The 8 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2025

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones shine brightly in the Best Overall category, remarkable for their cutting-edge noise cancellation capabilities. Thanks to the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3, they effortlessly create a serene listening environment, void of distractions, enhancing any audio journey. Their collaboration with mastering audio engineers ensures that every note and vocal remains crisp and faithful to the original recording, providing a truly immersive sound experience.

Beyond their sonic prowess, these headphones offer thoughtful design elements that make them a delight to use daily. The comfortable, pressure-free fit cordially invites extended listening sessions without discomfort, and the foldable design is convenient for those on the go.

While features like a long battery life and high-resolution audio support add solid value, it’s the innovative noise cancellation technology and adaptive abilities that set these headphones apart, establishing them as a top choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless truly stands out in the realm of battery performance. With up to 60 hours of playback time, these headphones ensure you remain connected with your music or podcasts far longer than most competitors, making them an ideal choice for those on the go or traveling. This impressive battery life is complemented by fast charging capabilities, so even if you're short on time, a quick charge will have you back listening in no time.

Moreover, the incorporation of Sennheiser's audiophile-inspired 42mm transducer system enhances the listening experience with premium music quality, meaning you won't have to compromise sound for stamina. While the Adaptive Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode offer an immersive audio experience, they also help conserve battery when toggled appropriately. The lightweight design with padded headband adds comfort for extended sessions, aligning perfectly with its top-tier battery performance. Overall, the Momentum 4 Wireless exemplifies brilliance in balancing longevity and sound excellence.

For Apple enthusiasts seeking the ultimate over-ear listening experience, the AirPods Max stands out as a top contender in the "Best for Apple Users" category. Its performance is bolstered by Apple-designed dynamic drivers that deliver high-fidelity audio. The incorporation of computational audio ensures a seamless listening experience, particularly with Lossless Audio capabilities achieved with ultra-low latency via USB-C.

A standout feature is its pro-level Active Noise Cancellation, significantly reducing background noise, enhancing immersion in music. When you need to remain aware, the Transparency mode seamlessly lets in ambient sound. The precision control via the Digital Crown makes managing audio playback intuitive and straightforward.

Moreover, the personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking adds an immersive dimension to music and movie experiences. Coupled with the luxurious design, featuring a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions, the AirPods Max not only sound incredible but are also comfortable for prolonged use. While the design may not suit everyone's taste, its functionality and seamless integration with other Apple devices make it a compelling choice for those within the Apple ecosystem.

When it comes to comfort, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 truly shines. The first thing you'll notice is how wonderfully designed these over-ear headphones are for extended listening sessions. They feature plush memory foam ear cushions that gently adapt to the contours of your head, making them a delight to wear for hours without discomfort. The refined lightweight headband adds to the overall ease, providing a snug yet comfortable fit across various head shapes.

Beyond the physical comfort, the high-quality audio performance is also noteworthy. With aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive support, these headphones seamlessly adjust to optimize connectivity and playback, ensuring every note is delivered with lush clarity. The noise-canceling capability, although not the most advanced, effectively minimizes distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in your favorite tunes without interruption.

Battery life is impressive as well, supporting up to 30 hours on a single charge, keeping you entertained throughout the day. While the PX7 S3 may not be groundbreaking in every category, its comfort and sound quality make it a stellar pick for anyone seeking long-term enjoyment.

When it comes to luxury headphones, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX stands out due to its remarkable combination of comfort and performance. From the moment you put them on, the soft and lightweight construction becomes evident, providing a delightful experience for extended listening sessions. Whether you're at home, traveling, or working out, these headphones adapt seamlessly to your lifestyle.

A standout feature is their powerful active noise cancellation, which adeptly blocks out background distractions, letting you lose yourself in your favorite tunes. The audio quality is equally impressive, with a beautifully balanced sound profile that lets you hear music just as the artist intended. You can even fine-tune your listening experience with the customizable sound EQ via the Bang & Olufsen app.

While its battery life of 30 hours is substantial, it doesn't break records. However, the blend of timeless aesthetics with Scandinavian design and the ease of Bluetooth setup more than compensates, making these headphones a preferred choice for those who appreciate luxury in their audio gear.

The JBL Tour One M2 truly excels in the 'Best for Calls' category, mainly due to its innovative four-mic crystal call algorithm. This feature is a game-changer for those who need crisp and clear conversations, even amidst bustling or windy environments. Coupled with VoiceAware, the headphones let you decide how much of your voice you hear, ensuring you sound natural on calls.

Another highlight is the Smart Ambient technology, which thoughtfully balances the need for awareness and audio enjoyment. If you're someone who likes being in tune with your surroundings while still enjoying good music, this feature will feel particularly intuitive, offering easy control over ambient sound levels.

Though the True Adaptive Noise Cancelling and Smart Talk features are effective, they are somewhat expected in high-end models, making them average in comparison. However, together with the impressive JBL sound quality, these features ensure the JBL Tour One M2 provides a genuinely delightful audio experience.

Navigating the world of affordable headphones can be a bit of a journey, but the Anker Soundcore Space One stands out as a worthy contender in the budget-friendly realm. One of its standout features is the impressive noise-cancelling capability that effectively diminishes external chatter and distractions. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for keeping focused, whether you're on a crowded commute or working in a lively coffee shop.

Moreover, the Space One doesn't compromise on audio fidelity. With support for LDAC and 40mm dynamic drivers, these headphones deliver an audio experience rich in detail, offering a level of clarity that rivals more expensive models. The battery life is another remarkable aspect, providing a solid 40 hours with noise cancellation on—a game changer for long-haul travels or extended listening sessions without the constant need to recharge.

While perhaps not the top-tier for audiophiles, the headphones’ comfort and elegant design ensure a pleasant wearing experience, making them a solid choice for those on a budget.

The Jabra Elite 85h stands out in the durability department thanks to an impressive array of features that ensure longevity and resilience. One of the flagship qualities is its certified water and rain resistance, bolstered by a nano coating on internal components. This makes it an ideal companion for various weather conditions, offering peace of mind for those who enjoy outdoor activities or often find themselves on the go.

Engineered for comfort and robust use, these headphones impress with a solid build that doesn't compromise on looks or functionality. The long battery life is notable, providing up to 36 hours of listening time even with noise cancellation active. This means fewer charges and more time enjoying music and calls—perfect for long trips or extended use throughout the day.

While unmatched call quality and SmartSound Audio technology focus more on performance, they add to the appreciative experience, demonstrating that Jabra has achieved the fine balance between durability and superior functionality. Overall, the Elite 85h is a resilient and reliable choice for anyone seeking headphones that can withstand the rigors of daily use.