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 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.

The Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones offer a strong set of features well-suited for music lovers and frequent travelers. The standout feature is the active noise cancelling (ANC) technology which helps block out unwanted noise, making it easier to enjoy your music or calls without interruption. Additionally, the headphones have a Transparency mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings when needed.

The battery life is impressive, offering up to 40 hours of use on a full charge, and a quick 10-minute charge gives you an extra 4 hours of playback, which is convenient for those on the go. Comfort and fit are crucial for over-ear headphones, and the Beats Studio Pro promises a comfortable experience, although individual comfort can vary. The sound quality is enhanced by the custom acoustic platform and personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, promising a rich and immersive listening experience.

Connectivity is seamless with one-touch pairing for both Apple and Android devices, and the Class 1 Bluetooth ensures a reliable wireless connection with fewer dropouts. Additional features like on-device controls for music and calls, and voice-targeting microphones for clear call performance, add to the convenience. However, the headphones might be on the pricier side, and some users might find them slightly bulky for extended wear. In summary, these headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and robust battery life.