Top-rated Noise-Cancelling Headphones We Swear By
In the bustling world of audio technology, noise-cancelling headphones have emerged as a game-changer for individuals seeking a quieter, more focused listening experience. These innovative devices offer a solution for those who work from home, travel frequently, or simply desire a reprieve from environmental noise.
The Difference Between Passive and Active Noise Cancellation
Noise-cancelling headphones employ either passive or active methods to reduce unwanted sounds. Passive noise cancellation (PNC) relies on physical barriers such as materials and design to seal off the ear from sound waves, similar to earplugs or thick padding around the ear. This method is effective for higher-frequency sounds like chatter or sharp noises, and it does not require batteries or power to operate.
On the other hand, active noise cancellation (ANC) uses electronic components, including built-in microphones to detect ambient sounds and circuitry to generate sound waves with opposite phase ("anti-noise") that cancel out the detected noise via destructive interference. This technology is especially effective against low-frequency noises such as engine hums or air conditioners.
How Active Noise Cancellation Works
In practice, many headphones combine both passive and active noise cancellation to achieve broader and more effective noise reduction. The process involves microphones on the headphones picking up external sounds, the headphones’ processors then creating inverse sound waves matching these noises but with opposite polarity. When these opposing sound waves combine, they cancel each other out through destructive interference, reducing what you hear.
Modern ANC headphones adapt automatically to changing noise environments, using multi-mic array systems and advanced algorithms to optimize cancellation performance across various frequencies and sudden noise changes.
The Market for Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The market for headphones is vast, with numerous options available, including flagship models and budget buds. Our website editors and reviewers have tested dozens of headphones and earbuds in 2025 to determine the best noise-cancelling headphones.
Cheaper active noise-cancelling headphones may have a more noticeable hissing sound when noise cancellation is turned on. However, even these budget options can provide effective noise reduction, making them a valuable investment for many.
Top Brands for Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Sony makes excellent noise-cancelling headphones with top-notch ANC and great sound quality. Bose is often a top name for noise-cancelling audio and leads the industry for the best ANC available. Newer brands like EarFun also bring great value to the noise-cancelling space and offer more affordable options.
Even the best wireless earbuds may not provide the same seal or have as many microphones as over-ear headphones, resulting in less maximum silence. However, newer wireless earbuds like the AirPods Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds have comparable active noise cancellation to over-ear headphones.
The Importance of Effective Noise Cancellation
Effective noise cancellation is crucial for even the best value headphones. Our guide below lays out where each of our picks shines in terms of noise-cancelling performance and other features. Whether you're looking for over-ear headphones or wireless earbuds, our recommendations will help you find the perfect noise-cancelling solution to suit your needs and budget.
- Although passive noise cancellation (PNC) and active noise cancellation (ANC) both play roles in noise-cancelling headphones, Google's artificial intelligence (AI) technology could potentially enhance ANC performance by optimizing the creation of anti-noise waves.
- In the world of tech giants, Apple has yet to release noise-cancelling gadgets that compete with the leading brands like Sony and Bose; however, the integration of AI in future Apple products could potentially shake up the market.
- As technology progresses, AI-powered noise-cancelling gadgets could revolutionize the industry, providing a more immersive and quiet listening experience for technology enthusiasts everywhere.
