Whether you’re navigating a noisy commute, seeking focus in a bustling office, trying to unwind during air travel or simply blissing out to your favorite tunes, the right pair of noise-canceling headphones can transform your audio experience. These sophisticated devices do more than just play music — they create a mobile personal sanctuary.
Active noise cancellation (ANC) technology has evolved dramatically in recent years, with options ranging from premium over-ear headphones to compact wireless earbuds. The best models excel not just at blocking out unwanted noise, but also deliver exceptional sound quality, comfortable fit and long battery life.
Our comprehensive guide discusses key factors like a model’s noise-reduction capabilities, audio performance, comfort during extended wear and additional features that enhance the user experience. Find help navigating the options to find your perfect audio companion below.
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Best noise-canceling headphones
Best noise-canceling headphones overall: Sony WH-1000XM5/XM6
Photo: Sony
Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM5 headphones, and the recent XM6 update, exemplify premium audio engineering. They particularly excel at neutralizing high-frequency noise with their advanced noise-cancellation system. The refined build quality and spacious soundstage deliver very high-quality audio with an immersive listening experience. They’re not the best at every single thing noise-canceling headphones can do, but they’re the best when you add up their fine qualities (particularly top-notch ANC and amazing sound quality).
While I chose XM5 for the top slot, they face stiff competition in specific areas. AirPods Max work more seamlessly in the Apple ecosystem. Bose QuietComfort Ultra edges them out in noise-cancellation performance and comfort (best for long flights). Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones offer longer battery life. And XM5’s predecessor, XM4, preferred by some users, provides similar performance at a more accessible price point (about $250). Previous versions also included a folding mechanism that the XM5 lacks.
Nevertheless, for Sony enthusiasts and those seeking a super-refined balance of premium features — really the ultimate all-arounder –WH-1000XM5 remains an excellent choice. That said, some people think the previous WH-1000XM4 cans edge out the newer ones for low-end noise cancellation and comfort.
Outstanding all-around alternatives:
Sony's flagship over-ear Bluetooth headphones feature class-leading noise cancellation and the comfort of soft synthetic leather earcups. They include the powerful Processor V1, four beamforming microphones and up to 30-hour battery life. Choice of four colors.
- Class-leading noise cancellation
- High-quality audio with LDAC
- Excellent comfort
- Fairly expensive at full price
- Not ideal for Apple integration
Best noise-canceling earbuds overall: Jabra Elite 8 Active 2
Photo: Jabra
For quite a while, Jabra Elite 7 Pro earbuds were my favorites, and the tough-yet-sophisticated Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 True Wireless earbuds are even better. For me, the combination of great sound, strong ANC, super-comfortable fit and useful app can’t be beat.
They set a new standard for noise-canceling performance. These earbuds excel at blocking out the full spectrum of environmental noise. Their 8-hour battery life with ANC enabled extends to 32 hours with the charging case. And the case doubles as a Bluetooth LE transmitter for easy connection to in-flight entertainment systems.
Built for durability and comfort, these earbuds feature a secure, sports-oriented design with a special coating that maintains grip during intense workouts. Their robust IP68 rating ensures protection against both water immersion and dust, making them ideal for everything from rainy commutes to dusty trail runs. The sound signature delivers a well-balanced profile with satisfying bass. The comprehensive companion app includes a full graphic equalizer and presets, allowing you to fine-tune the audio to your exact preferences.
Outstanding all-around alternatives:
Jabra's best noise-canceling earbuds for sports are some of the best ANC earbuds, period. You get top-notch audio quality, strong ANC, long battery life and more.
- Highly durable
- Great fit: Stays put during activities
- Excellent audio and strong ANC
- ANC not best-in-class
Best headphones for noise canceling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Photo: Bose
There’s a reason Bose headphones show up all over the place on long flights and in noisy offices. Setting the gold standard for noise-canceling headphones, Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers exceptional performance where it matters most. Its best-in-class active noise cancellation can be finely tuned on a zero-to-10 scale, allowing precise control over your listening environment. And the comfort level is stellar, making these tops for long commutes.
The thoughtfully designed, lightweight frame remains comfortable during extended wear, while the intuitive combination of touch and physical controls ensures effortless operation even without looking. Perfect for frequent travelers, these headphones maintain ANC functionality in wired mode for in-flight entertainment systems and fold flat for convenient storage in the included case.
Sound quality, while excellent, may not thrill audiophiles who find it not quite as crisp as some premium music-focused alternatives. And the microphone performance can be inconsistent in crowded environments. Battery life, at 24 hours, is nothing to brag about these days. But QuietComfort Ultra’s superior noise cancellation (and exceptional comfort) make it the top choice for ANC.
Bose's flagship wireless headphones feature best-in-class noise cancellation, Bose's version of spatial audio, up to 24 hours of battery life and more.
- Outstanding noise cancellation
- Spatial audio
- Exceptional comfort
- Very good sound quality, but not best
Best earbuds for noise canceling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Photo: Bose
For pure noise-canceling chops, flagship Bose products win the category for both headphones and earbuds. They have their fans in general, of course, but for ANC they take the cake, and have for a while. When these earbuds came out, they included pretty minor upgrades over the previous generation, from 2022.
This updated version is even more lauded for fantastic ANC as well as excellent sound quality and comfort. They also added a page from AirPods Pro 2’s Adaptive Audio book, adding a new feature called ActiveSense. It adjusts the ANC level according the noise level around you. Other improvements came in the form of an Immersive Audio feature and clearer sound overall.
Bose's best noise cancelling Bluetooth earbuds may be the best available for ANC. They also feature spatial audio for immersive listening.
- Very strong ANC
- Spatial audio
- Comfortable fit
- Some users prefer other top buds for sound quality
Best noise-canceling headphones for Apple users: AirPods Max
Photo: Ian Fuchs/Cult of Mac
Apple’s premium AirPods Max deliver a uniquely compelling experience for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. Their standout feature is industry-leading Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking, creating an uncannily immersive soundstage that convincingly places Dolby Atmos movie audio in the space around you rather than between your ears. The expansive, natural sound quality excels with both spatial and standard audio, offering meticulously detailed layering and effortless clarity.
Strong noise cancellation combines with seamless Apple-specific features like automatic device switching, Find My support, audio sharing with other AirPods, and personalized sound profiles. The recently added USB-C charging and new color options (Midnight, Purple, Orange, Starlight, and Blue) refresh the original design, which maintains its distinctive premium look and build quality.
While the premium price point, lack of Hi-Res Audio support, and limited Android compatibility make them a tough sell or even a no-go for Android users, AirPods Max remain the optimal choice for Apple ecosystem integration and Spatial Audio performance. And if you’re looking to spend less but get Apple-ecosystem compatibility, or if you’re an Android user, I highly recommend Beats Studio Pro for their outstanding sound, light weight and great mix of features (especially when they’re on sale for less than $200).
Apple's AirPods Max are among the best-sounding consumer headphones you can buy. They offer pro-level active noise cancellation and advanced features like Adaptive EQ and Personalized Spatial Audio. Treat your ears!
- Superb sound
- Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation
- Long battery life (and now USB-C)
- Much-hated Smart Case
- On the heavy side
Best noise-canceling earbuds for Apple users: AirPods Pro (second generation)
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
AirPods Pro 2 stand as the premier choice for Apple users seeking top-tier noise-canceling earbuds. Their ANC system excels at blocking out real-world distractions, particularly office chatter and street noise. Deep integration with the Apple ecosystem brings super-easy setup and exclusive features like Spatial Audio for immersive listening and the H2 chip for effortless pairing across Apple devices.
AirPods Pro deliver a warm, natural sound signature that particularly shines with acoustic genres like folk and jazz, enhanced by adaptive EQ technology. While iOS users get access to sound customization features, the six-hour battery life with ANC (extending to 30 hours with the charging case) serves all users well. The comfortable design may require occasional readjustment during longer sessions, but remains suitable for daily use.
For those preferring an open-ear design, AirPods 4 with ANC offer a compelling alternative. While they maintain the seamless Apple ecosystem integration, their noise cancellation performs slightly less effectively in the higher frequencies compared to the Pro model.
AirPods Pro 2 are a fantastic pair of earbuds for your iPhone, delivering terrific sound quality, excellent ANC, and advanced features like Personalized Spatial Audio.
- Fab sound quality
- Excellent ANC
- Hearing Health features let them double as clinical-grade hearing aids and active hearing protection
- USB-C wireless charging case
- Hard to come up with one
Best budget noise-canceling headphones: Soundcore Space One
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
An impressively capable budget option, Soundcore Space One delivers remarkable value with effective, adjustable ANC and enjoyable sound quality that can be customized through the companion app. I gave them a very positive review a while back. And if you want feature upgrades all around and don’t mind spending another $80 or so, go for Soundcore Space One Pro.
The lightweight, comfortable design includes complete onboard controls and convenient features like dual-device connectivity and automatic hear-through mode when speaking. With exceptional battery life of 40 hours (ANC on) or 55 hours (ANC off), plus quick-charging that provides four hours of use from just five minutes of charging, these headphones are ideal for extended use.
While call quality is merely adequate with somewhat compressed voice transmission, the included wired option (though ANC requires battery power) makes these versatile enough for travel. Despite some limitations compared to premium models, Space One offers an unbeatable combination of features and performance at this price point
Anker subsidiary Soundcore brings the value with its Space One cans. Recent improvements bring double the voice reduction, 40-hour play time with ANC enabled, app control, LDAC Hi-Res Wireless Audio, comfortable fit, clear calls and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
- LDAC HI-Res Wireless Audio
- Plays for 40 hours with ANC enabled
- Comfortable fit
- Space One Pro and other cans bring higher specs
Best budget noise-canceling earbuds: EarFun Air Pro 4
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
EarFun launched its flagship Air Pro 4 active noise-canceling (ANC) wireless earbuds in August 2024, calling them “the world’s first Auracast-supported earbuds under $100.” And the new buds run true to form for EarFun. They’re great-sounding, well-equipped earbuds that present an excellent value at a list price of $90. But you can often get them for less.
EarFun Air Pro 4 ANC wireless earbuds aren’t nearly as expensive as AirPods Pro 2, but for many people, they’d be just as good. They sound almost the same, and most likely better for Android users. So they’re a great buy for anyone who wants really good ANC wireless earbuds with a solid list of premium features for a perfectly reasonable price.
The buds use the Qualcomm QCC3091 chip with aptX adaptive audio for high-quality wireless sound. This works best with an Android device using a corresponding chipset. Also new in this model is in-ear detection, so the buds will pause audio when you remove one or both.
EarFun's flagship earbuds feature hybrid adaptive ANC, Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound, six mics, clear calls, 52-hour play time, in-ear detection and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity with LDAC Hi-Res Audio and aptX Lossless audio codecs.
- Latest Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
- LDAC Hi-Res Audio and aptX Lossless audio
- Up to 52-hour battery life
- At this price, not many
Best sounding premium noise-canceling headphones: Dali IO-8
Photo: Dali
Dali IO-8 headphones deliver audiophile-grade sound quality while offering effective noise cancellation. These premium headphones create a vast, detailed soundstage that reveals nuanced elements in your music, and their high price reflects that. While their noise cancellation may not quite match industry leaders like Bose, it’s more than capable of providing an immersive listening experience.
The distinctive circular cup design exudes luxury, complemented by memory foam-padded earcups that ensure comfort during extended listening sessions. The premium build relies on genuine leather, which may not appeal to all users seeking vegan-friendly alternatives. Battery life impresses at 35 hours, and the headphones can function passively — with excellent sound quality — through a wired connection.
Audio purists might appreciate the straightforward approach to sound customization, with just two EQ settings and no companion app. So those seeking extensive customization options may want to look elsewhere. Dali IO-8 headphones justify their cost through exceptional audio performance, build quality and refined aesthetics that match their high-end positioning.
Known for excellent speakers, Dali now has fantastic over-ear ANC headphones. They come equipped with patented SMC driver technology, Bluetooth AptX codec and 35 hours of battery life.
- Top-notch audio
- Strong ANC
- 35 hours battery life
- Expensive
- Limited EQ customization
- No companion app
Best sounding premium noise-canceling earbuds: Bowers & Wilkins Pi8
Photo: Bowers & Wilkins
The Dali cans above just edged out the amazing Bowers & Wilkins PX8 headphones for beautiful sound, but B&W’s Pi8 take the prize for earbuds. They’re definitely in the big leagues for remarkably clear and detailed sound across the sonic spectrum.
A big step up from Pi7 and Pi7 S2 iterations, Pi8 benefit not only from lusher sound, but also from a nice redesign boosting the buds’ refined look and feel. ANC overall and noise dampening on calls got better, though it’s not quite competitive with buds from Bose or Apple in that department. And another great upgrade: The wireless charging case doubles as a Bluetooth transceiver, so it can connect to non-Bluetooth devices.
Bowers & Wilkins top Bluetooth earbuds pack a Qualcomm chipset and aptX Lossless audio, robust ANC with three built-in mics and 15-minute quick charging.
- Outstanding audio quality
- aptX Lossless audio
- Good ANC
- Pricier than next-best B&W buds
Best noise-canceling headphones for battery life: Cambridge Audio Melomania P100
Photo: Cambridge Audio
Cambridge Audio set out to dominate at least one category, and that’s battery life. For those who prioritize endurance, Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 sets an impressive benchmark with an extraordinary 100 hours of battery life without ANC and 60 hours with it. Beyond their exceptional stamina, these headphones deliver a lively, detailed sound signature that particularly shines with high-quality audio files while remaining versatile enough to handle any source material gracefully.
The seven-band EQ allows precise sound customization, and while the active noise cancellation is certainly effective, it doesn’t quite match the elite performance of some competitors in this list. The premium build features comfortable memory foam earcups wrapped in vegan leather and a well-padded headband, resulting in a comfortable 330g package. Though the non-folding design means their case demands more bag space, the Melomania P100’s combination of superior battery life and impressive sound quality makes them an excellent choice for those who value longevity without compromising on performance.
Released in July 2024, Melomania P100 headphones bring hi-fi sound, ANC, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity supporting multiple codecs and an astonishing 100 hours of playback with ANC off (60 hours with it on). Features user-replaceable earcups and battery, gaming mode and carrying case.
- 100-hour play time with ANC off, 60 hours with it on
- User-replaceable ear cups and battery
- Great sound and solid ANC
- Qualcomm chipset not the most advanced
Best noise-canceling earbuds for battery life: JBL Live Beam 3
Photo: JBL
JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds achieve long battery life without compromising on noise cancellation performance (one of the greatest battery drainers). These buds deliver an impressive 10 hours of playback with ANC enabled (12 hours without), while the charging case adds three full charges for a very respectable total of up to 48 hours.
Adaptive ANC intelligently adjusts to your environment, offering seven distinct levels of noise reduction. Sound quality shines with support for LDAC high-resolution audio, delivering a dynamic, detailed sound signature that balances powerful bass with crisp clarity. The companion app offers six EQ presets and custom tuning options, while Auto Compensation technology optimizes audio based on your unique ear canal shape.
While the snug, secure fit works well for most users, the deep-canal design might not suit everyone. But a standout feature is the case’s built-in display screen, which offers convenient functionality like photo display and flashlight capabilities without compromising battery life. Combined with excellent call quality and premium build, these earbuds are perfect for users who prioritize extended battery life alongside strong noise cancellation and audio performance.
JBL's true wireless, noise-cancelling, closed-stick earbuds bring a long 48 hours of playback, wireless charging, six mics for clear calls, multi-point connection, and IP55 water and dust resistance.
- Long battery life
- Adaptive ANC
- Useful display
- In-ear-canal fit not for everyone
Best noise-canceling headphones for home theater and TV: Sonos Ace
Photo: Sonos
Sonos Ace headphones set a new standard for movie and TV watching with its perfectly balanced sound profile and innovative features. These premium headphones excel at delivering crystal-clear dialogue while maintaining powerful bass response, ensuring that every aspect of a film’s soundtrack remains distinct and impactful.
Their head-tracked spatial audio implementation creates a convincingly immersive surround sound experience, with precise positioning that makes movie audio feel genuinely three-dimensional. A standout feature is their unique ability to pair directly with Sonos soundbars (currently the Arc, with more compatibility coming), offering seamless switching between Bluetooth and soundbar connections at the touch of a button—though battery life drops from 30 to 10 hours in soundbar mode.
The premium build quality and comprehensive feature set includes Hi-Res Audio support over USB-C and aptX Adaptive for CD-quality wireless audio, though comfort may be an issue for glasses wearers. While the music performance and noise cancellation don’t quite match the Bose QuietComfort Ultra at this price point, the Ace’s superior movie audio performance and Sonos ecosystem integration make them the ideal choice for home theater enthusiasts.
Sonos' wireless over-ear headphones, a worthy competitor to Apple's AirPods Max, feature active noise cancellation and Spatial Audio.
- Great for home theater and TV use
- Excellent audio quality
- Solid ANC
- Somewhat expensive
- Works best with Sonos audio gear
Best noise-canceling earbuds for home theater and TV: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Photo: Bose
Our top earbuds for noise cancellation also get the nod for TV and home theater use — in part because of the stellar ANC. But it’s not just that. It’s also Bose’s version of spatial audio, which varies by selected mode and makes for truly immersive viewing. You also get multipoint pairing so you can easily switch between your Bluetooth-enabled TV and another device. For the best fit, the buds come with three sets of ear tips and three silicone bands that fit around the drivers to help the buds fit snugly in your ear.
Of course, there are situations where a different set of earbuds may be someone’s perfect choice. For example, AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4, which both pack Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, might be perfect if you have Apple TV 4K. And by the same token, a person with a Samsung smart TV might get the most out of Samsung buds, like the excellent Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.
Bose's best noise cancelling Bluetooth earbuds may be the best available for ANC. They also feature spatial audio for immersive listening.
- Very strong ANC
- Spatial audio
- Comfortable fit
- Some users prefer other top buds for sound quality
Best noise-canceling headphones for gaming: AceZone A-Spire
Photo: AceZone
If you need to block out the world and focus on your game, AceZone A-Spire stands out as a top noise-canceling gaming headset. Built on AceZone’s esports tournament expertise, this wired headset delivers exceptional ANC that’s specially tuned to block out voices and common household sounds. The ANC can be easily adjusted through a mobile app, letting you switch between total isolation and ambient awareness.
The audio quality shines through 40mm dynamic drivers that provide crisp, detailed sound, particularly in the higher frequencies. While it’s optimized for competitive shooters, the well-balanced sound profile works well across all games. Comfort isn’t compromised either — plush earpads, substantial earcups and a cushioned headband make it suitable for marathon gaming sessions.
While the cans include Bluetooth connectivity, this is primarily for app control and casual music listening rather than gaming, where the wired connection provides superior performance. The premium price point and basic microphone design are minor drawbacks, but the included sturdy travel case adds value. For gamers seeking serious noise isolation and competitive-grade audio quality, the A-Spire delivers a professional-level experience in a home gaming environment.
In addition to great sound, this true wireless hybrid ANC gaming headset enhances speech with a noise canceling microphone. Works with computers, PlayStation, Switch, Steam Deck, mobile and more.
- ANC tuned to block voices
- Microphone enhances speech
- Comfortable
- Compatible with major gaming systems
- Somewhat pricey
- Basic microphone design
Best noise-canceling earbuds for gaming: SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
Photo: SteelSeries
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds truly score among gaming-focused noise-canceling earbuds that can help keep gamers immersed in content. They combine premium audio quality with versatile gaming functionality. These earbuds deliver impressive sound from their compact drivers. At $159.99, they provide exceptional value compared to competitors like the popular Epos GTW 270 Hybrid and Sony Inzone Buds, while offering cross-platform compatibility — particularly the Xbox variant, which works seamlessly across all major gaming systems.
The Arctis Companion App enhances the experience with comprehensive EQ customization and presets that can be switched on the fly. Battery life excels, complemented by a wireless charging case. While the control buttons may require firm pressing, and some users might prefer third-party foam tips for optimal fit, these minor issues detract only a bit from the overall package.
These ANC gaming buds work with computers, PlayStation, Switch and mobile gaming systems. They feature quick-switching, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, 100+ game audio presets, 40-hour play time and Qi charging case.
- Good sound
- Great battery life
- Useful app
- Control buttons need hard presses
- Ear tips not ideal
Best noise-canceling headphones for gym and workouts: TrebLab Z7 Pro Wireless
Photo: TrebLab
I recommend earbuds like Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 over headphones for the gym — especially for heavy workouts — but some people have to have their cans. And those with IXP4 water-resistance ratings and above will do pretty well in sweaty or rain-soaked situations. A great choice would be TrebLab Z7 Pro headphones. They offer a combination of durability and performance.
These headphones stand out with their IPX4 water resistance rating against perspiration and even splashes. The bass-forward sound signature, with enhanced treble, delivers energetic audio that naturally complements workout playlists. But audio purists should note there’s no companion app for sound customization. Active noise cancellation effectively blocks out typical gym distractions like conversations and equipment noise, while the solid 37-hour battery life with ANC enabled means you won’t need frequent recharging between sessions.
Though the outer coating may show cosmetic wear over time, the robust construction withstands the physical demands of active use. For those who prefer over-ear headphones for their workouts, Z7 Pro offers the perfect blend of weather resistance, workout-ready sound and reliable noise cancellation.
These tough cans produce refined audio with aptX-HD. Memory foam ear cups offer comfort. Features include 45-hour play time, Bluetooth 5.0, fast charging and a microphone for calls. The foldable headphones come with a carrying case.
- Excellent durability
- Good ANC
- Bluetooth 5.0 is not the latest
- No companion app
Best noise-canceling earbuds for gym and workouts: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Photo: Apple/Beats
Powerbeats Pro 2 redefine workout-ready earbuds with a redesigned take on their signature ear hooks — now 50% smaller and more comfortable while maintaining rock-solid stability during even the most intense exercises. These premium sport earbuds pack impressive updates like Apple’s first heart rate monitor in audio gear (no Apple Watch required), ANC with Transparency mode and innovative features like Spatial Audio.
Apple users will appreciate the H2 chip’s seamless integration, offering iCloud device switching, Find My functionality, and hands-free Siri access. Android users aren’t left out, with a dedicated app providing one-touch pairing and customization options. The upgraded drivers and amplifiers enhance Beats’ signature sound with greater clarity, while the outstanding 10-hour battery life per charge keeps the music going through multiple workouts.
And for a cheaper alternative with ear wings, or fins, instead of hooks, Beats Fit Pro delivers many of the same features.
These Bluetooth earbuds feature a heart rate monitor, Apple's H2 chip, active noise canceling with transparency mode, IPX4 water resistance, up to 45-hour battery life (with wireless charging case) and Apple and Android compatibility.
- Monitor heart rate without Apple Watch
- Noise canceling with transparency mode
- Secure fit
- Works great with Apple and Android devices
- Smaller than originals (but still not small)
Best noise-canceling headphones for kids: Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet Plus
Photo: Puro Labs
PuroQuiet Plus kids cans make an ideal noise-canceling choice for young listeners, combining essential safety features with good sound and effective ANC. These headphones maintain a strict 85dB volume limit in Bluetooth mode while providing active noise cancellation that’s particularly effective against airplane noise, making them perfect for family travel without requiring unsafe volume levels to overcome ambient noise.
The durable, comfortable design includes intuitive controls that kids can easily master, and the versatile functionality allows both Bluetooth and wired connections (though wired mode can exceed recommended volume limits when ANC is active). Thoughtful features include the ability to link multiple pairs for shared listening and a built-in microphone for calls.
While the noise cancellation isn’t as powerful as adult-focused premium models, it’s specifically tuned for common situations children encounter, like noisy group settings. With excellent sound quality, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a one-year warranty, these headphones offer parents a safe, reliable option for young listeners who need noise cancellation.
Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet Plus ANC on-ear headphones for kids are lightweight and feature volume control for safe listening. They include great audio quality and a built-in mic for calls.
- Volume limiter for safe listening
- Good sound quality
- Mic for voice calls
- Fun colors
- Some kids may want more volume
Best on-ear noise-canceling headphones (smaller): JBL Live 670NC
Photo: JBL
For those who want noise cancellation in a smaller pair of headphones, your best pick might be JBL’s Live 670NC cans, a premium choice in the company’s lineup. They offer JBL Signature Sound and immersive JBL Spatial Sound through 40mm drivers, a size often found in full-sized, over-ear headphones.
With four noise-sensing mics, the headphones’ True Adaptive Noise Canceling easily cuts down on distractions. Or you can turn on Smart Ambient to hear your surroundings. And the compact cans come with Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity supporting high-quality LE audio. Audio Mode gives the best available sound while Video Mode ensures sound and visuals stay in sync. You also get auto-play and pause, where the audio pauses when you remove the cans and starts again when you put them back on.
For playtime, you get an impressive 65 hours of battery life (ANC off) and quick charging via USB-C cable, with a five-minute charge yielding four hours of playtime without ANC.
These compact, foldable cans are light but not lightweights in terms of sound quality and adaptive ANC (with Smart Ambient feature). Battery life last up to 65 hours and includes fast charging.
- Compact and lightweight
- Epic battery life
- Robust 40mm drivers
- JBL Spatial Sound
- Immersive listening won't match full-sized cans
How to choose the right noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
If you’re often distracted by noise, and it even interferes with your ability to enjoy your music, it’s time to invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones or earbuds. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?
Noise cancellation. The cornerstone of any great noise-canceling headphones is, of course, their ability to cancel noise. Look for models that offer adjustable levels of noise cancellation, including a transparency or ambient mode that lets in outside sound when you want.
Sound quality. Opt for headphones that deliver crisp highs, rich mids and deep bass. Also pay attention to the sound stage, or the perceived spacial quality of sound. Do you like it big and boomy or tight and focused? Your favorite tracks deserve to be heard in all their glory, whether you’re unwinding at home or powering through a workday.
Comfort. Headphones are your companions for long hauls. Ensure they have plush ear cups and an adjustable headband. Make sure earbuds fit comfortably and won’t easily fall out, with a snug seal of the ear canal for natural noise cancellation and good sound. Consider ear hooks or ear fins/wings for maximum stability for activities like exercising.
Long battery life. Nothing’s worse than your headphones dying mid-journey. Look for models offering 20+ hours of battery life to keep the music flowing throughout your day. Make sure to check for stated play-time with ANC on and off.
Multipoint connectivity. Seek out headphones with Bluetooth multipoint, allowing you to seamlessly switch between connected devices, like smartphones, laptops, tablets and smart TVs. You want to be able stay connected to at least two devices.
Benefits of noise-canceling headphones
Whether you’re a busy professional, a music aficionado, a student or an avid traveler, good noise-canceling headphones and earbuds can change your life, keeping noise and distraction at bay.
Benefits of noise-canceling headphones and earbuds:
- Provide a more immersive audio experience.
- Adaptive ANC adapts to your surroundings, helping ensure crystal-clear audio and voice calls.
- Transparency mode lets you tune into your environment when needed, without removing your headphones.
- Help you focus anywhere, no matter how noisy.
- Boost productivity by blocking out distracting conversations and ambient noise.
- Reduce stress by lowering the overall noise level in your environment
- Protects hearing by reducing the need to increase volume in noisy environments.
- Lowers stress levels by creating a more peaceful auditory landscape.
- Block out engine noise for a more restful journey.
- Improve in-flight entertainment with clearer audio at lower volumes.
Latest technology in noise-canceling headphones
Imagine stepping into a world where the chaos of your surroundings melts away at the touch of a button, leaving you enveloped in a cocoon of pristine sound. Welcome to 2025, where noise-canceling headphones continue to evolve beyond our wildest dreams. When shopping for new headphones, look for features described below.
AI-driven adaptive ANC. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all noise cancellation. In 2025, AI-driven adaptive technology reigns supreme. These smart headphones analyze your environment in real-time, creating a personalized bubble of tranquility.
Extended battery life. Needing a power outlet to keep your can going on a long flight is so 2023. The latest noise-canceling headphones boast battery life that seems impossible, now often more than 50 hours of playtime on a single charge.
Crystal-clear audio. The sound quality of 2025’s noise-canceling headphones will make you feel like you’re in the recording studio with your favorite artists. Advanced drivers and cutting-edge audio processing deliver:
- Wider soundstages
- Deeper, more accurate bass
- Crisp, detailed highs
- Perfectly balanced mids
Seamless connectivity. In 2025, most connectivity issues are in the rear-view mirror. The latest headphones feature:
- Multi-point Bluetooth: Connect to your phone, laptop and tablet simultaneously. Look for Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4, the latest.
- Advanced Wi-Fi capabilities: Stream high-resolution audio directly from the cloud.
- NFC pairing: Tap and go for instant connections.
Comfortable ergonomic designs. Wearing these headphones feels like floating on a cloud. Innovative materials and designs ensure that marathon listening sessions are a pleasure, not a pain:
- Memory foam ear cups that adapt to your unique ear shape.
- Lightweight, breathable materials that keep you cool.
- Adjustable headbands with smart pressure distribution.
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
