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10 Best Active Headphones for 2026: Top Picks Under $100
In the rapidly evolving world of audio technology, finding the best active headphones can vastly improve your listening experience, whether you’re into music, gaming, or podcasts. In 2026, the market is overflowing with options, but certain models stand out due to their superior sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC) features, comfort, and battery life. In this article, we explore the best active headphones available on Amazon, ensuring you find the perfect pair to suit your needs.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Overhead Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is renowned for its industry-leading noise canceling capabilities and exceptional sound quality. It offers a comfortable fit thanks to its plush ear cups, making it suitable for extended listening sessions. With touch controls and smart features like Adaptive Sound Control, these headphones can adjust the noise cancellation settings based on your environment.
Battery life is impressive, providing up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge. Quick charging allows 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, making them perfect for travelers.
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Overhead Headphones
No products found.
Best for:
Traveling and commuting where noise cancellation is paramount.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation
- Incredible sound quality
- Comfortable for long wear
- Long battery life with quick charge
Cons:
- Pricey compared to competitors
- Touch controls may not be for everyone
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are a leading choice in the active headphone space. They offer ten levels of noise cancellation, allowing you to customize your audio experience according to your surroundings. The headphones feature a sleek design with a comfortable feel, ideal for all-day wear.
Additionally, these headphones deliver superior sound quality with crisp highs and a rich bass response. The integrated voice assistant and intuitive touch controls enhance convenience and usability.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
- 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
Best for:
Users looking for customizable noise cancellation.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable design
- Ten levels of noise cancellation
- Alexa and Google Assistant integration
Cons:
- Price point is on the higher end
- Touch controls can be finicky
3. Apple AirPods Max
The Apple AirPods Max offers a premium audio experience that combines design and technology seamlessly. With active noise cancellation and spatial audio, users can enjoy immersive sound that feels tailor-made for them. The memory foam ear cushions provide comfort, making it easy to wear for long periods.
Equipped with a powerful battery, AirPods Max offers up to 20 hours of listening time. The high-fidelity audio and seamless pairing with Apple devices make this an excellent choice for Apple users.
−$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.
Best for:
Apple ecosystem users and audiophiles.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit with luxurious design
Cons:
- Very high price
- Heavier compared to other headphones
4. Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless
The Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless headphones stand out for their audio performance and advanced sound customization features. With adaptive noise cancellation, they automatically adjust based on the environment, providing great versatility. The lightweight design enhances portability, making them an excellent choice for travelers.
Offering up to 30 hours of battery life, these headphones ensure you stay entertained throughout long flights or commutes. The touch controls are user-friendly, allowing you to manage calls and music with ease.
Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless
- Superior sound quality and active noise cancellation -The PXC 550-II Wireless delivers Sennheiser legendary sound quality. Active noise cancellation reduces the ambient noise around you and can be adjusted to your preference
- Exceptional battery performance up to 30 hours - The PXC 550-II Wireless delivers up to 30 hours of battery life. You can travel from London to Hong Kong and back with just one charge
- One touch access to voice assistant -With the touch of a single button you have access to your AI helper -Siri, Hey Google and Alexa
- Touch pad control -A touch pad on the right ear cup provides volume, play, stop, pause and track skipping control. Touching the ear cup allows you to take an incoming call. Controlling this headset is instinctive and easy
Best for:
Frequent travelers needing effective noise cancellation.
Pros:
- High-quality audio
- Excellent battery life
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Lightweight construction
Cons:
- May not be as durable as competitors
- Touch controls can have a learning curve
5. Jabra Elite 85h
The Jabra Elite 85h offers a robust combination of performance and features, including smart noise cancellation and AI-powered conversations. With an impressive 36-hour battery life, these headphones are perfect for daily use and can last through long journeys.
The 85h boasts great sound quality, with custom sound settings available via the Jabra app. It also features waterproofing capabilities, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- BLOCK UNWANTED BACKGROUND NOISE: Jabra Elite 85h Wireless Headphones are engineered for the best wireless calls and music experience with SmartSound. Smart Active Noise cancellation responds to the environment, switching on if it detects background noise.
- SMARTSOUND AUDIO: The revolutionary SmartSound Audio technology in these Bluetooth headphones analyze your sound environment and automatically applies your personalized audio to give you the sound you need, when you need it.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE HEADPHONES: Up to 36 hours of battery on a single charge (with ANC switched on), and fast charging of 5 battery hours in 15 minutes. Listen from the start of the day to the end with these noise canceling headphones.
- UNMATCHED CALL QUALITY: The advanced technology uses 6 of the 8 built-in microphones to enhance call quality and block out background and wind noise. This enables crystal clear sound, so you can make and receive calls in total confidence.
- WATER RESISTANT: No matter the elements, you’re prepared to go anywhere with certified water and rain resistant headphone technology and nano-coating of the internal components. Plus, there are no pesky wires in these Bluetooth wireless headphones
Best for:
Users seeking versatility and durability.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Waterproof and durable design
- Customizable sound profiles
- Smart active noise cancellation
Cons:
- Bulky design isn’t for everyone
- Controls can take time to get used to
6. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95
For those who are into luxury and aesthetic appeal, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones are a masterpiece. They deliver exceptional sound quality with accurate bass and powerful audio performance. With up to 38 hours of battery life and effective noise cancellation, they cater to audiophiles.
The high-quality materials used in the construction, such as lambskin leather and aluminum, provide both comfort and elegance. Additionally, the headphones allow for sound customization through their app, ensuring a tailored listening experience.
- Enjoy your music longer: Up to 38 hours of playtime on a single charge, with ANC switched on. A powerful battery lets Beoplay H95 push boundaries and maximise uptime.
- Noise cancelled: Our most advanced adaptive, active noise cancellation lets you concentrate on the music. Tune out background noise and immerse yourself in the moment.
- Spine-tingling sound: Two 40mm titanium drivers with neodymium magnets, specially selected and customised for precise and powerful sound. Redefine grab-and-go listening.
- Clear conversation: Four built-in microphones for crystal clear voice calls. Chat with friends, family and colleagues, confident you'll be heard.
- Designed for the senses: Soft to the touch, sturdy in build. Titanium, lambskin leather and memory foam crafted into extremely comfortable headphones with an elegant, foldable design.
Best for:
Users looking for high-end, luxury headphones.
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Excellent sound performance
- Customizable sound features
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Heavier than average headphones
7. Anker Soundcore Life Q35
The Anker Soundcore Life Q35 is an affordable yet quality option among best active headphones. With hybrid noise cancellation, users can improve their listening experience in various settings. The headphones also offer Hi-Res Audio certification, ensuring rich, detailed sound.
With up to 40 hours of battery life and fast charging capabilities, these headphones are great for those who need long-lasting performance. They include a comfortable design, making them suitable for prolonged use.
- 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.
Best for:
Budget-conscious users looking for good value.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Long battery life with quick charge
Cons:
- Sound quality may not compete with premium brands
- ANC is not as effective as top-tier models
8. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 bring a unique blend of functionality and sound quality, making them ideal for professionals and casual users alike. With rotational dials for volume and noise cancellation control, users can easily customize their listening experience. The headphones deliver a balanced sound with clear highs and a solid bass response.
They offer up to 20 hours of battery life, making them a reliable choice for all-day use. The Surface Headphones 2 also integrate seamlessly with Microsoft’s ecosystem, making them ideal for users who utilize Windows-based devices.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
−$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.
Best for:
Microsoft users seeking seamless integration.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use controls
- High-quality audio with noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Limited compatibility with non-Microsoft devices
- May not be available in every market
9. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has long been a favorite for those seeking comfort and excellent noise cancellation. In 2026, this model continues to impress with its lightweight design and up to 20 hours of battery life. The noise-canceling feature can be adjusted, allowing for both complete isolation and ambient awareness.
With dual microphones, it excels in voice pickup, making it ideal for phone calls or virtual meetings. Ease of use is further enhanced through the Bose Connect app, allowing for customizable settings.
- Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for clear phone calls and voice access to your phone's default virtual assistant, like Siri
- Industry-leading wireless headphones let you adjust the level of noise cancellation to suit your environment
- Volume-optimized EQ makes your music always sounds its best, whether you turn it up on an airplane, or turn it down while at the office
- Bluetooth and NFC pairing with voice prompts for hassle-free wireless connections
Best for:
Comfort and versatile use in various environments.
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Slightly dated technology compared to newer models
- Once again, on the higher price point
10. Mpow H19 IPO
For those new to active headphones or on a budget, the Mpow H19 IPO offers surprisingly solid performance. These headphones come with decent noise cancellation and well-rounded sound quality. They pack a respectable battery life of up to 30 hours, making them an excellent choice for casual listeners.
The adjustable headband and soft ear cups ensure comfort, even during long listening sessions. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, they deliver impressive performance for the price.
- Nice Compatible: Compatible with Mpow H19 IPO Bluetooth 5.0 BH388A Headphones. ( Please note: Not compatible with H19 ANC BH329A and Mpow other series Headset )
- DIY Install Step: Because our earpads without the plastic buckle. So you need to remove the old ear pads, and then put the plastic buckle inside the old ear pads into the new ear pads, then you can install it
- Unmatched Comfort : Professional-grade fabric is designed for long-term, crack-free. These high quality replacement pads are specifically designed for long-term comfort so you can enjoy long gaming sessions with your headphones pain free
- Noise Reduction: It can reduce the noise coming from outside, and to enhance the fidelity of your audio by cushioning the vibrations between your ear and the headset, providing more vibrant sounds
- You will received: 1 Pair ( 2 Pcs ) of Black Upgrade Fabric Ear Pads
Best for:
Budget-conscious users or headphone beginners.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Decent active noise cancellation
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Sound quality pales in comparison to premium brands
- Limited features compared to top-tier models
These top 10 active headphones represent the best of what you can find on Amazon in 2026. Whether you’re looking for luxury, affordability, or all-around performance, there’s an option for everyone in this list of the best active headphones.
Buying Guide: Best Active Headphones
When it comes to choosing the best active headphones, several factors come into play to ensure you find the right pair that suits your needs. Here are key aspects to consider:
1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Effectiveness: Look for headphones that offer strong noise cancellation. Read reviews to determine how well the ANC performs in different environments (busy streets, airplanes, etc.).
- Adjustable Levels: Some models allow you to adjust the level of noise cancellation, which can be beneficial for different settings.
2. Sound Quality
- Drivers: Larger drivers often produce better bass. Look for headphones with 40 mm drivers or larger for a richer sound.
- Frequency Response: Aim for a wide frequency range (20 Hz – 20 kHz) to ensure clarity in all audio ranges.
3. Comfort and Fit
- Ear Cups: Choose headphones with cushioned ear cups to enhance comfort during extended listening sessions. Over-ear designs often provide more comfort compared to on-ear styles.
- Weight: Lightweight headphones are typically more comfortable for long-term wear. Consider the material and build quality.
4. Battery Life
- Playtime: Look for headphones that offer at least 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, preferably longer.
- Charging Time: Quick-charge features can be helpful; some headphones provide several hours of playtime from just a short charging period.
5. Connectivity
- Wired vs. Wireless: Determine whether you prefer wired (for lower latency and consistent sound quality) or wireless (for convenience and portability).
- Bluetooth Version: If you opt for wireless, consider headphones withBluetooth 5.0 or newer for better range and battery efficiency.
6. Features
- Touch Controls: Many active headphones now come with touch-sensitive controls for volume, track changes, and calls.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Look for models that integrate with Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa for added convenience.
- App Support: Some brands offer companion apps with customizable sound profiles and firmware updates.
7. Portability
- Foldability: If you travel frequently, consider headphones that fold up for easy storage.
- Case: A protective case can help keep your headphones safe while on the go.
8. Durability
- Materials: Look for robust materials that withstand wear and tear. Metal components may offer more durability compared to plastic.
- Water Resistance: If you plan on using them for workouts or in wet conditions, check for water or sweat resistance ratings.
9. Price Range
- Budget Options: There are excellent active headphones available at various price points, so determine your budget in advance.
- Premium Features: Higher-end models may offer advanced features like better sound quality, longer battery life, and superior ANC.
10. Brand Reputation and Warranty
- Research Brands: Opt for brands known for quality headphones and reliable customer service.
- Warranty: A solid warranty can provide peace of mind regarding your purchase. Look for at least a one-year warranty.
Recommended Models (As of 2023)
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Known for excellent ANC and sound quality, great battery life.
- Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700: Renowned for comfort and advanced ANC features.
- Apple AirPods Max: Exceptional integration with Apple devices and high-quality sound.
- Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: Offers great sound quality, style, and comfort.
Conclusion
Choosing the right active headphones involves balancing sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and price. Take the time to try on different models and consider your specific use cases to make an informed decision. Happy listening!
