Noise-cancelling headphones have been around for a long time, but in recent years the technology has improved a lot and become far more common. Today’s ANC headphones can help you stay focused in a noisy office, tune out background chatter, or reduce engine noise when traveling by plane, train, or bus. However, not all noise-cancelling headphones perform the same, and with so many options available at different price points, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
That’s where we come in. We’ve personally tested over 50 on-ear and over-ear headphones with active noise cancelling, using real-world listening and consistent testing methods. Below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best noise-cancelling headphones—based on performance, comfort, and value—so you can pick the right pair with confidence.
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM6
Released in May 2025, the Sony WH-1000XM6 are the direct successor to Sony’s 2022 flagship, the WH-1000XM5 Wireless. While the overall design remains familiar, Sony has made several smart refinements to improve performance. These include support for Bluetooth LE with the LC3 codec, a redesigned folding hinge for easier storage, and upgraded internals. Sony also promises better noise cancelling thanks to extra microphones and a faster QN3 processor. Overall, the XM6 feels like a well-polished upgrade that builds on an already strong foundation rather than a complete redesign.
Our Verdict: 8.5 / 10
The Sony WH-1000XM6 is an excellent choice for travel. With nearly 32 hours of battery life while using active noise cancelling, they’re more than capable of handling long international flights. Their powerful ANC effectively reduces airplane engine noise and everyday sounds like talking commuters. They’re also lightweight and comfortable, making them easy to wear for long periods. The included case features a magnetic closure, making packing and unpacking quick and hassle-free. Additionally, the app can automatically activate noise-cancelling mode when you’re riding a bus or train.
| Pros | cons |
|---|---|
| Outstanding noise cancelling performance | Sound profile varies slightly by connection mode |
| Long battery life (up to ~32 hours with ANC) | |
| Compact case with easy magnetic closure |
Best Upper Mid-Range Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are the follow-up to the popular WH-1000XM3 model, bringing several notable improvements. This generation offers longer battery life, touch-sensitive controls, and multi-device pairing. Like their predecessor, they deliver excellent noise isolation thanks to advanced ANC technology and feature a comfortable, premium design that looks and feels high-end.
Our Verdict: 8.4 / 10
The WH-1000XM4 is excellent for commuting and travel. While they’re not the most compact headphones, the included hard carrying case keeps them protected on the go. They offer over 37 hours of continuous battery life, and their lightweight, comfortable design makes them easy to wear for long listening sessions. The ANC effectively blocks both low-frequency sounds like engine rumble and mid-range noise like chatter, letting you enjoy your music or focus on work without distractions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable fit for long listening sessions | Bulky design |
| Excellent active noise cancelling (ANC) | |
| Over 37 hours of continuous battery life | |
| Multi-device pairing support | |
| Touch-sensitive controls for easy use |
Best Mid-Range Noise Cancelling Headphones
Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless
The Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless are noise-cancelling headphones packed with features. They’re the next step up from the Soundcore Life Q35, now offering adaptive ANC that automatically adjusts to your surroundings. If you want more control, you can also switch to manual ANC. Like the previous model, they support LDAC, multi-device pairing, and work with the Soundcore app, which includes a graphic equalizer and presets to help you fine-tune your sound.
Our Verdict: 7.8 / 10
The Q45 is excellent for travel. These over-ear headphones are comfortable, well-built, and have a strong adaptive ANC system that blocks out bus or airplane noise as well as background chatter. They have a long-lasting battery that easily keeps up with long days on the move, and you can use them wired if needed. The included carrying case protects them during travel, but keep in mind that over-ear headphones do take up some space in your bag.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong adaptive noise cancelling | None notable |
| Comfortable, well-built design | |
| Long battery life | |
| Multi-device pairing | |
| Soundcore app with EQ and presets |
Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sennheiser HDB 630
The Sennheiser HDB 630 are premium over-ear, closed-back headphones that combine audiophile-level sound with modern wireless convenience. They feature active noise cancelling (ANC) and an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours. You can enjoy high-resolution audio via aptX codecs, USB-C, or the included BTD 700 Bluetooth USB-C dongle, and fine-tune your sound using the Sennheiser Smart Control Plus app, which offers a parametric EQ and even a crossfeed function.
Our Verdict: 8.1 / 10
These headphones are excellent for travel. They’re comfortable for long flights, and their long-lasting battery easily covers a weekend getaway with minimal recharging. The sound is well-balanced, reproducing podcasts, music, and other audio with clarity, while the ANC helps block out background noise. However, they don’t fold up, and the included case is fairly large, so they aren’t the most travel-friendly option if you like to pack light. The app gives you full control over ANC and sound settings, letting you customize the experience to your liking.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Balanced, clear sound suitable for all types of audio | ANC struggles with low-bass sounds |
| Good voice pickup with the built-in mic | Mic can make your voice sound thin |
| Long 54–60 hour battery life | Padding in the middle of the headband is a bit thin |
| Excellent ANC overall | Poor frequency response consistency (requires careful fitting) |
| Fully parametric EQ with crossfeed in companion app | Large case and non-folding design |