10 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Focus in 2025

Sony’s WH‑1000XM6 earned an 8.5/10 by combining class‑leading noise cancellation with rich, immersive sound and modern connectivity options in our testing. We found Bluetooth 5.3, LE Audio and Auracast support useful for future‑proofing and everyday streaming, and the 30‑hour battery handles long workdays, but during our review comfort can be an issue for listeners with larger ears due to shallower earcups. Also note it lacks USB‑C playback for wired listening if that’s important to your setup.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is our top-rated choice, earning a 9.5/10 because its exceptional noise cancellation and featherlight, well-cushioned design make long focus sessions effortless in our experience. We found the multipoint Bluetooth pairing and reliable ANC a real productivity boost on noisy commutes and open offices, though the 24‑hour battery life falls short of some rivals. During our review the Immersive Audio feature didn’t click for all listeners and the lack of an IP rating is worth noting if you need rugged carry for outdoor use.

The JBL Tour One M2 earned an 8/10 by delivering very good sound and excellent active noise cancellation that kept busy cafés and transit quiet during our testing. We found the comfortable fit makes it easy to settle into focus sessions, and the 30‑hour battery covers a full workday and beyond. Be aware, though: it doesn’t support high‑res codecs like LDAC or aptX and its spatial audio mode can sometimes degrade clarity, and the heavier weight may be noticeable on long flights.

For budget-conscious shoppers the Wyze Noise Cancelling Headphones are an affordable option that scored 6/10 yet surprised us with up to 40 dB of ANC and comfy memory-foam earpads in our testing. We found dual‑device Bluetooth pairing and wired support useful for juggling phone and laptop, but during our review the integrated microphone delivered poor recording quality and the bulky, leatherette pads trapped heat during extended sessions. If you mainly need noise suppression on a budget they’re worth considering, but expect trade-offs for mic and portability.

Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 balances excellent sound and marathon battery life — it scored 8.5/10 and in our testing delivered detailed audio plus a remarkable 60‑hour runtime with ANC enabled. We found the active noise cancellation quite effective for focused work and the plush fit comfy for long listening, but during everyday use the touch controls were occasionally inconsistent and the design doesn’t fold into the headband, which hurts pocketability on the go. If you value sound and endurance for long study or work days, this is a strong all‑rounder.

The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 scored 7.5/10 by offering exceptional, emotionally rich sound and a comfortable fit that’s great for long listening sessions in our testing. We appreciated the solid 30‑hour battery and quick‑charge convenience for short turnarounds, but found the active noise cancellation didn’t quite tame high‑frequency noise as well as the very best on this list. Also note it doesn’t fold flat for compact travel and some advanced features require initial app setup to unlock their full potential.

If you want strong ANC without breaking the bank, the Space Q45 is a value-focused pick that scored 6.5/10 in our testing — its noise cancellation performs like higher-priced models and the soft fit makes it easy to wear all day. We found the 50‑hour battery life and Bluetooth/wired options handy for long commutes and desk work, and calls can come through clearly at times. During our review we also noticed the sound lacks definition in the lows and highs, and the included charging cable is frustratingly short, so audio purists may want to look higher on the list.

The Jabra Link 950 is a niche, lower‑scoring accessory (5/10) that’s designed for specific desk setups rather than general noise‑cancelling listening. In our experience it shines when you need seamless switching between a desk phone and softphone via USB, which is handy for home offices with mixed calling hardware. During our review we found its scope is limited: there’s no ANC, and certain Jabra headsets need an extra power supply, which can add cost and complexity if you expected a simple plug‑and‑play solution.

Apple’s AirPods Max in Midnight deliver premium build and excellent sound that earned a solid 7/10 in our testing, with strong ANC that creates an immersive bubble for focused work. We found the fabric headband and plush pads comfortable for many listeners, but during our review the heavier weight became noticeable on long sessions and the lack of a 3.5mm jack limits wired options for high‑quality, lossless listening. The 20‑hour battery is adequate, yet the included Smart Case offers minimal protection, so consider that if you travel frequently.