10 Best Apple Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are designed for users seeking high-quality noise-cancelling headphones that provide an immersive listening experience. One of their standout features is the Active Noise Cancellation, which effectively reduces background noise, making them great for travel or busy environments. The Transparency mode is another highlight, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while still enjoying music or podcasts. The sound quality is impressive, thanks to the H2 chip, which enhances clarity and bass, making these earbuds suitable for audiophiles.

Comfort is a strong point as well, with multiple silicone tip sizes ensuring a snug fit for various ear shapes. This is essential for all-day use, especially during workouts or long listening sessions. Plus, the AirPods Pro 2 are sweat and water-resistant, making them practical for exercise enthusiasts.

Battery life is solid, offering up to 6 hours with noise cancellation on, and the charging case extends this to 30 hours, which is convenient for users on the go. The ability to charge via USB-C is a modern touch, catering to users who prefer a universal charging method. There are some drawbacks to consider, such as the price point which may be high for some users, especially those looking for basic functionality without the extra features. Additionally, while the touch controls are convenient, they can sometimes be overly sensitive, leading to accidental commands. Also, while the earbuds work well with Apple products, users with non-Apple devices may not enjoy the full range of features.

The AirPods Pro 2 are an excellent choice for Apple users who value sound quality, comfort, and advanced noise-cancellation capabilities, but may not be the best fit for everyone, particularly those on a budget or who primarily use non-Apple devices.

The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice for anyone seeking noise-cancelling earbuds that balance portability and sound quality. One of their standout features is Active Noise Cancellation, which effectively reduces external sounds, allowing users to immerse themselves in their music or calls. The Adaptive Audio that combines ANC with Transparency mode is particularly useful for those who like to stay aware of their surroundings while using the earbuds. This makes them versatile for various environments, whether you’re commuting or working out.

Comfort is another highlight, as the redesigned shape caters to extended wear, making them suitable for all-day listening. The personalized Spatial Audio enhances the experience, delivering a surround sound effect that many users will enjoy while watching movies or gaming.

Battery life is decent, offering up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC on and up to 30 hours with the charging case, which is convenient for long outings. Additionally, they are dust and water-resistant, making them durable for workouts or casual outdoor use.

There are some drawbacks. While the sound quality is impressive, it may not satisfy audiophiles who prefer a more customizable audio experience. The reliance on Apple’s ecosystem can be a limitation for non-Apple users, as some features are less accessible outside of Apple devices. Furthermore, although the price reflects their quality, it can be considered high for those on a budget. The AirPods 4 cater well to users looking for comfort, effective noise cancellation, and strong integration with Apple devices. Fitness enthusiasts, commuters, or anyone wanting a reliable pair of wireless earbuds will likely benefit from these headphones, but those seeking premium sound customization might want to explore other options.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are impressive in various aspects. Their standout feature is the active noise cancellation, which effectively blocks out external noise, making them ideal for use in noisy environments. The addition of Quiet and Aware Modes allows for flexibility in how much outside sound you want to let in, which is particularly useful when you need to stay aware of your surroundings. The sound quality is top-notch, with high-fidelity audio and an adjustable EQ letting you fine-tune the bass, mid-range, and treble to your liking. Additionally, the headphones offer a deep bass experience, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Comfort is another strong point—plush earcup cushions and a padded headband ensure that the headphones remain cozy during long listening sessions. The battery life is notable, providing up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, and a quick 15-minute charge can give you up to 2.5 hours of additional playtime, which is convenient for users on the go. Connectivity is seamless with multipoint Bluetooth, allowing you to switch between devices easily without the hassle of reconnecting. The option to use the headphones in wired mode is a plus, especially if the battery runs out or if you prefer a wired connection.

However, there are some areas that might be seen as drawbacks. The weight of the headphones, at 238 grams, might be slightly heavy for some users, potentially causing discomfort over extended use. The touch control method can also be less intuitive for those who are not used to it. Lastly, while the carrying case is made of leather and provides good protection, it adds extra bulk when traveling. These minor drawbacks aside, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality noise-cancelling headphones, particularly those who value sound quality, comfort, and long battery life.