10 Best In Ear Anc Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are high-end in-ear wireless earbuds designed for users who want effective active noise cancellation (ANC) along with premium sound. Their ANC is improved, removing twice as much background noise compared to earlier models, and features like Transparency mode and Conversation Awareness help you stay aware of your surroundings when needed. The sound quality is strong thanks to the Apple-designed H2 chip and custom drivers, delivering clear highs and rich bass. Personalized Spatial Audio adds an immersive, 3D-like listening experience, especially with compatible media.

Comfort is addressed with four sizes of silicone tips to ensure a secure and comfortable seal, which also aids noise isolation. Battery life supports up to 6 hours of listening on a single charge with ANC active, and the charging case extends this to 30 hours, including fast charging options via USB-C and compatibility with MagSafe and other wireless chargers. Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth 5.3 and seamless integration with Apple devices, enhanced by the H2 chip and U1 chip for precise device finding. The earbuds are rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and daily use but not full water immersion.

Controls are versatile, featuring touch gestures and voice commands with Siri, enabling easy playback and call management. The package also introduces unique hearing health features like a built-in hearing test and active hearing protection, which may appeal to health-conscious users. These earbuds are optimized mainly for Apple products, so users of other brands might not get the full benefits. While the fit options are good, some users may find in-ear designs uncomfortable over long listening sessions. The IP54 rating means they are protected against sweat and splashes but not heavy rain or submersion. For those seeking premium ANC earbuds with excellent sound, smart features, and strong Apple ecosystem integration, AirPods Pro 2 are an excellent choice.

The Apple AirPods 4 stand out for their active noise cancellation (ANC), which effectively reduces background noise to help you focus on your music or calls. They also feature Transparency mode and Adaptive Audio, so you can stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds. Sound quality is enhanced with the new H2 chip, offering clearer calls and personalized spatial audio that makes listening more immersive.

Battery life is solid, with about 4 hours of playback using ANC and up to 30 hours total with the charging case. Comfort has been improved with a redesigned shape and shorter stems, making them more stable and pleasant for extended wear. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, especially for Apple devices, including easy pairing and handy features like audio sharing between two sets of AirPods. The earbuds and case are dust, sweat, and water resistant (IP54), suitable for workouts and light rain, adding to their durability.

Controls are versatile, with touch and voice commands, including innovative Siri interactions that let you respond to prompts by nodding or shaking your head. On the downside, the single-charge battery life is average compared to some competitors, and the price can be high for those not fully invested in the Apple ecosystem. The charging case requires a USB-C cable sold separately, which might be inconvenient. These earbuds are ideal for users looking for comfortable, smart ANC earbuds with excellent integration into Apple devices, but less suitable if you want longer battery life or cross-platform compatibility.