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10 Best ANC Headphones to Elevate Your Sound Experience in 2026
Finding the best ANC headphones in 2026 can be a daunting task with so many options available. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking pristine sound quality, a frequent traveler wanting noise cancellation, or just someone who appreciates a peaceful listening experience, it’s crucial to invest in the best ANC headphones you can find. This guide details the top 10 ANC headphones available on Amazon, with in-depth reviews to help you make an informed decision. You’ll find everything from superb sound quality to battery life and comfort, ensuring you find the best best ANC headphone to suit your needs.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones
Best for: Ultimate sound quality and noise cancellation
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones continue Sony’s legacy of excellence in wireless audio. With advanced noise cancellation technology, these headphones provide an immersive listening experience, effectively blocking out ambient sounds. The touch-sensitive controls allow easy operation, and the long battery life (up to 30 hours) ensures that you stay connected throughout your day.
−$121.00
- NOISE CANCELLATION: Immerse yourself in the world of music with these noise cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5. They come equipped with an advanced noise cancellation feature, powered by two processors controlling eight microphones. Experience the magic of noise cancelling headphones bluetooth technology, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience free from external disturbances. This unique, distraction-free listening experience sets the Sony WH-1000XM5 apart from other headphones in the market.
- HANDS-FREE CALLING: Step into the future of communication with the Sony WH-1000XM5, a pair of over-ear headphones that make crystal clear hands-free calling a reality. They come equipped with four beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing. These over ear headphones ensure your voice is heard clearly, even in noisy environments. This feature is a boon for professionals and individuals who value clear, crisp communication.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Say goodbye to battery anxiety with the Sony WH-1000XM5, a wireless headset that offers up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge. These head phones also feature a quick charging option that provides 3 hours of playback with just a 3-minute charge, ensuring uninterrupted music enjoyment. (USB Type-C Cable included)
- COMFORT & STYLE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and style with the Sony WH-1000XM5's lightweight design and soft fit leather. These headphones are designed for maximum comfort, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without any discomfort. Sound quality and comfort go hand in hand with these headphones, making them an ideal choice for music lovers.
- TOUCH CONTROLS: Take control of your music with the Sony WH-1000XM5's intuitive touch controls. With a simple touch, you can pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls. This feature makes the Sony WH-1000XM5 a must-have for those who value convenience and control.
With features like Adaptive Sound Control and Speak-to-Chat, these headphones automatically adjust settings based on your environment.
Pros:
- Superior noise cancellation
- Excellent sound quality
- Long battery life
- Touch controls for ease of use
Cons:
- Pricey compared to some competitors
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive at times
2. Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones
Best for: Comfort during long listening sessions
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is synonymous with comfort and sound quality. The lightweight design, combined with plush ear cups, makes these headphones perfect for extended wear. Their noise-canceling technology adapts to different environments, offering tailored acoustic performance.
−$6.99
- Noise cancelling wireless headphones - The perfect balance of quiet, comfort, and sound. Bose uses tiny mics to measure, compare, and react to outside noise, cancelling it with opposite signals.
- High-fidelity audio - The TriPort acoustic architecture offers depth and fullness. Volume-optimized Active EQ maintains balanced performance at any volume, so bass stays consistent when turned down and the music remains clear when turned up.
- Quiet and Aware Modes - Choose Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling, or Aware Mode to bring the outside into the around ear headphones and hear your environment and your music at the same time.
- Personalize your audio. Adjustable EQ allows you to set the bass, mid-range, and treble levels to your personal preferences or select one of several preset options.
- Up to 24 hours battery life - Enjoy 24 hours of battery life from a single charge. A quick 15-minute charge offers 3 hours when you’re on the go, or plug in the included audio cable to listen for even longer in wired mode.
With a battery life of around 24 hours, these headphones are equipped with both Bluetooth and wired connectivity, catering to all types of users.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort
- Effective noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- Dual connectivity options
Cons:
- Slightly bulky design
- Price may not fit all budgets
3. Apple AirPods Max
Best for: Apple ecosystem integration
For Apple users, the Apple AirPods Max offer an exceptional listening experience. With their high-fidelity audio and computational audio features, these headphones deliver clear sound across various genres.
−$50.00
- ULTIMATE OVER-EAR LISTENING EXPERIENCE — Apple-designed dynamic driver provides high-fidelity audio. Computational audio combines custom acoustic design with the Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences.
- FIVE FRESH COLORS — AirPods Max come in five fresh colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange. A color-matched Smart Case is also included.
- FOCUS ON WHAT’S PLAYING — Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation removes up to 2x more background noise, so you can immerse yourself in music.*
- HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — Transparency mode lets you comfortably hear and interact with the world around you.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, AirPods Max deliver an immersive listening experience that places sound all around you.* You can also listen to select songs, shows, and movies in Dolby Atmos.
The Active Noise Cancellation feature is impressive, allowing users to enjoy music without interruption. The design is premium, with stainless steel construction and memory foam ear cushions adding to the luxurious feel.
Pros:
- Integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices
- Excellent sound quality
- High-quality materials
- Noise cancellation and transparency mode
Cons:
- Hefty price tag
- Weight may not suit everyone
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones are designed for audiophiles who crave the best sound experience. The German engineering translates to exceptional audio clarity and rich bass performance.
−$170.64
- Seamless Firmware & App Updates: Enjoy a smoother, more reliable experience with the latest firmware and Smart Control Plus app features for your Bluetooth headphones over the ear, including ANC toggle and touchpad off switch for premium music quality
- Audiophile-Inspired Sound : Sennheiser wireless headphones over ear with Signature Sound, 42mm transducers and aptX Adaptive deliver crystal-clear audio and deep, immersive music. Ideal for music lovers and travelers
- Personalized Listening Experience: Tailor your sound on the over ear headphones wireless via the Smart Control Plus app with integrated equalizer, presets, and sound modes for a unique custom audio profile, whether used for music, podcasts, or gaming
- Adaptive Noise Cancellation & Transparency Mode: Block distractions or stay aware of your surroundings with these headphones wireless Bluetooth for uninterrupted music enjoyment anywhere, ideal for commuters, students, and professionals
- Exceptional Comfort & Long Battery Life: These Sennheiser headphones wireless noise cancelling version are lightweight, foldable - designed with a cushioned headband and ear pads; enjoy up to 60 hours of long-lasting comfort playback with fast charging
With adaptive noise cancellation and a battery life of up to 60 hours, these headphones are ideal for both casual listeners and serious music lovers.
Pros:
- Superior audio performance
- Long battery life
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Bulky in size
- Higher price bracket
5. JBL Club ONE Headphones
Best for: Versatile listening options
The JBL Club ONE headphones are not just about style; they’re about excellent performance. Designed for both DJing and casual listening, these headphones have adaptive noise cancellation that enhances their versatility.
−$30.00
- JBL Pure Bass Sound: The JBL Tune 720BT features the renowned JBL Pure Bass sound, the same technology that powers the most famous venues all around the world.
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 technology: Wirelessly stream high-quality sound from your smartphone without messy cords with the help of the latest Bluetooth technology.
- Customize your listening experience: Download the free JBL Headphones App to tailor the sound to your taste with the EQ. Voice prompts in your desired language guide you through the Tune 720BT features.
- Customize your listening experience: Download the free JBL Headphones App to tailor the sound to your taste by choosing one of the pre-set EQ modes or adjusting the EQ curve according to your content, your style, your taste.
- Hands-free calls with Voice Aware: Easily control your sound and manage your calls from your headphones with the convenient buttons on the ear-cup. Hear your voice while talking, with the help of Voice Aware.
With a 45-hour battery life and custom EQ settings, users can tailor their sound experience to individual preferences.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- Versatile use cases
- Customizable EQ settings
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- May be considered bulky
- ANC may not be as powerful as some competitors
6. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Best for: Budget-friendly option
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 has gained popularity for its exceptional value for money. They come with hybrid active noise cancellation and 40-hour battery life, making them a fantastic choice for budget-conscious users.
−$20.00
- Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology: Maintain your focus with Life Q30’s hybrid active noise cancellation. Dual noise-detecting microphones pick up and filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound to ensure nothing distracts you from your music.
- Ultimate Noise Cancellation Experience: Customize Life Q30’s noise cancellation with 3 modes—Transport minimizes airplane engine noise, Outdoor reduces traffic and wind, and Indoor dampens the sound of busy offices with people talking in the background. Note: ANC is not compatible with an AUX Cable connection.
- Hi-Res Music: Hear every detail of your favorite songs thanks to Life Q30’s 40mm drivers. The highly-flexible silk diaphragms reproduce thumping bass and crisp treble that extends up to 40kHz for improved clarity.
- 50-Hour Playtime: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones play up to 50 hours of music in noise cancelling mode. Standard mode extends the playtime to 70 hours, while a short 5-minute charge gives you 4 hours of listening.
- Pressure-Free Comfort: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones have ultra-soft protein leather earcups with memory foam padding to fit snugly over your ears. The lightweight build also ensures they’re comfortable for long listening sessions.
With their customizable sound profiles and fast charging capabilities, these headphones offer features that go beyond their price point.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Impressive battery life
- Custom sound profiles
- Fast charging
Cons:
- Build quality feels less premium
- Noise cancellation isn’t as advanced as higher-end models
7. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Best for: Voice clarity in calls
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are known for their unparalleled voice clarity during calls, making them a top choice for professionals. The noise cancellation technology adapts to your surroundings, providing a tailored experience.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
With 11 levels of noise cancellation, users can easily switch between full immersion and awareness mode.
Pros:
- Optimal voice clarity
- Customizable noise cancellation levels
- Comfortable for extended use
- Strong battery life
Cons:
- Premium price
- Some users report issues with the touch controls
8. Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
Best for: True wireless experience
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro are true wireless earbuds that offer ANC and a compact design, making them a great option for on-the-go users. They feature a snug fit that helps to seal in sound, enhancing the listening experience.
- 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
With features like 2-way speakers and IPX7 water resistance, users can enjoy rich audio quality without worrying about damage from moisture.
Pros:
- True wireless design
- IPX7 water resistance
- Compact and portable
- Good audio performance
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
- ANC not as powerful as over-ear options
9. Bowers & Wilkins PX7
Best for: Luxury sound experience
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are crafted with premium materials and designed for a luxury sound experience. The noise cancellation is smart and adapts to your surroundings, providing an immersive listening environment.
- PREMIUM "EVOLVED" HEADPHONES- Hear music exactly as the artist intended with Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e over-ear bluetooth headphones features a 24-bit DSP with custom-designed 40mm drive units angled inside each earcup & Qualcomm aptX Adaptive
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN & PERFECT FIT - Experience comfort & elegance with these over-ear wireless Bluetooth headphones over the ear premium design. The luxurious foam earpads with fabric finish and metal detailing cushion ears, ensuring comfortable listening
- NOISE-FREE, CLEAR CONVERSATIONS - Immerse yourself in dynamic music and enjoy crystal-clear call quality. These over-ear wireless headphones feature 6 microphones with outstanding noise cancellation that shuts out unwanted intrusions
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR LISTENING - Easily control your audio environment with wireless over-ear headphones. The Bowers & Wilkins music app offers direct streaming and voice assistant support, ensuring sound experience is tailored according to your desires
- ENHANCED PLAYBACK TIME - These wireless headphones over ear noise cancelling feature a long-lasting battery life with 30 hours of playback time and quick-charge support to listen to uninterrupted music and take your calls on the go throughout the day
Their battery life of up to 30 hours ensures that these headphones can keep up with long listening sessions.
Pros:
- Luxurious design
- Solid sound quality
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable for long periods
Cons:
- Premium price range
- Controls can be tricky to master
10. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
Best for: Excellent integration with Microsoft products
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are designed for versatility and comfort, offering features such as adjustable noise cancellation and great sound performance. They pair seamlessly with other Microsoft products, making them ideal for productivity.
−$9.99
- Spectacular Omnisonic sound wraps you in your favorite music, shows, and more.Control Type:Touch
- Power through your day with up to 18.5 hours of music listening time [2] or up to 15 hours of voice calling on Microsoft Teams [4]. And, listen to almost an hour of music with just a 5-minute charge
- Soft, over-ear pads are breathable, lightweight and comfortable.
- Intuitive touch controls let you skip tracks, answer/end calls, and get hands-free assistance.
- Full charge now lasts up to 20 hours [2]. Listen to almost an hour of music with a 5-minute charge.
With intuitive dial controls for volume and noise cancellation levels, these headphones offer a user-friendly experience.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Microsoft products
- Good battery life
- Comfortable fit
- Intuitive controls
Cons:
- Sound quality is good but not exceptional
- May lag behind other brands in noise cancellation
This list of the best best ANC headphones in 2026 highlights a range of options suitable for various preferences and budgets, ensuring that you can find the perfect pair to meet your needs.
Buying Guide for the Best ANC Headphones
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) headphones have revolutionized the way we experience audio by significantly reducing ambient noise, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. Whether you’re a music lover, frequent traveler, or simply seeking some peace amidst chaos, choosing the right ANC headphones can be crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
1. Understanding ANC Technology
- Active vs. Passive Noise Cancellation: ANC uses microphones and speakers to counteract ambient noise, while passive noise isolation relies on physical barriers.
- Types of ANC:
- Feedforward: Uses external microphones to detect noise and creates opposing sound waves to cancel it.
- Feedback: Monitors sound within the ear cup for cancellation.
- Hybrid: Combines both methods for enhanced performance.
2. Key Features to Consider
- Sound Quality: Look for headphones with high-quality drivers to ensure a balanced sound profile, rich bass, and clear mids and highs.
- Comfort: Ensure the headphones have cushioned ear cups and an adjustable headband, especially if you plan on wearing them for long periods.
- Battery Life: Evaluate the battery performance, focusing on both ANC usage and regular listening mode. Aim for a minimum of 20-30 hours with ANC on.
- Connectivity:
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wireless models often provide more convenience but ensure they have good battery life.
- Bluetooth Version: Look for at least Bluetooth 5.0 for improved connectivity and range.
- Portability: Consider foldable designs or cases for easier storage, especially for travel.
3. Special Features
- Transparency Mode: Allows ambient sounds in to stay aware of your surroundings—ideal for when you need to hear announcements or conversations.
- App Support: Some brands provide companion apps for customization, EQ settings, and firmware updates.
- Voice Assistants: Integrated voice control can add convenience for hands-free operation.
- Water Resistance: If you plan to use them during workouts or in unpredictable weather, look for a water-resistant rating (like IPX4 or higher).
4. Brands to Consider
- Sony: Known for exceptional sound quality and strong ANC capabilities (e.g., WH-1000XM5).
- Bose: Offers a classic sound profile and refined ANC (e.g., QuietComfort 45).
- Apple: AirPods Max provides seamless integration with Apple devices and robust ANC.
- Sennheiser: A go-to for audiophiles, offering great sound quality with solid ANC (e.g., Momentum 3).
- Jabra: Known for sports headphones with good ANC and comfort (e.g., Jabra Elite 85h).
5. Price Range
- Budget: Expect to pay between $100-$200 for decent ANC headphones.
- Mid-Range: Between $200-$350 offers a balance of performance and features.
- Premium: Over $350 for top-tier performance, often with advanced features and unrivaled sound quality.
6. User Reviews and Testing
- Check user reviews for real-world performance and customer satisfaction.
- If possible, test headphones in-store to assess comfort and sound quality.
- Look for warranties and return policies to ensure satisfaction post-purchase.
7. Conclusion
Choosing the right ANC headphones ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. By considering sound quality, comfort, battery life, and special features, you can find the perfect pair to enhance your listening experience. Don’t forget to explore different brands, read reviews, and test options if possible to ensure your choice meets your expectations. Happy listening!
