without scrambling for a charging cable. ## The "Emergency Power" Solution We've all experienced that sinking feeling when AirPods are about to die right before an important call or during a long flight. Here's where the AirPods Pro 2 truly excel: - **5 minutes in the case** = 1 hour of listening (perfect for those quick coffee break charges) - **15 minutes** = 3 hours of power (enough time to grab lunch and save your commute) This rapid charging capability is genuinely transformative. You can rescue almost any dead battery situation with just a few minutes of strategic charging. ## What Actually Impacts Your Battery Life Here's the reality about what drains your battery faster: **The Primary Culprits:** - Maximum volume levels (try keeping it under 80% for optimal battery life) - Constant Active Noise Cancellation mode (though the audio improvement is worth it) - Extreme temperatures – your AirPods perform poorly in very cold or hot conditions **The Surprising Non-Issues:** - Transparency mode has minimal battery impact - Device switching between your iPhone and MacBook creates negligible drain - Spatial Audio processing is surprisingly efficient ## Real-World Usage Scenarios **For Average Users:** If you're using them 2-3 hours daily (commuting, calls, music), you'll probably charge the case twice weekly. It's remarkably freeing to stop constantly monitoring battery levels. **For Power Users:** Heavy users with AirPods in from 9 AM to 6 PM will need daily case charging. However, strategic quick top-ups during lunch breaks or meetings maintain continuous usage. **For Frequent Travelers:** This is where these truly shine. International flights and multi-day trips become stress-free without hunting for charging outlets. The 30-hour total capacity is genuinely reliable. ## The Advanced Technology Behind the Improvement Apple's H2 chip delivers genuine efficiency improvements beyond marketing claims. Think of it as upgrading from a gas-guzzling vehicle to an efficient hybrid – identical performance with dramatically better energy management. The charging case also received intelligence upgrades: enhanced power management, more efficient charging cycles, and superior charge retention when stored. ## Bottom Line: Freedom from Battery Anxiety If battery concerns were preventing your AirPods Pro purchase, the 2nd Generation essentially eliminates that hesitation. You'll no longer be the person frantically searching for chargers mid-day. The improvement feels more significant than raw numbers suggest because it crosses the psychological threshold where you stop obsessing over battery life and simply enjoy using them freely. That peace of mind alone justifies the investment. **Ready to upgrade your audio experience?** [Check current AirPods Pro 2 prices](https://shopsavvy.com/products/airpods-pro-2nd-gen) and find the best deals available today.
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