13 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Clear Audio in 2025
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The best noise-cancelling headphones cut distractions so you can stay focused on your games, work, movies, or music. Choosing the right pair often comes down to how they balance noise reduction and comfort in various environments. I’ve highlighted 13 standout pairs that have strong ANC, comfort, and top-tier sound quality across different budgets. You’ll see premium flagship models alongside value-friendly picks, so everyday listeners and audiophiles alike can find suitable headphones. You can spend less time comparing specs and more time enjoying your audio.
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Our Top Picks for Noise-Cancelling Headphones
With so many ANC headphones on the market, it helps to start with a smaller selection of the best. These three models stand out for their active noise cancellation and everyday practicality.
- Bose New QuietComfort Ultra (2025) – Industry-leading ANC and spatialized audio make this a versatile pair for flights and focused work. They are easily one of the best options for daily listening across devices.
- Monster Persona 6th (2025) – A budget-friendly option that still offers hybrid ANC modes. A long 60-hour battery life and comfortable memory foam earcups are perfect for commuting or office use.
- Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium (2022) – These premium Sony ANC headphones combine adaptive noise control and refined sound. Excellent call quality is great for those who move between work calls and music throughout the day.
Keep reading to see how these and my ten other options compare on noise cancellation strength, sound profile, battery life, and a host of extra features that make it easy to find a pair suited for you.
13 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Focused Listening
Below, we’ll cover every possible use for sound-blocking headphones. Premium travel pairs to noise cancellation that work best in the office are available here, as well as wired studio classics and workout-ready sets. By the end of the guide, you’ll know which of the best noise-cancelling headphones fits your priorities.
1. Bose New QuietComfort Ultra [Best Overall Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (USB-C, 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.4) |
| Battery Life | 30 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Active and Passive Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 35 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs |
| Special Features | Cinema Mode for Movies, AI-Based Background Noise Suppression for Microphone |
Bose positions the New QuietComfort Ultra as their best noise-cancelling headphones yet, and the features definitely back them up. Quiet Mode handles airplane engines and office hum, while Aware Mode brings outside sound back in when you need awareness. Immersion Mode combines ANC with Bose Immersive Audio, which shifts the soundstage in front of you so music feels wide open.
A battery life of up to 30 hours (or 23 hours with Immersive Audio active) gives you enough time for long travel days or a full week of your commute. USB-C support manages lossless wired playback when you want to hear every detail.
The Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) bring together Bose’s strongest ANC and spatial audio, with comfort that suits long flights and full workdays.
Comfort stays front and center, with earcups that wrap your ears with soft cushions. The refined metal headband evenly spreads pressure, while the built-in microphones reduce background noise with AI-based processing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Bose’s strongest noise-cancelling with Quiet, Aware, and Immersion modes ✅ CustomTune tech adapts audio to the shape of your ears ✅ Up to 30 hours of play time, or 23 hours with Immersive Audio active ✅ USB-C lossless audio option for detailed wired listening ✅ Mutli-device Bluetooth pairing for quick switching between phone and laptop | ❌ Premium price, but it’s suited for buyers who value top-tier ANC and features |
Final Verdict: The Bose New QuietComfort Ultra headphones are perfect if you are often in situations that require ANC. They stand out as a balanced choice for those who need quiet listening and immersive, personalized audio quality.
2. Monster Persona 6th [Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 6.0) |
| Battery Life | 60 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Weight | 0.85 lbs |
| Special Features | Ventilated Earpads |
Monster focuses on Pure Monster Sound, driven by 40mm drivers for energetic listening. The Monster Persona 6th headphones have three distinct modes. First is a full ANC to reduce background noise. Transparency mode keeps you aware of your surroundings, while Balanced mode lightly manages distractions in quieter places.
Endurance and battery life are where these headphones really stand out, though. 60 hours of battery life mean you can handle longer commutes and busy work weeks without charging.
The Monster Persona 6th headphones offer hybrid ANC modes and 60 hours of battery life at an accessible price.
Slow-rebound memory foam earcups and a lightweight, adjustable headband make these headphones comfortable for long wear. Ventilated pads reduce heat to keep your ears cooler. Plus, dual-device support and fast Bluetooth 6.0 capabilities allow you to move between phone and laptop without any barriers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Pure Monster Sound tuning with clear highs and strong low-end presence ✅ Three listening modes: ANC, transparency, and balanced ✅ Up to 60 hours of play time from a single charge ✅ Memory-foam earcups and ventilated pads for better comfort and breathability ✅ Bluetooth 6.0 for stable, low-latency wireless connections | ❌ ANC isn’t as strong as traditional flagships, but there are other features to make up for it |
Final Verdict: Prioritizing value can sometimes mean losing out on quality, but the Monster Persona 6th headphones are an easy entry point into quality ANC.
3. Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium [Best Sony Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.2, 30-foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 30 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 30 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs |
| Special Features | Touch Controls, Hands-Free Calling with Audio Signal Processing |
Sony‘s system uses multiple microphones and processors to refine how these sound-blocking headphones handle different environments. Adaptive Sound Control learns where you typically listen and adjusts the settings to match, while Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses music when you start talking.
The precision-engineered driver focuses on natural, detailed reproduction. The Sony Headphones app lets you fine-tune EQ to match your taste, which is useful if you prefer extra low-end punch or a more neutral profile for work.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium‘s dual processors and 8 microphones reduce a startling amount of background noise, and it’s backed by the strongest smart features I’ve seen.
These headphones can go for up to 30 hours, and a short three-minute charge provides roughly three hours of playback when you pair them with a compatible USB charger. Call quality is another strong point. Four beamforming microphones and advanced processing help your voice stay clear in busy spaces. Finally, the soft leather cups and lightweight build make them comfortable for long days.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Advanced noise-cancelling with dual processors and 8 microphones ✅ Adaptive Sound Control that adjusts based on environment and behavior ✅ Up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging support ✅ Touch controls for playback, volume, and voice assistant access ✅ Soft fit leather and a lightweight frame for extended wear | ❌ Doesn’t fold as compactly as some travel-focused models, but offers greater performance |
Final Verdict: If you want feature-rich ANC headphones with adaptive noise control and strong call performance, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are ideal for you.
4. Sennheiser HD 599 SE [Best Open-Back Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Open-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (6.35 mm Jack) |
| Battery Life | Wired Use Only (No Battery) |
| Noise Cancellation | Passive Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 38 mm |
| Weight | 0.6 lbs |
| Special Features | Audiophile-Grade Sound, Lightweight Design |
The Sennheiser HD 599 SE headphones emphasize a balanced, natural sound. The open-back structure gives music a sense of space that feels relaxed and natural, a hallmark of some of the best Sennheiser headphones in their lineup. Classical music lovers and acoustic fans will love the way these headphones make their favourite tracks sound as a result. The wired connection allows the audio to avoid multiple processing layers, so it stays consistent across every audio source.
The Sennheiser HD 599 SE‘s open-back design gives you a natural, spacious presentation. Listeners who want clarity and detail in their music will love the consistency of these headphones.
Comfort is one of the biggest strengths of these headphones. The velour pads feel gentle on the ears, while the padded headband reduces pressure during long listening sessions. They offer flexible connectivity with two included detachable cables. These cables make the Sennheiser HD 599 SE headphones compatible with audio gear, laptops, tablets, and phones.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Open-back build creates a wide, airy sense of space ✅ Aluminum voice coils support efficient performance and low distortion ✅ Velour-covered pads and light frame for comfortable sessions ✅ Detachable cables simplify replacement and device switching ✅ Works with phones, tablets, laptops, and audio interfaces | ❌ Open-back design doesn’t block outside noise, but it’s perfect for listening at home |
Final Verdict: Listeners who want wired headphones with spacious audio and consistent performance will appreciate the Sennheiser HD 599 SE.
5. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX [Most Comfortable Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Gaming]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.1) |
| Battery Life | 30 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Weight | 0.6 lbs |
| Special Features | Touch Controls, Hybrid ANC |
When you need headphones that are comfortable and sound great, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX are the way to go. The lambskin cushions and moldable memory foam adapt to the shape of your head. A redesigned headband uses a center relief zone to ease pressure for longer wear, so you can go all day without discomfort.
Its hybrid ANC features balanced loud environments without any heavy clamping or pressure fatigue. Transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings, too. The sound is clear across frequencies, so you can chat and stream without any quality loss. That alone makes them among the best gaming headsets available.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX uses premium materials in a lightweight construction, so the fit is always comfortable.
Up to 30 hours of battery life support all-day wear, and the quality build makes these headphones feel exceptionally premium. Pair them with one of the best microphones for streaming to complete you gaming and streaming setup.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lambskin and memory-foam pads for a pressure-free fit ✅ Hybrid ANC reduces background noise for better focus ✅ Up to 30 hours of play time with Bluetooth and ANC active ✅ Scandinavian design with a refined, minimalist look ✅ Four-mic system supports better call performance ✅ Bluetooth 5.1 for faster, steadier pairing | ❌ Pricey, but made with premium materials and a luxury design |
Final Verdict: The Beoplay HX headphones are a strong choice for listeners who place comfort at the top of their list. Gamers and remote workers will appreciate the long-wear fit and reliable ANC.
6. Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. [Best Portable Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.3, 30-foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 70 Hours (ANC On), 100 Hours (ANC Off) |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 32 mm |
| Weight | 0.55 lbs |
| Special Features | Long Battery Life, Classic Leather Aesthetic |
Marshall’s ANC system is updated for the Monitor III A.N.C. headphones. Now, it can more accurately reduce noise on commutes and during travel, so loud trains and buses don’t interrupt your music. Transparency mode brings the outside world back in with a quick switch when you need to be more aware.
Battery life is the star of the show, with up to 70 hours of wireless ANC time. If you only use them during your commute, you won’t have to charge them very frequently.
The Marshall Monitor III A.N.C focus on portability and endurance. The build is rugged, and the battery can last an impressive 70 hours with ANC active.
As far as sound goes, these headphones have a warmth that Marshall headphones are known for. The new Soundstage feature moves audio outward for a wider feel, while Dynamic Loudness adjusts the balance as the volume changes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Up to 70 hours of wireless play with ANC active (100 hours without) ✅ Foldable design and hard case for easier packing ✅ Dynamic Loudness adjusts tuning across volume levels ✅ Upgraded ANC continually measures ambient noise ✅ Soft ear cushions support long sessions | ❌ Appeals more to everyday listeners, but offers a warm sound profile most will love |
Final Verdict: The compact Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. headphones are great for travellers and commuters. They fold away nicely and offer dependable ANC that works well in loud locations.
7. Hifiman Sundara Planar Magnetic [Best Noise-Cancelling Wired Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Open-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack) |
| Battery Life | Wired Use Only (No Battery) |
| Noise Cancellation | Passive Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | Planar Magnetic Drivers (No Size Comparison) |
| Weight | 0.82 lbs |
| Special Features | Thin Profile, Rugged Design |
The Hifiman Sundara headphones rely on a thin, lightweight diaphragm that helps them respond quickly to audio changes. All of your audio sounds cleaner across your devices, which can help with critical listening and analysis. Long-form music sessions are a joy with these headphones.
They offer an open structure that helps all of your sound feel wide, so instruments and voices are more defined. Unlike some of the other best wired headphones I’ve tried, their noise isolation features don’t mess with the wide soundstage. They are solid passive noise-cancelling headphones.
The Hifiman Sundara headphones use planar magnetic drivers that are extremely unique. The focus on accuracy and the detail in the sound profile make these stand out.
The planar magnetic drivers are more demanding than typical dynamic drivers, so they work best when used at home with a suitable audio source. Since they don’t compress or process audio, they work great with in-home audio equipment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Planar magnetic diaphragm is extremely thin for responsive performance ✅ Wide, open soundstage that feels natural and detailed ✅ Durable all-metal headband built for regular use ✅ New 3.5 mm connectors improve cable stability ✅ Updated earpads and upgraded OFC cable for dependable performance ✅ Lightweight frame and suspension strap for easier long-term wear | ❌ Need adequate amplification to reach full capability, but audiophiles will love the option |
Final Verdict: Music lovers appreciate the clear, controlled sound of the Hifiman Sundara headphones. The open design and planar drivers make it perfect for home listening.
8. JLab JBuds Lux [Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Gym]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Bluetooth 5.0) |
| Battery Life | 70 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs |
| Special Features | Cloud Foam Comfort, Multipoint Bluetooth Connections |
The JLab JBuds Lux have incredibly flexible ANC, so you can control how much of the gym environment you want to block out. Smart ANC features learn from the ambient noise and adjust the level of noise reduction you need, while the Be Aware mode helps you stay mindful of your surroundings.
Substantial battery life and a lightweight, fatigue-free fit make them some of the best over-ear headphones for everyday use. They’ll stay strong from the gym to your commute and back again.
The JLab JBuds Lux have a long battery life and three powerful ANC modes for clear sound. The customization available through the JLab app helps these headphones reach their full potential.
The lightweight design and close fit of these headphones put them among the best headphones for working out. They won’t slide off your head during rigorous workouts, and the ANC features keep the rest of the gym quiet.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 40mm drivers create energetic sounds suited for workouts ✅ Smart ANC adapts to changing environments ✅ Be Aware mode keeps you aware of nearby activity ✅ Up to 70+ hours of play time or 40+ hours with ANC active ✅ Bluetooth multipoint plus Google Fast Pair Support ✅ Form-fit earcups with Cloud Foam Cushions | ❌ Larger over-ear size may feel warm during intense workouts, but your music will sound amazing |
Final Verdict: Active listeners who need ANC headphones with long battery life (and adjustable modes) will appreciate the gym-ready JLab JBuds Lux.
9. Thinksound OV202W [Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Long Travel]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.0, 30-Foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 100+ Hours (ANC Off) |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 40 mm + 10 mm |
| Weight | 0.6 lbs |
| Special Features | Touch Controls, Long Battery Life |
Travel headphones need to last a long time between charges, and that’s absolutely where these headphones stand out. The Thinksound OV202W are some of the best travel headphones here, with over 100 hours of active listening per charge. When ANC features are on, the battery life is only slightly reduced.
Hybrid ANC modes keep background noise out of the picture, while dual dynamic drivers (40 mm + 10 mm) deliver detailed sound you won’t find in comparable models.
Long-form listening is the clear focus of the Thinksound OV202W headphones, which offer over 100 hours of active play time when you aren’t using their hybrid ANC.
The soft memory foam pads are made for comfort, with an adjustable headband that feels right for long listening sessions. You can also replace the ear pads, meaning that these headphones will last for longer than models with fixed cups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Over 100 hours of active listening per charge ✅ Hybrid ANC reduces a wide range of background noise ✅ Dual dynamic drivers create detailed sound ✅ Memory foam pads with an adjustable headband for extended comfort ✅ Earpads are replaceable for longer-term use | ❌ Larger battery adds some weight, but you’ll have a ton of listening time as a result |
Final Verdict: Travelers who need long runtimes and hybrid ANC will love the Thinksound OV202W. They can endure long commutes and feel comfortable enough to wear all day.
10. beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 [Best Noise-Cancelling Studio Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack) |
| Battery Life | Wired Use Only (No Battery) |
| Noise Cancellation | Passive Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 45 mm |
| Weight | 0.8 lbs |
| Special Features | Durable Design, Studio-Ready |
Some of the best studio headphones you can find come from beyerdynamic, so it’s no surprise that the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250s ended up here. Their reliable isolation and consistent performance make them ideal for tuning into highlights and details without losing any audio quality.
They are comfortable and gentle, with velour pads and a spring steel headband for distributing weight more evenly. Many parts are replaceable as well, so you can repair them if you need. These wired-only headphones run at 250 ohms for use with your high-end home audio equipment.
The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 headphones are a studio staple. Their controlled presentation and passive isolation support focused monitoring and tracking.
While these headphones don’t come with a dedicated microphone, you can also choose one of the top USB microphones to enhance your experience in the studio.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Closed-back structure provides strong passive isolation ✅ Clear, detailed tuning suited for monitoring and mixing fundamentals ✅ Velour ear pads offer long-wear comfort ✅ Coiled 3m cable simplifies movement around a desk or studio ✅ Rugged build made in Germany with replaceable components ✅ Broad frequency range supports precise listening | ❌ High 250-ohm impedance needs a capable amp or audio interface, but that makes them perfect for serious studio work |
Final Verdict: Creators and audio engineers who need dependable passive isolation can fall right into the capable hands of the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 headphones.
11. JBL Tune 770NC [Best Over-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.3, 30-foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 70 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive Noise Cancelling |
| Driver Size | 32 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs |
| Special Features | App-Controlled EQ, Hands-free Calling with VoiceAware Monitoring |
JBL is one of the biggest names in the affordable audio space, and the JBL Tune 770NC are some of the best JBL headphones I’ve been able to get my hands on. The Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes give you more control over your surroundings without removing your headphones. Pure Bass adds a warmth and depth that is suited to upbeat playlists and casual listening.
Up to 70 hours of battery life means they’ll last all week (depending on the settings), and you can use the fast charging option to quickly top them up before your commute. Stable connections and an app-based control structure make these headphones approachable for first-time ANC listeners.
The JBL Tune 770NC headphones balance accessibility with strong ANC. An extended battery life makes them ideal for travel and those who often forget to plug them in.
If you were eyeing some of the best Sony headphones but couldn’t quite find a match, the JBL Tune 770NC might feel like a better fit for you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Adaptive ANC with Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes ✅ Up to 70 hours of play time (BT on/ANC off) ✅ JBL Pure Bass sound for a lively listening style ✅EQ presets and customization through the JBL Headphones app ✅ Quick charge adds 3 hours of play from a short recharge | ❌ Bass-forward tuning may feel strong, but some EQ presets can be adjusted in the app |
Final Verdict: Listeners who want a longer battery life in accessible over-ear ANC headphones will find a strong match in the JBL TUNE 770NC headphones.
12. MorningBlues VWS X1 [Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones With Advanced Features]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Bluetooth 5.4, 30-foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 60 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Weight | 0.68 lbs |
| Special Features | Dynamic OLED Displays, Immersive Sound by Jamo |
These headphones stand out for their display system, which allows you to choose images to display on the ear cups. The MorningBlues VWS X1 use NFC sharing to add social convenience as well, turning your headphones into a digital contact card.
The VWS X1 are the best headphones I’ve seen for this level of customization, which is overall pretty rare. A battery life of up to 60 hours and audio boosted by Jamo‘s Immersive Sound features make them sound great and feel good.
The MorningBlues VWS X1 is one of the most unique pairs on our list, with its focus on customization via the dual OLED displays.
The sound profile is broad and stable, with three noise cancellation modes to match your environment. Connectivity is stable, and Qualcomm audio features keep wireless listening to the same standards as wired headphones.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dual OLED touchscreens for personalization and feature control ✅ 40 mm drivers with Jamo audio tuning for wide, engaging sound ✅ Bluetooth 5.4 with Qualcomm audio support ✅ Three noise-reduction modes for varied environments ✅ Up to 60 hours of battery life | ❌ Extra visual features may feel complex, but the touchscreens are optional |
Final Verdict: Tech-focused listeners who enjoy modern features will love the MorningBlues VWS X1 with its display controls and longer battery life.
13. TAGRY A18 [Best Mid-Range Noise-Cancelling Headphones]

| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear, Closed-Back |
| Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm Jack), Wireless (Bluetooth 6.0, 30-foot Range) |
| Battery Life | 120 Hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Active and Hybrid Noise Cancellation |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs |
| Special Features | Foldable and Adjustable, Long Battery Life |
The A18 headphones by TAGRY stand out for their hybrid ANC system. Internal and external microphones track noise across the environment to reduce how much you hear. The six-mic ENC system separates voice from background to support smoother calls as well.
With over 120 hours of battery life and features that rival some of the best Bose headphones, these headphones aren’t going to let you down. Three flexible modes, including a Game Mode for streaming, help set these headphones up for success.
TAGRY A18 headphones have active and hybrid ANC modes, which contribute to their extremely long battery life.
The TAGRY A18 headphones are a mid-range model, but they offer consistent features that beat some of the best budget headphones I’ve experienced. The extra value is apparent when you listen to these headphones for the first time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Hybrid ANC reduces up to 90% of ambient noise ✅ Six-microphone ENC system supports clean voice pickup ✅ Up to 120 hours of play time per charge ✅ 40mm dynamic drivers provide strong bass and clear highs ✅ Wired playback option with included 3.5 mm cable | ❌ Overall size increased because of the larger battery, but you can enjoy them for so much longer as a result |
Final Verdict: Listeners who want strong value with adaptable ANC features will find the TAGRY A18 a practical choice.
Noise Cancellation Types
Noise cancellation helps reduce distractions so you can stay focused. But how do noise-canceling headphones work? Different technologies manage sound differently, and understanding them makes it easier to choose the right pair of good noise-cancelling headphones for your routine.
Noise-cancelling headphones can use a mix of passive noise-cancelling, active noise-cancelling, and adaptive/hybrid ANC.
Passive Noise Cancellation
Passive noise cancellation relies on the physical design of the headphones. Models that use passive noise cancellation rely on sealed earcups, thicker padding, and over-ear coverage to block outside noise. This method doesn’t rely on electronics to dampen sound at all.
If you work in a busy office or need noise cancellation on quick commutes, passive noise cancellation is a great option. It’s also the best method for those who prefer noise cancellation that doesn’t eat up their battery life.
Active Noise Cancellation

On the other hand, active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones to listen to the surrounding noise. The number of microphones used can lead to a stronger or more accurate effect. This method reduces steady, low-frequency noise (such as fans or engines) by creating matching waveforms to directly counter the sounds.
Because ANC focuses on consistent background noise, its effectiveness can vary depending on your surroundings. Shared workspaces and study areas are the perfect places to use active noise cancellation because of distracting, ongoing background sounds.
Adaptive/Hybrid ANC
Adaptive and hybrid ANC combine multiple microphones and algorithms to adjust noise reduction as the surroundings change. This system reacts to shifts in the environment (such as walking from a quiet room to a crowded street) and offers more consistent control.
Adaptive/Hybrid ANC is ideal for those who change locations often and don’t really need to be aware of their surroundings. This method’s ability to pick up on environmental changes and react differently makes it invaluable for those who use their headphones on the go.
What to Consider While Picking Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones, sometimes called soundproof headphones, are popular for work, travel, commutes, and any moment that calls for more focus. They create a quieter space by reducing outside sound, but models differ.
If you’re wondering what the best noise-cancelling headphones are, consider the features that matter most to your listening habits. Key factors include ANC strength and adjustment. Padding and the design of the headband can determine how comfortable headphones are for long-term wear. Battery life varies across models, mostly depending on ANC use.
Sound can range from neutral to more bass-forward. Closed-back headphones help contain sound, while open-back models offer a wider presentation. Even the best open ear headphones let more noise in, though. Studio work can benefit from wired open-back designs, while ANC-focused models suit everyday listening.
Keep in mind that all noise-cancelling headphones are for personal listening only. Those who want better sound quality that fills their rooms should consider choosing one of the best soundbars for immersive sound.
My Overall Verdict

If you’re choosing noise-cancelling headphones for the first time or simply want a dependable starting point, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones work well for most listeners. They offer steady ANC depth and balanced sound, so you can use them just about anywhere. Depending on your routine, here are a few strong alternatives:
For the best value with practical ANC → Monster Persona 6th
A long-running battery and adjustable ANC place these headphones in an appealing spot for budget-minded listeners.
For studio-focused monitoring → beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250
Their passive isolation and consistent wired connection support editing and tracking. Any task that requires stable reference audio is easier with these headphones.
For long-wearing comfort during gaming or extended use → Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
This set uses soft materials for comfort, with balanced sound to reduce fatigue while producing great sound.
Each model serves a different purpose, so your ideal pick depends on where and how you listen. Matching your choice to your environment leads to a far better listening experience, no matter where you are.
FAQs
The best noise-cancelling headphones depend on your needs, but the Bose New QuietComfort Ultra offers a balanced mix of ANC and supportive features. Here, you’ll find features that make your work or travel days easier without becoming heavy or uncomfortable.
ANC and ENC serve different purposes. ANC reduces outside noise for clearer listening. ENC focuses on reducing background sound so your voice can be heard on calls. Many headphones offer both functions to help with listening and calls.
No, 100% noise cancellation isn’t really possible. ANC reduces constant background noise, but it doesn’t remove every sound. Even the strongest noise cancellation features can fail when sudden or high-pitched noises occur.
No, noise-cancelling features are not bad for your ears. When used at moderate volumes, ANC is safe. It can help lower the need to increase your music’s volume in louder environments. In this way, it can be helpful for long-term listening habits.
There are a few reasons you may be hearing noise with noise cancellation features active. ANC works best with low-frequency sounds. If you work in an environment with sudden or sharp noises, ANC may not be able to catch them in time to work properly. Some sound may still be present.
Some headphones can reach 120 dB, but listening at a higher volume for long periods can be harmful to hearing. Staying within more moderate listening ranges (such as those that ANC helps highlight) keeps listening comfortable and safer for your hearing.