Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

The world can be a noisy place. Whether you’re at home, on the bus, or in the mall, the world assails you with sound. Even if you try to relax and detach by playing some music or your favorite podcast over your headphones, all those sounds leak through, distracting you and causing even more stress and chaos. Maybe you don’t even tend to play audio on your devices, and instead, you’re just looking to filter out some of that ambient noise.

If you want to find some peace and quiet anywhere, anytime, try out a pair of noise-canceling headphones. They use special technology to intercept background noise and keep it from reaching your ears. At the same time, they amplify the notes or words playing from your phone or other digital devices to provide a clear and engaging sound. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the merits of some of today’s best noise-canceling headphones and the cool science behind how they work. 

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones

Best Overall

Try Out Alexa and Augmented Reality

These Bose headphones have three levels of noise cancelation, which use two microphones to pick up ambient sounds and reject them. You can use Alexa to control them. In addition, they feature audio AR, an audio version of augmented reality.

Pros:

• Three levels of noise cancelation
• Two noise-canceling microphones
• Connect to Alexa
• AR (augmented reality)

Cons: 

• Sometimes has Bluetooth connection problems
• Does not work while plugged in

Skullcandy Hesh ANC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Runner-Up

Sleek, Portable, and Quick to Charge

Skullcandy Hesh uses four microphones to detect and cancel ambient noise even when music isn’t playing. 10 minutes of charge will give you three hours of sound. You can also fold them up and take them anywhere. 

Pros:

• Four microphones for noise cancelation
• Charge quickly
• Foldable
• Refined sound

Cons: 

• Small ear cups
• Not ideal for calls

Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Canceling Headphones

Best Sound

Incredibly Wide Frequency Range

These cordless Bluetooth headphones reduce background noise by almost 90%. They provide high-quality sound that reaches from the highest frequencies to the deepest bass. They’ll play for 40 hours before needing to be charged.

Pros:

• Reduce background noise by almost 90%
• Reach up to 40 kHz 
• Strong bass
• Charge lasts up to 40 hours

Cons: 

• Not the strongest noise cancellation
• Sometimes has issues with sound quality

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones

Best Features

Clever Technology Makes for High Quality

These headphones have top-notch features, including 30 hours of charge, touch controls, and a sensor that stops the music when headphones are removed. You can easily take calls, and the music volume will automatically reduce when you do. 

Pros:

• Charge lasts up to 30 hours
• Touch controls
• Removal detection
• Reduces volume during conversation
• Comfortable fit

Cons: 

• Sometimes make ears warm
• Noise cancelation sometimes creates a hissing sound

Srhythm NC25 Active Noise Canceling Headphones

Most Attractive

Smooth Lines and Great for Travel

These sleek headphones come in three colors and cancel 90% of machine noise. The charge lasts up to 50 hours, and they are foldable for easy travel and storage. They’re also great for gaming and won’t cause a lag between audio and visuals. 

Pros:

• Sleek look
• Three colors
• 50 hours of charge
• Foldable
• Good for gaming

Cons: 

• Heavy bass
• Will not cancel out all human speech

FAQs

How Do Noise-Canceling Headphones Work?

Noise-canceling headphones sport tiny microphones on their exterior that constantly pick up the noise going on around you. In particular, they monitor the wavelengths created by those sounds. Then the device creates what is known as a “phase inversion”: it emits wavelengths that are the exact opposite of the sound waves, as though they had a mirror placed beneath them. 

This is called an “anti-noise,” because, due to the laws of physics, these two waves cancel each other out, ideally leaving you with only the sounds being played inside your headphones. 

Can You Use Noise-Canceling Headphones Without Music?

Some people want noise-canceling headphones so they can hear their music or audiobooks without distraction. But what if you just want some peace and quiet on, say, your evening commute? Does the noise cancelation feature work with nothing playing through the headphones? In fact, many headphones do allow you to have the noise-canceling feature on without having to connect it to any other device. Check the reviews and product descriptions to be sure. 

Buying Guide

Noise-canceling headphones are one of the coolest and most useful devices available these days. So if you’re ready for the best audio experience of your life, get ready to purchase a pair by considering the following factors. 

• Comfort: Look at the product dimensions and read reviews to find out if the headphones tend to be better for smaller or bigger heads, and if they apply too much pressure or heat to your ears. 
• Portability: Some headphones fold up to make them easier to travel with. If you’re planning on carrying yours around most days, look for a compact pair. 
• Sound Quality: If you’re an audiophile, you’ll want to take a good look at the product description and reviews. While most noise-canceling headphones emphasize high-resolution sound, some have different features and advantages than others. 
• Connectivity: An important aspect of a wireless headphone is its ability to connect to your other devices, usually using Bluetooth. Some headphones are easier to connect to than others. For example, they may require drivers or work better with iPhones than Androids or vice-versa. 
• Battery Life: Since noise-canceling headphones are wireless, it’s important that they can hold a charge for a long time, especially since some don’t work while they’re charging. Make sure to look for a pair with a long battery life, so they don’t die halfway through the work day.