What's On My Mind: Noise-Canceling Headphones and My Productivity Routine
July 18, 2025
Overview
In this article, I delve into the world of noise-canceling headphones and how they've become an indispensable part of my productivity routine. Explore how these innovative devices are more than just a way to listen to music; they're a powerful tool for creating focus and minimizing distractions in a busy world. Discover the impact of noise-canceling technology on concentration, mindfulness, and overall well-being, and learn how to find the perfect pair of headphones to cultivate a more productive and peaceful environment. I will also share a curated list of recommended noise-canceling headphones for different budgets and needs, along with insights into incorporating them into your daily workflow.
Our picks
The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones Overall: Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones, $449.99
The Best Budget Noise-Canceling Headphones (Under $100): Cleer Audio Ally Plus II, $85.99
The Most Premium Noise-Canceling Headphones: MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, $299.95
The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel: Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones, $399.99
The Best Headphones for Enhanced Focus: Space Q45 Headphones, $149.99
The Best Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds, $199.99
The Most Comfortable Noise-Canceling Headphones: Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, $80.00
Top Noise-Canceling Headphones: Our Picks
Discover the best noise-canceling headphones for focus, productivity, and tranquility.
6.5
Listful
Score
Nothing Headphone (1) White
$299.00
The Nothing Headphone (1) offers solid performance with impressive battery life, lasting up to 80 hours without ANC. In our testing, the headphones delivered good audio quality, but the weight may lead to discomfort during extended use. Scoring 6.5/10, they provide effective noise cancellation but can struggle with inconsistent background noise. For those who prioritize battery longevity over comfort, these headphones are worth considering.
The Good
• The headphones offer impressive battery life, lasting up to 35 hours with ANC on and 80 hours with ANC off.
The Bad
• The headphones are relatively heavy at 329 grams, which may cause discomfort during extended use.
• The active noise cancellation is effective but may struggle with inconsistent background noises.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 35 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC
7
Listful
Score
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds
$199.99
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds excel in active noise cancellation and premium sound quality. During our testing, the earbuds offered an immersive listening experience with high-resolution audio support, making them ideal for music enthusiasts. However, they experience frequent connection dropouts, affecting their overall appeal. Scoring 7/10, these earbuds are a solid choice for those prioritizing audio excellence despite the occasional connectivity issues.
The Good
• Excellent active noise cancellation performance.
• Comfortable and lightweight design.
• Supports high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC.
The Bad
• Frequent connection dropouts reported by users.
• Battery life falls short of some competitors.
• Touch controls are non-remappable.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 8 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC,LC3
Headphone Features: What to Look For
Explore crucial features like battery life, comfort, and noise cancellation effectiveness.
6.5
Listful
Score
Sony WH-CH720N Headphones
$98.00
The Sony WH-CH720N headphones provide effective noise cancellation at a wallet-friendly price point. In our tests, the 35-hour battery life and lightweight design allowed for extended, comfortable wear. However, the sound quality may be perceived as flat by some, and the plasticky build could affect long-term durability. While they score a modest 6.5/10, these headphones still present a reasonable option for those seeking noise cancellation without breaking the bank.
The Good
• Effective active noise cancellation for the price point.
• Impressive battery life of up to 50 hours with ANC off.
• Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended use.
The Bad
• Sound quality may be perceived as flat by some users.
• Lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC.
• Build quality feels plasticky, which may affect durability.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 35 hours / Sound Quality: Average / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
7.5
Listful
Score
Space Q45 Headphones
$149.99
The Space Q45 headphones combine industry-leading noise cancellation with a remarkable 50-hour battery life. In our tests, their comfortable design accommodated long listening sessions, though the headband may cause a 'hot spot' on the forehead. Lacking the aptX codec for potentially improved latency, the Q45 nonetheless scores 7.5/10 for its strong noise reduction capabilities and battery longevity, making them a great asset for focused work.
The Good
• Effective active noise cancellation that significantly reduces ambient noise.
• Long battery life with up to 50 hours of playtime with ANC on.
• Comfortable design with ultra-soft earcups and adjustable headband.
The Bad
• Lacks support for aptX codec, potentially leading to latency issues during video playback.
• Microphone quality is subpar, resulting in less clear call audio.
• Headband may exert pressure leading to a fatiguing 'hot spot' on the forehead.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 50 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC
Noise-Canceling Headphones Under $100
Affordable options that deliver impressive noise cancellation without breaking the bank.
7.5
Listful
Score
Cleer Audio Ally Plus II
$85.99
For budget-conscious users, the Cleer Audio Ally Plus II earbuds strike a balance between cost and quality, offering solid ANC and a warm sound profile. During our review, we appreciated their long-lasting battery life of up to 33 hours with the case, making them perfect for all-day use. However, the bulky design may not suit everyone, particularly those with smaller ears, and the absence of AAC codec support could impact the audio experience for Apple users. Overall, these earbuds score 7.5/10 and deliver great value under $100.
The Good
• Excellent sound quality with a warm, balanced profile and clear vocals.
• Effective active noise cancellation that reduces ambient noise significantly.
• Long battery life with up to 11 hours on a single charge and additional 22 hours with the case.
The Bad
• Bulky design may not fit comfortably in smaller ears.
• Lack of AAC codec support may limit audio quality for Apple users.
• Ambient mode may produce a hissing sound, affecting audio clarity.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 11 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,aptX Adaptive
8.5
Listful
Score
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
$80.00
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 stands out with its exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality, earning an impressive 8.5/10 score. We found these earbuds to provide a balanced and detailed listening experience across various genres. Their comfort is enhanced by multiple ear tip sizes, but the battery life of 6 hours with ANC could be a limitation for extended use. Despite lacking high-resolution audio codecs, they offer a compelling option for those prioritizing ANC and audio clarity.
The Good
• Exceptional active noise cancellation effectively minimizes ambient noise.
• Balanced and detailed sound quality suitable for various music genres.
• Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes for personalized comfort.
The Bad
• Battery life of 6 hours with ANC on is shorter than some competitors.
• Lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs like aptX Adaptive or LDAC.
• Charging case is relatively large compared to other models.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 6 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
5.5
Listful
Score
Mpow H19 IPO Headphones
$75.15
The Mpow H19 IPO headphones offer a budget-friendly solution for those seeking noise cancellation capabilities. Despite their affordable price, we found them comfortable for extended use, thanks to a lightweight design. However, users may experience ear pressure and connectivity issues during longer calls. With a 30-hour battery life, they provide good value and functionality, scoring a solid 5.5/10 in our review. These headphones suit casual listeners needing a cost-effective ANC option.
The Good
• Lightweight design at 8.47oz (240g) enhances comfort during extended use.
The Bad
• Some users report ear pressure and heat buildup during prolonged use.
• Bluetooth connectivity issues reported during longer calls or at extended range.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 30 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: AAC
7.5
Listful
Score
Soundcore Q20i Headphones
$39.99
The Soundcore Q20i headphones stand out with hybrid active noise cancellation and a wallet-friendly price tag. During our review, their 40-hour battery life and comfortable design impressed us, providing great value for budget-conscious buyers. While the plastic build may feel less durable, they deliver rich audio for everyday use. Scoring 7.5/10, the Q20i proves you don't have to break the bank for quality sound and effective noise cancellation.
The Good
• Effective hybrid active noise cancellation.
• Exceptional battery life with fast charging.
• Comfortable design for extended wear.
The Bad
• Plastic build feels somewhat less durable.
• ANC performance not on par with high-end models.
• Microphone struggles in noisy environments.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 40 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
8
Listful
Score
Soundcore Q30 Headphones
$85.98
The Soundcore Q30 headphones provide impressive battery life and portability at an affordable price. In our experience, the 40-hour battery life and fold-up design are standout features, ideal for travel or long work sessions. While the sound quality isn't the highest, these headphones still earn an 8/10 for their value and comfort. The lack of an automatic off-feature when removed can be a slight inconvenience, but the overall package is commendable.
The Good
• The headphones offer an impressive 40 hours of playback time with active noise cancellation engaged.
• The headphones are extremely comfortable even during extended use.
• The fold-up design and protective carrying case enhance portability.
The Bad
• The Q30 lacks a visual battery level indicator, relying instead on vague vocal battery indicators.
• Sound quality, while good for the price, isn't world-class, with overemphasis on midrange frequencies and less defined bass.
• The Q30 doesn't turn off automatically when removed from the head.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 40 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
7.5
Listful
Score
1MORE SonoFlow Headphones
$59.98
The 1MORE SonoFlow headphones offer incredible battery life with up to 70 hours of playtime without ANC. In our review, the headphones delivered well-balanced audio, surpassing expectations for their price point. Although the plastic construction raises durability concerns, they excel with effective noise cancellation and easy sound customization. Scoring 7.5/10, they present an impressive option for anyone looking to escape distractions affordably.
The Good
• Excellent battery life with up to 70 hours of playtime without ANC and 50 hours with ANC.
• Well-balanced audio performance that exceeds expectations for its price point.
• Effective noise cancellation suitable for travel and daily use.
The Bad
• Plastic construction feels less premium and may be prone to durability issues.
• On-device buttons can be fiddly and may require practice to use effectively.
• Transparency mode is less effective, making it difficult to hold conversations without removing the headphones.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 50 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC
Premium Noise-Canceling Headphones: The Best
High-end headphones for the ultimate listening experience and maximum noise reduction.
8
Listful
Score
MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
$299.95
The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless headphones are a solid choice for those who value battery life and sound quality, boasting an impressive 60-hour playback time with ANC enabled. In our experience, they deliver rich and balanced audio across various genres, making them ideal for audiophiles. While their noise cancellation is effective, it falls slightly short of industry leaders, and some users report comfort issues with the ear cups. Still, they earn a commendable 8/10 score, especially for long listening sessions.
The Good
• Exceptional 60-hour battery life with ANC enabled.
• Supports high-resolution audio codecs like aptX Adaptive.
• Rich and balanced sound quality across various genres.
The Bad
• Some users find the ear cups too small, leading to discomfort.
• Touch controls may be less intuitive for some users.
• Noise cancellation is effective but slightly less than top competitors.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 60 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,aptX,aptX Adaptive
8
Listful
Score
Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones
$449.99
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are a premium choice for those seeking top-tier noise cancellation and audio quality. In our testing, the DSEE Extreme technology and 12 microphones delivered an enhanced listening experience, making them suitable for focused work sessions. Despite their slightly tight fit on larger heads, we found the comfort and build quality to be commendable. While priced higher, they justify the investment with excellent features, scoring an 8/10 in our review.
The Good
• Enhanced audio via DSEE Extreme technology.
• Improved adaptive noise cancellation with 12 microphones.
• Redesigned hinge for increased comfort.
The Bad
• Minimal discount during sales events.
• Slightly tight fit on larger heads.
• Higher price with modest improvements over previous model.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 30 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC
7
Listful
Score
Beoplay HX Headphones by Bang & Olufsen
$483.89
The Beoplay HX Headphones by Bang & Olufsen offer a luxurious listening experience with high-quality materials and a sophisticated design. However, our experience showed that the noise cancellation is less effective compared to other competitors in its price range. While the overall sound quality is good, those who prefer a bass-heavy profile might find it lacking. Despite these drawbacks, these headphones remain a stylish choice, particularly for those who prioritize aesthetics and comfort.
The Good
• High-quality materials and finish provide a luxurious feel.
The Bad
• Active noise cancellation is less effective compared to competitors.
• Sound profile may lack bass emphasis preferred by some users.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 35 hours / Sound Quality: Good / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,aptX Adaptive
7.5
Listful
Score
Galaxy Buds3 Pro - White
$249.99
Samsung's Galaxy Buds3 Pro are well-suited for those prioritizing sound clarity in both audio and voice calls. We appreciated their crisp transparency mode, although the noise cancellation performance didn't particularly stand out in our review. Despite the uninspired design and lack of true multipoint connectivity, they deliver excellent sound quality. Overall, these earbuds score a respectable 7.5/10, making them a decent option for everyday use with a comfortable fit.
The Good
• Terrific sound quality.
• Crisp, natural transparency mode.
• Good voice calls.
The Bad
• Uninspired design.
• Midtier noise cancellation performance.
• No true multipoint connectivity.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 6 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
9
Listful
Score
AirPods Max - Midnight
$549.00
Apple's AirPods Max, with a high score of 9/10, offer an outstanding audio experience, featuring industry-leading noise cancellation and seamless Apple integration. During our review, the impeccable sound quality with clear highs and solid bass stood out, making them perfect for immersive listening. However, the heavier design might affect comfort during prolonged use, and the included Smart Case offers minimal protection. Despite these shortcomings, they represent the pinnacle of audio excellence, especially for Apple ecosystem users.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with clear highs, warm mids, and punchy bass.
• Industry-leading active noise cancellation effectively reduces ambient noise.
• Seamless integration with Apple devices for a smooth user experience.
The Bad
• Heavier than competitors, which may affect comfort during extended use.
• Limited to AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, lacking support for higher-quality options like aptX or LDAC.
• The included Smart Case offers minimal protection and lacks functionality.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 20 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC
8.5
Listful
Score
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
$449.00
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel with their top-tier noise cancellation and comfort, earning an 8.5/10 rating in our review. We found them ideal for long listening sessions, thanks to their plush design and superlative ANC. The Immersive Audio feature creates a three-dimensional soundstage, although some users might find individual sound shifts distracting. While the battery life is shorter compared to some competitors, these headphones deliver a premium audio experience worth considering despite the higher price.
The Good
• Exceptional active noise cancellation that effectively reduces ambient sounds in various environments.
• Comfortable design suitable for extended wear without causing discomfort.
• Immersive Audio feature provides a spacious, three-dimensional soundstage for an enhanced listening experience.
The Bad
• Battery life of 24 hours is shorter compared to some competitors offering longer playback times.
• Immersive Audio feature may cause individual voices or instruments to wander from side to center channel and back.
• Priced higher than some competitors, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 24 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,aptX,aptX Lossless
8.5
Listful
Score
Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones
$399.99
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top choice for those seeking premium noise cancellation and design. In our testing, they effectively minimize ambient sounds, providing a focused and immersive experience. Their sleek design and long-lasting 40-hour battery make them ideal for extended use. However, the high price and limited portability may be considerations for some. Earning a score of 8.5/10, these headphones are a great investment for serious users.
The Good
• Exceptional noise cancellation effectively minimizes ambient sounds.
• Sleek and comfortable design suitable for extended use.
• Impressive battery life up to 40 hours.
The Bad
• Premium price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
• Lack of foldability may affect portability.
• Limited support for certain Bluetooth codecs like aptX.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 40 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,LDAC
9.5
Listful
Score
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
$299.00
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds redefine audio excellence with stellar sound quality and top-tier noise cancellation. In our review, they offered an immersive listening experience, scoring an impressive 9.5/10. While their design can be bulky, potentially leading to fit issues, the audio and ANC more than compensate. These earbuds are perfect for those who want the best in-ear audio experience, despite minor comfort challenges.
The Good
• Exceptional audio quality with dynamic, bass-heavy sound, clean mids, and clear vocals.
• Best-in-class active noise cancellation and immersive audio experience.
• Solid battery life with six hours of continuous listening and 24 additional hours from the charging case.
The Bad
• Lack of wireless charging feature, requiring an additional purchase for a wireless charging case cover.
• Bulky design may not fit snugly for all users, leading to discomfort during movement.
• Touch controls are overly sensitive, causing unintended interruptions during adjustments.
Noise Cancellation: true / Battery Life: 6 hours / Sound Quality: Excellent / Bluetooth Codecs: SBC,AAC,aptX,aptX Adaptive,aptX Lossless
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