10 Best In Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a top choice for anyone seeking high-quality in-ear noise-cancelling headphones. Their Active Noise Cancellation feature effectively blocks out background noise, making them perfect for commuting or busy environments. The Transparency mode is also a handy addition, allowing users to hear their surroundings while still enjoying their audio. With the integration of the H2 chip, sound quality is impressive, boasting clear highs and deep bass, along with enhancements for voice calls in loud conditions.

Comfort is another strong point, as Apple includes multiple sizes of silicone tips to ensure a good fit for various ear shapes. This helps in creating an acoustic seal that enhances the noise cancellation experience. The earbuds are also rated IP54 for water and sweat resistance, making them suitable for workouts.

Battery life is decent but might require some attention. While you can enjoy around 6 hours of listening time on a single charge with Active Noise Cancellation on, the total combined with the case reaches 30 hours. However, for long listening sessions, the 6-hour limit may necessitate frequent recharging if not using the case. The AirPods Pro 2 are designed primarily for Apple users due to their seamless integration with Apple devices. This might limit compatibility for those who use Android or other non-Apple systems. Additionally, while the touch controls are intuitive, they may take some time to master, especially for those unfamiliar with gesture-based controls.

The Apple AirPods 4 are a strong contender in the in-ear noise-cancelling headphones category, particularly appealing to those who appreciate seamless integration with Apple devices. These earbuds excel in noise cancellation, thanks to their Active Noise Cancellation feature, which effectively minimizes outside sounds, providing a more immersive listening experience. The addition of Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode allows users to switch between complete isolation and awareness of their surroundings, making them versatile for various environments.

Sound quality is another highlight, with the H2 chip enhancing call clarity through Voice Isolation. Personalized Spatial Audio adds a dynamic element, creating a theater-like experience for music and media, which is a nice touch for users who enjoy high-quality audio.

Comfort and fit have been prioritized in the design, with contours that aim to provide a snug feel for extended use. They're also rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, which is beneficial for those who might use them during workouts or in light rain. However, battery life could be a concern for some. With Active Noise Cancellation on, users get about 4 hours of listening time per charge, which is decent but might not satisfy those who require longer sessions without needing to recharge. While a total of 30 hours is possible with the charging case, the reliance on the case can be limiting. Another point to consider is that these earbuds are primarily designed for Apple users due to their seamless connectivity and features like Siri integration. This means that non-Apple device users might not experience the full range of functionalities, which could be a drawback.

The Apple AirPods 4 cater well to users who value sound quality, noise cancellation, and integration with Apple devices, but battery life and compatibility with non-Apple products may be limiting factors for some users.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE offer an impressive suite of features for in-ear noise-cancelling headphones. These earbuds come with Active Noise Cancellation, allowing you to block out unwanted sounds and focus on what you want to hear. The sound quality is robust, making them suitable for various audio needs from music to calls. The new wing-tip design provides a secure and comfortable fit, ideal for all-day wear.

One standout feature is the real-time translation through the Interpreter feature, making these buds especially useful for travelers or those who communicate in multiple languages. Additionally, the built-in voice assistant adds convenience, allowing you to manage tasks hands-free. Connectivity is seamless, particularly with other Galaxy devices, thanks to features like Auto Switch and easy pairing through your Samsung account. Touch controls are intuitive, enhancing user experience by making it easier to manage audio playback and volume without needing to reach for your phone.

Durability seems reasonable with a 1-year manufacturer warranty offering some peace of mind. These earbuds seem well-suited for those seeking advanced features and solid performance, especially if they are already integrated into the Samsung ecosystem.