Struggling to concentrate? Tune out distractions instantly with the right headphones.
Noise-cancelling headphones can help you tune out distractions in seconds — whether it’s office chatter, airplane noise, traffic, or the general buzz of everyday life. The top models of today have four essential characteristics: strong active noise cancellation (ANC), high audio fidelity, comfort for a long time and smart connectivity with long battery life.
Headphones are now a daily necessity for listening to music, watching movies, attending online meetings, studying, and traveling. Noise-cancelling models are especially useful for students and professionals, as they can help to establish a more peaceful and productive environment in just about any setting. Using advanced technology that generates opposing soundwaves, these headphones reduce unwanted background noise so you can concentrate on what you actually want to hear.
Audio experts and product testers listened to dozens of headphones and earbuds in various categories, from wireless earbuds to workout headphones, budget-friendly options to high-end over-ear headphones, to determine which ones are the best. More than 20 pairs of noise-cancelling headphones were tested using audio-analysis software for ANC performance, sound clarity and overall listening quality for the latest round of testing. Consumer testers also gave hands-on feedback regarding comfort, fit, ease of use, and day-to-day performance, which helped identify which models were really effective.
Jump To Review Our Top Picks
1
Best Overall Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones
PROS
- Outstanding noise-cancellation performance
- Premium sound quality
- Immersive listening experience
- Sleek and comfortable design
CONS
- Battery life is shorter than some competitors
The best noise-cancelling headphones with mic keep getting better, and Bose has once again set a new standard with its QuietComfort Ultra. During testing, the sound clarity stood out across all types of audio, whether streaming music, podcasts, or calls. The new Immersion Mode—unavailable on other QuietComfort models or the Bose 700—creates a more lifelike, concert-like listening experience, while easy-to-use onboard controls allow quick switching between Aware, Immersion, and noise-cancelling modes.
What makes these the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic is their exceptional ANC performance. In lab testing and real-world use, including flights, they delivered top-tier noise cancellation that clearly outperformed earlier models. According to TBH Data Engineer Shahriar Rafi, “Noise cancellation is the cream of the crop,” and the audio quality is “clear and balanced,” making them ideal for both entertainment and calls.
Comfort is another highlight. The QuietComfort Ultra is lightweight, soft on the ears, and designed for long listening sessions without fatigue. Its compact, foldable design also makes it travel-friendly, fitting neatly into a small carrying case—perfect for users who need powerful performance on the go.
Battery life: 24 hours (18 with Immersive Audio) | Type: Over-ear
2
Best Value Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Soundcore by Anker Space One
PROS
- Budget-friendly and affordable
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Strong, long-lasting battery life
CONS
- Sound quality is not as premium as higher-end models
If you’re looking for great noise-canceling headphones with a microphone that won’t break the bank, the Anker Space One is an excellent option at less than $100. The Anker Space One is incredible value for money with a long battery life of up to 40 hours. Therefore, you can listen to music for long periods without having to recharge them frequently.
According to our Media & Tech Lab testing experts, they are lightweight, stylish and comfortable to wear; however, the build quality is less premium than other higher-priced options. The controls for both music and making phone calls are very easy to use.
If you are looking for the best sound quality, you may want to spend more. The Aker Space One has good noise cancellation capability and decent overall sound; however, testing by experts showed that the frequency response of the headphones can be improved. They were a little quieter than comparable models and experienced some distortion during testing.
Despite these few drawbacks, the Anker Space One remains one of the best affordable noise-canceling headphones with a microphone on the market. The Space One would be a good choice for the budget-minded consumer looking for good active noise canceling, clear sound quality for phone calls and long battery life.
Battery life: 40 hours with ANC on | Type: Over-ear
3
Best for Noise Cancelling Headphones with Mic
Sonos Ace | Noise Cancelling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Bluetooth
PROS:
- Outstanding noise-cancellation performance
- Modern and stylish design
- User-friendly controls and setup
CONS:
- Higher price point
If you’re looking for the best noise-cancelling headphones with a mic, the Sonos Ace deserves serious consideration. Known for delivering exceptional audio quality across its product lineup, Sonos has successfully brought its signature sound to its first-ever headphones. The Sonos Ace delivers rich, detailed audio performance, a sleek, premium design and ultra-soft earpads for extended listening sessions.
One of the standout features of these headphones is their lightweight construction. Testers found them remarkably comfortable to wear, while the intuitive physical controls provide a more reliable user experience than touch-sensitive alternatives. Whether you’re listening to music, taking calls, or joining virtual meetings, the built-in microphone delivers clear voice quality.
The Sonos Ace also ranks among the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic thanks to its outstanding active noise cancellation. In testing, it outperformed nearly every competing model, creating an immersive listening environment that effectively blocks out external distractions. The listening experience is engaging and refined, with its expansive soundstage, vibrant audio reproduction, and premium build quality.
Although the Sonos Ace comes with a premium price tag, its combination of superior sound quality, excellent microphone performance, class-leading noise cancellation, and slim travel-friendly carrying case makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking high-end wireless headphones.
Battery life: 24 hours with ANC on | Type: Over-ear
4
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic for DJS
Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
PROS:
- Premium sound quality
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Excellent battery endurance
CONS:
- Fit may be too large for some users
When searching for the best noise-cancelling headphones with Mic for DJs, Shure stands out as a brand that deserves serious attention. Renowned for its professional audio equipment, Shure delivers exceptional sound quality that impresses both audio enthusiasts and working DJs. During testing, experts praised these headphones for their crisp, balanced audio reproduction across the entire frequency range, providing a listening experience that stays true to the original recording.
One of the reasons these rank among the best noise-cancelling headphones with Mic for DJs is their remarkably accurate sound profile. With a flat frequency response and minimal distortion, DJs can hear tracks exactly as intended by producers and sound engineers, making them ideal for mixing, monitoring, and critical listening.
The headphones also feature effective active noise cancellation that ranks among the top performers in their category, helping DJs stay focused even in noisy environments. While the build may not feel quite as premium as some competing models and the fit can feel slightly large for users with smaller head sizes, overall comfort remains impressive for extended listening sessions.
Another major advantage is the outstanding battery life. With up to 45 hours of playback on a single charge, these headphones are an excellent choice for DJs, frequent travelers, and professionals who need reliable performance throughout long sessions. Combined with intuitive controls and a high-quality microphone for clear communication, they easily earn their place among the best noise-cancelling headphones with Mic for DJs available today.
Battery life: 45 hours | Type: Over-ear
5
Best for Most People Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic
Bose Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Over-Ear Wireless Headphones
PROS:
- Outstanding active noise-cancellation performance
- Rich, high-quality audio with excellent clarity
- Soft and comfortable ear cushions for extended wear
- Intuitive controls and user-friendly operation
- Modern, lightweight, and stylish design
CONS:
- Touch gestures take time to master
- Cannot fold for easier portability
When you’re looking for the best for most people noise-cancelling headphones with Mic, Bose has a product that can’t be beat. Renowned for producing crystal-clear audio, Bose continues its legacy with a pair of wireless headphones that earned one of the highest overall scores in testing.
The headphones are designed for everyday use, with a sleek and lightweight design that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. It’s easy to set up, and the carrying case, USB-C charging cable and audio cable are all included for added convenience, particularly for travelers who use in-flight entertainment systems.
The standout feature of these as the best for most people noise-cancelling headphones with Mic is their outstanding active noise cancellation. They performed better than several other models in tests, and they blocked out distractions without sacrificing great sound quality. The sound profile is very well balanced, with clear vocals, rich music playback and an immersive listening experience for entertainment and calls.
The built-in microphone also guarantees clear voice transmission, making these headphones a great option for work meetings, phone calls, and virtual communication. The noise cancellation feature can be easily adjusted by the user to let in ambient noise when required and simple swiping gestures offer quick volume control.
Battery life: 20 hours | Type: Over-ear
6
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic for Work
Bowers & Wilkins PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
PROS:
- Exceptional active noise-cancellation performance
- Rich and well-balanced audio quality
- Extended battery life for all-day listening
- Intuitive controls and easy operation
CONS:
- Heavier than several rival models
This is a great option for anyone looking for the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for work, as it provides a distraction-free environment and excellent audio quality. It’s not the cheapest, but its outstanding noise-canceling features make it a good buy for remote workers, office staff, and travelers.
During testing, these headphones ranked alongside some of the top-performing noise-cancelling models on the market. They were especially noted for their noise-canceling capabilities, which eliminate background noise without creating the high-pitched hiss that can occur with active noise-canceling headphones. This results in a more natural and comfortable listening experience during the workday.
As one of the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for work, the headphones also deliver solid sound quality for virtual meetings, phone calls, podcasts, and music. The headphones feature a built-in microphone for clear communication and transparency mode to hear important conversations and surrounding sounds without removing the headphones.
The headphones are a bit heavier than some of the other models, but the physical control buttons are easy to use and intuitive. They can last up to 30 hours on a single charge, ensuring reliable performance throughout the day for busy professionals who demand uninterrupted productivity.
Battery life: 30 hours | Type: Over-ear
7
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic for Airplanes
Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones
PROS:
- Outstanding audio clarity and overall sound performance
- Lightweight design that remains comfortable during extended use
- Simple controls and intuitive navigation
CONS:
- Carrying case is larger than expected
If you’re searching for the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for airplanes, these Sony over-ear headphones are an outstanding choice. Combining exceptional comfort, premium sound quality, and effective noise cancellation, they are ideal for frequent flyers, business travelers, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful journey.
During testing, the headphones earned top marks for comfort, ease of use, and audio performance. Their lightweight construction and highly adjustable headband allow them to fit a wide range of head sizes comfortably, making them perfect for long-haul flights. The flexible design and swiveling earcups further enhance comfort, reducing fatigue during extended listening sessions.
What makes these some of the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for airplanes is their ability to deliver pristine sound while effectively minimizing cabin noise. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or taking calls, the audio remains clear, balanced, and immersive. The built-in microphone also ensures reliable voice quality for calls and virtual meetings while traveling.
Battery life is another major advantage, offering up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, or up to 24 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. The responsive touch controls make it easy to adjust volume, manage playback, and answer calls, while fast and seamless device pairing adds extra convenience.
Although the carrying case could be more compact for travel, the combination of superior comfort, excellent microphone performance, outstanding sound quality, and effective noise cancellation makes these Sony headphones among the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for airplanes available today.
Battery life: 24 hours with ANC on | Type: Over-ear
8
Best Apple Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
PROS:
- Stylish, premium design available in several attractive color choices
- Excellent audio performance with effective noise cancellation
- User-friendly and responsive controls
- Smooth connectivity and ecosystem integration with Apple devices
CONS:
- Expensive compared to rivals
- Lacks a traditional headphone jack
The Apple AirPods Max are the top choice for those seeking the best apple noise-cancelling headphones with mic, offering a high-quality design, integration with the Apple ecosystem, and exceptional audio quality. The headphones come in five chic metallic colors and offer strong active noise cancellation, making them a great option for Apple fans.
The AirPods Max are built to be convenient and portable, folding into a compact carrying case that can be easily placed in a bag when you’re on the go. The case isn’t the most protective one out there, but it does keep the headphones tidy and easy to carry around.
The AirPods Max is one of the best apple noise-cancelling headphones with mic due to its outstanding audio performance and user-friendly design. In the test, the high-quality and detailed sound was commended, as was the innovative Digital Crown control, which enables the user to adjust the volume, play or pause music, skip tracks and control calls with ease. The built-in microphone also provides clear voice quality for phone calls, video conferences, and voice commands.
Connectivity is easy for Apple users with seamless Bluetooth pairing between iPhones, iPads, Macs and other Apple devices. But prospective buyers should be aware that the AirPods Max are not equipped with a standard audio jack, so there may be a need for an extra adapter or cable to connect with some in-flight entertainment systems.
While they are a bit more expensive and heavier than some of the other models on the market, their luxury design, exceptional audio quality, noise-canceling capabilities, and seamless integration with Apple products make the AirPods Max one of the best Apple noise-canceling headphones with mic today.
Battery life: 20 hours | Type: Over-ear
9
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones with Mic for Battery Life
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
PROS:
- Strong noise-cancellation capabilities
- High-quality sound reproduction
- Outstanding battery endurance
CONS:
- Controls can feel unintuitive at first
If battery endurance is your top priority, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 stands out as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for battery life. With an impressive claimed battery life of up to 60 hours, these headphones are ideal for long flights, road trips, workdays, and extended listening sessions without the constant need to recharge.
During testing, product analysts found the Momentum 4 exceptionally lightweight and comfortable, making them easy to wear for hours at a time. While the gesture-based controls may require a short learning curve, users quickly adapt to the intuitive touch interface.
What truly makes the Momentum 4 one of the best noise-cancelling headphones with mic for battery life is its combination of outstanding audio performance and effective active noise cancellation. Experts praised the headphones for their rich, dynamic sound signature, highlighting the deep bass response and overall audio clarity that enhance both music and spoken content.
The built-in microphone also delivers clear voice quality for calls and virtual meetings, making these headphones a versatile choice for both entertainment and productivity. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or working remotely, the Momentum 4 provides an immersive listening experience backed by industry-leading battery performance.
Battery life: 60 hours | Type: Over-ear
10
Best In-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Sony WF-1000XM5 Premium Noise Cancelling
PROS:
- Outstanding active noise-cancellation performance
- Comfortable and secure fit for all-day wear
- Water- and sweat-resistant design for workouts and outdoor use
- Convenient wireless charging support
CONS:
- Battery life falls short of some rival models
In terms of the top in ear noise-cancelling headphones, Sony is still the leader with its new high-end earbuds. Sony is known for its high-quality audio products, and these earbuds are no exception. In testing, they were commended for their full and detailed sound and overall performance.
Designed to be compact yet powerful, these earbuds offer some of the most effective active noise cancellation available in an in-ear design. One of the things that impressed testers was their ability to block out the noise around them, making them feel like they are listening to music in isolation, even when they are in a busy environment, commuting, or traveling.
What makes these among the best in ear noise-cancelling headphones is their combination of comfort and performance. Sony includes up to four ear tip sizes, including an extra-small option, allowing users to find a secure and comfortable fit. Despite their small size, the earbuds remain stable during everyday use and workouts.
In addition to industry-leading noise cancellation, these earbuds feature water-resistant construction, making them suitable for exercise and outdoor activities. Wireless charging support adds extra convenience, while the battery provides up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge, with a total of up to 24 hours when combined with the charging case.
Battery life: 8 hours (24 hours total with case) | Type: In-ear
11
Best In-Ear Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Sound Quality
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Wireless Earbuds
PROS:
- Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry
- Excellent noise cancellation with outstanding sound quality
- Quick and hassle-free setup
- Seamless connectivity across Apple devices
- Water- and sweat-resistant for workouts and everyday use
CONS:
- In-ear fit may be less comfortable than over-ear models for long-term wear
If you’re searching for the best in-ear noise-cancelling earbuds for sound quality, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are among the top choices available. These compact wireless earbuds combine premium audio performance, effective active noise cancellation, and effortless portability, making them ideal for everyday use, travel, and workouts.
Despite their small size, the AirPods Pro (Gen 2) delivered impressive results during testing, outperforming several over-ear headphones in overall audio performance. Experts praised their well-balanced frequency response, particularly in the bass range, along with minimal distortion—an achievement that’s uncommon for true wireless earbuds. The result is a rich, detailed listening experience for music, podcasts, and calls.
One reason these rank among the best in-ear noise-cancelling earbuds for sound quality is their advanced active noise cancellation. While they may not match the isolation of premium over-ear headphones, they offer some of the strongest noise-cancelling performance available in an in-ear design, effectively reducing background noise in busy environments.
Apple users will appreciate the quick and seamless setup, while the intuitive touch controls make it easy to manage playback, adjust settings, and answer calls. The earbuds provide up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, with up to 30 hours of total battery life using the wireless charging case.
Additional features such as dust, sweat, and water resistance make the AirPods Pro an excellent choice for workouts and outdoor activities. Although the in-ear design may become less comfortable during extended listening sessions than traditional over-ear headphones, their outstanding sound quality, reliable noise cancellation, and effortless Apple integration make them one of the best in-ear noise-cancelling earbuds for sound quality available today.
Battery life: 6 hours (30 hours total with charging case) | Type: In-ear
How We Test the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones
To identify the best noise-cancelling headphones, the experts at The Beauty Homes follow a comprehensive testing process based on years of hands-on experience. Our team has been evaluating headphones and earbuds for more than a decade, accumulating over 300 hours of listening tests in the past five years alone. In our latest evaluation, led by audio expert Nik Greenwald, we thoroughly tested 25 pairs of noise-cancelling headphones to determine the top performers.
Our testing begins by assessing each model’s ease of use. We evaluate how quickly and reliably the headphones connect to smartphones, tablets, and laptops via Bluetooth. We also test the onboard controls while listening to music, podcasts, and other audio content, checking how intuitive it is to adjust the volume, play or pause tracks, skip songs, answer calls, and enable or disable active noise cancellation.
In addition, we install and review any companion apps provided by the manufacturer. Features such as customizable EQ settings, spatial audio, firmware updates, and other sound-enhancing tools are carefully evaluated to determine their usefulness and overall user experience.
Comfort is another essential factor when choosing the best noise-cancelling headphones. Our experts wear each pair for extended listening sessions to assess the fit, weight, ear cushion comfort, and long-term wearability, ensuring every recommendation delivers both exceptional performance and lasting comfort.
To determine the best noise-cancelling headphones, we evaluate every model using a combination of laboratory testing and real-world listening. Our review process focuses on four key areas: active noise-cancellation performance, audio spectrum analysis, overall sound quality, and long-term durability.
- Noise-Cancellation: One of the most important qualities of the best noise-cancelling headphones is how effectively they block external distractions. To measure this, our experts wear each pair with active noise cancellation enabled while no music is playing. We then use professional audio analysis software (REW) to generate pink noise—a consistent sound that closely simulates everyday background noise such as traffic, engine hum, and office chatter. The pink noise is played through laptop speakers, and we gradually increase the volume until it becomes audible through the headphones. This allows us to accurately compare the effectiveness of each model’s noise-cancellation technology.
- Audio Spectrum Analysis: To objectively evaluate audio performance, we use a MiniDSP EARS headphone measurement system that replicates the shape and acoustics of the human ear. Each pair is tested to produce a detailed frequency response graph, highlighting boosts and dips across the audio spectrum. We pay close attention to bass, midrange, and treble balance, as the best noise-cancelling headphones should deliver an accurate and natural sound signature. We also analyze distortion levels, giving higher ratings to headphones that reproduce audio with exceptional clarity and minimal coloration.
- Sound Quality Evaluation: Technical measurements are complemented by extensive real-world listening tests. Our Media & Tech experts evaluate each pair using a wide variety of content, including music from multiple genres, podcasts, movies, and voice recordings. We assess clarity, detail, bass response, vocal reproduction, soundstage, and overall listening experience to identify the best noise-cancelling headphones for everyday use.
- Durability and Build Quality: In addition to audio performance, we assess each model’s durability by reviewing the manufacturer’s water- and dust-resistance ratings (IP ratings) along with overall construction quality. While water resistance isn’t essential for every user, we favor headphones that are built to withstand daily wear, travel, commuting, workouts, and other demanding environments. This ensures our recommendations for the best noise-cancelling headphones offer not only excellent sound but also reliable long-term performance.
When buying noise-canceling headphones, there are a number of things to keep in mind.
✔ Type: When it comes to noise-cancelling headphones, it is crucial to consider more than just the brand name and focus on the features that align with your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for comfort, battery life, durability, or portability, the right pair of headphones for you will depend on your intended use.
One of the first things to consider when looking for noise-cancelling headphones is whether to opt for over-ear headphones or wireless earbuds. The over-ear models tend to offer the best active noise cancellation as the larger ear cups form a better seal around your ears, which helps to block out external noise more effectively.
In recent years, noise-canceling earbuds have come a long way and deliver great sound quality in a compact design. They can let in a little more outside noise and can be more sensitive to wind, but are great for users who value portability, commuting, or exercise. Before choosing the type of headphones that are best for you, think about how you will use them.
✔ ️Comfort: If you’re looking for noise-canceling headphones, comfort is a major factor, particularly if you’ll be wearing them for long periods. Over-ear headphones have ear cushions that wrap around your ears, which are a popular option for extended listening sessions. In-ear earbuds feature silicone ear tips that form a tight seal in the ear canal, providing a lightweight and compact option.
Both designs have their advantages and disadvantages. There are over-ear models that offer comfort and earbuds that offer convenience and portability. The selection of the right fit depends on your preference and use.
✔ ️Battery Life: When buying noise-cancelling headphones, check Battery Life: Battery performance is another important factor to consider. Longer battery life translates to fewer interruptions and less charging if you are traveling often or listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls for long periods of time.
As a rule of thumb, headphones with a battery life of 20 hours or more are good, and better-quality headphones will have much longer battery life per charge.
✔ ️Consider Durability: If you are going to use your headphones outdoors or while exercising, durability is a factor to consider when making your purchase. When buying noise-canceling headphones, look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating that will tell you if the headphones are dust, sweat, or water resistant.
Most noise-cancelling headphones are not waterproof, but those that are water resistant offer extra security when you’re using them every day and exposed to the elements.
✔ Accessories: Accessories can make a difference in the overall experience. When buying noise-canceling headphones, look for the carrying case, charging cable, and any audio cable that is included. A small protective case will make traveling easier, and a 3.5mm audio cable or adapter is particularly convenient for use with in-flight entertainment systems that don’t support Bluetooth.
By carefully comparing these features, you’ll be able to find a pair of noise-cancelling headphones that delivers the right balance of comfort, sound quality, battery life, and convenience for your everyday needs.
