Not all noise cancelling headphones are created equal. Some block out the world. Others just muffle it. And with more people working remotely, traveling again, or just needing some quiet in a loud house, having a good pair isn’t a luxury anymore — it’s necessary.
These are the ones that hold up. Whether you’re shutting out the noise on a flight, getting through a Zoom-heavy workday, or trying to make it through a gym session without hearing the playlist next to you, these headphones are built to handle it. Clean sound. Real noise cancelling. No gimmicks.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5B Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sony keeps setting the bar. The WH-1000XM5B is what most noise cancelling headphones wish they were. Slip them on and the world fades out. Planes, trains, background chatter — gone.
The audio is balanced and crisp. The bass hits without muddying the rest. And the ANC adapts to your environment in real-time, which isn’t just a tech flex — it actually makes long listening better.
They’re light enough to wear all day and sturdy enough to throw in your bag without worry. Battery life gets you through days, not just hours. If you want headphones that can keep up with everything from work to travel to chill time, this is the one.
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you’ve ever worn headphones that felt great for 30 minutes and then started pinching or pressing, you’ll get why these stand out. The QuietComfort Ultra is built for comfort without cutting corners on performance.
Bose has always delivered on noise cancelling, but this model levels up the sound, too. Vocals are clear. Instruments are distinct. And calls come through like you’re face to face.
Perfect for someone who needs headphones that won’t drive them nuts after a few hours. If comfort is as important as quiet, start here.
3. Soundcore Space One Noise Cancelling Headphones
Most budget ANC headphones cut corners. The Soundcore Space One doesn’t. It’s the kind of pair that makes you double-check the price tag.
You get adjustable ANC that actually cancels background noise, especially low frequencies like engine hum or office buzz. Sound quality leans slightly warm, but it doesn’t distort or feel muddy.
It’s a strong option for students, travelers, or anyone looking to block out the world without breaking the bank. Easily one of the best value picks available.
4. Soundcore Life Q30 Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you want long battery life, decent sound, and adjustable ANC without spending big, the Life Q30 is still in the mix for a reason.
These work well for office use, flights, or light workouts. They’re not flashy, but they’re reliable. The ANC has multiple modes, and the app gives you more control than you’d expect from something in this price range.
Great backup pair. Or primary if you want function over name brand.
5. Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Headphones
Not everyone needs studio-level sound. Sometimes you just want something light, simple, and effective. That’s where the WH-CH720N lands.
It’s one of Sony’s more affordable ANC models, and while it doesn’t have the deep cancellation of the XM5s, it still quiets the noise well. Audio stays sharp, and the fit makes them easy to forget you’re even wearing them.
Ideal for casual wearers or anyone jumping on calls and audiobooks throughout the day.
6. Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Noise Cancelling Headphones
These headphones don’t hold back. They’re loud, bold, and heavy on the low-end. The Crusher ANC 2 gives you adjustable bass that you can physically feel — if that’s your thing.
Noise cancelling is solid, and while the sound isn’t as refined as Sony or Bose, it’s fun. If you want energy, volume, and something that pairs well with workouts or hype playlists, this set delivers.
More about vibe than reference-level clarity. And that’s exactly what makes them appealing.
7. JLab JBuds Lux ANC Noise Cancelling Headphones
JLab flew under the radar for a while, but they’ve stepped it up. The JBuds Lux ANC gives you usable noise cancelling, decent clarity, and an app that lets you tweak your audio profile to match your style.
They’re lightweight, durable enough for daily wear, and work well in moderately noisy environments. Don’t expect total silence, but for commutes, cafes, and home use, they earn their spot.
A strong pick if you’re shopping smart and want a bit more than the basics.
8. Sonos Ace Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sonos took their time getting into the headphone game, and it shows. The Ace sounds balanced, clean, and refined. It doesn’t boost bass just for effect — everything comes through like it’s meant to.
Noise cancelling is tight, and the build is premium without trying too hard. If you’re already using Sonos speakers at home, the integration is a bonus. But even if you’re not, this pair feels like a proper step up.
It’s built for people who care about sound without needing to show it off.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Guess With ANC
Noise cancelling isn’t a maybe — it either works or it doesn’t. And if you’ve got a place in your life where silence helps, getting the right headphones makes all the difference.
Sony and Bose are still leading the charge. They’re proven. But if your budget’s tighter, Soundcore, JLab, and Skullcandy have done more with less than a lot of big names out there.
Pick based on how you’ll actually use them. Planes. Work. Gym. Chilling out. Once you match the features to the lifestyle, finding the right pair gets simple.