10 Best Active Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out with their superior active noise cancellation, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in music without outside interference. These headphones offer dual listening modes, allowing users to toggle between full noise cancellation and awareness of their surroundings, which suits varied environments. Sound quality is another strength, with adjustable EQ settings to enhance bass, mid-range, and treble, making them great for audiophiles who appreciate high-fidelity audio.

Comfort is well-considered, boasting plush earcup cushions and a padded band designed for extended use without discomfort. This makes them a good choice for long flights or work-from-home setups. The 24-hour battery life is impressive and convenient, with a quick 15-minute charge providing an additional 2.5 hours of playtime, ensuring minimal downtime even on busy days.

Connectivity is versatile with multipoint Bluetooth technology, allowing seamless switching between devices. This feature is especially useful for users who frequently switch between a phone and laptop. The option to use them wired adds flexibility, particularly when the battery is low or when connecting to non-Bluetooth devices.

However, these headphones are not water-resistant, which might be a drawback for outdoor use in unpredictable weather. Additionally, while the Bose app provides updates and new features, some users might find reliance on the app for optimal functionality a bit cumbersome. At 8.4 ounces, they are relatively lightweight, but the plastic material might feel less premium to some users. Despite these minor limitations, the Bose QuietComfort headphones are a strong contender in the noise-cancelling market, especially for those prioritizing sound quality and comfort.

The Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones offer a range of features that cater to music lovers and frequent travelers alike. With their custom acoustic platform, they deliver rich, immersive sound suitable for both music and phone calls. The headphones provide two distinct listening modes: fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) for blocking out background noise, and Transparency mode for when you need to stay aware of your surroundings. This makes them versatile for different environments, whether you're on a busy street or in a quiet office.

One standout feature is the personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, which offers an immersive 360-degree listening experience. The battery life is another strong point, boasting up to 40 hours on a single charge and a quick 10-minute Fast Fuel charge that provides 4 additional hours of playback. This means you can use them extensively without constantly worrying about recharging. They are also highly compatible, offering seamless one-touch pairing with both Apple and Android devices. The on-ear controls allow you to manage calls, music, and access Siri easily.

On the downside, the headphones are not water-resistant, which could be a limitation for those who plan to use them during workouts or in less-than-ideal weather conditions. At 9.17 ounces, they are not the lightest option available, which might affect comfort during prolonged use. However, they do come with a woven carrying case, making them easier to transport. Connectivity is robust, thanks to Class 1 Bluetooth which ensures extended range and fewer dropouts. The inclusion of USB-C for lossless audio is a nice touch for audiophiles. These headphones excel in sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life, but may not be the best choice for heavy physical activity due to their lack of water resistance and slightly heavier weight.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are a strong choice if you want top-tier active noise cancellation. Thanks to a powerful processor and 12 microphones, they effectively block out background noise, making them great for travel, work, or noisy environments. Sound quality is impressive too, co-developed with expert audio engineers to deliver clear, balanced music with rich vocals and deep detail. Comfort is well thought out with a lightweight, pressure-free fit, soft ear cushions, and an adjustable headband suitable for long listening sessions. Battery life is excellent, offering up to 30 hours on a single charge, and quick charging gives you hours of playback after just a few minutes plugged in. Connectivity uses Bluetooth 5.3, which means a strong and stable wireless connection within about 10 meters, and you can also use a wired connection if needed.

Additional handy features include adaptive noise cancelling that adjusts to your environment and wearing style, and an ambient sound mode that lets outside sounds in when you want to stay aware. On the downside, these headphones aren’t water-resistant, so they require some care around moisture, and the price is on the higher side compared to many competitors. Also, the 48 Ohm impedance means you’ll get the best sound quality from smartphones or devices capable of driving higher-impedance headphones. These headphones best fit users who prioritize advanced noise cancellation, excellent sound clarity, and comfort, especially if you’re often in noisy places or want a premium listening experience with long battery life.