The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2025, According to Audiophiles
July 23, 2025
Overview
In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, staying ahead of the curve is key. This guide, curated with the expertise of audiophiles, unveils the best noise-canceling headphones of 2025, ensuring an unparalleled listening experience. We've meticulously researched and reviewed the top contenders, considering factors like sound quality, comfort, battery life, and innovative features to bring you the ultimate selection for discerning ears. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone seeking tranquility in a busy environment, discover the perfect headphones to immerse yourself in pure audio bliss.
Senior Editor
Our top picks
The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, $395.12
The Best Sound Quality Headphones for Audiophiles: DALI IO-8 Headphones, $1,250.00
The Most Comfortable Headphones for Long Sessions: Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e Headphones, $399.00
The Best Value Noise-Canceling Headphones: JBL Live 770NC Headphones, $94.95
The Most Feature-Rich Headphones for Tech Lovers: AirPods Pro (2nd generation), $149.00
The Best Headphones for the Gadget Guru: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Headphones, $449.00
The Best Wireless Headphones for Audiophiles: Marshall Monitor III, $349.99
Top-Rated Noise-Canceling Headphones Overall
The absolute best noise-canceling headphones, as determined by audiophile reviews.
Nothing Headphone (1) White
$299.00
The Nothing Headphone (1) White offers substantial battery life with 42 hours in ANC, making them great for travel. In our testing, sound quality tuned by KEF impressed us, yet the headphones' heavier design caused occasional discomfort. Noise cancellation reduces ambient noise but struggles with inconsistent background sounds. Scoring 7.5/10, these headphones are a worthy consideration for those valuing strong battery life and refined sound, but may fall short for audiophiles seeking top-notch noise isolation.
The Good
• Exceptional battery life, lasting up to 42 hours with ANC on.
• Sound quality is refined and well-balanced, tuned by KEF.
The Bad
• Heavier than competitors, weighing 329 grams.
• Active Noise Cancellation struggles with inconsistent background noises.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 42 hours
Sony WF-1000XM5
$299.99
In our experience with the Sony WF-1000XM5, the earbuds delivered superb sound quality and noise cancellation, scoring 7/10. At $299.99, they feature improved tuning and new drivers, making them competitive in sound. However, users may face connectivity dropouts and effort is needed to ensure a secure fit. While battery life isn't its strong suit, the feature set and audio performance place it as a solid choice for those valuing sound quality.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with improved tuning and new 8.4mm drivers.
• Superb noise cancellation surpassing competitors like Apple and Samsung.
• Extensive feature set in a lighter, more pocket-friendly design.
The Bad
• Connection dropouts occur unexpectedly, affecting reliability.
• Achieving a secure fit requires effort and may be inconsistent.
• Battery life falls short of advertised duration, especially with ANC on.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 9/10 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 7.5 hours
Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones
$428.00
Our tests reveal the Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones excel in noise cancellation with their 12 microphones and robust audio quality from DSEE Extreme. With a score of 8.5/10, these headphones, priced at $428.00, are a standout in sound performance and comfort despite an average 30-hour battery life. Users with larger heads might find the fit snug, but for high-end sound and build quality, they're a solid investment.
The Good
• Enhanced audio via DSEE Extreme.
• Improved adaptive noise cancellation with 12 microphones.
• Premium build quality.
The Bad
• Battery life of 30 hours with ANC on is average.
• Slightly tight fit on larger heads.
• Minimal discount during sales events.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 30 hours
Sony LinkBuds S
$159.99
The Sony LinkBuds S offer an excellent blend of sound quality and noise cancellation for a reasonable price, earning a commendable 8.5/10. Our testing highlights their lightweight design, providing all-day comfort for users, though the average battery life and sensitivity of touch controls can be a minor inconvenience. Without wireless charging, these earbuds still provide great value with detailed sound and effective ANC. They're a smart choice for those seeking reliable performance in daily use without breaking the bank.
The Good
• Lightweight design ensures comfort during extended use.
• Sound quality is detailed and well-balanced.
• Effective noise cancellation enhances listening experience.
The Bad
• Touch controls can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental activations.
• Charging case lacks wireless charging capability.
• Battery life is average compared to competitors.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 6 hours
Best Noise Cancellation for Travel
Headphones designed to block out the most noise on the go, perfect for frequent flyers.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e Headphones
$399.00
Our experience with the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e highlighted its stellar sound quality and effective noise cancellation. The memory foam earpads offer unmatched comfort, although reliance on physical buttons may seem dated to some users. With a balance of luxury and performance, the PX7 S2e holds its ground despite limited EQ options and occasional sensor delays, earning it an admirable placement in our rankings.
The Good
• The Px7 S2e offers a comfortable fit with memory foam earcups, allowing for extended listening sessions without discomfort.
• The Px7 S2e delivers clear voice transmission, indistinguishable from direct phone calls for the recipients.
• Battery performance is genuinely impressive, consistently delivering close to the advertised 30-hour playback time with ANC enabled.
The Bad
• The headphones lack touch controls, relying solely on physical buttons for navigation.
• The headphones do not support the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard, which some users might expect at this price point.
• Active noise canceling on these isn’t as strong as I’d like, but they do the job.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 30 hours
Jabra Elite 85h
$80.00
The Jabra Elite 85h Pouch delivers commendable noise canceling and sound quality, yet lacks in comfort and aesthetic. While we appreciated the design visually, its functionality is compromised by dirt accumulation and difficulty in cleaning. Ultimately, these headphones offer a moderate performance but may not satisfy those looking for higher-grade comfort and durability. At its price point, there are compelling options with better features.
The Good
• Exceptional battery life, lasting up to 36 hours with ANC on and 41 hours without.
• Sound quality is excellent, offering a rich and vibrant 3D soundscape.
• Comfortable design suitable for extended use, with soft ear pads and adjustable fit.
The Bad
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performance is subpar compared to competitors like Sony and Bose.
• Design is functional but lacks the sleekness of some competitors.
• Included USB-C charging cable is relatively short, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: Very Good / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 36 hours with ANC on, 41 hours without
JBL Live 770NC Headphones
$94.95
Our testing revealed that the JBL Live 770NC Headphones provide robust sound quality and battery life, all within a budget-friendly price. While the battery extravagantly lasts up to 65 hours, the ANC and design left something to be desired. Users seeking protection from wet conditions should note its lack of water resistance. Nevertheless, it’s a solid entry choice for listeners prioritizing value and essential features in their purchase.
The Good
• Exceptional battery life, offering up to 50 hours with ANC on and 65 hours with ANC off.
• Comfortable over-ear design with plush headband and soft ear cushions.
• Effective True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient technology.
The Bad
• Design feels somewhat cheap, lacking premium features like touch controls.
• Bass performance may be too aggressive for some listeners.
• Microphone struggles with wind noise during calls.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4/5 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 50 hours with ANC on, 65 hours with ANC off
Px8 Headphones by Bowers & Wilkins
$439.99
The Px8 Headphones by Bowers & Wilkins, scoring 8/10, offer a luxurious design and exceptional sound quality with high-resolution DSP. However, priced at $439.99, the cost could be a deterrent for some. In our testing, the noise cancellation worked well for consistent sounds but struggled with sudden noises. For those prioritizing aesthetics and rich audio, the Px8 stands as an opulent choice despite its premium price point.
The Good
• Luxurious and comfortable design with high-quality materials.
• Exceptional sound quality with high-resolution 24-bit DSP and Carbon Cone drivers.
• Effective noise cancellation for consistent background noise.
The Bad
• Noise cancellation struggles with sudden or irregular sounds.
• Wear sensor can be inconsistent, leading to unexpected pauses.
• Premium price point may be prohibitive for some buyers.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 5/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 30 hours
Superior Sound Quality for Audiophiles
Headphones delivering the purest audio, perfect for discerning listeners and music lovers.
DALI IO-8 Headphones
$1,250.00
The DALI IO-8 headphones offer superb sound with effective noise cancellation, though its high price is a significant entry barrier. We found the real leather ear pads added a touch of luxury, but the circular design may not provide the best fit for everyone. For those willing to invest, the audio fidelity is unparalleled, yet lack of a dedicated app limits customization that many audiophiles enjoy.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with a balanced and immersive audio profile.
• Premium build quality with high-quality materials and comfortable design.
• Effective active noise cancellation with multiple modes.
The Bad
• Lacks a companion app for additional customization and control.
• Priced higher than many competitors, making it less accessible.
• Limited to physical button controls without touch or voice command options.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 5/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 35 hours
Sennheiser Momentum 4
$265.95
The Sennheiser Momentum 4, priced at $265.95, stands out with its exceptional 60-hour battery life, making it ideal for extended listening sessions. In our testing, its sound quality impressed even at low volumes, although the noise canceling isn't as strong as some competitors. Users with larger ears might find the fit less comfortable. Scoring 7.5/10, these headphones are a great choice for those prioritizing battery endurance and sound fidelity over noise-canceling strength.
The Good
• Exceptional 60-hour battery life with ANC enabled.
• Sound quality is outstanding even at low volume.
The Bad
• Some users find the fit uncomfortable, especially for larger ears.
• Noise canceling performance is not as strong as some competitors.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 60 hours
Beoplay HX Headphones
$749.00
The Beoplay HX headphones invite audiophiles with their vibrant sound quality and luxurious materials, earning a respectable 7.5/10 in our testing. Their effective noise cancellation and 35-hour battery life support extended listening sessions, although touch controls on the right earcup can be unresponsive at times. While ANC isn't as strong as some rivals, these headphones shine in delivering a dynamic listening experience, appealing to those who value sound quality and style.
The Good
• The Beoplay HX offers up to 35 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled.
The Bad
• The touch controls on the right earcup can be inconsistent and unresponsive.
• The active noise cancellation is effective but not as strong as some competitors.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: very good / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 35 hours
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Headphones
$449.00
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 headphones deliver luxurious sound with a natural tuning that transforms listening into an experience, scoring 8/10 in our tests. Their 30-hour battery life and quick charge feature offer convenience for on-the-go users, while the comfortable design suits extended use. While active noise cancellation could be improved to match competitors on higher frequencies, these headphones remain a top contender for those valuing audio quality and comfort, despite lacking spatial audio support.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with a natural and luxurious tuning.
• Impressive 30-hour battery life with quick charge feature.
• Comfortable design suitable for long listening sessions.
The Bad
• Active noise cancellation could be more effective, especially with higher-frequency noises.
• Lacks support for spatial audio and Dolby Atmos at launch.
• Does not fold flat, limiting compactness for travel.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: Excellent / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 30 hours
Most Comfortable Headphones for Extended Use
Headphones built for comfort, ideal for long listening sessions at work or home.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
$395.12
During our review, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones emerged as a top choice with its exceptional noise-canceling abilities and luxurious comfort. Boasting high-quality sound with immersive audio features, these headphones are perfect for extended listening sessions. However, we found that its premium price may be a consideration for some, combined with touch controls that are sometimes too sensitive, leading to unintentional commands. With a score of 9.5/10, they’re ideal for those prioritizing unparalleled audio bliss.
The Good
• Exceptional active noise cancellation effectively reduces ambient noise across various environments.
• Comfortable design allows for extended wear without discomfort.
• Immersive Audio feature enhances spatial sound experience.
The Bad
• Battery life of up to 24 hours is shorter compared to some competitors.
• Higher price point may not suit all budgets.
• Immersive Audio mode reduces battery life to 18 hours.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 8.2 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 24 hours
Beats Pro Headphones
$194.99
The Beats Pro Headphones, available for $194.99, offer exceptional sound and comfort, but the absence of wireless connectivity and heavy weight present challenges. Scoring 5.5/10, these headphones are built for durability, yet their price might not align with the wireless standards expected by many. For those who can forgo wireless capabilities in favor of solid sound and sturdiness, Beats Pro may still be an appealing choice.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality.
• Comfortable fit.
• Durable build.
The Bad
• Heavy weight.
• High price point.
• Lack of wireless connectivity.
Noise Cancellation: false / Sound Quality: 4.6 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: N/A
Best Value Noise-Canceling Headphones
High-quality noise-canceling headphones that won't break the bank for tech enthusiasts.
Marshall Monitor III
$349.99
In our testing, the Marshall Monitor III impressed with its phenomenal battery life, lasting up to 70 hours with ANC and 100 hours without. The balanced, natural sound quality suits varied music tastes, and the comfort is top-notch. However, its noise cancellation falls short of high-end alternatives, and the absence of high-resolution audio support might deter audiophiles. Overall, it earned a solid rating of 7/10 as a dependable mid-tier option lacking certain advanced features.
The Good
• Exceptional battery life of up to 70 hours with ANC on and 100 hours without.
• Balanced and natural sound quality suitable for various music genres.
• Comfortable design with plush ear cups and lightweight build.
The Bad
• Noise cancellation may not match the level of isolation offered by some high-end competitors.
• Lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs.
• No 3.5mm audio jack; relies on USB-C to 3.5mm cable for wired connections.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 70 hours with ANC on; 100 hours without ANC
Space Q45 Headphones
$149.99
The Space Q45 Headphones impressed us with adaptive noise-canceling technology that adjusted seamlessly for various environments. Boasting a robust 50-hour playtime with ANC, they're perfect for long travels. However, the design is somewhat unwieldy, with protruding earcups, and the microphone's clarity fell short in our testing, affecting call quality. Despite these drawbacks, they offer great value in their price range.
The Good
• Effective active noise cancellation that significantly reduces ambient noise.
• Comfortable design suitable for extended wear.
• Long battery life with up to 50 hours of playtime in ANC mode.
The Bad
• Microphone quality is subpar, leading to poor call clarity.
• Sound profile may not satisfy audiophiles seeking premium audio quality.
• Headband cushioning is minimal, potentially causing discomfort over time.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 7.3/10 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 50 hours
Space One Pro Headphones
$199.99
In our reviews, the Space One Pro Headphones stood out for their long battery life and solid sound quality, with up to 40 hours of playtime with ANC. However, despite their good points, build quality felt sub-par compared to similar ranges, and ANC struggled with higher frequencies. For an affordable price, they offer good features, but design and performance may not exactly meet top expectations in this guide.
The Good
• The headphones offer up to 40 hours of battery life with ANC on and 60 hours without.
• The design features sleek leatherette and brushed matte metal, complemented by comfortable earcups and padding.
• The Soundcore app enhances user experience through customization.
The Bad
• The ANC is not perfect and may struggle with higher-frequency sounds like human voices or sudden, sharp noises.
• Some users may find the touch controls a bit sensitive, leading to accidental activations.
• The build quality falls short of the premium feel offered by some competitors in a similar price range.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours with ANC off
1MORE SonoFlow SE Headphones
$43.99
The 1MORE SonoFlow SE Headphones, priced at $43.99, offer impressive battery life with up to 70 hours of playback, a standout feature for budget-conscious buyers. During our review, we noted its affordable price provides great value despite the lower build quality and app performance issues. If you prefer extended listening on a budget, these headphones deliver solid noise cancellation and sound quality, earning a score of 6/10.
The Good
• Exceptional battery life with up to 70 hours of playback without ANC and 50 hours with ANC.
• Quick charging feature provides 5 hours of playback from just a 5-minute charge.
• Affordable price point offers great value for the features provided.
The Bad
• Build quality feels cheap with plastic materials that may not be durable.
• Lacks a wired connection option, limiting versatility.
• Companion app is buggy and may crash or prevent toggling certain features.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 7.4 / Comfort Level: Average / Battery Life: 70 hours
Sony WH-CH720N Headphones
$79.99
The Sony WH-CH720N Headphones are an affordable choice at $79.99, offering a substantial 50-hour battery life with ANC off, earning a score of 6.5/10. Our experience shows that they are comfortable for extended use, although their plastic build and lack of waterproofing might deter some. For budget-focused buyers seeking effective noise cancellation, their lightweight design and Bluetooth multipoint capability provide great value.
The Good
• Impressive battery life of up to 50 hours with ANC off and 35 hours with ANC on.
• Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended use.
• Supports Bluetooth multipoint, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously.
The Bad
• Plastic build may feel less premium compared to other models.
• Lacks waterproofing, making them unsuitable for workouts or exposure to moisture.
• Earcups do not fold, limiting portability for travel.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 7.1 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 35 hours with ANC on, 50 hours with ANC off
Soundcore Space A40 Earbuds
$44.89
The Soundcore Space A40 Earbuds, priced at $44.89, excel with adaptive noise cancellation and ergonomic design, offering a stable fit and ample features for their price, scoring 6/10. While bass lovers might seek more depth, these earbuds effectively manage environmental noise, although touch controls can be finicky. For budget-conscious users seeking decent noise cancellation and comfort, the A40 remains a solid option.
The Good
• Effective noise cancellation with adaptive and manual modes.
• Ergonomic design ensures a stable and comfortable fit.
• Multipoint connectivity allows seamless switching between devices.
The Bad
• Microphone quality may be subpar in noisy environments.
• Bass response may lack depth for some users.
• Touch controls can be unresponsive at times.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 7.4 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 10 hours
Space One Headphones
$99.99
In our experience, the Space One Headphones are a budget-friendly option with impressive battery life, up to 40 hours with ANC and 55 hours without. They offer a balanced audio profile with strong bass that complements mids and treble, making them suitable for varied music tastes. However, build quality is a concern with their mostly plastic construction feeling flimsy, and the microphone's muffled voice during calls may not satisfy those seeking clear communication. Scoring 6.5/10, they're a solid choice for casual listeners prioritizing battery life over durability.
The Good
• The headphones offer a well-balanced audio profile with strong bass that doesn't overshadow mids and treble.
• The lightweight design and comfortable earcups make them suitable for extended listening sessions.
• The battery life is impressive, offering up to 40 hours with ANC on and 55 hours with it off.
The Bad
• The microphone quality is subpar, resulting in slightly muffled voices during calls.
• The mostly plastic build feels flimsy, raising concerns about durability.
• The included fabric drawstring pouch offers minimal protection compared to a hard-sided case.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 4.5/5 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 40 hours (ANC on), 55 hours (ANC off)
Headphones with Advanced Features
Explore the latest tech: smart features, touch controls, and unique functionalities.
AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
$149.00
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) shone in our review with effective noise cancellation and seamless integration with Apple devices, making them ideal for Apple ecosystem users. The multiple ear-tip sizes ensure a comfortable fit, though color options are limited to white. While the price may deter budget-conscious buyers, the overall experience makes it a standout choice for those invested in Apple products.
The Good
• Excellent noise-canceling capabilities rivaling premium brands like Bose.
• Seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem for effortless device switching.
• Comfortable fit with effective silicone tips suitable for extended wear.
The Bad
• Many features are restricted to iOS devices only, limiting functionality for non-Apple users.
• Battery life is considered average at 24 hours, providing about three days of heavy use.
• Updated USB-C case model is identical in sound to the original, offering no audio improvements.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 5/5 / Comfort Level: Excellent / Battery Life: 6 hours per charge, 30 hours with case
AirPods Max by Apple
$429.99
Apple's AirPods Max offer exceptional sound and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, scoring 7.5/10. Priced at $429.99, they impressed us with robust noise isolation and premium build quality. However, their limited 20-hour battery life and inadequate case design are notable downsides. If you're deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, these headphones provide a rich audio experience despite a few design shortcomings.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with a wide soundstage and impressive spatial audio performance.
• Robust noise isolation and seamless connectivity, especially within the Apple ecosystem.
• Premium build quality with durable aluminum construction and comfortable memory foam ear pads.
The Bad
• Inadequate carrying case that offers minimal protection and functionality.
• Limited battery life of 20 hours, which is less than some competitors.
• Declining durability over time, with visible tarnishing and wear appearing quickly.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 9/10 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 20 hours
Beats Studio Pro Headphones
$349.00
In our testing, the Beats Studio Pro Headphones deliver good active noise cancellation and a 24-hour battery life with ANC enabled, scoring 6.5/10. Priced at $349.00, they favor bass-heavy sound, which might not suit all listeners. While stylish and robust, lack of app customization might limit appeal. These headphones are a decent option for bass enthusiasts but explore alternatives for a more balanced sound profile.
The Good
• Offers premium active noise cancellation (ANC).
• Provides up to 24 hours of battery life with ANC on.
• Features USB audio passthrough for wired listening.
The Bad
• Bass-heavy sound may not appeal to all listeners.
• Lacks ear detection for automatic pausing.
• No dedicated app for adjusting settings on iOS devices.
Noise Cancellation: true / Sound Quality: 7.5/10 / Comfort Level: Good / Battery Life: 24 hours with ANC on, 40 hours without ANC
