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 Beats Solo 4 headphones offer a lot of strengths for those seeking quality ANC headphones. The noise cancellation is effective, providing sound isolation to help you focus on your music or calls without external distractions. The sound quality is a strong point, thanks to custom acoustic architecture and updated drivers that deliver powerful Beats sound. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking enhances the listening experience, making it more immersive.

Comfort and fit are well thought out, with ultralight ergonomic design, flex-grip headband, and adjustable ear cups ensuring stable and all-day comfort. The UltraPlush ear cushions add to the comfort and durability, making these headphones suitable for prolonged use. Battery life is impressive, with up to 50 hours of listening time, and the Fast Fuel feature offers a quick 10-minute charge for up to 5 hours of playback, which is convenient for users on the go. Connectivity is robust, with Class 1 Bluetooth offering extended range and fewer dropouts.

Dual compatibility allows easy pairing with both iOS and Android devices, and high-resolution lossless audio can be enjoyed via USB-C or 3.5 mm audio cable. Additional features like high-quality call performance, voice assistant interaction, and a protective case enhance the user experience. However, the lack of water resistance might be a drawback for those who want to use the headphones during workouts or in wet conditions. The on-ear design might not be as comfortable for everyone, especially during extended listening sessions. Nonetheless, for users prioritizing sound quality, long battery life, and seamless connectivity, the Beats Solo 4 headphones are a compelling choice.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer excellent noise cancellation with two distinct modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. This ensures you can immerse yourself in your music or stay aware of your surroundings as needed. The sound quality is rich and immersive, thanks to BEATS' custom acoustic platform and personalized spatial audio, which creates a 360-degree listening experience.

Comfort and fit are prioritized with an over-ear design and faux leather material, though at 260 grams, some users might find them a bit heavy for extended wear. Battery life is a standout feature, offering up to 40 hours of listening time with quick charging capabilities providing 4 extra hours after a 10-minute charge. Connectivity is seamless with Class 1 Bluetooth technology, ensuring a stable connection with fewer dropouts, and enhanced compatibility with both Apple and Android devices for easy pairing.

Additional features include on-device controls for music and calls, and voice-targeting microphones for clear call performance. However, while these headphones excel in many areas, their lack of water resistance might be a drawback for users looking to use them during workouts or in wet conditions. They are ideal for someone seeking high-quality sound, long battery life, and advanced noise cancellation features for travel, gaming, or studio use.