In 2024, noise-cancelling headphones have become an essential accessory for many people, with the global market expected to reach a staggering $12 billion. Whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or simply seeking an immersive listening experience, the top-rated options offer remarkable advancements. From industry-leading noise cancellation to high-fidelity audio, these headphones elevate everyday listening. As you delve into the intricacies of each model, you’ll discover features that cater to your unique preferences and lifestyle, making it easier to find the perfect pair to enhance your daily routine.
If you’re seeking the ultimate noise-cancelling experience, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Headphones are your best choice, offering industry-leading noise reduction and stunning sound quality.
These over-ear headphones boast advanced Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, providing a 30-foot range and up to 24 hours of battery life.
The built-in CustomTune technology guarantees a personalized audio experience, while the world-class noise cancellation with Quiet, Aware, and Immersion modes effectively blocks out 90-98% of ambient noise in most scenarios.
Although the bass is slightly overemphasized, the midrange performance is truly spectacular, and the treble is a bit rolled off.
Importantly, the headphones are incredibly comfortable, thanks to the luxurious leather headband and soft ear cushions.
With Snapdragon Sound Certification, Google Fast Pair, and an all-encompassing companion app, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers an exceptional noise-cancelling solution for discerning listeners.
Best For: Audiophiles and music lovers seeking the best-in-class noise cancellation and premium sound quality.
Pros:
Industry-leading noise cancellation that blocks up to 98% of ambient noise
Stunning sound quality with exceptional midrange performance
Incredibly comfortable and lightweight design for long listening sessions
Cons:
Bass is slightly overemphasized and may not appeal to all listeners
Treble is a bit rolled off, which may disappoint some audiophiles
Inconsistent noise cancellation performance depending on fit and environment
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones are an exceptional choice for those seeking unparalleled noise cancellation, with their Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer and dual processor-controlled 8-microphone system providing unprecedented ambient sound blockage.
Boasting up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capabilities, these lightweight, comfortable headphones offer Alexa voice control and crystal-clear hands-free calling.
While the noise cancellation isn’t perfect, especially for high-pitched sounds, users praise the awe-inspiring audio quality and the EQ feature on the companion app.
Some wearers find the headband slightly tight, but the soft, leather-clad design guarantees hours of comfortable use.
With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 14,000 reviews, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are a top contender in the noise-canceling headphones market.
Best For: Music enthusiasts and frequent travelers seeking top-of-the-line noise cancellation and exceptional audio quality in a comfortable, lightweight design.
Pros:
Exceptional noise cancellation with automatic optimization
Excellent audio quality with DSEE – Extreme and Hires support
Long battery life with quick charging capabilities
Cons:
Noise cancellation not perfect for high-pitched sounds
Some users find the headband slightly tight
Reports of occasional connectivity and hardware issues
Sennheiser Wireless Bluetooth Headphones (ACCENTUM Plus, White)
With its impressive 50-hour battery life and quick-charge capabilities, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus wireless Bluetooth headphones are an ideal choice for those seeking uninterrupted, high-quality audio on-the-go.
Engineered with precision, these headphones deliver an immersive HD stereo sound experience, thanks to their built-in 5-band EQ and customizable sound modes.
The adaptive hybrid ANC technology effectively blocks out ambient noise, ensuring a distraction-free listening experience.
Weighing just 12.3 ounces, the ACCENTUM Plus boasts an ergonomic, lightweight design with soft, cushioned ear cups and an adjustable headband, providing all-day comfort.
The intuitive touch controls allow you to easily navigate through your music and manage phone calls with a simple tap, slide, or swipe.
Whether you’re commuting, working, or traveling, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus delivers a superior audio performance that won’t leave you tethered to a power outlet.
Best For: The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus wireless Bluetooth headphones are best for audiophiles seeking premium sound quality, extended battery life, and all-day comfort during commutes, travel, or work.
Pros:
Impressive 50-hour battery life with quick 10-minute charging
Immersive HD stereo sound with customizable EQ and sound modes
Lightweight, ergonomic design for extended listening comfort
Cons:
Some reviewers mention minor issues with volume control
Touch controls may take time to get used to
Relatively high price point compared to some competitors
Soundcore by Anker, Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Boasting 2X stronger voice reduction and up to 55 hours of playtime, the Soundcore by Anker, Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are an excellent choice for commuters and frequent travelers seeking premium noise cancellation and extended battery life.
Equipped with 40mm custom dynamic drivers, these headphones deliver high-resolution wireless audio via LDAC, ensuring a rich, immersive listening experience.
The adaptive noise cancelling algorithm detects external sounds and sound leakage, effectively blocking out ambient noise.
Designed for comfort, the Space One features an 8° rotating earcup and a soft, integrated headband that conforms to your head for hours of distraction-free enjoyment.
Whether you’re taking important calls or indulging in your favorite tunes, the durable metal construction and lightweight, breathable earcups make these headphones a reliable companion.
Best For: Commuters and frequent travelers seeking premium noise cancellation and extended battery life.
Pros:
Excellent noise cancellation with 2X stronger voice reduction
Up to 55 hours of playtime on a single charge
Rich, immersive sound quality with LDAC high-resolution wireless audio
Cons:
Some customers mention that the sound quality is not amazing but decent for the price point
May not be the best choice for audiophiles seeking the highest sound quality
For those frequently on-the-go or in noisy environments, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC Wireless Headphones, Mauve provide adaptive noise cancellation and a comfortable, portable design.
Featuring 40mm drivers, you’ll enjoy exceptional sound quality, while the hybrid active noise cancellation reduces up to 25dB of ambient noise.
The form-fit earcups and adjustable hinges guarantee a customized, comfortable fit, and the foldable design allows for easy transport.
With up to 70 hours of battery life and Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, you can seamlessly toggle between devices.
The JLab app lets you customize the sound with EQ settings and presets, confirming an immersive listening experience.
Whether you’re commuting, working, or traveling, the JBuds Lux ANC headphones deliver impressive performance and versatility to keep you connected and entertained.
Best For: Frequent travelers, commuters, and those who require noise isolation in noisy environments.
Pros:
Hybrid active noise cancellation reduces up to 25dB of ambient noise.
Comfortable and customizable fit with form-fit earcups and adjustable hinges.
Impressive battery life of up to 70 hours (40 hours with ANC on).
Cons:
Relatively heavy at 235 grams (8.3 ounces).
No water/sweat resistance rating, limiting use during exercise.
Mauve color may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds are perhaps the best noise-cancelling headphones for those seeking a seamless integration with their Apple devices, thanks to the custom-designed H2 chip and U1 chip in the MagSafe Charging Case.
With up to 2x more active noise cancellation, you’ll enjoy dramatically less background noise.
The personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking delivers an immersive listening experience, while the Transparency mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings.
The earbuds’ lightweight design, comfortable silicone tips, and IP54 water and dust resistance guarantee all-day comfort.
With up to 6 hours of listening time per charge and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, you can power through your day without interruption.
The intuitive touch controls and clear call quality make these earbuds a must-have for Apple enthusiasts.
Best For: Apple enthusiasts seeking seamless integration and high-quality noise cancellation.
Pros:
Impressive active noise cancellation
Immersive Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
Comfortable and durable design with water/dust resistance
Cons:
Relatively expensive compared to other noise-cancelling earbuds
Not compatible with non-Apple devices without compromising features
Limited customization options for the fit and controls
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise Cancelling Headphones
When choosing noise-cancelling headphones, you’ll want to ponder sound quality and the ability to personalize your listening experience.
Additionally, pay attention to the headphones’ noise-cancellation performance, as this is a key feature.
Comfort, battery life, charging capabilities, connectivity, and device compatibility are also important factors to weigh.
Sound Quality and Personalization
One of the key factors to ponder when choosing noise-cancelling headphones is the sound quality and personalization options they offer. Sound quality can be quite subjective, so look for models that let you tailor the audio to your liking. Adjustable EQ settings are a great way to fine-tune the soundscape and find your perfect balance.
The drivers used also play a big role in the sound. Larger drivers often deliver better bass response, so if you crave deep, powerful low-end, that’s something to prioritize.
And for the most detailed, nuanced listening, seek out headphones with hi-res audio support like LDAC or aptX HD.
Spatial audio tech can also enhance the sound quality, creating a more immersive, 3D-like experience.
Plus, customizable sound modes for voice enhancement or bass boosting can be handy for specific content.
With so many personalization possibilities, you can craft the perfect audio setup for your needs and preferences.
Noise Cancellation Performance
In choosing noise-cancelling headphones, you’ll want to prioritize their noise cancellation performance, which can vary substantially across models.
The top-tier headphones on the market are capable of reducing ambient noise by an impressive 90-98%. However, the actual quality of the noise cancellation can be impacted by several factors, such as the fit of the headphones, the environment you’re in, and the specific type of noise you’re trying to cancel.
Many of the best noise-cancelling headphones utilize adaptive technology that automatically adjusts to the surroundings to optimize noise reduction.
Additionally, some models offer multiple noise cancellation modes, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your listening scenario, whether you need to stay aware of your environment or immerse yourself in your audio.
Keep in mind that there can be a trade-off between noise cancellation and sound quality, so you’ll need to strike the right balance based on your priorities.
With the right pair of noise-cancelling headphones, you can enjoy your music or podcasts in peace, even in noisy environments.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Alongside noise cancellation performance, the comfort and ergonomics of noise-cancelling headphones are essential aspects to ponder when making your purchase.
Lightweight designs with soft, cushioned ear cups and adjustable headbands can provide extended comfort and wearability, making them ideal for long listening sessions.
Ergonomic designs with rotating ear cups and adjustable hinges can offer a customized fit, ensuring the headphones stay comfortable and secure on your ears.
Materials like faux leather, soft fit leather, and cloud foam can contribute to a comfortable listening experience while also providing a premium feel.
A snug fit is pivotal for effective noise cancellation, as it helps block out ambient noise and allows the noise-cancelling technology to work more efficiently.
Adjustable headbands and ear cups can accommodate different head sizes and ear shapes, making these headphones suitable for a wide range of users.
Prioritize comfort and ergonomics to enhance your overall noise-cancelling experience.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life and charging capabilities are key considerations when choosing noise-cancelling headphones, as they can directly impact your listening experience and convenience.
The range in battery life, from around 20 hours to over 70 hours, means you’ll need to ponder how long you need your headphones to last between charges. Quick charging can be a lifesaver, providing several hours of use with just a few minutes of charging. Some models even offer wireless charging, eliminating the need for a cable and making it easier to keep them powered up.
The type of battery used can also affect the overall weight and comfort of the headphones. Heavier batteries may provide longer battery life, but could make the headphones less comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Don’t forget to ponder the charging case or dock, as it can offer additional battery life and make it simpler to keep your headphones charged on the go. With so many options, finding the right balance of battery life and charging capabilities is vital for a seamless noise-cancelling experience.
Connectivity and Device Compatibility
When you’re in the market for noise-cancelling headphones, the connectivity and device compatibility features deserve close attention, as they can substantially impact your listening experience.
Look for headphones with Bluetooth 5.3, which offers a range of up to 30 feet and improved stability, ensuring a reliable and interference-free connection. You’ll also find handy multi-point connection capabilities on some models, allowing you to toggle between two devices, such as your phone and laptop, with ease.
If you’re an Apple user, consider headphones like the AirPods Pro, which seamlessly pair with your devices thanks to the H1 chip.
Conversely, Android users will appreciate the convenience of Google Fast Pair technology, which streamlines the pairing process.
In addition, the growing prevalence of USB-C charging and audio cables provides faster charging and higher-quality audio transmission, enhancing your overall user experience.
Additional Features and Value
Aside from connectivity and device compatibility, several additional features can elevate your noise-cancelling headphone experience and provide lasting value.
Voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant allow you to control your music, check the weather, and more, all with the press of a button. Quick charging capabilities mean you can power up your headphones in a flash, ensuring you’re never left without your tunes. And customizable sound modes let you tailor the audio to your preferences, whether you’re looking for booming bass or a more balanced soundstage.
For those who frequently switch between devices, multi-point connection is a game-changer, enabling you to seamlessly shift between your phone, laptop, and tablet.
A sturdy carrying case or protective pouch, meanwhile, safeguards your investment when you’re on the go. And exclusive features like spatial audio or adaptive noise cancellation can be a major selling point for audiophiles seeking an immersive, high-fidelity experience.
Together, these extras elevate your noise-cancelling headphones, delivering unparalleled value and elevating your everyday listening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Noise Cancelling Headphones Be Used for Voice Calls?
Absolutely, noise-cancelling headphones can be used for voice calls. Their ability to block out ambient noise makes them ideal for clear, distraction-free conversations, whether you’re on a work call or chatting with friends.
How Long Do Noise Cancelling Headphones Typically Last on a Single Charge?
Noise-canceling headphones are the battery-powered unicorns of the audio world, mesmerizing your ears for up to 30 hours on a single charge before needing to refuel. With their magic, you can immerse yourself in uninterrupted audio bliss.
Are Noise Cancelling Headphones Suitable for Exercise and Physical Activities?
Noise-cancelling headphones can be suitable for exercise and physical activities, but you’ll need to choose a model designed for active use. Look for sweat-resistant, lightweight, and secure-fitting headphones that won’t fall off during your workout.
Can Noise Cancelling Headphones Be Paired With Multiple Devices Simultaneously?
You can typically pair noise-cancelling headphones with multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to seamlessly switch between your smartphone, laptop, and other Bluetooth-enabled gadgets. This feature provides convenience and flexibility when using your noise-cancelling headphones.
How Do Noise Cancelling Headphones Compare to Regular Headphones in Terms of Sound Quality?
Noise-cancelling headphones often sacrifice some sound quality compared to regular headphones, but they excel at blocking out external noise, providing a more immersive listening experience. The tradeoff is worth it for those seeking peace and quiet.
Conclusion
When it comes to noise-cancelling headphones, you’re spoiled for choice in 2024.
Whether you’re a sonic connoisseur or a tech-savvy listener, these top-rated picks have you covered.
From the legendary Bose and Sony to the up-and-coming Soundcore, the options are as diverse as your musical tastes.
So why settle for less than the best?
Indulge in the sonic bliss of these audio titans and let the world fade away.
