The Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Every Budget in 2025: Top Picks for Every Listener
The Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Every Budget in 2025: Top Picks for Every Listener
If you’re tired of being surrounded by constant noise—whether it’s the hum of a crowded café, the buzz of city traffic, or the drone of an airplane engine—noise cancelling headphones can be a game-changer. They allow you to immerse yourself in your music, podcasts, or calls, all while blocking out unwanted sounds. The best part? There’s a pair for every budget in 2025. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option to take the edge off your commute or a premium set that offers superior sound and comfort, this guide will help you find the perfect noise-cancelling headphones.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Sony WH-CH710N
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Sony WH-1000XM5
Table of Contents
What Makes the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones?
When shopping for the best noise cancelling headphones, there are several key factors to consider. Understanding these features will help you make a more informed decision.
Key Features to Look For
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): This is the core technology that allows headphones to reduce or eliminate unwanted noise. ANC uses microphones to pick up external sounds and produces sound waves that cancel them out.
- Sound Quality: It’s essential that your headphones deliver high-quality audio, so you can enjoy your music or podcasts without distractions.
- Comfort and Fit: You’ll likely be wearing these headphones for extended periods, so comfort is crucial. Look for adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and a lightweight design.
- Battery Life: For wireless headphones, a longer battery life is always a plus. Some models offer up to 40 hours of listening time on a single charge.
- Connectivity: Many headphones now offer Bluetooth capabilities, which provide more freedom and convenience, especially when on the go.
Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones (Under $100)
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for subpar sound or weak noise cancellation. The following budget-friendly models offer impressive features without breaking the bank.
Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Models
- Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 offers incredible value for money. Despite its low price point, it features hybrid ANC technology, which effectively reduces noise in environments like buses, airplanes, or offices. With a 40-hour battery life and comfortable, memory foam ear cups, it’s a solid choice for anyone on a budget. - TaoTronics TT-BH060
Another excellent budget option is the TaoTronics TT-BH060. These headphones offer good ANC performance, decent sound quality, and an affordable price tag. They come with a 30-hour battery life and are designed with comfortable over-ear cups that fit securely.
Pros and Cons
- Anker Soundcore Life Q20:
- Pros: Affordable, effective ANC, long battery life.
- Cons: ANC not as effective for very loud environments.
- TaoTronics TT-BH060:
- Pros: Excellent value, comfortable fit, decent sound quality.
- Cons: ANC performance isn’t as strong as higher-end models.
Comparison Table: Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Brand | Model | Price | ANC Performance | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore | Life Q20 | $79.99 | Good | 40 hours |
| TaoTronics | TT-BH060 | $59.99 | Fair | 30 hours |
Best Mid-Range Noise Cancelling Headphones ($100–$250)
When you step up to this price range, you get a noticeable improvement in sound quality, comfort, and ANC performance. The following options strike the perfect balance of price and features.
Top Picks for Mid-Range Models
- Sony WH-CH710N
The Sony WH-CH710N strikes an excellent balance of affordability and performance. With effective ANC, a 35-hour battery life, and Sony’s signature sound quality, these headphones are a fantastic option for those who want great sound without spending over $200. - Bose QuietComfort 35 II
A familiar name in the world of noise-cancelling headphones, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II offers excellent ANC, comfort, and sound quality. The Bose app also allows you to customize noise cancellation and audio settings. With up to 20 hours of battery life, this model is a go-to for those who want top-tier features at a mid-range price.
Pros and Cons
- Sony WH-CH710N:
- Pros: Great ANC for the price, comfortable, excellent sound.
- Cons: Slightly lower build quality compared to more expensive models.
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II:
- Pros: Superior ANC, balanced sound, premium comfort.
- Cons: Higher price for the features compared to some alternatives.
Comparison Table: Best Mid-Range Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Brand | Model | Price | ANC Performance | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony | WH-CH710N | $179.99 | Excellent | 35 hours |
| Bose | QuietComfort 35 II | $229.99 | Excellent | 20 hours |
Best Premium Noise Cancelling Headphones (Over $250)
For those who demand the best of the best, premium noise-cancelling headphones offer unparalleled sound quality, comfort, and ANC performance. These headphones are ideal for long-term travelers or audio enthusiasts who want every detail in their audio experience.
Top Picks for Premium Models
- Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is widely regarded as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones available. These headphones offer industry-leading ANC, a crystal-clear sound, and an ultra-comfortable design. They also feature a 30-hour battery life, touch controls, and a foldable design for portability. - Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are perfect for anyone who needs adaptive ANC and superior sound quality. These headphones have a 20-hour battery life, an intuitive touch interface, and impressive microphone performance for calls.
Pros and Cons
- Sony WH-1000XM5:
- Pros: Exceptional ANC, best-in-class sound quality, long battery life.
- Cons: Expensive, might be overkill for casual listeners.
- Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700:
- Pros: Adaptive ANC, great for calls, luxurious comfort.
- Cons: Expensive, ANC isn’t as strong as Sony’s in some cases.
Comparison Table: Best Premium Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Brand | Model | Price | ANC Performance | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony | WH-1000XM5 | $348.00 | Industry-leading | 30 hours |
| Bose | Noise Cancelling 700 | $379.00 | Excellent | 20 hours |
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Noise Cancelling Headphones
When selecting noise-cancelling headphones, it’s important to assess these factors to ensure you’re choosing the right pair for your needs:
- Comfort: Ensure the headphones are comfortable for long periods of use. Look for adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups.
- Sound Quality: Choose headphones with clear, balanced sound for an enhanced listening experience.
- Battery Life: If you’re traveling or working long hours, battery life is crucial. Opt for headphones that last at least 20-30 hours on a single charge.
- Connectivity: Wireless connectivity is a must for most modern users, offering more freedom without the hassle of tangled cords.
FAQ Section
What are the best noise cancelling headphones for travelers in 2025?
For frequent travelers, the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are top choices due to their industry-leading ANC, long battery life, and comfort.
Can I find good noise cancelling headphones for under $100?
Yes, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 and TaoTronics TT-BH060 are excellent options that provide effective noise cancellation and solid performance at an affordable price.
