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| Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for 2025 |
In today’s fast-paced world, noise-canceling headphones have become an essential gadget for music lovers, frequent travelers, and remote workers alike. Whether you’re looking to block out the hum of an airplane engine, focus on work in a noisy café, or simply enjoy your favorite tunes in peace, the right pair of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference.
Why Noise-Canceling Headphones Are a Must-Have in 2025
Noise-canceling technology has come a long way in recent years. Modern headphones use advanced algorithms and microphones to actively cancel out ambient noise, providing a more immersive listening experience. With the rise of hybrid work environments and increased travel, investing in a high-quality pair of noise-canceling headphones is more important than ever.
How to Choose the Right Noise-Canceling Headphones
When shopping for noise-canceling headphones, consider the following factors:
- Noise-Canceling Performance: Look for headphones with adaptive or hybrid noise cancellation for the best results.
- Sound Quality: Ensure the headphones deliver clear, balanced audio with deep bass and crisp highs.
- Comfort: Opt for lightweight headphones with plush ear cushions for extended use.
- Battery Life: Choose headphones with at least 20 hours of battery life for uninterrupted listening.
- Price: Set a budget and compare features to find the best value for your money.
Top 7 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for 2025
We’ll explore the best noise-canceling headphones of 2025, comparing their features, performance, and value for money.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
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| Sony WH-1000XM5 |
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones feature advanced noise cancellation with eight microphones and two processors, providing an immersive listening experience. They offer crystal-clear hands-free calling thanks to four beamforming microphones, making them ideal for professional use. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capabilities, these headphones ensure long-lasting enjoyment. Their lightweight design and soft leather ear cushions enhance comfort for extended wear. Additionally, intuitive touch controls allow for easy management of music and calls, making them a convenient choice for users.
Key Features
- Advanced QN1 processor for industry-leading ANC
- 30-hour battery life with fast charging
- Touch controls, speak-to-chat
- Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC support
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Best-in-class ANC, superb comfort, customizable EQ.
- Cons: Premium price, non-folding design.
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
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| Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 |
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 feature 11 levels of active noise cancellation, allowing users to enjoy audio without distractions. They deliver astonishing sound quality with crisp details and deep bass, ensuring a balanced listening experience. The advanced microphone system enhances voice pickup, making calls clear even in noisy environments. With easy access to voice assistants and intuitive touch controls, users can stay connected hands-free. Additionally, the headphones offer up to 20 hours of wireless battery life, ensuring long-lasting use.
Key Features
- 11-level adjustable ANC
- Up to 20-hour battery life
- Ultra-quiet microphone system for clear calls
- Touch-sensitive earcups
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Superior call quality, light frame, clear highs.
- Cons: Middling battery life, higher cost.
3. Apple AirPods Max
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| Apple AirPods Max |
The Apple AirPods Max provide an ultimate over-ear listening experience with high-fidelity audio powered by a dynamic driver and the Apple H1 chip. They feature five vibrant colors and come with a matching Smart Case. The headphones offer pro-level Active Noise Cancellation, effectively reducing background noise, while Transparency mode allows users to hear their surroundings. Personalized Spatial Audio enhances immersion with dynamic head tracking, and the acoustic-first design ensures comfort with memory foam ear cushions. With up to 20 hours of battery life and USB-C charging, they deliver convenience alongside premium sound quality.
Key Features
- Apple H1 chips (each earcup)
- Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
- 20-hour ANC and audio playback
- Premium stainless-steel frame
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Luxurious fit, spatial audio, instant pairing.
- Cons: Very heavy, steep price.
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
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| Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless |
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones deliver maximum audio resolution with their audiophile-inspired 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive technology, ensuring premium sound quality for music lovers. Users can personalize their listening experience through the Sennheiser Smart Control App, which offers an integrated equalizer and various sound modes. The headphones feature Adaptive Noise Cancellation to keep distractions at bay, while the Adjustable Transparency Mode allows users to remain aware of their surroundings. Designed for comfort, they boast a lightweight, foldable structure with padded ear cushions and an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours. Additionally, four digital beamforming microphones provide crystal-clear call quality and suppress wind noise effectively.
Key Features
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- 60-hour battery life—best in class
- Ergonomic earcups, foldable design
- High-res wireless audio support
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Marathon battery, premium sound, lightweight.
- Cons: Bulky carrying case.
5. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2
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| Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 |
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Over-Ear Headphones deliver a premium audio experience with custom-designed 40mm drive units and 24-bit DSP, allowing you to hear music exactly as the artist intended. Their comfortable design features luxurious foam earpads with a fabric finish and metal detailing, ensuring a perfect fit for extended listening sessions.
These headphones are equipped with six microphones that provide outstanding noise cancellation, allowing for crystal-clear conversations while immersing you in dynamic music. You can easily customize your listening experience through the Bowers & Wilkins music app, which offers direct streaming and voice assistant support.
With an impressive battery life of 30 hours and quick-charge capabilities, the Px7 S2e headphones are perfect for uninterrupted music playback and calls throughout the day.
Key Features
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- 30-hour battery, 15-minute quick charge
- Carbon-fiber composite arms
- Bluetooth 5.0, aptX Adaptive
Pros and Cons
- Pros: High-end build, rich audio, comfortable.
- Cons: Pricier than rivals.
6. Jabra Elite 85h
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| Jabra Elite 85h |
The Jabra Elite 85h wireless headphones feature SmartSound technology, which actively blocks unwanted background noise and adapts to your environment for an optimal listening experience. With a battery life of up to 36 hours on a single charge and quick charging capabilities, these headphones are designed for long-term use. They utilize six microphones to ensure unmatched call quality by reducing background and wind noise, allowing for clear conversations. Additionally, the headphones are water-resistant, making them suitable for various environments. Overall, the Jabra Elite 85h combines comfort, advanced audio technology, and durability for an exceptional listening experience.
Key Features
- SmartSound ANC technology
- 36-hour battery life
- Rain-resistant build
- Multi-device pairing
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Long battery, weatherproof, clear calls.
- Cons: Soundstage narrower than competitors.
7. Anker Soundcore Life Q45 (Best Budget Pick)
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| Anker Space Q45 |
The Soundcore Space Q45 noise-cancelling headphones feature an upgraded system that reduces noise by up to 98%, making them ideal for various environments. With adaptive noise cancellation, they automatically adjust to your surroundings, and they offer an impressive 50 hours of playtime in noise-cancelling mode. The headphones are equipped with 40mm drivers that deliver rich sound quality, including deep bass and clear treble. Additionally, they provide a comfortable fit and ergonomic design for extended use.
Key Features
- Noise Cancellation: Reduces noise by up to 98% with adaptive settings.
- Battery Life: Up to 50 hours with ANC on; 65 hours in normal mode.
- Sound Quality: 40mm double-layer drivers for enhanced audio performance.
- Comfort: Ergonomic design for a comfortable wearing experience.
- App Control: Customizable EQ and noise cancellation levels via the app.
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation performance.
- Long battery life suitable for travel.
- High-quality sound with rich bass.
- Comfortable for extended wear.
- Customizable settings through the app.
Cons:
- Some users report a heavy feel during prolonged use.
- Cannot use LDAC and multipoint connection simultaneously.
- ANC may not be as effective for higher frequencies.
How to Choose the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones in 2025
When selecting ANC headphones, consider:
- Noise-Cancellation Quality: Look for adaptive or multi-mic systems.
- Sound Signature: Neutral for accuracy, warm for bass lovers.
- Comfort & Fit: Memory-foam earcups, adjustable headbands.
- Battery Life & Charging: At least 20 hours for travel; fast charge is a plus.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint pairing, codecs (LDAC, aptX).
- Additional Features: Transparency mode, touch controls, app support.
- Build & Portability: Foldable design, carrying case, water resistance.
- Price & Value: Balance features with budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are noise-canceling headphones bad for your ears?
A1: No, ANC headphones reduce volume needed for listening without harmful pressure.
Q2: Do wireless ANC headphones have latency issues?
A2: Modern codecs (aptX LL, LDAC) offer minimal latency, suitable for video and gaming.
Q3: Can I use ANC headphones on the plane?
A3: Yes—ANC is most effective against low-frequency engine noise.
Conclusion
The best noise-canceling headphones of 2025 offer a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, superior sound quality, and all-day comfort. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a remote worker, or a music enthusiast, there’s a pair of headphones on this list that’s perfect for you.