Block Out the Babble with the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones You Can Buy

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If you've ever wished you could block out the outside world, silence all the distractions, and get stuff done—or just enjoy some peace and quiet—noise-canceling headphones are the answer. Whether it's over-ear "cans" that completely block out all sound, or smaller and lighter earbuds that let you move, exercise, and even run, noise-canceling headphones will deliver the respite and focus you've been searching for. But which ones should you buy?

We put a bunch of noise-canceling headphones and earbuds through their paces on planes, trains, and around the home and office to find the best.

Things to Consider

Like most tech and gadgets, noise-canceling headphones have come a long way in the last few years. Bose and Sony were pioneers in the field and still dominate the industry, but brands like Beats by Dre and Jabra have come out with headphones that are lighter, more fashionable, and more affordable than the top premium brands. Before you buy a set of pricey headphones that are more than you need or a set of cheapies that don't do the job, here are some things to think about.

Headphones vs. Earbuds

What do you plan on using your noise-canceling headphones for? Are you looking for something comfortable, lightweight, and supremely portable that will allow you to move around and perhaps even exercise while blocking out the noise from the outside world? Earbuds are your answer. But perhaps you need ultimate noise-blocking capabilities for focus on work or stress relief while flying. Then over-ear headphones are just what you need. Deciding when and where you'll use these noise-canceling superpowers will determine the right kind you should get.

Price

There's no way around this: The more you spend, the better the sound quality and noise cancellation you'll get. Earbuds are generally less expensive than headphones but have greatly improved in sound quality and noise cancellation in recent years. Alas, they're also easier to lose and may need to be replaced more often. Headphones are generally more expensive but offer better sound quality and noise canceling.

That said, there's a fairly wide price range for both types. Serviceable earbuds can be had for as little as 20 bucks; quality noise-canceling buds can be had for about $100. Over-ear headphones cost more; you can get decent ones starting at around $50, but we recommend starting at a price point around $100—because again, you get what you pay for.

Portability

Headphones tend to last longer between charges and offer better sound quality than earbuds, but don't let that fool you into buying something that you can't comfortably carry, store, or use. Also, don't assume that all headphones will fold up, because many noise-canceling options do not.

Comfort

Comfort is subjective—and essential. Over-ear headphones have come a long way since the clunky and heavy monstrosities of yore. That said, they're still clunkier and heavier than earbuds. Today's models are lighter than ever though, and they're using use softer, more cushioned ear cups that mold and breathe. Still, sweat and fatigue can occur depending on how long you wear them and what you're doing while you have them on. Earbuds are less obtrusive for most people, but we know folks who can't stand having them in their ears. When it comes to comfort, the choice is up to you.

Battery Life

A good pair of headphones should last about 20 hours between charges with noise cancellation on. The longer, the better.

App

Look for headphones with a companion app that lets you adjust sound settings and noise-cancellation levels. Most higher-end models will let you adjust the amount of noice cancellation you desire, from complete isolation to filtering some ambient sound, such as voices. (If you're an Apple user looking for AirPods or Beats, the headphone settings are baked into Apple iOS.)

Connectivity

Wireless connectivity of at least Bluetooth 5.0 will guarantee a robust and latency-free connection with the latest smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Multipoint connectivity—the ability to pair to more than one device simultaneously—will enable you to take phone calls on your phone while streaming from another device. It's a lifesaver, especially for hybrid work.

How We Selected These Headphones

Test editors at Popular Mechanics evaluated and vetted most of the headphones on this list. Road & Track editors also contributed picks and expertise to this roundup. To find the best, we surveyed the market, researched expert and user reviews, and used as many as we could get over our heads or into our ears. We evaluated these headphones and earbuds on their noise-cancellation efficacy as well as battery life, portability, design, comfort, and price.

Road & Track reminds our readers that wearing noise-canceling headphones while driving is not recommended and might be illegal where you drive. They are effective at canceling out noise (like the gang of singing Swifties in the back seat). But completely blocking out all background and ambient noise, including horns, emergency sirens, truck and motorcycle exhaust notes, etc., isn't safe while driving.

Best Noise Canceling Headphones

Bose 700

We like these for so many reasons: They weigh less than half a pound and they're slim, so they're really comfortable to wear. They're super-intuitive to use via easy touch controls and feature Alexa compatibility, a 20-hour battery life, and a quick-charge time of just 15 minutes for 3.5 hours of play time.

Most importantly, Bose 700s boast 11 levels of noise cancellation and a four-microphone system, which makes them great at isolating your voice during phone calls in busy areas. We also like the relatively compact carrying case and that Bose includes a cord with a headphone jack, just in case. You could spend more for top-quality wireless over-ear headphones, but you don't need to.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony's top-of-the-line noise-canceling headphones are a worthy successor to its popular WH-1000XM4 model for only about 20 bucks more. They balance a sleek design with a lightweight build, top-notch ergonomics, killer sound, excellent noise cancellation, and a whopping 30 hours of battery life.

They feature hands-free calling with eight microphones for precise voice pickup and advanced audio signal processing. Best of all, you get three hours of playback on just a three-minute charge.

Apple AirPods Max

Beyond the Apple name and sleek design, for many Apple acolytes, the excellent sound quality may justify the premium cost here. While AirPods Pro earbuds (below) have surprisingly great noise-canceling properties, the Max headphones take it a bit further by offering adaptive noise canceling. Of course, they look great and feature Apple's typical high-end fit and finish, but they are on the heavier side. AirPods Max have a comfortable mesh canopy and memory foam ear cups too.

Battery life is decent, but in typical Apple fashion, the AirPods Max never actually turn off—they only power down to a low-power mode. That means you'll need to lug around Apple's proprietary hard-cover Smart Case in addition to these heavy cans—the extra weight boosting the entire package up to almost two pounds. The premium price is also something we expect from Apple, but we doubt any of our quirks will deter the fanatics.

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 McLaren Edition

Legendary British audio company Bowers & Wilkins has been supplying McLaren cars with premium sound systems since 2015, so it's not surprising that this collab—which also includes the Zeppelin portable Bluetooth speaker—is so amazing. The integration of McLaren Automotive cues is subtle and elegant, with a Galvanic gray finish and Papaya orange highlights inspired by Bruce McLaren's early racing cars. A discreet tone-on-tone McLaren logo on the headband completes the sophisticated design.

B&W's flagship, top-of-the-line cans aren't cheap, but the sound quality and noise cancellation is superb. The touch controls aren't quite as intuitive as on some other high-end over-ear headphones we've used, but the companion app is easy to navigate and adjust EQ and noise-cancellation levels. I use these cans daily to drown out the cacophony of the Road & Track newsroom. Highly recommended.

See the full McLaren + B&W collection at Bowers & Wilkins.

Bang & Olufsen x Ferrari Beoplay EX

Ferrari lovers will want to get these buds in their ears. With noise cancellation, Transparency (ambient) Mode, and soft gel tips, now you can ride in style. The EX monitors ambient outside sound and cuts it out, so you can enjoy distraction-free listening and top-quality calls no matter where you are. They're IP57-rated, meaning they're waterproof in up to a meter of water for 30 full minutes, and, of course, impervious to sweat and dust.

Glass touch controls add to the luxury, so whether you're walking, running, or driving with the top down, the stick silhouette ensures stability, staying snug and flush to your ears. The buds have 9.2mm drivers, which deliver powerful sound performance.

The gorgeous Bang & Olufsen + Ferrari collaboration offers not just these earbuds but Ferrari red over-ear headphones, the H95 ($1353 at Farfetch). See the full collection at Bang & Olufsen.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Apple's AirPods Pro are also for the Apple acolytes—and for Apple-heads, they're great. A step beyond basic AirPods in both performance and price, these second-gen AirPods Pro are being marked down regularly, as new models are expected later in 2024. Until that happens, however, Apple's second-gen AirPods Pro are among the best noise-canceling earbuds you'll find (but only if you're an iPhone or iPad user). Transparency Mode is an "ambient" setting that lets you be more aware of your surroundings and automatically optimizes volume based on the environment.

AirPods Pro promise a battery life of up to 30 hours on a charge; of course, this includes the battery life stored in the charging case. They also instantly pair and switch between Apple devices. Fanatics, rejoice.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX

For audiophile-quality sound from exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials, look no further than B&O's gorgeous Beoplay HX headphones. Lambskin leather covering memory foam cushions, plus an ergonomic pressure-relieving headband wrapping a lightweight aluminum frame provide cocoon-like comfort.

With Microsoft Swift Pair, Google Fast Pair, and Made for iPhone modes, it's easy to connect to your favorite devices or switch between them. Or pair with two devices at once. Custom-made 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets deliver powerful and precise sound. Adjustable noise cancellation and highly sensitive microphones make the tech as alluring as the design.

Soundcore by Anker Life Q20

While most noise-canceling headphones will cost north of $200, this pair from Anker subsidiary Soundcore provides decent quality for well under $100. Naturally, you get what you pay for: sound quality and noise-canceling properties won't be nearly as advanced as most other headphones on this list and surely won't even be on par with $100 over-ears (for slightly elevated Soundcore experience, check out the Q30—$80 at Amazon.)

If you're after a last-minute noise-canceling solution—or just don't want to spend a bundle on noise-canceling headphones—you really can't dismiss these cans. They have a bass boost mode, four ANC microphones, and a rather astounding play time of 40 hours.

Jabra Elite 8 Active

For active folks who like to listen to music while running, Jabra's earbuds are beloved by fitness addicts because they're ruggedly built and durable to protect against dust, water, and sweat. They provide 32 hours of battery life with ANC on, and with Bluetooth Multipoint functionality you can connect to two devices at same time or seamlessly switch between your phone or smartwatch without needing to reconnect.

Different-size ear gels for a secure, custom fit are provided in every package, and six microphones distinguish between background noise and your speaking voice for clear calls. If you like to listen while working out, these are the noise-canceling earbuds you need.

Bose QuietComfort 45

While bulkier than Bose's top-of-the-line 700s (above) and heavier than any other option on this list, Bose's QuietComfort 45s provide similarly great noise cancellation at a slightly more affordable cost. They're still not cheap, but the ample, pleatless ear padding means they're designed more with comfort in mind than sound quality.

The 24-hour battery life is solid, plus you can get three hours of battery in just a 15-minute charge. Thanks to an optional audio cable, you can listen wired if the battery runs out.

Sennheiser Momentum 3

The Momentum 3 from legendary brand Sennheiser costs less than the other premium options on this list—the black ones cost even less ($320 at Amazon)—but also feature luxury accoutrements such as leather ear cups and a cool, classic minimalist design. And of course, that brand name is sure to get audiophile ears tingling.

Though the noise cancellation doesn't beat Sony's or Bose's technology, there are still three levels of ANC, along with a transparent hearing ambient feature, making these a good choice in a variety of listening environments.

Sony WF-1000XM3

Wireless earbuds aren't known as the best option for noise cancellation, but these from Sony combine some of the impressive tuning-out prowess of the WH-1000XM3 with compact convenience. It's rare to find earbuds with true noise cancellation, and these deliver, despite not providing the same sound isolation that ear cups can. They aren't the cheapest earbuds on the market, but you're paying for features such as the HD Noise-Canceling Processor, dual microphones, and a wide variety of earbud tips to help you find the right fit.

Like most in-ear headphones, the buds themselves only hold about six hours of charge, though the case provides another 18; if you use them with noise canceling turned off, they'll even last up to eight hours, or 32 total with the case.

Beats Studio Pro

Beats has finally produced top-of-the-line over-ear headphones that compete in sound quality, craftsmanship, and performance with the more established brands. The seamless leather ear cups are super comfortable.

They're the most powerful Beats ever made, with a two-layer diaphragm, refined micro-venting, and 25 percent stronger magnets to increase audio performance by 80 percent over the Beast Studio3 cans. Funny thing is, they're about the same price. They're not quite as colorful as Studio3s, but we're fine with that. The sound is still very bass-forward, which might be off-putting for some but is ideal for certain types of popular music.

How Noise Cancellation Works

More headphones than ever come equipped with noise cancellation. They do more than physically block sounds from entering your ear canal—active noise cancellation (ANC) actually uses a microphone to process ambient sound, then the circuitry produces "opposite" sound waves to reduce unwanted sound vibrations. While this doesn't necessarily eliminate all external sound, it can block about 70 percent of ambient noise, effectively dulling lower-frequency tones like the roar of an airplane or traffic.

In addition to ANC technology, finding the right seal with your headphones or earbuds is essential to blocking noise. In-ear buds will typically come with multiple sizes of tips for you to dial in the right balance of sealing and comfort, while over-ear headphones will seal with cushioned ear cups.

FAQs

Are noise-canceling headphones worth it?

For most people, yes. They're definitely worth a try. If you have trouble focusing or work in a loud/busy office space, noise-canceling headphones can block out distractions and help you get stuff done. If you get anxious on flights, they may help soothe your nerves. That said, for many people, simple earbuds provide enough background noise or music to block out the babble.

What headphones cancel the most noise?

Most modern over-ear headphones will completely block out all external sound and their noise-canceling settings are adjustable via a companion app. As with most tech and gadgets, the more you're willing to pay, the better quality you'll get.

What are the disadvantages of noise-canceling headphones?

Noise-canceling headphones completely block out outside noise, potentially keeping you from hearing important information or sounds. They're an absolute no-no while driving—illegal in many places—because you may not hear emergency sirens or adjacent traffic while wearing them. However, most modern noise-canceling headphones and earbuds come with a companion app that lets you adjust their settings to allow some noise, like voices and ambient sound, to creep in.

Why Trust Us?

Road & Track and its sibling publications at Hearst Autos represent three of the most influential automotive publications in the world. We rely on decades of experience in the automotive and gear spaces to help readers make informed purchasing choices. Read more about our testing process here.

With the legacies of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track behind us, the Hearst Autos Gear Team is more concerned with the trust our readers have in us than our bottom line. We won't tell you to buy something if we wouldn't buy it ourselves or recommend it to our friends, and we'll never claim to have used or tested something we haven't.

We've evaluated dozens of product categories, like electric scooters and auto radar detectors. Our picks and recommendations of products and gear are based on testing and knowledge, not hype.

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