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10 Best Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds for 2026: Top Picks Under $100
In 2026, finding the best active noise cancelling earbuds is essential for anyone who values pristine sound quality and a distraction-free listening experience. Whether you are commuting, working in a noisy environment, or just seeking some peace at home, the right earbuds can make all the difference. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 products available on Amazon, providing in-depth reviews, features, pros, and cons for each.
1. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) stands out for its seamless integration with Apple devices and impressive noise cancelling capabilities. The second generation features adaptive transparency, allowing you to hear essential sounds without compromising sound quality.
−$50.00
- PIONEERING HEARING — AirPods Pro 2 unlock the world’s first all-in-one hearing health experience: a scientifically validated Hearing Test,* clinical-grade and active Hearing Protection.*
- INTELLIGENT NOISE CONTROL — Active Noise Cancellation removes up to 2x more background noise.* Transparency mode lets you hear the world around you, and Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for the best listening experience in any environment.* And when you’re speaking with someone nearby, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume of what’s playing.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — The Apple-designed H2 chip helps to create deeply immersive sound. The low-distortion, custom-built driver delivers crisp, clear high notes and full, rich bass in stunning definition. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions.*
- CUSTOMIZABLE FIT — Includes four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ear shapes and provide all-day comfort. The tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure AirPods Pro 2 in place.
- DUST, SWEAT, AND WATER RESISTANT — Both AirPods Pro and the MagSafe Charging Case are IP54 dust, sweat, and water resistant, so you can listen comfortably in more conditions.*
Best for
Apple ecosystem users seeking premium sound and noise cancellation.
Product Review
With spatial audio and a custom-fit silicone tip, these earbuds provide an immersive audio experience. The battery life reaches up to 6 hours on a single charge, and the charging case extends this to 30 hours total. Active Noise Cancellation technology effectively blocks unwanted ambient noise, while transparency mode allows you to tune into your surroundings when necessary.
Pros
- Excellent fit and comfort.
- High-quality sound with deep bass.
- Easy integration with Apple devices.
Cons
- Expensive compared to competitors.
- Limited customizability for Android users.
2. Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are often hailed as one of the best active noise-cancelling options on the market. These earbuds have a sleek design and deliver superior sound quality, setting new standards for wireless audio.
−$10.99
- Tune into exceptional sound quality with Sony’s Industry leading noise cancelling technology. Powered by the new Integrated Processor V1, a superior driver unit and an array of sound enhancing features, experience every word, note, and tune with incredible clarity, no matter your environment.
- Specially developed by Sony, our new Integrated Processor V1 delivers the industry’s highest level of noise cancelling without sacrificing battery life, while the newly designed 6mm driver offers crystal clear sound, rich bass and an enhanced noise cancelling wireless headphone experience, even at low frequencies.
- Experience high resolution audio wireless with Bluetooth 5.2 and the power of LDAC, a technology that transmits 3X more data than a conventional set of Bluetooth earbuds allowing you to enjoy sound as close as possible to that of a dedicated wired connection.
Best for
Audiophiles and users who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation.
Product Review
The WF-1000XM4 features Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, which enhances noise cancellation and improves audio performance. The battery life boasts an impressive 8 hours, with the case extending it to 32 hours in total. Additionally, the earbuds support LDAC for high-resolution audio streaming.
Pros
- Outstanding noise cancellation performance.
- Long battery life.
- Great sound quality with customizable EQ settings.
Cons
- Can be a bit bulky for smaller ears.
- Initial setup can be tricky for some users.
3. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
If you’re seeking comfort alongside exceptional sound, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II suggests itself as a top contender. Known for their excellent noise cancellation, these earbuds provide a premium listening experience.
- SOUND WITHOUT COMPROMISE: Seize the day your way and defy distractions using these wireless earbuds with world-renowned noise cancellation for a listening experience that makes the everyday sound epic
- POWERFUL, PROVEN AUDIO: Get into it while you get after it, these IPX4-rated wireless earphones feature remarkable sound quality for a satisfyingly rich listening experience that hits all the right notes and perfect for workouts or running
- SEIZE-THE-DAY STAYING POWER: These noise cancelling earbuds have wireless charging and let you listen for up to 8.5 hours* and a quick 20-minute charge in the wireless case extends the playback by up to 2 hours***. USB-C cable also included
- A FIT THAT WON’T QUIT: To help you achieve the perfect fit, a trio of eartip and stability band sizes are included to ensure your in ear headphones feel comfortable, snug, and secure for a personalized fit
- HANDS-FREE, HASSLE-FREE SWITCHING: Bluetooth multipoint lets you seamlessly connect the Bluetooth earbuds to multiple devices at once while Bluetooth 5.3 technology keeps you connected within up to 30 feet of your device
Best for
Users seeking superior comfort during long listening sessions.
Product Review
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II leverage advanced noise cancelling technology that effectively blocks out unwanted sound. They come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a snug fit. The battery life is competitive, offering around 6 hours per charge and a total of up to 24 hours with the case.
Pros
- Industry-leading noise cancellation.
- Very comfortable for extended use.
- Excellent transparency mode for conversing.
Cons
- Larger than typical earbuds, which may not fit everyone comfortably.
- Pricier than some competitors.
4. Jabra Elite 85t
The Jabra Elite 85t delivers versatility alongside impressive noise cancelling capabilities. With an ergonomic design and various features, these earbuds cater to different lifestyles effectively.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cancels the noise you don’t want to hear; HearThrough (our word for transparency mode) lets in the sounds you do
- The Elite 85t buds have been engineered with the most cutting-edge noise cancellation technology on the market, to give you complete control over how you hear the world around you
- Fully adjustable HearThrough lets you choose how much of the outside world you want to let in using the handy slider, and then access that setting at the touch of a button
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cancels the noise you don’t want to hear; HearThrough (our word for transparency mode) lets in the sounds you do
- Our advanced digital ANC uses two microphones in each earbud to cancel the noise you don’t want to hear before you hear it
Best for
People looking for high customization and multi-device connectivity.
Product Review
These earbuds come with adjustable Active Noise Cancellation and HearThrough technology, which lets you change how much outside sound you let in. The battery life stands at approximately 5.5 hours, extendable to a total of 25 hours with the compact charging case.
Pros
- Customizable sound settings via app.
- Comfortable fit for prolonged use.
- Good microphone quality for calls.
Cons
- Noise cancellation doesn’t quite match Bose or Sony.
- Can be a bit tricky to navigate touch controls.
5. Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro provides a holistic sound experience with exceptional active noise cancellation, making it a good choice for users with embedded Samsung devices.
- REDESIGNED WITH THE BEST SOUND IN MIND: Keep your Galaxy Buds3 Pro in with a design that delivers long-lasting comfort for an immersive listening experience
- A SLEEK DESIGN MADE TO SHINE: Let your sound shine as much as you do with Buds3 Pro that light up¹
- AUDIO THAT ADAPTS TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS: Immerse yourself while staying alert to your surroundings thanks to Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation with Galaxy AI²; Your Buds will automatically adapt to help you hear what matters²
- AUDIO TAILORED TO BEST FIT YOU: Immerse yourself in the best listening experience, no matter how you wear your Galaxy Buds3 Pro; An Adaptive Equalizer for Sound Optimization with Galaxy AI allows you to get the most out of your audio²
- EXCLUSIVE 2-YEAR WARRANTY: Includes a 2-year limited Samsung warranty (Amazon exclusive)⁵
Best for
Samsung device users who want seamless connectivity and sound quality.
Product Review
These earbuds pack 11mm woofers and 6.5mm tweeters for balanced sound. Active noise cancellation adapts to your environment, effectively reducing background noise. With a battery life offering 5 hours of playback on a charge and an additional 18 hours with the charging case, they are designed for daily use.
Pros
- Impressive audio quality.
- Strong noise cancellation and transparency features.
- IPX7 water resistance rating.
Cons
- Battery life could be better.
- Limited functionality on non-Samsung devices.
6. Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen)
The Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) offer a budget-friendly alternative with good noise cancellation while being integrated into the Amazon ecosystem.
- Official replacement S, M, L, and XL ear tips and wing tips for Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2021 release, 2nd gen) | Black
Best for
Users already invested in the Amazon ecosystem or Alexa users.
Product Review
These earbuds come with Active Noise Cancellation and a Transparency mode, allowing you to switch between immersion in sound and the environment around you. With around 5 hours of battery life and a total of 15 hours with the case, they cater well to regular users.
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip options.
- Alexa integration for hands-free control.
Cons
- Sound quality is not as robust as higher-end models.
- Noise cancellation could use some improvement.
7. Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro
The Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro is a more affordable option that doesn’t compromise on performance, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
−$30.00
- Reduce Noise By Up to 98.5%: Liberty 4 NC noise cancelling earbuds have a high sensitivity in-ear sound sensor, an oversized driver, and an innovative noise isolation chamber that cancels up to 98.5% of noise for peaceful travel.
- Noise Cancelling Adapts to Ears and Environments: Adaptive ANC 2.0 makes real-time calculations and adjusts to your ear canals and external environment for maximum quiet amongst the hustle and bustle.
- Crisp Sound with 3× More Detail: 11mm custom-tuned drivers deliver consistently crisp and detailed sound. Experience Hi-Res wireless audio and LDAC technology that transfers 3× more data than regular Bluetooth—bringing wireless music to life.
- Sculpt Your Sound Profile: Not everyone listens the same, so use HearID 2.0 to find the perfect sound profile for you. If you want to mix it up, the EQ is fully adjustable or choose from 22 presets to match your audio.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: In normal mode, enjoy 10 hours of playback on a single charge or up to 50 hours with the case. With ANC on, get 8 hours between charges, extendable to 40 hours with the case.
Best for
Budget-conscious consumers looking for solid active noise cancellation.
Product Review
These earbuds feature a custom 11mm driver for rich sound and customizable noise cancellation profiles via the app. Battery life stands out, offering up to 7 hours of playback and total use of 26 hours with the case, ideal for daily commutes.
Pros
- Affordable with great performance.
- Customizable sound profiles.
- Decent noise cancellation for the price.
Cons
- Bulky design may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited high-end sound refinement.
8. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 is revered for its stunning audio quality and elegant design, making it a favorite among audiophiles.
- Enjoy unrivalled high-end stereo sound created by Sennheiser's unique 7mm dynamic earbud audio drivers.
- Switch off your surroundings and focus on the deep bass, the natural mids and the clear treble thanks to Active Noise Cancellation providing you with high-fidelity sound even in noisy environments
- Experience uninterrupted play time with the new 7-hour battery life that can be extended up to 28 hours with the charging case for your wireless headphones.
- In the mood for a movie marathon? With its ergonomic and lightweight design, you can experience unbeatable sound in unbelievable comfort when lounging in front of the TV or while stroling through the city.
- Control your exceptional sound with customisable touchpad technology built into both earbuds handsfree via voice control or with your smart devices.
Best for
Audiophiles and premium sound seekers.
Product Review
The earbuds offer active noise cancellation and a quality sound signature that Sennheiser is known for. They provide up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, with 28 hours total available using the case.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with deep bass.
- Effective noise cancellation.
- Premium design and build quality.
Cons
- Higher price point.
- Touch controls can be finicky.
9. RHA T20 Wireless
For those seeking a versatile solution, the RHA T20 Wireless earbuds combine noise isolation features with high-fidelity sound.
- 5hrs playback from a single charge + 20hr charging case with fast charge (15mins = 2. 5hrs).
- Sweat proof and water resistant to IPX5 certification for durable performance. Driver - 6mm dynamic
- Bluetooth 5 and stem design for exceptional connectivity, digital assistant control & Call quality.
- Secure fit with comply foam & silicone ear tips designed specifically for True wireless earbuds.
- Charging (from 0%)- 15m to 50%; 1h40 to 100%. Range (unobstructed)- 10m. Frequency range- 20-20,000 Hz
Best for
Listeners who value high-fidelity audio.
Product Review
These earbuds utilize a hybrid driver system that delivers a versatile audio performance. They feature detachable cables, allowing you to switch between wired and wireless modes. Battery life is acceptable at approximately 12 hours per charge, making them fit for long listens.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with a wide frequency range.
- Versatile with both wired and wireless options.
- Durable build quality.
Cons
- Bulky design may not suit everyone.
- Price is on the higher end for casual listeners.
10. Microsoft Surface Earbuds
Finally, the Microsoft Surface Earbuds deliver a unique take on sound isolation, particularly for users integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem.
- ✅【ULTRA-SMALL & LIGHTWEIGHT】: New Advanced Secure, Durable, Travel and Portable Earbud Kit Compatible with Microsoft Surface Pro 11/10/9/8/7/7+/6/3/2/2017/X/RT, noise-isolating earbuds deliver high-quality sound and built-in dual microphones deliver clear communication between you and caller.
- ✅【MULTI EASY TOUCH OPERATIONS】: Multifunctional button on both earbuds allows you pause music, answer/reject/hang up a call and activate voice notifications.
- ✅【RELIABLE AND SECURE STANDARDS】: Equipped with Wireless Bluetooth BT Version V5.3 Quad Distance Technology, it provides a more stable connection and less power consumption.
- ✅【NOISE BALANCING AND ISOLATION】: Noise-isolating earbuds deliver high-quality sound and built-in quad microphones deliver clear communication between you and your caller.
- ✅【FULL KIT AND ACCESSORIES INCLUDED】: Included in package is a charging/storage case that allows over 24 Hours of listening, Type-C USB cable for charging purposes, 2 different sizes of earbud tips (small and large,) and user manual.
Best for
Microsoft 365 users needing a productive workspace.
Product Review
These earbuds come with an intuitive touch control setup, allowing quick access to apps and voice assistance like Microsoft Cortana. With a total of 24 hours of battery life and decent sound quality, they are designed for work-from-home professionals and on-the-go users alike.
Pros
- Good integration with Microsoft services.
- Comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Touch controls for easy navigation.
Cons
- Limited noise cancellation.
- Sound quality may not satisfy audiophiles.
In this ever-evolving landscape of audio technology, the best active noise cancelling earbuds listed above cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for top-tier sound quality or a reliable, affordable option, you’ll find a suitable choice among these excellent products.
Buying Guide: Best Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Active noise cancelling (ANC) earbuds have revolutionized how we listen to music, podcasts, or take calls in noisy environments. They can significantly enhance your listening experience by reducing ambient noise. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best active noise cancelling earbuds for your needs.
1. Sound Quality
- Drivers: Look for earbuds with larger or high-quality drivers for better sound reproduction.
- Audio Profiles: Some earbuds offer customizable EQ settings, allowing you to adjust sound frequencies to your liking.
- Balanced Sound: Ensure the earbuds provide a good balance between bass, mids, and highs.
2. Noise Cancellation Performance
- Active Noise Cancellation Technology: Check if the earbuds use adaptive ANC, which adjusts to different noise levels.
- Passive Noise Isolation: Ensure they also fit snugly to block out external noise even without ANC activated.
- Transparency Mode: Look for earbuds that allow ambient sounds when needed, useful for conversations or awareness of surroundings.
3. Comfort and Fit
- Ear Tips: Choose earbuds that come with multiple ear tip sizes for a custom fit. Silicone tips are common, but memory foam can offer better isolation and comfort.
- Weight: Lighter earbuds generally provide a more comfortable experience for extended use.
4. Battery Life
- Playtime: Check the battery life per charge with ANC on and off. Many quality models offer at least 4-8 hours of playtime.
- Charging Case: Look for models with a compact charging case that extends battery life with extra charges on the go.
- Quick Charge: Some earbuds offer quick charge features providing hours of playback with just a short charge.
5. Connectivity
- Bluetooth Version: The latest versions (5.0 and above) provide faster pairing, better range, and improved battery efficiency.
- Multi-Device Pairing: Some earbuds allow you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, which is handy for switching between devices.
- Audio Codecs: Look for support for high-quality codecs like aptX or AAC for better streaming audio quality.
6. Controls and Features
- Touch Controls: Many modern earbuds come with touch-sensitive controls for playback, volume, and calls.
- Voice Assistants: Consider if the earbuds support assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa for hands-free operation.
- Customizable Settings: Some models allow you to customize controls or ANC levels through an app.
7. Durability and Design
- Water Resistance: If you plan to use them for workouts or in rainy conditions, look for an IPX rating (at least IPX4).
- Build Quality: Sturdy materials will enhance durability.
8. Price and Brand Reputation
- Budget: Set a budget that aligns with your requirements. You can find decent ANC earbuds across a variety of price ranges.
- Brand Reviews: Research brands known for audio quality and support. Brands like Sony, Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser have strong reputations.
9. Warranty and Support
- Warranty: Look for a reasonable warranty period; a longer warranty can offer peace of mind.
- Customer Service: Check reviews about customer support experiences.
10. Reviews and Recommendations
- User Reviews: Read customer reviews and product comparisons to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction.
- Expert Reviews: Look for ratings and roundups from trusted tech websites for expert opinions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right active noise cancelling earbuds requires balancing sound quality, comfort, features, and budget. With this guide, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle. Happy listening!
