Active noise cancelling headphones have revolutionized the way we listen to music and podcasts. By electronically detecting and cancelling out ambient noise, they allow us to immerse ourselves in audio without distraction. Here are some of the best options for a peaceful listening experience.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II are widely considered the gold standard for noise-cancelling headphones. They offer three levels of noise cancellation so you can choose your preferred level of awareness of the outside world. They are also supremely comfortable, with plush earpads that make them easy to wear for long periods. The sound quality is balanced and natural, perfect for listening to a wide range of audio content.
Sony’s WH-1000XM3 are top-rated wireless noise-cancelling headphones that rival the Bose. They provide an incredibly effective level of noise cancellation and high-resolution audio quality with a punchy, dynamic sound. They offer touch controls, a dedicated app for customizing the audio and enabling special features like optimizing the noise cancellation for your environment.
The Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless headphones have a more affordable price point while still providing very good noise cancellation and audio quality. They have a minimalist foldable design, intuitive touch controls and support high-quality Bluetooth codecs for a strong wireless connection. The sound has a warm, smooth quality that makes them well-suited for jazz, acoustic and vocal music.
For those on a tighter budget, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 provide solid noise cancellation and sound quality at a lower cost. They are wireless, comfortable and foldable, with 40 hours of battery life and a bass-forward sound. The noise cancellation is quite effective for the price, though not on par with the Bose or Sony models. Still, they offer great value if you’re looking for noise-cancelling on a budget.
In the over-ear category, it’s hard to beat the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT. They offer high-fidelity audio with rich, detailed sound and natural noise cancellation at an affordable price. The earpads are very comfortable, the build quality is rugged yet lightweight, and the battery lasts up to 25 hours per charge. For audiophiles who want minimal coloration of the sound, these are a fantastic choice.
For those who prefer earbud-style headphones, the Libratone Track Air+ are a great pick. They provide adjustable noise cancellation, wireless connectivity and up to 6 hours of battery life. The fit is comfortable yet secure, and the sound has punchy bass, clear mids and crisp highs. They offer a minimalist design and a companion app to tweak the sound to your liking.
The Jabra Elite 85h are a compelling new entry with outstanding battery life. They last up to 36 hours with noise cancellation on, and provide a comfortable over-ear fit, intuitive controls, and a balanced sound with punchy bass. They offer multiple levels of noise cancellation to suit your needs, and a 2-year warranty for peace of mind. For frequent travellers, these are a fantastic choice.
Overall, while Bose and Sony still dominate, there are many high-quality noise-cancelling headphones at a range of price points. With the right pair, you can enjoy your audio content in peace wherever you go.