5 best noise-canceling headphones

Sony WH-1000XM5 (Image via Unsplash)
The Sony WH-1000XM5 (Image via Unsplash)

Noise-canceling headphones have transformed our audio experience, isolating us from external noise and creating a peaceful environment. These headphones use advanced ANC technology to block distractions from busy surroundings, providing a serene listening experience.

This article explores the 5 best noise-canceling headphones, assessing sound quality, ANC effectiveness, battery life, comfort, and features.


What are the best noise-canceling headphones to block out the outside world?

1) Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless ($299.00)

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SpecificationsSennheiser MOMENTUM 4
Drivers42mm driver
Bluetooth
5.2
Battery life
up to 60 hours (ANC on)
Codecs
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless headphones offer excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), comfortable all-day wear, and impressive sound quality. The ANC effectively blocks low, mid, and high-frequency noises, creating a serene environment. Its transparency mode provides situational awareness when needed.

Featuring soft, padded ear cups and an adjustable headband, the headphones prioritize comfort for extended wear. It delivers excellent sound with a well-balanced blend of bass, sharp highs, and clean mids. Boasting an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours, the MOMENTUM 4 also offers touch controls and compatibility with the Sennheiser Smart Control app.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless provides a premium noise-canceling experience with comfort and superb audio quality.


2) Bose QuietComfort 45 ($329.00)

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SpecificationsBose QuietComfort 45
Drivers40mm driver
Bluetooth
5.1
Battery life
up to 24 hours (ANC on)
Codecs
SBC, AAC

The Bose QuietComfort 45 wireless headphones excel in active noise cancellation (ANC) and comfortable, all-day wear. Its ANC is among the best in the market, effectively eliminating distractions in various settings, such as bustling streets and noisy offices. It also has a "Transparency" mode that can be activated to let in ambient noise.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 ensures a comfortable wearing experience, allowing for extended use without discomfort. It has an excellent overall sound quality, with distinct mids and highs. The impressive battery life offers up to 24 hours of playback and fast charging capabilities.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are an amazing option for enthusiasts seeking top-tier noise cancellation.


3) Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 ($379.00)

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SpecificationsBose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Drivers40mm driver
Bluetooth
5.0
Battery life
up to 20 hours (ANC on)
Codecs
SBC, AAC, aptX

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are top-tier wireless headphones known for their exceptional noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and impressive sound quality. These noise-canceling headphones utilize 8 microphones to eliminate ambient noise, including airplane engines and traffic noise. Additionally, it features a transparency mode that enhances situational awareness.

With a comfortable design and adjustable headband, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 headphones ensure all-day comfort for prolonged use. While its sound quality is good, its bass is slightly emphasized. Its battery life is impressive, and it supports EQ customization.

Although pricey, the 700s are worth the investment for those seeking the best noise cancellation and a premium listening experience.


4) Sony WH-1000XM5 ($399.99)

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SpecificationsSony WH-1000XM5
Drivers30mm driver
Bluetooth
5.2
Battery life
up to 30 hours (ANC on)
Codecs
SBC, AAC, LDAC

The Sony WH-1000XM5 redefines noise-canceling headphones with exceptional performance, offering an immersive and uninterrupted listening experience. With plush earcups and an adjustable headband, they prioritize comfort. Its impressive battery life of approximately 30 hours ensures extended usage.

Notable features like Ambient Sound Mode and touch controls enhance user convenience. While its price point may be higher and its design slightly bulky, the WH-1000XM5 stands out as the pinnacle of noise cancellation capabilities.

The WH-1000XM5 is an excellent option for individuals searching for premium noise-canceling headphones, offering unparalleled noise cancellation, comfort, and extended battery life.


5) Apple AirPods Max ($449.99)

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SpecificationsApple AirPods Max
Drivers40mm driver
Bluetooth
5.0
Battery life
up to 20 hours (ANC on)
Codecs
SBC, AAC

The Apple AirPods Max is an amazing wireless headphone that delivers stellar sound quality, active noise cancellation, and a comfortable design. It has a wide frequency range that provides clean highs, deep bass, and a balanced soundstage.

The effective noise cancellation of the AirPods Max blocks out ambient noise, while its transparency mode maintains the connection to your surroundings. The memory foam ear cups and knit mesh headband ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening. Additional features like spatial audio and adaptive EQ enhance the overall audio experience.

The AirPods Max offers an exceptional listening experience, making it an excellent option for audiophiles looking for top-tier audio performance.


In conclusion, noise-canceling headphones have brought a revolutionary change to our audio experience, offering uninterrupted immersion. The five headphones discussed in this article excel in active noise cancellation, comfort, sound quality, and battery life. Whether you prioritize ANC, comfort, or overall audio performance, these great noise-canceling headphones are an excellent choice to elevate your listening journey.

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