10 Best ANC Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a solid choice if you’re looking for high-quality active noise-cancelling earbuds. Their noise cancellation is strong, blocking out twice as much background noise compared to the previous version, and they smartly adjust between noise cancellation and transparency mode so you can stay aware of your surroundings when needed. Sound quality stands out with crisp highs, rich bass, and personalized spatial audio that makes music and movies feel immersive. The fit is quite comfortable, thanks to four different silicone tip sizes that help create a good seal and keep the earbuds stable during use.

Battery life is decent, offering around 6 hours of listening time on a full charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case, which now uses USB-C and can also charge wirelessly. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, especially if you use Apple devices, where setup and controls via Siri feel very intuitive. Additional features like a built-in hearing test, conversation awareness (which lowers music during chats), and a charging case that can be tracked with a speaker and lanyard loop add convenience.

These earbuds are a premium option, so they come with a higher price tag. The IP54 water resistance means they can handle sweat and light rain but aren’t suited for heavy water exposure. Also, some advanced features work best within the Apple ecosystem, so if you use non-Apple devices, you might not get the full experience. For those wanting earbuds that blend excellent noise cancellation, sound, and smart features—especially if you own Apple products—these AirPods Pro 2 are definitely worth considering.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones stand out with their advanced active noise cancellation technology, which effectively reduces unwanted ambient sounds, making them great for use in noisy environments. The sound quality is exceptional, thanks to the DSEE Extreme upscaling and co-development with Sony Music Studios Tokyo, ensuring clear and rich audio. Comfort is a priority in these headphones, with an updated design that lessens pressure, making them suitable for long listening sessions.

The battery life is impressive, offering up to 30 hours of use on a full charge, and quick charging provides up to 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, which is excellent for users on the go. Connectivity is another strong suit, with Bluetooth 5.0 ensuring a stable connection and multipoint compatibility allowing seamless switching between devices. Additional features like touch sensor controls, speak-to-chat functionality, and adaptive sound control add to the convenience and personalization of the listening experience.

These headphones also boast superior call quality with multiple built-in microphones for clear voice capture. However, they are not water-resistant, which might be a limitation for users intending to use them during workouts or in the rain. Despite being loaded with features, the price point might be high for budget-conscious buyers. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality noise-canceling headphones with excellent sound and comfort for long-term use.