10 Best Noise Cancelling 2025 in the United States

The Beats Studio Pro headphones stand out in the noise-cancelling category, offering a blend of impressive features that cater to music lovers and those who frequently take calls. One of the key strengths is the Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), which effectively minimizes unwanted ambient sounds, allowing for an immersive listening experience. Coupled with the personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, users can truly feel enveloped in their music, enjoying a 360-degree soundscape.

Comfort and fit are also taken into consideration, with the over-ear design that generally provides good noise isolation and comfort for extended wear. With up to 40 hours of battery life, these headphones are reliable for long listening sessions, and the quick charging feature is a nice touch for those who are constantly on the go.

On the downside, while the sound quality is touted as rich and immersive, some audiophiles might find that the bass could be more pronounced compared to other high-end models in the market. Additionally, while the headphones boast enhanced compatibility with Apple and Android devices, users might still run into some limitations with certain features depending on their device ecosystem. The design is sleek, yet some users may prefer a more understated aesthetic. Lastly, while the multi-function on-ear controls are convenient, they could take some getting used to for new users. The Beats Studio Pro headphones cater well to casual listeners who appreciate good sound quality and effective noise cancellation, making them an excellent choice for commuting, work, or relaxation. However, those seeking a more nuanced sound signature or a very compact design may want to explore other options.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear headphones designed to deliver an excellent noise-cancelling experience. Their active noise cancellation (ANC) is very effective, reportedly blocking up to twice as much background noise compared to some others, making them ideal for noisy environments like busy streets or planes. Apple’s custom audio drivers and H1 chips also help produce clear, high-quality sound with personalized spatial audio, which creates an immersive listening experience that adjusts based on how you move your head.

The headphones are comfortable to wear thanks to a knit-mesh headband and memory foam cushions that seal well around your ears, though they are on the heavier side at about 386 grams, which might feel bulky during long sessions for some users. Battery life is solid, offering up to 20 hours with ANC and spatial audio active, and quick charging gives around 1.5 hours of playback from just 5 minutes of charging. Connectivity is seamless within the Apple ecosystem—pairing is very simple and switching between Apple devices is automatic, though non-Apple users might miss some of this ease.

The headphones feature useful controls via a Digital Crown and a noise control button for toggling ANC and Transparency mode, which lets you hear your surroundings without removing the headphones. Included accessories like the Smart Case help preserve battery in standby but offer limited protection. USB-C charging is a plus for compatibility with modern Apple devices. Despite their many strengths, the AirPods Max are quite expensive compared to many other noise-cancelling headphones, and they are not water-resistant, so care is needed in wet conditions. They are excellent for Apple device owners seeking premium sound and noise cancellation with added features, while users on a tighter budget or those outside the Apple ecosystem might find better value options elsewhere.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality noise-cancelling headphones. They excel in Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), effectively blocking out external noise, making them ideal for use in noisy environments like airplanes or busy offices. The headphones offer up to 24 hours of battery life, which is excellent for long trips or extended use without needing frequent recharges. A 15-minute quick charge provides an additional 2.5 hours of playtime, which can be very convenient.

Comfort is another strong point, thanks to the plush earcup cushions and padded headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions without discomfort. The sound quality is impressive with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences for deep bass, clear mid-range, and crisp treble. Connectivity is seamless with multipoint Bluetooth, enabling quick switching between devices without hassle.

Additional features such as the wired listening option and the Bose app for updates and feature enhancements add to their versatility. These headphones may come at a higher price point, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Also, while the ANC is excellent, it might not be perfect for all environments, as extremely high noise levels can still seep through. If you prioritize top-notch noise cancellation, long battery life, comfort, and excellent sound quality, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a great investment.