10 Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones offer a solid performance in the budget noise-cancelling category. With hybrid active noise cancellation, these headphones can effectively reduce ambient noises like car and airplane engines, making them a good choice for travel and office use. The 40 mm dynamic drivers deliver Hi-Res audio, ensuring clear and detailed sound quality. Additionally, the BassUp technology enhances low frequencies for a richer bass experience, especially when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop.

Comfort is addressed with memory foam ear cups that fit snugly over the ears, making long listening sessions more enjoyable. The impressive battery life stands out with up to 60 hours of playtime in standard mode and 40 hours with noise cancellation active, plus quick charging capabilities that provide 4 hours of listening from just a 5-minute charge. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth, and the inclusion of an AUX cable offers versatility for wired use.

The build quality is decent for its price range, with a lightweight design that is easy to carry around. However, while the plastic construction helps keep costs down, it may not offer the same premium feel as more expensive models. In summary, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones are a well-rounded option for those seeking effective noise cancellation, good sound quality, and long battery life without breaking the bank.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer a strong package for anyone looking for wireless noise-cancelling headphones with a budget in mind. They feature effective active noise cancellation (ANC) to block out unwanted sounds and a transparency mode that lets you hear your surroundings when needed. Sound quality is a highlight, thanks to Beats' custom acoustic platform and support for lossless audio via USB-C, delivering clear and immersive music with the added benefit of personalized spatial audio that adjusts dynamically to your head movements.

Comfort-wise, the over-ear design with faux leather padding ensures they can be worn for long listening sessions without discomfort, though they weigh a bit on the heavier side (about 9.2 ounces). Battery life is impressive, providing up to 40 hours on a single charge, plus a quick 10-minute charge can give you 4 extra hours, making these suitable for extended use like travel or workdays. Connectivity is solid with Bluetooth 5.3, offering a strong range and stable connection, along with easy pairing for both Apple and Android devices. The headphones also include useful on-device controls and voice assistant support for convenience.

On the downside, they do not offer water resistance, which means they may not be the best choice for intense workouts or rainy conditions. Durability seems decent with a woven carrying case included, but the faux leather material may wear over time. While these headphones are branded as budget noise-cancelling, Beats products generally sit in the mid-range price category, so they might feel a bit of an investment compared to entry-level options. These headphones are well suited for users seeking a balance of good sound, strong noise cancellation, and long battery life in a stylish, comfortable design.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones offer some of the best noise cancellation you can find, powered by an advanced processor and multiple microphones that effectively block out background sounds for a quiet listening experience. Sound quality is excellent, refined with input from professional audio engineers, making music clear, balanced, and rich across all frequencies. Comfort is well thought out with a soft, pressure-free design and adjustable fit that works well for long listening sessions.

Battery life impressively lasts up to 30 hours, and a quick 3-minute charge can give you several hours of playback, which is convenient for busy days. Connectivity via Bluetooth is stable and supports high-resolution audio, so you get crisp wireless sound without interruptions. The headphones also include useful features like adaptive noise control that adjusts to your environment and clear voice pickup for calls, even in noisy places.

On the downside, while these headphones are durable with a foldable design and quality materials, they tend to be slightly pricier than typical budget options and might offer more features than essential for some casual users. The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a strong choice for anyone wanting premium noise cancellation and sound quality without moving into the very high-end price range, especially if comfort and battery life are priorities.