10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones in Moonstone Blue offer a strong mix of comfort, sound quality, and advanced noise cancellation technology. They use active noise cancellation combined with passive design to effectively block outside noise, making them great for travel, busy workspaces, or simply enjoying music without distractions. The plush ear cushions and padded headband ensure you can wear them comfortably for hours, which is a big plus if you listen for long stretches.

Sound-wise, these headphones deliver high-fidelity audio with an adjustable equalizer, allowing you to tailor bass, mids, and treble to your liking, so your music sounds rich and clear. Battery life is impressive with up to 24 hours on a single charge, and a quick 15-minute charge gives you a couple more hours, which is convenient for busy days. Connectivity is smooth thanks to Bluetooth with multipoint support, so you can easily switch between devices like your phone and laptop without hassle. Additionally, if the battery runs out or you prefer a wired connection, the included audio cable makes it easy to keep listening. The headphones also feature two listening modes: full noise cancellation and an awareness mode that lets in outside sounds when needed, adding flexibility for safety or conversations.

One downside is that these headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be the best choice for workouts or rainy conditions. Weighing around 8.4 ounces, they’re reasonably light but might feel a bit bulky for some. These headphones are well suited for anyone looking for premium noise-cancelling headphones that prioritize comfort and sound quality, especially travelers and daily commuters who want reliable battery life and easy device switching.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are high-end wireless noise-cancelling headphones that shine in several important areas. Their noise cancellation is especially impressive, powered by an advanced processor and 12 microphones that adapt in real time to block out unwanted sounds — whether you’re on a noisy street, plane, or busy office. The sound quality is excellent, co-developed with expert audio engineers to deliver clear, balanced music with rich vocals and detailed instruments. If you value accurate, high-resolution audio, these headphones support that too, including a Bluetooth technology (LDAC) that streams better sound than typical wireless options.

Comfort-wise, they feature a wider, asymmetrical headband with soft synthetic leather earpads, designed for long listening sessions without discomfort. The foldable design and included compact carrying case add to their portability. Battery life is strong, lasting up to 30 hours on a charge, and a quick 3-minute charge can give you 3 hours of playback, which is handy for travel or long days. Connectivity through Bluetooth is seamless and they support wired use as well, making them flexible for different devices.

Additional features like adaptive noise control that adjusts based on your environment and wearing style, plus an auto ambient sound mode that lets in important sounds like announcements or conversations, make these headphones smart and user-friendly. On the downside, these headphones come at a premium price, which might be a consideration if you’re budget-conscious. Also, while very lightweight and comfortable, some users with larger heads might want to try them in person for fit. These headphones are ideal if you want top-tier noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and comfortable all-day wear, especially for frequent travelers or those working in noisy environments.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium wireless over-ear headphones that deliver strong active noise cancellation, effectively reducing twice as much background noise compared to many others. With up to 20 hours of battery life, they offer enough power for all-day use with noise cancellation or spatial audio features enabled. Comfort is a highlight here, thanks to a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions that provide a secure yet soft fit, ideal for long listening sessions.

Sound quality is impressive, featuring Apple’s custom dynamic drivers and advanced audio tech like personalized spatial audio and adaptive EQ, which together create rich, immersive sound tailored to your ears. Connectivity is seamless within the Apple ecosystem, using Bluetooth 5.0 and the Apple H1 chip for quick pairing and easy switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. Additional features such as Transparency mode let you hear surrounding sounds without removing the headphones, and the Digital Crown offers precise control for volume, playback, and calls. The USB-C charging is convenient, matching other modern Apple devices.

The AirPods Max are relatively heavy compared to some competitors, which might affect comfort for users sensitive to weight. They also come at a high price point, which may be a consideration if budget is important. These headphones are best suited for Apple users looking for top-tier sound quality, noise cancellation, and a premium build, but less ideal for those seeking a lightweight or budget-friendly option.