10 Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer strong noise cancellation with fully adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) that effectively reduces background sounds, making them a good choice for those seeking peace in noisy environments. The sound quality is rich and immersive, enhanced by Beats’ custom acoustic platform and support for lossless audio through USB-C, which is a rare feature in budget-friendly noise-cancelling headphones. You also get three sound profiles and personalized spatial audio, adding further depth to the listening experience.

Comfort is generally well-addressed with an over-ear design and oval-shaped earpieces, which should suit most users for extended wear. However, the headphones weigh about 1.4 pounds, which is somewhat on the heavier side and might feel a bit bulky during long sessions for some. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 40 hours on a full charge, and the Fast Fuel feature gives 4 hours of playback from a quick 10-minute charge — ideal for users who need long-lasting use without frequent recharging.

Connectivity is robust, featuring Bluetooth 5.3 with Class 1 wireless technology that offers a strong signal and extended range (up to 100 meters), plus seamless pairing with both Apple and Android devices. The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio cable also adds versatility for wired listening. On the downside, these headphones are not water-resistant, so they are less suitable for intense workouts or use in wet conditions. The build uses metal, engineered leather, and plastic, which should hold up well, but the fabric carrying case might not provide heavy-duty protection. The Beats Studio Pro is an excellent option for those seeking premium features like excellent noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and long battery life at a budget-friendly price point, especially if compatibility with both Apple and Android ecosystems is important. Just be mindful of the weight and lack of water resistance if those are significant factors for your use.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones in Twilight Blue offer a strong package for anyone looking for budget-friendly noise-cancelling headphones with reliable performance. Their active noise cancellation effectively blocks out background noise, making them ideal for travel or noisy environments. Sound quality is rich and high-fidelity, with adjustable EQ settings allowing customization of bass, midrange, and treble. Comfort is a standout feature, with plush ear cushions and a padded headband that make long listening sessions pleasant without pressure.

Battery life supports up to 24 hours per charge, which is solid for daily use, and a quick 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours more playback. Connectivity is smooth with Bluetooth 5.1 and multipoint pairing, allowing easy switching between devices like phones and laptops. The option to use wired mode when the battery runs out adds versatility. These headphones are not water resistant, so they require careful handling around moisture. While the build feels sturdy enough for everyday use, they may not withstand rough treatment. The limited edition Twilight Blue color adds a stylish touch. They are suited for users wanting dependable noise cancellation and sound quality without breaking the bank, especially for travel, work, or casual listening.

The Soundcore Q20i headphones offer strong noise cancellation for their price range, using hybrid active noise cancelling with multiple microphones that can reduce up to 90% of background noise. This makes them a good choice for noisy environments like planes, trains, or busy offices. Sound quality is generally good, with 40mm drivers providing clear audio and solid bass thanks to BassUp technology. For those who want more control, the customizable EQ via the companion app adds flexibility to tailor the sound to your liking.

Comfort-wise, these are over-ear headphones that feel lightweight and suitable for long listening sessions, although individual fit may vary. Battery life is impressive, delivering around 40 hours with noise cancelling active, which is excellent for daily commuters or travelers. Fast charging is a useful bonus, giving 4 extra hours from just 5 minutes of charging.

Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.0, and the ability to connect to two devices at once is handy for switching between calls and media without fuss. The included 3.5mm cable also allows wired use, especially useful for Hi-Res audio playback, though this may appeal more to audiophiles. In terms of durability, while not rugged, the build from Anker is decent for everyday use, but these aren't designed for heavy outdoor or sports wear. The pink color option adds a fun style element but might not suit everyone. While the headphones perform well for their budget, they won't match the noise cancellation or audio refinement of higher-end models. If you're looking for affordable, comfortable wireless headphones with effective noise cancelling, long battery life, and customizable sound, the Soundcore Q20i is a strong contender.