Updated March 2025
#1 🏆 Best Overall
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones with Mic for Phone-Call and Alexa Voice Control, Black WH1000XM4
Sony
PRIMEPRIME
$248.00
$348.00
28% off
☷ Key Highlights:
- Premium Noise Cancellation: Features Dual Noise Sensor technology for active noise cancellation.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 30 hours of playback with quick charging (10 min charge = 5 hours).
- Touch Sensor Controls: Easily manage playback, volume, and phone calls with touch controls.
- Speak-to-Chat: Automatically lowers volume during conversations for convenience.
- Superior Call Quality: Enhanced clarity with five built-in microphones and advanced audio signal processing.
- Wearing Detection: Automatically pauses music when headphones are removed.
- Multipoint Connection: Connects to multiple devices seamlessly.
- Comfortable Design: Updated design ensures long-lasting comfort during use.
#2 🥈 Runner-up
Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Black
Bose
PRIMEPRIME
$349.00
☷ Key Highlights:
- Active Noise Cancelling: Combines advanced noise cancellation with passive features to block out distractions while enjoying music.
- Comfortable Fit: Plush earcup cushions and a padded headband ensure a secure and comfortable experience for long listening sessions.
- Dual Listening Modes: Features Quiet and Aware Modes for toggling between complete noise cancellation and ambient awareness.
- High-Fidelity Sound: Adjustable EQ allows customization of bass, mid-range, and treble for a tailored audio experience.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 24 hours of playback on a single charge, with a quick 15-minute charge providing 2.5 hours of additional use.
- Wired Option Available: Includes an audio cable with an in-line microphone for wired use when Bluetooth is not available or battery is low.
- Multipoint Connectivity: Stay connected to multiple devices simultaneously for easy switching without hassle.
- Bose App Integration: Access software updates and features through the Bose app for enhanced functionality and user experience.
#3 ⚡ Popular
Beats Studio Pro - Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones - Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Lossless Audio, Apple & Android Compatibility, Up to 40...
Beats
PRIMEPRIME
$199.95
$349.99
42% off
☷ Key Highlights:
- Custom Acoustic Platform: Delivers immersive sound quality for music and calls.
- Lossless Audio: Offers USB-C connectivity with three built-in sound profiles.
- Dual Listening Modes: Features fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode.
- Enhanced Compatibility: Supports one-touch pairing with Apple and Android devices.
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Dynamic head tracking creates a 360-degree listening experience.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 40 hours of playback; 10-minute Fast Fuel charge provides 4 hours.
- Clear Calls: Voice-targeting mics filter background noise for enhanced call clarity.
- On-Device Controls: Easily manage calls, music, and Siri with multi-function on-ear controls.
#4
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, Bluetooth Headphones for...
Apple
PRIMEPRIME
$644.30
☷ Key Highlights:
- High-Fidelity Audio: Features Apple-designed dynamic drivers and computational audio for exceptional sound quality.
- Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks external noise for an immersive music experience.
- Transparency Mode: Allows you to hear and engage with your surroundings while listening.
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Offers customized sound based on your ear shape with dynamic head tracking, including support for Dolby Atmos.
- Comfortable Design: Includes a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Seamless Connectivity: Easily pair with devices and enjoy automatic switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
- Long Battery Life: Provides up to 20 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation and Spatial Audio enabled.
- Easy Control Functions: Use the Digital Crown to manage playback and calls efficiently.
#5 ✅ Budget Choice
Beats Solo 4 - Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones, Apple & Android Compatible, Up to 50 Hours of Battery Life - Matte Black
Beats
PRIMEPRIME
$129.95
$199.95
35% off
☷ Key Highlights:
- Enhanced Sound: Custom acoustic architecture and updated drivers deliver superior Beats sound.
- Immersive Audio: Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a captivating listening experience.
- Comfortable Design: Ultralight ergonomic design with a flex-grip headband and adjustable ear cups for all-day comfort.
- Durable Ear Cushions: UltraPlush ear cushions ensure comfort and durability during extended use.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 50 hours of playback with a quick 10-minute charge providing 5 hours of additional use.
- High-Resolution Audio: Supports lossless audio via USB-C or 3.5 mm audio cable.
- Dual Device Compatibility: One-touch pairing for easy connection with both iOS and Android devices.
- Built-in Microphone: Facilitates high-quality calls and integration with voice assistants.
#6
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Black
PRIMEPRIME
$429.00
☷ Key Highlights:
- Immersive Sound Experience: Equipped with spatial audio and CustomTune technology for personalized sound.
- Advanced Noise Cancellation: Features Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, and Immersion Mode for versatile noise management.
- Clear Calls: Integrated microphones filter out background noise for crystal-clear phone conversations.
- Comfort-Focused Design: Soft ear cushions and an evenly distributing band provide comfort for long listening sessions.
- Reliable Wireless Connection: Bluetooth 5.3 enables connectivity up to 30 feet; supports SimpleSync for TV listening.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 24 hours of playtime (18 hours with Immersive Audio); quick 15-minute charge offers 2.5 hours of use.
- Touch Control Functionality: Easy volume and track management, as well as call answering and mode switching, via earcup controls.
- Bose App Compatibility: Download the app for software updates and access to cutting-edge features.
Buying Guide for Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones
Noise-canceling over-ear headphones are a must-have for anyone seeking an immersive listening experience, whether you’re commuting, traveling, or working in a noisy environment. These headphones use technology to reduce unwanted ambient sounds, allowing you to enjoy your music or podcasts without distractions. This guide will help you navigate your options and find the best noise-canceling headphones for your needs.
Why Choose Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones?
- Superior Noise Isolation: Over-ear headphones provide physical noise isolation by covering your entire ear, which naturally blocks some noise even before you activate the noise-canceling feature.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): ANC technology uses microphones to pick up external noise and create sound waves that cancel it out, reducing distractions.
- Improved Sound Quality: Many high-quality noise-canceling headphones offer excellent sound clarity and deep bass, which is great for audiophiles or anyone who values sound quality.
- Comfort: Over-ear headphones are generally more comfortable for extended wear since they don’t sit inside your ear canal, which is typical of in-ear models.
- Longer Battery Life: Noise-canceling over-ear headphones typically come with a long battery life, perfect for long flights, workdays, or extended listening sessions.
Key Features to Look for:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Effectiveness: The primary reason for buying these headphones is noise cancellation. Look for models with effective ANC that can block out a wide range of frequencies, especially in loud environments.
- Sound Quality: Choose headphones that offer rich, balanced sound with deep bass and clear mids/highs. Many models also include sound customization features through apps.
- Comfort and Fit: Over-ear headphones should have plush ear cups and a padded headband. Consider models with memory foam padding for enhanced comfort during long sessions.
- Battery Life: Look for headphones with at least 20-30 hours of battery life with ANC on, and more if you don’t mind turning off the noise cancellation for extended use.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth connectivity provides freedom of movement without tangled wires, ideal for commuting, workouts, or travel.
- Quick Charge: Some models offer fast charging, giving you several hours of use with just a short charging time (e.g., 15 minutes of charging for 2-3 hours of playback).
- Comfortable Controls: Touch-sensitive or physical buttons that are easy to use without taking the headphones off are crucial, especially while on the go.
- Customizable ANC Levels: Some headphones allow you to adjust the level of noise cancellation, letting you choose between complete isolation or some ambient noise, which is useful for different situations.
- Foldable Design: For portability, look for headphones that are foldable and come with a carrying case, especially if you travel often.
- Voice Assistants and Features: Many modern noise-canceling headphones integrate with voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri for hands-free control.
Common Questions (FAQs)
- How do noise-canceling headphones work?
- Noise-canceling headphones work by using microphones to detect external sounds and then produce sound waves that are the exact opposite (anti-phase) to cancel them out. This process is known as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
- Do noise-canceling headphones work on all types of noise?
- ANC is most effective at canceling low-frequency noises, such as the hum of an airplane engine or air conditioning. It’s less effective at canceling higher-frequency sounds, like people talking or sudden, sharp noises.
- Can I still hear things around me with noise-canceling headphones?
- Most noise-canceling headphones do a great job of blocking out ambient noise, but you can still hear loud sounds or conversations. Some models also have a “transparency mode” that allows you to hear your surroundings when needed.
- Do noise-canceling headphones drain the battery faster?
- Yes, ANC uses extra power to process the external sounds and cancel them out. If you’re concerned about battery life, look for models with a long-lasting battery or one that allows you to turn off ANC when not needed.
- Can I use noise-canceling headphones without music?
- Yes, you can use ANC without listening to music if you just want to block out ambient noise. Many people use ANC headphones for focus or relaxation, even when not listening to anything.
- How long do noise-canceling headphones last?
- The lifespan of your headphones depends on usage and care. Typically, high-quality models can last for 3-5 years or more with proper care, but the battery may start to degrade after about 2-3 years.
- Are noise-canceling headphones good for sleep?
- Noise-canceling headphones can be helpful for sleeping, especially if you’re in a noisy environment. However, be sure to choose a comfortable and soft pair if you’re wearing them while lying down, as bulky headphones might cause discomfort.
- Are noise-canceling headphones safe for your ears?
- Noise-canceling headphones are safe to use, but you should still follow safe listening practices. If you’re using headphones at high volumes for long periods, it can lead to hearing damage, regardless of whether they’re noise-canceling.
- Can I use my noise-canceling headphones for calls?
- Many high-quality noise-canceling headphones come with built-in microphones and work well for hands-free calls. Check the specs for features like noise-canceling mics to ensure clear audio during calls.
