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What are the top noise-canceling headphones and can they protect your hearing?
Home offices, open-plan office spaces, small business premises, and call centers all can be noisy work environments where it can be difficult to focus on the job and keep productivity flowing.
It is now even more important to keep distractions to a minimum since many of us have adapted to working or learning from home, where distractions abound. Active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones can be a lifesaver when your kids, pets, or housemates just can't lower the constant din so you can get your work done. And, if you are back to commuting, canceling tech can let you listen to your music or podcasts without hearing harsh environmental noises like street construction or traffic.
Below, you can view our top recommendations for ANC solutions that are ready to handle your entertainment and professional needs, regardless of whether you are an in-office worker, working from home, a lifelong audiophile, or just someone who wants to dampen the noise around you while at home or on the road.
More:
- The best noise-canceling earbuds
- The best headphones
- The best wireless headphones
- The best headphones for workouts and running
- The best earbuds
- Improved ANC is some of the best on the market
- Better voice chat sound quality makes them great for video conferencing
- Quick-charge options mean they'll never be down for more than 3 minutes
- Divisive aesthetics
- Don't fold into a smaller package as previous generations did
- Larger carrying case is required to accommodate the non-folding design
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.2 | Charging options(s): USB-C | Battery life: 30 hours (3 hours on a 3-minute charge) | Frequency response: 4 Hz-40,000 Hz
Sony's WH-1000XM line has been the go-to ANC headphones since the technology was in its infancy. Over the subsequent generations, Sony has continued to improve its sound quality, ANC functionality, and battery life.
The latest iteration also revamps the design with a new, slimmer aesthetic. While early reviewers seem divided on the subjective opinions surrounding the new look, what nearly everyone agrees on is that the WH-1000XM5 headphones offer the best ANC yet, and some of the best overall sound-blocking technology currently available.
Read the review: Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones are basically perfect
All of these upgrades don't come cheaply, but they still offer an excellent value proposition for the shopper who's interested, first and foremost, in a long-wearing, comfortable pair of headphones that will block out the vast majority of outside distractions through a combination of passive sound isolation and advanced ANC technology.
- Supports two simultaneous device connections
- Automatic pausing when the headphones are removed is a huge time saver
- Folding design makes them easy to stow and go
- Older visual aesthetics
- Some users with larger ears might feel the inside of the earcups making contact
- Still relatively pricey for a 2-year-old model
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.0 | Charging options(s): USB-C | Battery life: 30 hours (5 hours on a 10-minute charge) | Frequency response: 4 Hz-40,000 Hz
While Sony's latest and greatest ANC headphones are the WH-1000XM5s seen above, the company continues selling its incredibly popular WH-1000XM4s, which made their debut in 2020, as well. This previous-generation model lacks the secondary ANC processor that gives the latest model its noise cancellation boost. However, it boasts a very similar level of sound quality, albeit tuned slightly differently, and a list of features that can still beat just about anything coming out from other manufacturers this year.
On top of this impressive staying power, the WH-100XM4s also travel more easily than their newer siblings, thanks to their folding design and compact carrying case. This can be a huge boon to the business traveler or on-the-go worker who constantly must stow their ANC headphones in a backpack or carry-on.
Read the review: Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless noise-canceling headset review: Making the world better through a flawless music listening experience
Although some lamented the fact that the WH-1000XM4s resembled their own predecessor, the WH-1000XM3s, when they came out, others continue to appreciate the unit's design aesthetic over its successor's, pointing to the subtle accents like the metallic ANC microphone surrounds as well as the more metallic construction.
This balance of more broadly appealing aesthetics, 95%-as-good audio and ANC, and lower cost make them a wiser choice than their more expensive successor. That said, those wanting the absolute best in ANC will still want to drop an extra $50 or so.
Read the review: Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless noise-canceling headset review: Making the world better through a flawless music listening experience
- All of the benefits of the AirPod line for Apple device owners
- Confidence-inspiring metal construction and sturdy headband
- Almost universally-praised sound quality
- Proprietary lightning cable charging
- Bulkier and heavier than just about any other entry on this list
- Included case has become an embarrassing meme
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.0 | Charging options(s): Lightning | Battery life: 20 hours (1.5 hours on a 5-minute charge) | Frequency response: 10 Hz-20,000 Hz (estimated)
Before the AirPods Max came around, Apple's headphones had always been small, plastic earbuds aimed at a very general audience and priced to sell to casual users. These over-ear headphones used a mostly metal construction, a control scheme that borrowed, rather unexpectedly, from the Apple Watch, and a collection of internals that Apple believed would justify a price several times higher than standard AirPods.
While the debate rages on among audiophiles over whether or not wireless audio is even worth considering, the AirPods Max has found a vocal if somewhat niche fanbase. Many of those enthusiasts point to the fact that the AirPods Max is the only device that combines exceptional sound with all of the same benefits Apple device owners have enjoyed for years in the AirPods line. This includes instant connectivity, multi-device switching, and the ability to tweak settings and see charge levels on their iPhones, iPads, and more.
Read the review: AirPods Max review: Stunning sound and performance mean I'm keeping the $550 headphones
The AirPods Max is not without its detractors, who usually point out the weight, widely panned case (which our own Jason Cipriani called simple "a joke"), or the unusual control scheme. However, these complaints seem largely drowned out by the relative chorus of voices praising the sound quality as being not only the best of any Apple headphones today, but one of the best of any wireless headphones period.
Combine this with a level of ANC that meets or exceeds what's currently offered by leaders like Sony and Bose, and you've got an entry that really does justify its price tag for the right user.
- The rare ANC option that supports both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz for all your audio needs
- Quick switching between BT and 2.4GHz modes means you'll never miss a call while in game
- Built-in amp is THX AAA-certified for low sound distortion and noise
- ANC causes strange audio issues with some games
- No built-in boom mic option
- L-shaped USB-C receiver might interfere with some laptop or desktop ports
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4GHz wireless | Charging options(s): USB-C | Battery life: up to 40 hours | Frequency response: 20 Hz-20,000 Hz
Most good ANC headphones aren't cheap. Neither are good-quality gaming headsets. So, many people who need both might be looking for a single product they can game with and use to listen to music or participate in video calls.
The problem is the vast majority of ANC headphones rely exclusively on Bluetooth for their connectivity. While this protocol has been updated over the years to improve every aspect of it, it still suffers from some latency. This means the audio output by BT-powered ANC headphones can be delayed by long enough that there's a noticeable discrepancy between it and its associated visuals. This can be annoying for videos and downright disastrous for games, where a split second can win or lose a match for you.
Read the review: Razer Barracuda Pro review: Active noise ruination
This is where the Razer Barracuda Pro comes in. It's the rare product that combines Bluetooth, ANC, and most important, 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. Unlike Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless has almost no perceptible latency, putting it on par with wired solutions for gaming on your PC or any modern console. Meanwhile, the model supports Bluetooth 5.2 technology for use with your phone, streaming device, laptop, etc. You even can switch between the Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes with a single tap to take a call and get right back to your game after.
Unfortunately, we did run into some issues with how the built-in ANC reacted to some games in our full review of the Barracuda Pro, but the rare combination of features still makes it a unique option well worth considering for gamers who also want impressive ANC while listening to music or video on the go.
- Gets you nearly the same features as $300+ headphones for a fraction of the price
- 40-hour playtime should be enough for multiple days of online classes or a whole week of commutes
- Hi-res audio certified
- Micro-USB charging option is slower than USB-C
- No included carry case (does include a pouch)
- Smaller ear cups than some other options on the list
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.0 | Charging options(s): Micro USB | Battery life: up to 40 hours | Frequency response: 16 Hz-40,000 Hz
As we've mentioned before, ANC technology generally doesn't come cheap. The microphone arrays, onboard processing, and required power cells involved tend to push the price of most options well into triple digits. But Anker is a company known for taking traditionally expensive products and creating versions that are much cheaper but still retain most of the things about the more expensive options that make them great.
The company's best budget-friendly take on ANC headphones at the moment is the Soundcore Life Q20. This unit offers one of the longest battery lives on the list, supports the same Bluetooth 5 protocol as the AirPods Max, and claims to block out up to "90% of ambient noise."
You shouldn't expect it to have quite the same sound quality as the options on our list that cost over three times as much, but that doesn't mean it can't get you very, very close. Between the surprisingly small size of that performance gap and the shockingly low price, these are a great option for the commuting youngster or even the supposedly responsible adults who can't seem to stop breaking or losing their wireless headphones.
- 24-hour battery life with a 15-minute fast charge option providing 3 hours of playtime
- Build quality includes cast-metal hinges and glass-filled nylon headbands for on-the-go durability
- Lightweight to prevent neck strain from long-term use
- ANC Microphones double as voice pickups for cellular calls
- Some may consider the aesthetics as bland or dated
- A bit bulky
Tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.1 | Charging options(s): USB-C | Battery life: up to 24 hours | Frequency response: N/A
Bose's updated QuietComfort 45 headphones come with Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, USB-C fast charging, and up to 24 hours of battery life. Its array of microphones power its updated ANC system to provide what Bose claims is its "best noise cancelling." The company has also updated the hardware and software of this generation to provide a more personalized listening experience. Users can now use the compatible Bose Music app to apply Active EQ technology for additional sound profile customization to their noise-cancellation preferences.
All of this updated technology comes in a package that maintains Bose's trademark minimalistic design and all-day wearability. The QC 45 also provides the option to switch between its ANC-enabled Quiet Mode for times when you need to concentrate, and its Aware Mode helps when you want to be alert to your surroundings.
If you're a daily commuter, a remote worker, or a student that needs peace and quiet for studying, these headphones are a great option that you won't have to charge frequently.
What are the best noise-canceling headphones for most people?
We determined that the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the best overall noise-canceling headphones by comparing price, compatibility, battery life, isolation technology, noise reduction, and more.
Noise-canceling headphones | Price | Battery life | Quick charge |
Sony WH-1000XM4 | $349 | 30 hours | 5 hours on a 10-minute charge |
Sony WH-1000XM5 | $398 | 30 hours | 3 hours on a 3-minute charge |
Apple AirPods Max | $499 | 20 hours | 1.5 hours on a 5-minute charge |
Razer Barracuda Pro | $250 | 40 hours | N/A |
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 | $60 | 40 hours | 4 hours on a 5-minute charge |
Bose QuietComfort 45 | $329 | 24 hours | 3 hours on a 15-minute charge |
Which are the right noise-canceling headphones for you?
Whether you are back in the workplace, in a coffee shop, or at home, environmental noise can be a hindrance to productivity and entertainment. While every option on this list can help dampen noise, if not eliminate it entirely, each option also offers a unique set of features that make it best suited to particular users with more specific goals than just generally blocking noise.
Choose these noise-canceling headphones... | If you want... |
Sony WH-1000XM4 | The best overall option with maximum versatility and exceptional sound |
Sony WH-1000XM5 | The absolute best ANC for blocking out droning ambient sounds and more sudden, loud noises |
AirPods Max | The best sound quality or a pair of headphones that "just works" with any Apple product |
Razer Barracuda Pro | A one-device option that's great for gaming, entertainment, and professional use |
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 | An inexpensive option for younger users and those who tend to be hard on electronics |
Bose QuietComfort 45 | An excellent set of ANC headphones from Bose |
How did we choose these noise-canceling headphones?
While deciding on our recommendations, the focus was on finding products that provided solid noise canceling as well as additional features that made them stand out as a great option for particular types of users: audiophiles, commuters, gamers, budget-conscious listeners, etc.
How do noise-canceling headphones work?
Noise-canceling headphones reduce unwanted ambient sounds using active noise cancellation. Active noise-cancellation uses microphones to listen to outside sound and "cancels" out those noises by producing soundwaves that destructively clash with external sounds, canceling them out before they can reach your ears.
Do noise-canceling headphones protect hearing?
No. Noise-canceling headphones are not specifically meant to protect your hearing. That said, the lack of outside noise means you can often listen to your audio at lower volume levels than you would if it were competing with ambient sounds. This results in indirectly protecting your hearing by helping you keep your volume at a safer level, as detailed in our five tips for preventing hearing loss caused by headphones.
Can you choose noise reduction levels on noise-canceling headphones?
Yes. Some headsets offer adaptive noise-canceling and will allow users to select the level of background noise they are comfortable with, including "transparent" or "hear-through" modes. This can be particularly useful if you want to wear them while on the move and stay aware of traffic or your general surroundings.
Are there alternative noise-canceling headphones to consider?
Here are a few other options to look into: