10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are designed to deliver strong active noise cancellation, effectively blocking out outside noise so you can focus on your music or calls. They offer up to 24 hours of battery life, which is great for all-day use without frequent charging. The fast USB-C charging adds convenience, giving you 2.5 hours of playtime from just a 15-minute charge. Comfort is a highlight here — the plush over-ear cushions and padded headband make them suitable for long listening sessions without discomfort.

Sound quality is impressive, featuring high-fidelity audio with an adjustable equalizer to customize bass, mid, and treble to your liking. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.1 and a multipoint feature that lets you switch easily between devices without hassle. Additionally, there’s an option to use these headphones wired if you want to save battery or connect to devices without Bluetooth. The Bose app supports updates and lets you control features like noise cancellation modes, including a Quiet mode for full noise blocking and an Aware mode to stay alert to your surroundings.

On the downside, these headphones are not water-resistant, so they’re not ideal for sweaty workouts or rainy conditions. Also, while they are lightweight, some users might find the plastic build less premium compared to more expensive models. These headphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for comfortable, effective noise cancellation with good sound quality and versatile connectivity, especially for everyday use at home, work, or travel.

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 4 are designed to offer an impressive noise-cancelling experience, making them a solid choice for those who want to enjoy music or podcasts without distractions. Their Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external sounds, which is particularly beneficial in noisy environments like public transport or busy streets. The Adaptive Audio feature also allows for a seamless transition between ANC and Transparency mode, letting you engage with your surroundings when needed. This flexibility is great for users who want to have the best of both worlds.

In terms of comfort, the redesign provides a better fit, making them suitable for extended wear without discomfort. Additionally, they are rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, which means they can withstand workouts and light rain, appealing to fitness enthusiasts.

The sound quality is another highlight, enhanced by the H2 chip that supports personalized audio features. Voice Isolation helps improve call clarity in noisy settings, making it a suitable option for mobile users. Battery life is decent, offering about 5 hours on a single charge with ANC active, and up to 30 hours with the charging case when ANC is off. However, 4 hours of ANC usage on a single charge might be limiting for those planning long listening sessions.

While AirPods 4 are convenient and feature-rich, they might not suit everyone. Users seeking the absolute best sound quality or those who prefer over-ear designs may want to explore other options. The reliance on Bluetooth may affect connectivity in certain situations, particularly if you’re far from your device. Lastly, the price point is on the higher side, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers.

The Apple AirPods 4 stand out as an excellent choice for those seeking comfort, effective noise cancellation, and smart features, especially if they are already integrated into the Apple ecosystem.