Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Noise Cancelling Headphones Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best for Daily Use
- 4. Runner-Up
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best Design
- 7. Best Premium
- 8. Best Compact
- 9. Most Versatile
- 10. Best for Beginners
- Noise Cancelling Headphones Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Noise Cancelling Headphones
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best cheap noise cancelling headphones can be tough. The top choice is the Soundcore by Anker Q20i. Its hybrid active noise cancelling uses four microphones to cut noise by up to 90%. For a value option, consider the MMWOWARTS Bluetooth Headphones, which provide comfort but lack the advanced noise reduction.
The main tradeoff is comfort versus high-tech features. Some models focus on comfort, while others prioritize advanced noise cancelling. The rest of this page details various options so you can decide which one fits your needs best.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 10
Top 10 Noise Cancelling Headphones Reviewed in Detail
Here are reviews of several models to help you find the right fit.
1. Editor’s Choice
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling: 2 internal and 2 external mics work in tandem to detect external noise and effectively reduce up to 90% of it, no matter in trains or offices.
- Immerse Yourself in Detailed Audio: The noise cancelling headphones have oversized 40mm dynamic drivers that produce detailed sound and thumping beats with BassUp technology for your every travel, commuting and gaming. Compatible with Hi-Res certified audio via the AUX cable for more detail.
- 40-Hour Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: With 40 hours of battery life with ANC on and 60 hours in normal mode, you can commute in peace with your Bluetooth headphones without thinking about recharging. Fast charge for 5 mins to get an extra 4 hours of music listening for daily users.
- Dual-Connections: Connect to two devices simultaneously with Bluetooth 5.0 and instantly switch between them. Whether you’re working on your laptop, or need to take a phone call, audio from your Bluetooth headphones will automatically play from the device you need to hear from.
- App for EQ Customization: Download the soundcore app to tailor your sound using the customizable EQ, with 22 presets, or adjust it yourself. You can also switch between 3 modes: ANC, Normal, and Transparency, and relax with white noise.
- Hear Your Surroundings: Switch to Transparency mode on your noise cancelling headphones when you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as transportation announcements, crossing the road, or just staying connected to the world around you.
- Soundcore App Support: Download the soundcore app for software updates and access to available features. Personalize your listening with HearID, EQ modes, Spatial Audio, and adjustable ANC settings. OTA firmware updates help keep your earbuds updated.
The Anker Q20i headphones use hybrid active noise cancelling. They have four microphones that reduce noise by up to 90%. Their 40mm dynamic drivers create clear sound. This makes them great for music and calls. They are comfortable for long listening sessions.
Pros
Effective noise cancellation. Comfortable for long wear. Good sound quality. Lightweight design.
Cons
The battery life could be better. Some users may find the fit snug.
These headphones fit securely on the head. They are adjustable for different sizes.
The Anker Q20i headphones offer great sound and noise cancellation at a low price.
2. Best Splurge
Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Headphones
- All-Day Comfort & Premium Design: Crafted with high-quality materials, these over-ear wireless headphones combine luxury with long-wearing comfort. The adjustable headband ensures a secure fit for all head sizes, while ultra-soft memory foam ear cups minimize pressure. Lightweight and ergonomic, they’re ideal for work, travel, or leisure—keeping you comfortable even during extended use
- Unbeatable 120-Hour Battery Life: Enjoy up to 120 hours of playtime in standard mode at moderate volume. A quick 5-minute charge provides 4 extra hours—perfect for emergencies. Whether binge-watching, commuting, or working, these headphones/earbuds deliver uninterrupted performance without frequent recharging
- Bluetooth 6.0 & Seamless Connectivity: Advanced Bluetooth 6.0 ensures stable, high-speed pairing with smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Experience crisp audio streaming, low latency, and reliable connectivity for calls, music, or movies. The auto-connect feature allows hassle-free use anytime, anywhere
- Advanced Active Noise Cancellation: Immerse yourself in pure sound with next-generation ANC, eliminating up to 95% of ambient noise. Dual-microphone hybrid ANC detects and neutralizes external sounds across a wide frequency range 20Hz-20kHz, creating a distraction-free environment whether you’re traveling or working
- Powerful Bass & Crystal-Clear Calls: Precision-tuned drivers deliver deep, punchy bass for an immersive listening experience. The built-in high-sensitivity microphone, enhanced by wind resistance and AI clarity, ensures professional-grade call quality—perfect for music lovers and busy professionals alike
The MMWOWARTS headphones focus on comfort and style. They use soft memory foam ear cups for a gentle fit. The adjustable headband allows for a secure fit. These headphones are good for long use without discomfort.
Pros
Comfortable for all-day wear. Stylish design. Lightweight and ergonomic.
Cons
Noise cancellation is not as strong as others. Sound quality may lack depth for audiophiles.
They fit well on many head sizes thanks to the adjustable design.
MMWOWARTS headphones are great for casual listeners who prioritize comfort over noise cancellation.
3. Best for Daily Use
Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up to 40-Hour Battery Life, Active Noise Cancelling, Great for Travel & Commuting, USB-C Lossless…
- INCREDIBLE SOUND: Custom acoustic platform delivers rich, balanced audio for music, calls and everyday listening.
- LOSSLESS AUDIO SUPPORT: USB-C lossless audio and sound profiles optimize music quality across devices and environments. Additional option to use the 3.5 mm cable for a standard analog experience.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING (ANC): block distractions at work, on flights or during your daily commute. Or use Transparency mode to let the sounds of your environment mix in with your music.
- SEAMLESS WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: One-touch pairing with Apple & Android for easy switching across devices.
- SPATIAL AUDIO IMMERSION: Personalized dynamic head tracking, 360-degree sound for movies, music and immersive everyday listening.
- UP TO 40-HOUR BATTERY LIFE: Long-lasting power for workdays, travel and extended listening without frequent charging. Thanks to Fast Fuel, a 10-minute charge gives up to 4 hours of power.
- CLEAR CALL PERFORMANCE: Voice-targeting mics reduce background noise for crisp, clear calls in the office or on the go.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Over-ear design with UltraPlush comfort cushions built for long listening at home, work, or travel.
- RELIABLE BLUETOOTH PERFORMANCE: Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity ensures stable connections with fewer dropouts across locations.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Beats Studio Pro Wireless headphones, travel-ready woven carrying case, 3.5 mm audio cable, Universal USB-C charging cable, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card
Beats Studio Pro headphones deliver rich sound. They have a custom acoustic platform for balanced audio. With up to 40 hours of battery life, they are excellent for travel. Their USB-C lossless audio feature enhances sound quality.
Pros
Great sound quality. Long battery life. Stylish appearance. Lossless audio support.
Cons
They can be heavy after long use. Price might be high for some users.
These headphones fit over the ears, providing a snug feel without too much pressure.
Beats Studio Pro headphones are perfect for music lovers who want high-quality sound and long battery life.
4. Runner-Up
Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones 120H Playtime 6 ENC Clear Call Mic, Over Ear Headphones Wireless with Hi-Res Audio Comfort Earcup Low Latency ANC…
- 45dB Hybrid ANC & Ambient Transparency Mode: Advanced hybrid active noise cancelling headphones block up to 45dB of ambient noise, including airplane engines, subway trains, and busy office chatter. Switch seamlessly to Transparency Mode with a single tap to stay aware of airport announcements, street traffic, or quick conversations without removing your over ear headphones
- 120H Ultra-Long Battery Life for Travel & Daily Commute: Enjoy up to 120 hours of continuous music on a single charge—eliminating battery anxiety during overseas flights, road trips, and weekly commutes. These long battery life Bluetooth headphones include a 3.5mm AUX audio cable to easily switch to wired headphones mode for in-flight entertainment or non-Bluetooth devices
- 6-Mic ENC Array for Crystal-Clear Calls & Remote Work: Engineered with a 6-microphone Environmental Noise Cancellation system, these wireless headphones with mic isolate your voice while filtering out wind, crowd chatter, and street sounds. Delivers studio-quality HD voice clarity for Zoom meetings, Microsoft Teams calls, remote work, online classes, and hands-free calls
- Immersive Sound & Low-Latency Bluetooth 6.0 for Gaming & Movies: Powered by 40mm dynamic drivers and the latest Bluetooth 6.0 chip, these wireless over ear headphones deliver punchy deep bass, clear vocals, and ultra-low latency audio. Enjoy a fast, stable connection with zero lag for streaming movies, gaming, or listening to music on iPhone, Android, tablets, and laptops
- Ergonomic Pressure-Free Fit & Foldable Space-Saving Design: Built with ultra-soft memory foam ear cushions and an adjustable headband, these comfortable travel headphones provide a secure, ergonomic fit for long study sessions, workdays, or workouts. The compact foldable design fits easily into backpacks, totes, or carry-on luggage for convenient storage on the go
- Built for Work Travel and Everyday Life: Designed for modern on the go lifestyles these bluetooth headphones adapt to any environment. Whether you are working remotely in a quiet office commuting through busy streets or flying across the globe they deliver seamless audio performance all day comfort and effortless versatility for all your daily needs
- Package Contents and Dedicated Support: Includes 1 pair of A18 Bluetooth headphones, 1 Type-C charging cable, 1 AUX audio cable (3.5mm), 1 travel pouch, and user manual. Backed by responsive customer assistance and long term support to ensure a smooth user experience and total peace of mind
TAGRY headphones use advanced hybrid active noise cancelling. They block up to 45dB of sound, making them good for travel. The ambient transparency mode lets you hear outside sounds when needed. This is useful for safety in busy areas.
Pros
Strong noise cancellation. Transparency mode for safety. Comfortable for extended use.
Cons
They may not fit well for smaller heads. Some users find the controls confusing.
They are designed to fit securely over your ears with a comfortable cushion.
TAGRY headphones are great for those needing strong noise cancellation while staying aware of their surroundings.
5. Best Lightweight
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, White
- Block the World, Keep the Music: Four built-in mics work together to filter out background noise — whether you’re in a packed office, on a crowded commute, or moving through a busy street — so every beat comes through clean and clear. (Not available in AUX-in mode.)
- Two Ways to Hear More: BassUp technology delivers deep, punchy bass and crisp highs in wireless mode — then step it up further by plugging in the included AUX cable to unlock Hi‑Res certified audio for studio-level clarity.
- 40 Hours. 5-Minute Top-Up: With ANC on, a single charge keeps you listening through days of commutes and long-haul flights. Running low? Just 5 minutes plugged in gives you 4 more hours — so you’re never stuck waiting.
- Two Devices, Zero Hassle: Stay connected to your laptop and phone at the same time. Audio switches automatically to whichever device needs you — so a call never interrupts your flow, and getting back to your playlist is just as easy. Designed for commuters and remote workers who move smoothly between work and personal listening throughout the day.
- Your Sound, Your Rules: The soundcore app puts everything at your fingertips — dials your ideal EQ with presets or build your own, flip between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes on the fly, or wind down with built-in white noise. One app, total control.
- Hear What Matters, When It Matters: Transparency mode blends your surroundings into your listening — catch a train announcement, respond to a colleague, or navigate busy streets without ever taking your earphones off.
- soundcore App Support: Download the soundcore app for software updates and access to available features. Personalize your listening with HearID, EQ modes, Spatial Audio, and adjustable ANC settings. OTA firmware updates help keep your earbuds updated.
The Anker Q20i headphones in white have similar features to the black version. They also use four microphones for effective noise cancellation. The sound quality is clear with good bass. Design-wise, they look sleek and modern.
Pros
Effective noise reduction. Good sound clarity. Attractive design.
Cons
Battery life might not last for very long trips. The color may show dirt easily.
They fit comfortably but may feel tight for some users.
The white Anker Q20i headphones are stylish and effective for noise cancellation and sound quality.
6. Best Design
Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones, Black
- SONY’S LIGHTEST WIRELESS NOISE CANCELING HEADBAND EVER: Weighing just 192g, our lightest overhead wireless headphones with Noise Canceling yet, for incredible comfort without compromising on technology.
- DUAL NOISE SENSOR TECHNOLOGY: Take noise canceling to the next level with Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, so you can fully immerse yourself in the music.
- ALL DAY COMFORT: Super comfortable and lightweight design.
- SMART FEATURES: Adjustable Ambient Sound mode and Adaptive Sound control features tailors sound to suit the environment around you.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 35-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for up to 1 hour of playback).(USB Type-C Cable included
- SUPERB SOUND: Enjoy natural vocals, crystal clear sound and balanced tuning thanks to the Integrated Processor V1 and Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), producing a high-quality sound exactly as the artists intended.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS FREE CALLING: Precise Voice Pickup Technology uses beamforming microphones pick up voices clearly and accurately.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
- GIVE YOUR MUSIC A BOOST: Boost the quality of compressed music files and enjoy streaming music with high quality sound through DSEE.
Sony WH-CH720N headphones are lightweight and comfortable. They feature dual noise sensor technology for better sound isolation. The sound quality is impressive and balanced. These headphones are also easy to carry for travel.
Pros
Lightweight and comfortable. Good noise cancellation. Impressive sound quality.
Cons
Battery life may not be enough for long trips. Some may prefer a more sturdy build.
These headphones fit well and are adjustable for different head sizes.
Sony WH-CH720N headphones are a good choice for those seeking comfort and decent noise cancellation.
7. Best Premium
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Pink
- Block the World, Keep the Music: Four built-in mics work together to filter out background noise — whether you’re in a packed office, on a crowded commute, or moving through a busy street — so every beat comes through clean and clear. (Not available in AUX-in mode.)
- Two Ways to Hear More: BassUp technology delivers deep, punchy bass and crisp highs in wireless mode — then step it up further by plugging in the included AUX cable to unlock Hi‑Res certified audio for studio-level clarity.
- 40 Hours. 5-Minute Top-Up: With ANC on, a single charge keeps you listening through days of commutes and long-haul flights. Running low? Just 5 minutes plugged in gives you 4 more hours — so you’re never stuck waiting.
- Two Devices, Zero Hassle: Stay connected to your laptop and phone at the same time. Audio switches automatically to whichever device needs you — so a call never interrupts your flow, and getting back to your playlist is just as easy. Designed for commuters and remote workers who move smoothly between work and personal listening throughout the day.
- Your Sound, Your Rules: The soundcore app puts everything at your fingertips — dials your ideal EQ with presets or build your own, flip between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes on the fly, or wind down with built-in white noise. One app, total control.
- Hear What Matters, When It Matters: Transparency mode blends your surroundings into your listening — catch a train announcement, respond to a colleague, or navigate busy streets without ever taking your earphones off.
- soundcore App Support: Download the soundcore app for software updates and access to available features. Personalize your listening with HearID, EQ modes, Spatial Audio, and adjustable ANC settings. OTA firmware updates help keep your earbuds updated.
The Anker Q20i headphones in pink have the same features as the other models. They effectively block noise with four built-in microphones. Their sound quality is impressive, making them good for music and calls.
Pros
Effective noise cancellation. Attractive pink color. Clear sound quality.
Cons
They may feel snug for larger heads. Battery life could be longer.
They fit securely on the head and are adjustable.
Anker Q20i pink headphones are a fun choice with good sound and noise cancellation.
8. Best Compact
Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up to 40-Hour Battery Life, Active Noise Cancelling, Great for Travel & Commuting, USB-C Lossless…
- INCREDIBLE SOUND: Custom acoustic platform delivers rich, balanced audio for music, calls and everyday listening.
- LOSSLESS AUDIO SUPPORT: USB-C lossless audio and sound profiles optimize music quality across devices and environments. Additional option to use the 3.5 mm cable for a standard analog experience.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING (ANC): block distractions at work, on flights or during your daily commute. Or use Transparency mode to let the sounds of your environment mix in with your music.
- SEAMLESS WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: One-touch pairing with Apple & Android for easy switching across devices.
- SPATIAL AUDIO IMMERSION: Personalized dynamic head tracking, 360-degree sound for movies, music and immersive everyday listening.
- UP TO 40-HOUR BATTERY LIFE: Long-lasting power for workdays, travel and extended listening without frequent charging. Thanks to Fast Fuel, a 10-minute charge gives up to 4 hours of power.
- CLEAR CALL PERFORMANCE: Voice-targeting mics reduce background noise for crisp, clear calls in the office or on the go.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Over-ear design with UltraPlush comfort cushions built for long listening at home, work, or travel.
- RELIABLE BLUETOOTH PERFORMANCE: Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity ensures stable connections with fewer dropouts across locations.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Beats Studio Pro Wireless headphones, travel-ready woven carrying case, 3.5 mm audio cable, Universal USB-C charging cable, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card
Beats Studio Pro in sandstone color offer high-quality audio. They have up to 40 hours of battery life and USB-C lossless audio. They are designed for comfortable listening over long periods. Their sound profile is well-balanced.
Pros
Excellent sound quality. Long battery life. Stylish sandstone color.
Cons
They may not fit small heads well. Price is higher compared to competitors.
These headphones fit snugly over the ears for a good seal.
Beats Studio Pro headphones in sandstone deliver quality sound and stylish design for music lovers.
9. Most Versatile
Upgrade Pro‑Level Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
- Professional Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation: The Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling headphones reduce up to 33dB of noise so you can completely immerse into your rhythm whenever you need. Or if you need ambient sound, the Transparency Mode ensures you’re aware of your environment while you enjoy your music. There is a sensitive button control that makes it easy to switch between these two modes.
- Premium Hi-Fi Music: With customized 40mm drivers, vibeadio Bluetooth noise canceling headphones shine through with thumping bass on the lows and crystal clarity on the highs, each beat to its very essence. Exhilarate your senses with details of musical experience. And latest Bluetooth V5.2 technology wirelessly streams high-quality sound from your Bluetooth devices without the messy cords.
- Crystal Clear Hands-free Calls: Advanced microphone system precisely filters noise for crisp, clear call performance. These active noise cancelling headphones with ENC tech can catch your voice accurately and block background noise for perfect clear calls. Vibeadio wireless Bluetooth headphones make stable clear Hands-free calls which is convenient for home office/study.
- Ultra Comfort and Lightweight: Enlarge breathable high-grade protein ear cushions softly surround the entire ears making you feel extremely comfortable that the total listening experience gets accentuated another level with vibeadio over ear Bluetooth headphones. Ergonomically designed and 30% lighter over-ear headphones provide an all-day comfortable experience.
- Extended Long Playtime: Never worry about the shortage of power when you have long trips with compact lightweight vibeadio Bluetooth over ear headphones. Listen wirelessly for 30 hours without ANC and 25 hours with ANC on a single charge. Or use the provided detachable 3.5mm cable to listen even longer in wired mode when the battery is flat.
Vibeadio headphones feature professional hybrid active noise cancellation. They reduce noise by up to 33dB. They also have a transparency mode for awareness of surroundings. This makes them versatile for different settings.
Pros
Good noise reduction. Versatile usage modes. Comfortable for wear.
Cons
Sound quality may not satisfy audiophiles. The build may feel a bit cheap.
These headphones fit comfortably but may not suit everyone’s head shape.
Vibeadio headphones are good for those needing decent noise cancellation and versatility.
10. Best for Beginners
Bose QuietComfort Headphones – Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of…
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
- WIRED HEADPHONES OPTION: Plug the included audio cable with in-line microphone into your Bose noise cancelling headphones to use them without a Bluetooth connection, or even when the battery is depleted
- MULTIPOINT BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES: Seamlessly stay connected to all your favorite devices using the multi-point toggle feature which allows you to switch devices without disconnecting and reconnecting each time
- BOSE APP: Download the Bose app to receive the latest software updates. Ensure optimal functionality and get access to all the latest features and cutting-edge tech.
Bose QuietComfort headphones combine active noise cancellation with passive features. They offer deep bass and up to 24 hours of playtime. The soft cushions provide comfort for long listening periods. They are designed for music and calls.
Pros
Excellent noise cancellation. Comfortable soft cushions. Good battery life.
Cons
They are on the expensive side. Some might find them bulky.
They fit well and are adjustable, providing a comfortable fit for most users.
Bose QuietComfort headphones are great for those seeking high comfort and excellent noise cancellation.
Noise Cancelling Headphones Compared Side by Side
The following table compares key features of the best cheap noise cancelling headphones. Look at the columns to see specific specs and pricing for each model. The target keyword is included to help you find the best choice.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling… | Editor's Choice | Anker | $44.99 | Check |
| 2 | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones… | Best Splurge | MMWOWARTS | $28.49 | Check |
| 3 | Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up… | Best for Daily Use | Beats | $169.95 | Check |
| 4 | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones 120H Playtime 6… | Runner-Up | TAGRY | $39.98 | Check |
| 5 | Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling… | Best Lightweight | Anker | 44.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear… | Best Design | SONY | 0 | Check |
| 7 | Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling… | Best Premium | Anker | $49.99 | Check |
| 8 | Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up… | Best Compact | Beats | $169.95 | Check |
| 9 | Upgrade Pro‑Level Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling… | Most Versatile | vibeadio | $16.27 | Check |
| 10 | Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Best for Beginners | Bose | $248.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reliable sources such as customer reviews, manufacturer specifications, and expert articles. This helped us find the best cheap noise cancelling headphones available.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 20 different models of noise cancelling headphones. Key features like sound quality, comfort, battery life, and price guided our selection to this final list.
What we ruled out and why
Models that had poor customer reviews or did not meet basic sound quality standards were eliminated. We also excluded models lacking essential noise cancelling features.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done, and we did not take any lab measurements. We relied solely on data collected from credible sources and expert reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest information and new products. We check for updates every few months to ensure accuracy.
How to Choose Noise Cancelling Headphones
Noise Cancelling Type
Noise cancelling headphones can have different types of technology. Active noise cancelling uses microphones to detect and block background sounds. Passive noise cancelling relies on tight ear fit. Choose active for busy environments like public transport.
Battery Life
Check the battery life to ensure it fits your needs. Many models offer at least 20 hours of playtime. If you travel often, look for headphones with 30 hours or more to avoid constant recharging.
Weight and Comfort
Consider how lightweight your headphones are. Heavier headphones can cause discomfort over long periods. Aim for models under 250 grams for a comfortable fit, especially if you’ll wear them for hours.
Sound Quality
Evaluate sound quality for music, calls, and videos. Look for headphones with large drivers, like 40mm or more, for better bass and clarity. This ensures an enjoyable listening experience across various media.
Design and Build Quality
The design should be durable and appealing. Look for headphones made with high-quality materials. Over-ear designs with plush cushioning are ideal for comfort and sound isolation.
What to look for
Active Noise Cancelling Technology
Active noise cancelling (ANC) technology is important for reducing background noise. It uses microphones to detect outside sound and creates opposing sound waves to cancel it out. Look for models that specify how much noise they can block, typically measured in decibels (dB).
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential for extended use. Look for headphones with padded ear cups and adjustable headbands. Over-ear designs often provide better comfort and sound isolation compared to on-ear or in-ear styles.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life varies widely among models. Aim for at least 20 hours on a single charge. Quick charging features are also helpful, allowing you to get hours of playtime with just a short charge.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Most modern headphones use Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Ensure the headphones support the latest Bluetooth version for better range and connectivity. Look for features like multi-device pairing if you switch between devices often.
Sound Quality and Performance
Sound quality is key for an enjoyable listening experience. Check for specifications like driver size and frequency response to gauge audio performance. Larger drivers typically produce better bass and overall sound clarity.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best cheap noise cancelling headphones?
The best cheap noise cancelling headphones include the Soundcore by Anker Q20i, MMWOWARTS headphones, and Sony WH-CH720N. Each offers unique features like comfort, sound quality, and noise reduction.
How does active noise cancelling work?
Active noise cancelling uses microphones to pick up external sounds. The headphones create sound waves that counteract these noises, reducing their impact. This technology is effective in loud places.
Are noise cancelling headphones better for travel?
Yes, noise cancelling headphones are great for travel. They help block out engine noise on planes and chatter in busy places. This creates a more peaceful environment for relaxing or enjoying music.
What should I consider when buying noise cancelling headphones?
Consider battery life, comfort, sound quality, and the type of noise cancelling. Ensure they fit well and have a good reputation for sound performance.
Can I use noise cancelling headphones for phone calls?
Yes, many noise cancelling headphones offer built-in microphones for phone calls. Look for models with clear call quality to ensure good communication during calls.
Shopping around? We have 38 more noise cancelling headphones guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- MedlinePlus hearing MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- NIH noise-induced hearing loss NIDCD (NIH)
About the author
Similar guides
- 10 Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones in 2026 Audio & Video
- 10 Affordable Noise Cancelling Headphones in 2026 Audio & Video
- 8 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel in 2026 Audio & Video
- 10 Best TVs to Buy in 2026 Audio & Video
- 10 Best Microphones in 2026 Audio & Video
- 9 Best Turntable Speakers in 2026 Audio & Video
