Top 21 Noise Cancelling Headphones 2024

Top 21 Noise Cancelling Headphones 2024
Published in : 25 May 2024

Top 21 Noise Cancelling Headphones 2024

In an ever-noisy world, finding the perfect pair of noise-cancelling headphones is essential for a truly immersive audio experience. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, focus during work, or simply enjoy your favorite tunes without interruptions, our curated list of the top 21 noise-cancelling headphones for 2024 has got you covered. From top-tier brands like Sony and Bose to emerging favorites, this guide will help you choose the best headphones to meet your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Sony WH-1000XM5 offers industry-leading noise cancellation and superior sound quality.

  • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are known for their comfort and excellent noise-cancelling capabilities.

  • Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) provide a seamless experience for iOS users with great noise cancellation.

  • Sony WF-1000XM5 are perfect for those who prefer in-ear options with top-notch noise-cancelling features.

  • Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offers great value for money with effective noise cancellation at a lower price point.

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

modern noise cancelling headphones in a sleek, stylish setting

The Sony WH-1000XM5 may not have the catchiest name, but they make up for it with a formidable mix of brilliant performance and a truckload of great features. Sony's latest and greatest over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are the WH-1000XM5. Though they're not an essential upgrade for those who already own the ultra-popular WH-1000XM4s, the improved noise cancellation and fuller sound make these the stronger pick for airplane travel in 2024.

Design

Sony has made some tweaks to the design over the years, but nothing as dramatic as what it's done with the WH-1000XM5. The fifth generation of the 1000X series headphones, which were first released in 2016 as the MDR-1000X Wireless, have become increasingly popular as they've improved with each generation.

Performance

When you have a product that a lot of people love, change can be risky. Such is the case for Sony's WH-1000XM5. Other than the higher price tag, most of those changes are good, and they offer a better value than their predecessor.

Battery Life

  • Battery life: 40 hours

  • Bluetooth range: 33 feet

  • App-connected: No

Price

The WH-1000XM5 comes with a higher $330 price tag, which is $80 more than the WH-1000XM4. However, the improvements in noise cancellation and sound quality justify the cost for many users.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top choice for those seeking premium sound quality and advanced noise cancellation in 2024.

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

modern noise cancelling headphones in a serene environment

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a top-tier choice for anyone seeking premium Noise Cancelling Headphones. These headphones come with Bose's new Immersive Audio feature, which enhances sound quality, making them a great deal for music lovers. The design is more refined, featuring some metal parts and Bluetooth 5.3, an upgrade from Bluetooth 5.1.

Key Features

  • Immersive Audio: Delivers enhanced sound quality.

  • Bluetooth 5.3: Improved connectivity over Bluetooth 5.1.

  • Refined Design: Includes metal parts for a premium feel.

Performance

The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer excellent noise canceling and strong voice-calling performance. They are superb for making calls, with top-notch background noise reduction. While they may not be a huge upgrade over the Noise Cancelling 700 headphones, they still provide a small step up in sound quality.

Value for Money

While not cheap, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are considered a great deal for the music quality alone. They are a worthy adversary to Sony's highly rated WH-1000XM5 and Apple's AirPods.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones may not be cheap, but on the music quality alone, I think they're a great deal.

3. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

person wearing Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) in a busy city street, noise cancelling headphones, modern technology

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are a revelation in true wireless earbuds, with no real weaknesses. The sound signature is quite well-tuned, with a fairly balanced and immersive audio experience. These earbuds are powered by Apple's new H2 chip, which delivers more processing power while being more energy efficient. This new chip, combined with low-distortion drivers, allows for improved sound that offers better clarity and depth.

Key Features

  • Astounding noise-stopping power

  • Very good sound quality

  • Small and very lightweight

Battery Life

The new AirPods add an extra hour of battery life, up from five to six hours with noise canceling on. The charging case provides an additional 24 hours, making it a total of 30 hours of listening time.

Connectivity

Apple not only swapped in USB-C for Lightning connectivity in its new iPhone 15 models, but it made the switch with the AirPods Pro (2nd generation). The new AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe (USB-C) are nearly identical to their Lightning predecessor, delivering the same excellent sound, noise canceling, and voice-calling performance.

The AirPods Pro 2 are definitely worth considering if you're in the iPhone members club.

Specifications

Feature

Details

Acoustic design

Closed

Weight

5.3g

Frequency response

Not listed

Drivers

Custom Apple design

Battery life

6 hours (earbuds), 30 hours (case)

Reasons to Buy

  • Astounding noise-stopping power

  • Very good sound quality

  • Small and very lightweight

Reasons to Avoid

  • Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices

4. Sony WF-1000XM5

modern noise cancelling headphones in a techy environment

The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are a top contender in the noise-canceling market. These earbuds are not only smaller than their predecessors, the WF-1000XM4, but they also offer improved performance across the board. With better noise-canceling, sound quality, and voice calling, the XM5s are a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio experience.

Key Features

  • Improved Active Noise Canceling (ANC)

  • Smaller and more comfortable fit

  • Enhanced sound quality

  • Exceptional voice call performance

Performance

When it comes to performance, the WF-1000XM5s excel in every category. The active noise canceling is top-notch, making them perfect for noisy environments. The sound quality is also superb, with rich bass and clear highs. Additionally, the voice call quality is exceptional, making these earbuds a great choice for both music and calls.

Comparison with WF-1000XM4

The WF-1000XM5 brought even better active noise canceling (ANC) and a more comfortable fit. Just because the XM5 buds are newer, though, doesn't necessarily mean the XM4s are obsolete. The XM4s are still a great option, especially if you can find them at a discounted price.

Where to Buy

You can purchase the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds on various platforms, including Amazon. They are also available at other major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart.

If you're looking for a pair of earbuds that offer excellent noise canceling and sound quality, the Sony WF-1000XM5s are a fantastic choice.

5. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

person wearing Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in a busy city street, noise cancelling headphones, modern urban lifestyle

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are the latest addition to Bose's renowned lineup of noise-cancelling earphones. These high-spec earbuds boast unbeatable comfort, world-class noise cancelling, and rich sound. But what are they like to run in? We put them to the test.

Design and Comfort

On the design front, the QC Ultra feature a more compact build than Bose's previous-generation QuietComfort earbuds. A volume slider is positioned on the earbud's stem for easy control, and they fit comfortably in ear with three different-sized ear tips and stability bands included. However, the included charging case is a bit large and doesn't have wireless support unless you add on a $50 case cover.

Performance

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds reset our expectations for noise-cancelling earphones. They use a combination of calibration tests and subtle adaptive ANC tweaks to produce impressive results. Although their performance against higher frequencies is comparable with that of other high-end models, Bose comes out on top against low-frequency noise.

Battery Life

  • Weight: 7.7g per earbud

  • ANC listening time per charge: 6hrs

  • Total ANC listening time with case: 24hrs

Reasons to Buy

  • Top notch sound

  • Incredible comfort

  • Unrivalled noise cancellation

Reasons to Avoid

  • Case is larger than some

  • Pricier than most

6. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC

modern noise cancelling headphones in a techy environment

The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones are a fantastic choice for those seeking brilliant ANC experience without breaking the bank. These earphones are priced under $100, making them one of the best value noise-cancelling earbuds on the market. While they might not be ideal for running due to their average water-resistance rating, they are perfect for everyday use.

Key Specifications

  • Type: In-Canal

  • Wireless: True Wireless

  • Connection Type: Bluetooth

  • Water/Sweat-Resistant: Yes

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Yes

Pros

  • Strong adaptive noise cancellation

  • Good audio customization

  • Built-in safe volume and sound leak compensation

Cons

  • Imprecise touch controls

  • Default sound signature has noticeable sculpting

Why We Picked It

We've reviewed several excellent noise-cancelling earbuds under $100, including some from Anker. The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones punch far above their price with the best active noise cancellation in this segment yet, detailed audio quality, and an excellent app with a customizable EQ.

Who It's For

If you want a slightly more aggressive ANC for blocking out background noises, a more AirPods-like design, and a futuristic case that opens up like the door of a DeLorean, go for the Liberty 4 NCs. While we’re not quite sure if we can confirm the brand’s claim that it reduces noise by more than 98%, it’s undeniable that the noise cancellation is extremely effective – our tests on a London tube carriage showed they cut out a significant amount of noticeable background noise even as it reached close to 85db.

With an IPX4 rating, long battery life, and good ANC, these are worth a go. You might not want to go for a run with them, but otherwise they're decent.

7. Urbanista Los Angeles

modern noise cancelling headphones in an urban setting with a focus on Los Angeles

Overview

The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones are a game-changer in the world of noise-cancelling technology. These headphones are solar-powered, which means you can enjoy infinite playtime without worrying about charging. The innovative Powerfoyle technology allows the headphones to self-charge using any light source, making them perfect for on-the-go use.

Features

  • Solar-powered: Infinite playtime with Powerfoyle self-charging technology.

  • Active Noise Cancelling: Blocks out unwanted noise for a better listening experience.

  • Bluetooth 5.0: Seamless wireless connectivity.

  • Comfortable Design: Over-ear fit with cushioned ear cups for long listening sessions.

Performance

The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with deep bass and clear highs. The active noise cancelling feature works impressively well, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music or podcasts without any distractions.

Battery Life

With the Powerfoyle technology, you can say goodbye to battery anxiety. These headphones offer infinite playtime as long as there's light. Even in low-light conditions, the battery life is extended significantly, making them ideal for travel and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a pair of headphones that offer excellent sound quality, comfort, and the unique benefit of solar-powered charging, the Urbanista Los Angeles is a fantastic choice. These headphones are perfect for those who are always on the move and don't want to worry about constantly recharging their devices.

The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones redefine convenience with their solar-powered, self-charging capability, making them a must-have for tech enthusiasts and frequent travelers alike.

8. Apple AirPods Max

modern noise cancelling headphones in a sleek, stylish setting

Apple's most expensive noise-canceling headphones have a plush design and comfortable fit. They present an immediate feeling of luxury which only grows once you start playing music. If you want to stay in the Apple ecosystem and prefer proper headphones, the AirPods Max are a striking option. They offer effective noise cancellation that's just slightly less consistent than that of the best Bose and Sony models and look cooler than most of the competition.

9. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones in a modern, stylish setting with noise-cancelling elements

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a top contender in the world of noise-canceling headphones. Equipped with 42mm drivers, these headphones deliver a sound quality that is right up there with other models in this price range. You'll enjoy well-defined, punchy bass, a relatively wide soundstage, and smooth treble that brings out the finer details in well-recorded tracks.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Momentum 4 Wireless is its phenomenal 60 hours of battery life. This means you can enjoy your music for days without needing to recharge.

Noise Cancellation

The adaptive noise cancellation on these headphones is talented and effective, making them a great choice for blocking out ambient noise.

Design and Comfort

While they might be a tad plain aesthetically, the design is refined and comfortable for long listening sessions.

Additional Features

  • Likeable app

  • Easy on-ear controls

  • Extensive feature set

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 presents the overall best value in the "big 4" of popular Bluetooth wireless, active noise-canceling, over-ear headphones.

10. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

person wearing Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 noise cancelling headphones in a modern urban setting

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 headphones are a top contender if you're looking for the best sound and have the budget for it. Released in 2022, these headphones come with significant improvements over their first-generation version. The latest iteration, the PX7 S2e, features enhanced audio quality thanks to improved digital processing, which likely involves an upgraded chip.

Price

Retailer

Price

Amazon

$399

Crutchfield

$399

B&H Photo-Video

$399

Design and Comfort

These headphones are not just about sound; they also look stunning. The design is sleek and modern, making them a stylish choice for any audiophile.

Audio Quality

The PX7 S2e delivers superior resolution, detail, and timing, making them one of the best options for those who prioritize audio quality. The improved digital processing ensures that you get the most accurate sound possible.

Noise Cancellation

While the ANC isn't perfect, it is still quite effective, making these headphones a great choice for noisy environments.

If you're looking for the best sound and have the budget for it, you can go for options like the Focal Bathys, Bowers & Wilkins PX8, and Beyerdynamic Xelento.

Reasons to Avoid

  • On the expensive side

  • ANC isn't quite perfect

11. Jabra Elite 85h

Jabra Elite 85h noise cancelling headphones in a modern tech setting

The Jabra Elite 85h is a top contender in the world of noise-cancelling headphones. With its impressive battery life, you can enjoy up to 36 hours of playback with ANC on, making it one of the best headsets for working from home in 2024. The headphones also feature advanced Bluetooth technology, ensuring a seamless and stable connection.

Battery Life

Offering up to 36 hours of battery life with ANC on, the Jabra Elite 85h ensures you won't be left hanging during long work sessions or travel. Plus, a quick 15-minute charge gives you up to 5 hours of playback.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Jabra Elite 85h is exceptional, with powerful bass and clear mids and highs. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls, these headphones deliver a premium audio experience.

Comfort and Design

Designed for all-day wear, the Jabra Elite 85h features plush ear cushions and a lightweight build. The headphones are also water-resistant, making them a durable choice for any environment.

Connectivity

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, the Jabra Elite 85h offers a reliable and fast connection. The headphones also support multipoint Bluetooth pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously.

Additional Features

  • SmartSound Technology: Automatically adapts the audio based on your surroundings.

  • Voice Assistant Integration: Compatible with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.

  • On-Ear Detection: Pauses playback when you remove the headphones.

If you're looking for a versatile and reliable pair of headphones, the Jabra Elite 85h is a fantastic choice. With its long battery life, excellent sound quality, and advanced features, it's hard to go wrong with these headphones.

12. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95

luxury noise cancelling headphones in a modern, stylish setting

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones are the epitome of luxury and performance. These over-ear headphones are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort, making them a top choice for audiophiles. With their sleek design and premium materials, they not only sound great but also look stunning.

Key Features

  • Active Noise Cancellation: The H95 offers class-leading active noise cancellation, ensuring you can enjoy your music without any distractions.

  • Crisp Audio: Experience crisp audio with rich bass that brings your music to life.

  • Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 38 hours of playtime with noise cancellation on, perfect for long trips.

  • Comfortable Fit: The ear cups are made from soft lambskin leather, providing a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional sound quality

  • Premium build and materials

  • Long battery life

  • Comfortable for long periods

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Some bloat in the companion app

Customer Reviews

Many users have praised the Beoplay H95 for their nice & very premium feel. One customer mentioned, "My pair of Beoplay H95 arrived this past weekend, and I couldn't be happier with the purchase."

13. Shure AONIC 50

person wearing Shure AONIC 50 noise cancelling headphones in a modern urban setting

The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones are a significant upgrade from their predecessors. The noise canceling is much improved, making them a top contender in the noise-canceling headphones market. With a battery life of around 45 hours and a quick-charge feature, these headphones are built for long listening sessions.

Design and Comfort

The AONIC 50 Gen 2s are pretty heavy at 334 grams, but they're built sturdily and are also comfortable to wear, with nicely padded ear cups. The black-on-black design looks very smart indeed.

Sound Quality

They feature excellent sound quality with very good clarity and well-defined bass. Shure calls them "studio headphones," so the sound profile is fairly neutral. However, you can add more bass in the EQ settings in Shure's companion app for iOS and Android.

Additional Features

  • Improved noise canceling

  • 45-hour battery life

  • Quick-charge feature

  • Companion app for iOS and Android

Those upgrades make the AONIC 50 Gen 2 one of the best new noise-canceling headphones.

Price

The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 is priced at around $314, making it a premium option but well worth the investment for audiophiles.

14. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 in a modern tech environment

The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are a fantastic choice for those who need a versatile pair of headphones for both work and play. With a very comfortable fit and excellent sound quality, these headphones are perfect for long hours of use. They also feature Dolby Spatial Sound with head tracking, which enhances the audio experience significantly.

Pros

  • Very comfortable fit

  • Excellent sound

  • Dolby Spatial Sound with head tracking

  • Fully waterproof

Cons

  • Voice-calling performance could be slightly better

  • Noise canceling isn't that strong

  • Semi-open design allows some sound to leak in

Battery Life

Rated up to 8 hours

Noise Canceling

Yes

Multipoint

Yes

Headphone Type

In Ear

Resistance Rating

IPX57

Price

$$

If you're looking for the best headsets and headphones for working from home in 2024, the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 should definitely be on your list.

15. AKG N700NC M2

modern noise cancelling headphones in a sleek urban setting

The AKG N700NC M2 is a solid choice for those seeking quality noise-cancelling headphones without breaking the bank. These headphones offer a balanced sound profile, making them suitable for various music genres.

Design and Comfort

The AKG N700NC M2 features a sleek and modern design. They are lightweight and comfortable, making them ideal for long listening sessions. The ear cups are well-padded, providing a snug fit that helps in effective noise cancellation.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the AKG N700NC M2 does not disappoint. The headphones deliver clear and detailed audio, with a good balance between bass, mids, and highs. This makes them versatile for different types of music, from classical to pop.

Battery Life

Battery life is another strong point for the AKG N700NC M2. You can expect up to 23 hours of playback with noise cancellation turned on, which is quite impressive for its price range.

Connectivity

The AKG N700NC M2 offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth and a 3.5mm audio jack. This makes it easy to switch between wireless and wired modes, depending on your preference.

Additional Features

These headphones come with a range of additional features, such as ambient aware mode and a built-in microphone for hands-free calls. The controls are intuitive and easy to use, adding to the overall user experience.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative to high-end models like the Sony WH-1000XM4, the AKG N700NC M2 is a great option.

Comparison with Competitors

In comparison to other models in the market, the AKG N700NC M2 holds its own. While it may not offer the same level of comfort or build quality as the Sony WH-1000XM4, it provides excellent value for money.

Feature

AKG N700NC M2

Sony WH-1000XM4

Battery Life

23 hours

30 hours

Weight

261g

254g

Noise Cancellation

Good

Excellent

Price

$$

$$$$

Overall, the AKG N700NC M2 is a commendable choice for anyone looking to enjoy quality sound and effective noise cancellation without spending a fortune.

16. JBL Tour One M2

modern noise cancelling headphones in a stylish setting

The JBL Tour One M2 is a solid choice for those seeking a balance between performance and price. While it may not have made the top of our list, it still offers some impressive features that are worth noting.

Key Features

Performance

The JBL Tour One M2 comes equipped with true adaptive noise cancelling technology that uses 4 noise sensing mics to adjust to your surroundings, minimizing distractions when you need to focus. The sound quality is clear and punchy, making it a great option for both music and calls.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the JBL Tour One M2 is its long battery life. You can expect up to 50 hours of playback with ANC off and around 30 hours with ANC on, which is quite impressive for its price range.

Comfort and Design

Comfort is another area where the JBL Tour One M2 excels. The memory foam ear pads provide a snug fit, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The design is sleek and modern, adding to its overall appeal.

Connectivity

The multipoint pairing feature is surprisingly functional, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. This is particularly useful for those who need to switch between their phone and laptop frequently.

While the JBL Tour One M2 may not have the best active noise cancellation on the market, its combination of features and price make it a compelling option for many users.

17. Marshall Monitor II ANC

person wearing Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones in a modern urban setting

Design and Comfort

The Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones are a blend of excellent sound and ANC. They feature a classic, stylish design that is both classy and smooth. The ear cups are well-padded, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions. Plus, the foldable design makes them easy to stow away in your bag.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, these headphones do not disappoint. The audio is rich and well-balanced, making them perfect for any genre of music. The ANC technology is tested in both indoor and outdoor environments, ensuring that you get the best sound-blocking experience whether you're on a plane or in a busy city park.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Marshall Monitor II ANC is its impressive battery life. You can enjoy up to 30 hours of playback with ANC activated, and even more without it. This makes them ideal for long trips or extended listening sessions.

Additional Features

  • Transparency Mode: Allows you to hear your surroundings without taking off the headphones.

  • USB-C Charging: Convenient and fast charging, so you spend less time plugged in.

  • Foldable Design: Easy to carry around, making them perfect for travel.

On 27 Feb 2024, a review stated: "I like the look and the feel, the sound is great, I did not even know they were also Bluetooth. Love the pouch..."

Price and Availability

The Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones are priced at around $300. They are available for purchase on various online platforms, including Amazon and Best Buy.

Feature

Details

Battery Life

Up to 30 hours with ANC

Charging Port

USB-C

Additional Modes

Transparency Mode

Price

Around $300

Availability

Amazon, Best Buy

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a pair of headphones that offer a blend of excellent sound and ANC, the Marshall Monitor II ANC is a great choice. With their stylish design, impressive battery life, and additional features, they are well worth the investment.

18. Plantronics BackBeat Go 810

person wearing Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 noise cancelling headphones in a modern urban setting

The Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 is a solid choice for those seeking quality noise-cancelling headphones without breaking the bank. With excellent battery life and good sound quality, these headphones are perfect for long commutes or extended listening sessions.

Pros

  • Great battery life

  • Good sound quality

  • Effective noise cancellation

Cons

  • No EQ settings

  • Lacks spatial audio with head tracking

Specs

Feature

Description

Type

Over-ear wireless headphones

Connection Type

Bluetooth

Noise Canceling

Yes (ANC)

Battery Life

Up to 30 hours

Water-Resistant

No

If you're looking for the best headset for conference calls of 2024, the Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 offers a compelling mix of features and affordability.

19. Philips Fidelio L3

Philips Fidelio L3 noise cancelling headphones in a modern studio setting

The Philips Fidelio L3 headphones are a top contender in the noise-cancelling market. These headphones are not just about style; they deliver exceptional sound quality that will make you rethink your audio experience. With a price tag of $290.10, they offer great value for money compared to other high-end models like the Bose QuietComfort 45 and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2.

Key Features

  • Active Noise Cancelling: Effectively blocks out ambient noise, making them perfect for travel or noisy environments.

  • Battery Life: Up to 35 hours of playtime, ensuring you stay connected longer.

  • Comfort: Designed for long listening sessions with plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband.

Performance

The sound quality of the Philips Fidelio L3 is nothing short of impressive. The headphones deliver a balanced sound profile with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. Whether you're listening to classical music or heavy metal, these headphones will not disappoint.

Comparison

Feature

Philips Fidelio L3

Bose QuietComfort 45

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

Price

$290.10

$329

$299.99

Battery Life

35 hours

24 hours

30 hours

Weight

350g

240g

310g

If you're looking for a pair of headphones that offer excellent noise cancellation and superb sound quality, the Philips Fidelio L3 should be at the top of your list.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Philips Fidelio L3 headphones are a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for high-quality, noise-cancelling headphones. They offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and price, making them a worthy competitor to models from brands like Dell, Lenovo, and LG.

20. Technics EAH-A800

modern noise cancelling headphones in a sleek, stylish setting

The Technics EAH-A800 headphones bring a bit of an old-school vibe, thanks to the resurrected Technics brand by Panasonic. Their design is somewhat of a throwback, but they are incredibly comfortable and can both fold up and fold flat for easy portability. They feature a big, energetic sound with powerful bass and good detail, although they do take a day or two to break in.

Design and Comfort

The design of the Technics EAH-A800 is a nod to the past, but don't let that fool you. These headphones are built for comfort and convenience. They fold up and fold flat, making them perfect for travel.

Sound Quality

Once broken in, the Technics EAH-A800 deliver a big, energetic sound. The powerful bass and good detail make them a great choice for music lovers.

Battery Life

The battery life is solid, ensuring you can enjoy your music for extended periods without needing to recharge.

If you're looking for headphones that combine a retro design with modern features, the Technics EAH-A800 are a great choice.

Active Noise Cancellation

While we haven't put them through the full review analysis, the ANC is impressive and they're perfect for long flights.

21. Focal Bathys

modern noise cancelling headphones in a stylish setting

As a debut pair of wireless headphones, Focal hit the nail on the head with the Bathys. The French audio specialist has been known in the market to make some of the best over-ear headphones out there and the Bathys embody a lot of its expertise and experience but in a more versatile way with its wireless capabilities.

The combination of Focal’s M-dome speaker drivers and support for Hi-Res Audio ensures the Bathys sound spectacular. Recordings were deeply layered during our listening sessions, giving instruments plenty of room to breathe, and the onboard DAC is awesome for uncompressed 24-bit sound when connected to lossless sources such as Apple Music and Tidal. Fidelity is increased and there’s a greater degree of tightness in the delivery.

Although not the strongest noise canceling out there, the Focal Bathys offer ingenious versatility: they're a superb, high-performance headphone that's perfectly suited to critical audiophile listening at home, while also practical and conveniently wireless to enable owners to enjoy them on the go. The price may initially seem high, but when you weigh up flagship features like Focal’s dynamic drivers, integrated DAC with full hi-res audio support, and top-tier audio performance, $699 feels like something.

Over three years in development, the Bathys cost $699 and feature not only wireless connectivity but a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for USB-wired listening with any computer, smartphone or tablet with USB-C. They are easily one of the best-sounding wireless headphones.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Our top picks for the best noise-cancelling headphones of 2024. Whether you're looking to drown out the hustle and bustle of daily life, get some peace and quiet on your next flight, or simply enjoy your favorite tunes without any interruptions, there's something on this list for everyone. From budget-friendly options to premium picks, we've covered all the bases to help you find the perfect pair. Happy listening!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are noise-cancelling headphones?

Noise-cancelling headphones use active noise control to reduce unwanted ambient sounds. This allows you to listen to music or podcasts without distractions from the surrounding environment.

How do noise-cancelling headphones work?

Noise-cancelling headphones have built-in microphones that pick up external sounds. The headphones then generate sound waves that are the exact opposite (phase inversion) to cancel out the noise.

Are noise-cancelling headphones safe to use?

Yes, noise-cancelling headphones are generally safe to use. They can actually be beneficial as they reduce the need to increase volume levels to drown out background noise, potentially protecting your hearing.

Do noise-cancelling headphones affect sound quality?

High-quality noise-cancelling headphones are designed to maintain excellent sound quality. However, some lower-end models might slightly affect the audio experience.

Can I use noise-cancelling headphones without music?

Yes, many noise-cancelling headphones can be used without playing music. They will still cancel out ambient noise, which can be useful in noisy environments like airplanes or offices.

How long does the battery last on noise-cancelling headphones?

Battery life varies by model, but most modern noise-cancelling headphones offer between 20 to 40 hours of playback with noise-cancelling turned on. Always check the specifications for the exact battery life.