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10 Best ANC Headphones of 2026: Top Picks Under $100 for Quality Sound
In an era where noise pollution can impede productivity and relaxation, having the best ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) headphones has become imperative. Whether you’re commuting, working, or simply enjoying some downtime, the best ANC headphones can significantly enhance your auditory experience. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 ANC headphones available on Amazon, diving into their features, advantages, and drawbacks.
1. Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is often hailed as the best ANC headphones, offering unparalleled sound quality and comfort. Released in 2020, it retains its position near the top even in 2026. With a sleek design and a snug fit, these headphones provide excellent passive noise isolation, complemented by their advanced noise-canceling technology.
Featuring touch sensor controls, a long battery life of up to 30 hours, and adaptive sound control, they seamlessly adjust settings based on your environment. The headphone’s Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses playback when you begin speaking.
**Pros:**
– Exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality
– Comfortable for long usage
– Great battery life
– Touch controls and voice assistant compatibility
**Cons:**
– Premium price point
– Bulky design might not suit everyone
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: Premium noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback) (USB Type-C Cable included)
- TOUCH SENSOR CONTROLS: Pause play skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls.
- SPEAK-TO-CHAT: Automatically reduces volume during conversations
- SUPERIOR CALL QUALITY: Precise voice pick up combines five built-in microphones with advanced audio signal for clear calls
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 is another formidable contender for the title of best ANC headphones. Released in 2019, they feature an elegant, modern design and are engineered to rival competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM4. With 11 levels of active noise cancellation, users can tailor their listening experience to their surroundings.
These headphones also boast a more balanced sound profile, making them ideal for a variety of music genres. The voice pickup technology ensures exceptional clarity during calls, while the intuitive touch-sensitive controls enhance user interaction.
**Pros:**
– High-quality sound across a range of frequencies
– Outstanding noise cancellation capabilities
– Comfortable ear cushions
– Excellent call quality
**Cons:**
– Pricier than some alternatives
– Bulky for portable use
- 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
3. Apple AirPods Max
Apple made waves in the headphone market with the introduction of AirPods Max in 2020. These over-ear headphones feature premium materials, including stainless steel and aluminum, giving them a luxurious feel. The Active Noise Cancellation works in harmony with Apple’s H1 chip to deliver rich, immersive sound.
The spatial audio feature offers an enhanced listening experience, making music, movies, and calls sound like they’re coming from all around you. Battery life is impressive, lasting around 20 hours with active noise cancellation enabled.
**Pros:**
– Stunning build quality and design
– Immersive sound with spatial audio
– Excellent noise cancellation
– Comfortable ear cushions
**Cons:**
– Heavily priced
– Weighs more than competitors
- 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.
4. Jabra Elite 85h
The Jabra Elite 85h headphones are a strong contender in the mid-range price bracket. These headphones feature SmartSound technology that automatically adapts the sound based on your surroundings. Released in 2019, they continue to impress in 2026, offering 36 hours of battery life with ANC turned on.
Water-resistant with a stylish design, these headphones are great for outdoor use. Sound quality is solid, providing a balanced audio experience, while the intuitive controls enhance the user experience.
**Pros:**
– Excellent battery life
– SmartSound feature for adaptive listening
– Robust water and dust resistance
– Comfortable design
**Cons:**
– Noise cancellation isn’t as advanced as some competitors
– Bulky design
- 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
5. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones combine style and functionality, making them a top choice for audiophiles. Launched in 2019, they feature high-fidelity sound and a sophisticated design with genuine leather ear pads. The adaptive noise cancellation technology fine-tunes your listening experience.
Users appreciate the transparent hearing mode that allows ambient sound in, making these headphones versatile for various environments. Battery life is decent, lasting around 17 hours with ANC enabled.
**Pros:**
– Superior audio quality
– Elegant design with luxurious materials
– Transparent hearing mode
– Customizable sound options
**Cons:**
– Heavier than other options
– Battery life could be better
- Auto on,off and smart pause never miss a beat With seamless on,off and pause functionality; Plays your music faster than any other headphone
- Active noise cancellation and transparent hearing Momentum 3 wireless adapts to your environment wherever you find yourself
- Exceptional comfort soft ear pads and headband crafted from genuine Leather insure exceptional wearing comfort during long listening sessions
- Three button interface provides easy operation without having to read a manual
6. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 should be on your radar. Released in 2020, these headphones provide surprisingly good active noise cancellation considering their price. They boast 40 hours of playtime with ANC on and are equipped with custom 40mm drivers for punchy, balanced sound.
The foldable design makes them easy to store and carry, ideal for travelers. They also come with a built-in microphone for hands-free calls, which is a nice addition for the price.
**Pros:**
– Excellent value for money
– Good battery life
– Comfortable fit
– Decent sound quality
**Cons:**
– Noise cancellation is not as effective as premium brands
– Build quality feels less premium
- Incredible Sound Loved by 20 Million+ People
- Hi-Res Audio: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound. Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for extraordinary clarity and detail.
- Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted more than 100,000 tests in real-life scenarios to fine-tune Life Q20’s 4 built-in ANC microphones and digital active noise cancellation algorithm. As a result, the hybrid active noise cancellation can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and airplane engines.
- 100% Stronger Bass: Our exclusive BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis of the low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output. Double press the play button when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop for an amplified listening experience.
- 60-Hour Playtime*: Up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume) is extended to an enormous 60 hours in standard music mode. A single charge gives you enough juice to listen to over 900 songs or soundtrack multiple long haul flights. And when you’re in a rush, charge Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones for 5 minutes and get 4 hours of listening.
7. TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92
The TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92 is a budget option for those seeking comfort without sacrificing quality. Released in 2021, these earbuds feature solid active noise cancellation and easy Bluetooth connectivity. With a lightweight and ergonomic design, they are perfect for extended wear during workouts or commutes.
Battery life lasts around 8 hours with the noise-canceling feature enabled, and the case provides additional charges for on-the-go usage. Sound performance is commendable, offering clear highs and decent bass.
**Pros:**
– Affordable price
– Comfortable and lightweight
– Decent noise cancellation
– Good sound quality for the price
**Cons:**
– Limited battery life
– ANC may not match higher-end versions
- Transfer rate up to 5GBit/s Pure copper for ultimate conductivity
- 5 Feet USB 3.0 to USB C
- UL Certified / 5GB / PS Data
- Pure copper for ultimate conductivity / Works with any USB Type C devices / phone / computer / laptops / Sony / Xbox / Musical Instruments / TV / Mic
- Built to exceed the highest quality standards through strict manufacturing and testing processes, Universal Compatibility: Compatible with virtually all USB-C devices including phones, tablets, and laptops.
8. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9
For those who appreciate aesthetics alongside audio quality, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 is a revelation. Launched in 2019, these headphones come with luxurious materials including leather and aluminum, making them not just functional but also a fashion statement. The sound profile offers depth and clarity, making them ideal for immersive listening experiences.
These headphones feature touch controls and up to 25 hours of battery life, with robust ANC capabilities. The transparent mode allows ambient sound to filter in when necessary, making them versatile for different environments.
**Pros:**
– Premium build and materials
– Excellent sound quality
– Stylish design
– Good battery life
**Cons:**
– High price point
– Bulky for some users
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY. With up to 38 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC, Beoplay H95 push the boundaries to give you more time to enjoy your music.
- NOISE CANCELLED. Beoplay H95 offer exceptional sound quality through customised titanium drivers and our most advanced Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation yet.
- POWERFUL SOUND. Two 40mm titanium drivers with neodymium magnets have been carefully selected and customised for Beoplay H95 to improve sound precision and increase the low frequency response.
- CLEAR CONVERSATION. Multiple built-in mics allow for clear chats with friends, family or colleagues.
- LUXURIOUS DESGIN. Crafted with high end materials including titanium, lambskin leather and memory foam, our extremely comfortable over-ear headphones are enhanced by an elegant, foldable design.
9. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, released in 2020, offer smart features and solid sound quality, combined with a comfortable design. These headphones come with intuitive dial controls for volume and noise cancellation, making them simple to operate.
With a 20-hour battery life while using ANC, the Surface headphones are perfect for long usage. The ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously adds convenience for users who switch between devices often.
**Pros:**
– Easy device switching
– Comfortable and adjustable design
– Good sound quality
– Smart dial controls
**Cons:**
– Limited noise cancellation compared to competitors
– Pricey for the features offered
- 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.
10. Philips PH805
Rounding out our list is the Philips PH805 headphones. Released in early 2020, these are budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality. They provide active noise cancellation alongside decent sound quality thanks to their powerful drivers.
The battery life lasts about 30 hours, with aesthetic appeal and comfort for long sessions. These headphones also feature a collapsible design for easy transport, making them an ideal companion for travel.
**Pros:**
– Affordable price
– Good battery life
– Comfortable fit
– Portable design
**Cons:**
– Sound quality may not match premium brands
– ANC effectiveness is limited
- Active Noise Canceling (Anc). Lose Yourself, Not The Music.Leave It All Behind With Active Noise Canceling. Shut Off The Noise Of A Train Or Busy Office At The Touch Of A Button. If You'Re Out And About, You Can Listen To Your Music And Stay Tuned To The Noise Of The Street In Awareness Mode.
- 30 Hours Play Time Or Talk Time (25 Hours With Anc On). On Any Trip, These Headphones Are Up To The Task. A Single Charge Takes Just 2 Hours. You Get 30 Hours Play Time (Or Talk Time) With Active Noise Canceling Off, And 25 Hours With It On.
- 40Mm Neodymium Acoustic Drivers For Highly Detailed Sound And Strong Bass
- Hi-Res Audio.Hear Every Detail.Twinkling Pianos. Blistering Rock. Whatever You Love, Hi-Res Audio Headphones Let You Feel The Full Impact Of Every Note. When Wired To A Hi-Res Source Via The Included 2.5 Mm To 3.5 Mm Cable, You'Ll Get The Full Benefit Of Lossless Audio That'S Recorded At A Higher Sample Rate Than Cds' For A Brilliantly Lifelike Performance.
The best ANC headphones can significantly enhance your audio experience, whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or making phone calls. This comprehensive list highlights the top contenders available on Amazon, each with unique features suited for various needs and budgets. Choose wisely based on your preferences, and elevate your listening experience in 2026.
Buying Guide: Best ANC Headphones
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) headphones are designed to improve your listening experience by reducing unwanted ambient sounds. Whether you’re traveling, working, or just relaxing at home, finding the right ANC headphones can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best ANC headphones for your needs.
1. Understand Your Needs
- Use Case: Consider where and how you plan to use the headphones—commuting, in the office, or home relaxation.
- Portability: If you travel frequently, look for lightweight and foldable designs.
- Comfort: Ensure they’re comfortable for extended use, especially if you plan to wear them for long periods.
2. Sound Quality
- Audio Performance: Look for headphones with balanced sound profiles. Read reviews for insights on bass, mids, and highs.
- Driver Size: Larger drivers often produce better audio quality, but don’t solely rely on size.
3. ANC Performance
- Effectiveness: Not all ANC systems are equal. Test the headphones if possible, or check reviews regarding how well they block out noise in various environments.
- Adjustable ANC: Some models let you adjust the level of noise cancellation, allowing you to let in some ambient sounds when needed.
4. Battery Life
- Playtime: Look for headphones with a long battery life, typically 20-30 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled.
- Quick Charge Feature: Some models offer quick charge options, allowing for a few hours of playback after just a short charge.
5. Comfort and Fit
- Ear Cushions: Look for soft, plush ear cups that provide comfort during extended wear.
- Weight: Lightweight headphones can significantly enhance comfort, especially during long listening sessions.
6. Additional Features
- Connectivity Options: Check for Bluetooth capabilities, range, and whether they support aptX or AAC for better sound quality over wireless connections.
- Control Options: Look for easy-to-use controls for volume, track selection, and activating ANC features. Touch controls can be convenient but may also have a learning curve.
- Voice Assistants: Some headphones offer integration with digital assistants like Siri or Google Assistant.
7. Durability and Build Quality
- Material: Opt for headphones made with durable materials for longevity.
- Water Resistance: If you plan to use them while working out or in less favorable conditions, consider headphones with water or sweat resistance.
8. Price Range
- Budget: Set a budget as prices can vary widely from entry-level to premium models. Remember, more expensive doesn’t always mean better for your specific needs.
- Warranty: Look for products that come with a warranty, indicating the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
9. Brand Reputation and Reviews
- Research Brands: Some brands are known for superior ANC technology and sound quality. Look for reputable brands with good customer service.
- User Reviews: Read user reviews to get a sense of real-world performance and user satisfaction.
10. Test Before You Buy
- Where to Buy: If possible, test headphones in-store to gauge comfort and audio quality before making a purchase.
- Return Policy: Check the return policy in case the headphones do not meet your expectations after purchase.
Conclusion
Investing in the best ANC headphones can greatly enhance your listening experience while providing comfort and convenience. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose headphones that not only block out unwanted noise but also deliver an enjoyable audio experience. Happy listening!
