Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for 2025
▼ Summary
– Sony WH-1000XM6 are the top overall choice with enhanced noise cancellation, comfort, and features, though they come at a higher price.
– Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers superior noise cancellation and clear audio but has inconsistent spatial audio and a premium cost.
– Sony WH-CH720N is the best budget option, providing good sound and ANC for its price, despite some design and performance limitations.
– Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 delivers the best sound quality with adaptive ANC and balanced audio, targeting audiophiles with a higher price tag.
– Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless excels in battery life (up to 60 hours) and improved ANC, though its design is less distinctive.
Whether you’re navigating a bustling office, enduring a crowded commute, or seeking tranquility at home, quality noise-canceling headphones could be your saving grace. They create a bubble of serenity, allowing you to immerse yourself in music, podcasts, or calls with pristine sound and uninterrupted comfort. From luxurious cushions to feature-rich wireless designs, there’s a perfect fit for every style and budget. Below, we dive into the leading contenders set to dominate the market in 2025.
Sony WH-1000XM6: The Overall Best
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones stand at the forefront as the ultimate choice in noise-canceling technology. Known for their stellar sound quality and effective noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 maintains Sony’s reputation as an industry leader. The redesigned model offers enhanced comfort with improved ear cushions, essential for long listening sessions. The new QN3 chip and increased number of ANC microphones (now 12) significantly elevate their ability to silence medium and high-frequency noise, including human voices. Alongside their 30-hour battery life, Speak-to-Chat functionality, and adaptive noise settings, these headphones are packed with features. However, the $50 price hike from the previous model might deter some buyers.
Pros: Enhanced sound and ANC, numerous features, high comfort
Cons: Increased price, call quality challenges in noisy settings
Available at: $448 at Macy’s, $448 at Amazon, $450 at Target
Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Runner-Up
Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra model, with its unique spatial audio focus, offers excellent noise cancellation, outperforming previous models like the Bose 700. Microphone improvements aid in both noise reduction and call clarity, particularly in environments filled with chatter. The headphones feature touch controls and audio presets that adapt to your surroundings, delivering a seamless experience. However, the spatial audio, while impressive, can be inconsistent due to reliance on signal processing rather than crafted content.
Pros: Superior ANC, clear audio, user-friendly
Cons: High price, spatial audio inconsistency, no USB-C audio
Available at: $449 at Macy’s, $449 at Adorama, $449 at Amazon
Sony WH-CH720N: Best Budget Pick
Sony’s WH-CH720N offers great value for those on a budget. While they may not win design accolades, their lightweight build makes them ideal for extended use. The ANC, though not as strong as higher-end models, is commendable for this price range. With features like adjustable ANC, transparency mode, and a 35-hour battery life, these headphones provide significant bang for your buck.
Pros: Affordable, comfortable, good sound quality
Cons: ANC can struggle, plastic-heavy design
Available at: $150 at Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3: Best Sound Quality
For audiophiles, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 delivers unparalleled sound clarity with commendable noise-canceling performance. Their adaptive ANC uses eight microphones to adjust to environmental changes. Equipped with dynamic drivers, the Px7 S3 ensures a balanced sound with remarkable detail. The 30-hour battery life and basic yet polished features make these headphones a top choice for those prioritizing audio fidelity.
Pros: Superior sound, stylish design
Cons: Expensive, limited advanced features
Available at: $449 at Macy’s, $449 at Amazon, $450 at Verizon
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Best for Battery Life
Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless headphones boast an impressive 60-hour battery life, doubling that of many competitors. Significant ANC advancements help keep pace with heavyweights like Bose and Sony, effectively reducing constant distractions. While the design shift to a more generic style might disappoint, the enhanced comfort and sound quality more than compensate.
Pros: Exceptional battery life, improved ANC and comfort
Cons: Design lacks uniqueness, minor usability quirks
Available at: $380 at Adorama, $380 at Amazon, $450 at Macy’s
How to Choose the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones
- Design and Comfort: Selecting the right wear style is crucial. Over-ear headphones are preferred for effective noise cancelation, enveloping the ears and providing better sound isolation. Seek options with comfortable memory foam ear cups and an adjustable headband to enhance long-term wearability. Aesthetic choices are broad, with various colors and designs to match your style.
- Types of Noise Cancellation: Understanding the types of ANC is key. Hybrid ANC uses microphones inside and outside to detect and cancel noise, while adaptive ANC adjusts dynamically to environmental shifts and includes enhanced wind noise reduction. For the best performance, consider models with hybrid or adaptive ANC setups.
- Customization Features: Check for adjustable ANC levels or presets that allow you to tailor noise cancellation to your environment, potentially improving battery life. Some headphones offer apps with sliders to fine-tune ANC settings, ensuring optimal performance across different scenarios.
- Testing and Evaluation: Our testing involves extensive use across varying environments, from bustling cafes to quiet home offices. We simulate continuous noise with devices like fans and vacuums to gauge ANC effectiveness, and evaluate comfort during extended wear. Companion apps are also scrutinized for functionality and improvements over previous models.
Additional Noise-Canceling Options
Certain high-end models, like Apple’s AirPods Max, offer premium noise-canceling features at a steep price. While Dyson’s On-Trac and Sonos Ace bring unique design elements, their ANC performance is average. Cheaper alternatives like Sony’s ULT Wear provide heavy bass but lack advanced features.
Noise-Canceling Headphones FAQs
- Does noise cancellation block all noise? While it reduces most ambient sounds significantly, some noise may still be audible.
- Is there a difference between wired and wireless noise-canceling headphones? Both offer similar sound quality, but wireless headphones provide greater freedom and often include noise-canceling features for convenience.
- Does noise cancellation impact sound quality? Although ANC can slightly affect sound fidelity, the benefits of reducing external noise often outweigh any minor audio differences.