Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
10 Best ANC Over Ear Headphones for Ultimate Sound Experience in 2026
In 2026, the market for over-ear headphones equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) features is more competitive than ever. Consumers are consistently looking for the best ANC over-ear headphones that provide exceptional sound quality, comfort, and noise-canceling capabilities. Whether you are a frequent traveler, a dedicated audiophile, or someone who simply enjoys music without distractions, investing in quality headphones becomes essential. Below is a curated list of the top ten ANC over-ear headphones available on Amazon in 2026, each offering unique features and capabilities.
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
−$101.99
- 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.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 continues to dominate the ANC headphone market with its superb sound quality and robust noise cancellation technology. Equipped with advanced 30mm drivers, these headphones produce a rich sound profile with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. Their adaptive noise cancellation adapts to external sounds, ensuring an unparalleled listening experience.
The headphones also include a comfortable design with plush earcups and a lightweight frame, making them suitable for long listening sessions. Furthermore, their battery life extends up to 30 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled, and they offer a quick charge feature that provides up to 5 hours of playback after just a 10-minute charge.
Pros:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable for extended use
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Pricey compared to competitors
- Touch controls can be sensitive at times
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
Bose has long been a name synonymous with high-quality sound and excellent noise cancellation, and the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 lives up to that legacy. Featuring an innovative microphone system for superior call quality, these headphones allow users to adjust noise cancellation levels across 11 settings, providing an unmatched level of control over your audio environment.
The headphones provide balanced audio performance, making them perfect for music, podcasts, and calls. With up to 20 hours of battery life and a quick charge feature, they are reliable for both travel and daily commutes.
Pros:
- Adjustable noise cancellation levels
- Superb call quality
- Comfortable fit
- Impressive sound quality
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- High price point
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
−$159.95
- 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
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are designed for those who appreciate premium sound quality and stylish aesthetics. With a focus on delivering exceptional audio fidelity, these headphones are perfect for audiophiles. The ANC technology effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in their music or media.
They feature plush ear cushions and ergonomic design, ensuring comfort during extended use. The battery life is remarkable, offering up to 60 hours of playback time—making them ideal for long trips.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Stylish design
- Outstanding battery life
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Pricey for some users
- Control buttons could be more intuitive
Apple AirPods Max
−$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.
For Apple enthusiasts, the AirPods Max creates a luxurious experience with its high-end materials and state-of-the-art technology. Its computational audio capabilities deliver stunning sound quality while effectively blocking external noise. Each ear cup is equipped with a custom acoustic design, ensuring an immersive listening experience.
The headphones are fitted with breathable knit mesh for comfort and a stainless-steel frame that provides durability. Battery life extends up to 20 hours with ANC on, and they also include a feature for quick access to Siri.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Luxury design
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Effective active noise cancellation
Cons:
- Hefty price tag
- Bulky design may not suit everyone
JBL Club One
- Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient: Adaptive Noise Cancelling means zero distractions whether you’re studying or getting lost in the music. If you want to hear the world around you, activate Ambient Aware and TalkThru in the JBL Headphones app.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio: Wirelessly stream high-quality JBL Pure Bass Sound. In the JBL Headphones app select Audio mode for the best sound quality or Video Mode to ensure the sound and visuals of your movie/game are in sync. Available via OTA update
- JBL Pure Bass Sound: JBL Tune 770NC headphones feature renowned JBL Pure Bass sound—the same that powers the most famous music venues all around the world.
- 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 VoiceAware: Easily control your sound and manage your calls from your headphones with the convenient buttons on the ear-cup. Hear your voice while you're talking, with the help of VoiceAware.
For those who desire the perfect balance between style and sound, the JBL Club One delivers high-resolution audio and sophisticated noise cancellation. Featuring 40mm dynamic drivers, these headphones produce crisp sound quality with prominent bass.
The Club One offers an integrated voice assistant feature and customizable sound settings through the JBL Headphones app. With up to 45 hours of battery life, they are a great choice for extensive listening sessions.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Customizable EQ settings
- Long battery life
- Voice assistant integration
Cons:
- Heavier than competing models
- Noise cancellation may not be as advanced as others
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95
- 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.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 is where luxury meets technology, offering an incredible listening experience wrapped in premium materials. The headphones boast powerful 50mm drivers for high-fidelity sound and an effective noise-canceling feature that allows you to enjoy music without distractions.
Users will appreciate the battery life of up to 38 hours and the elegant, classic design that includes supple lambskin ear cushions. The B&O app enables personalization of sound profiles.
Pros:
- Luxurious design and materials
- Great sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Personalization options via app
Cons:
- High price range
- Slightly heavy for prolonged use
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
−$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.
For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 offers impressive performance without breaking the bank. These headphones come with adaptive noise cancellation technology and 40mm drivers that provide excellent audio quality.
With a lightweight design and up to 40 hours of battery life, they are ideal for users who require long-lasting comfort and sound. The Soundcore app allows for further customization for an enhanced listening experience.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Good sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Impressive battery life
Cons:
- Build quality may not be as durable
- Noise cancellation could be improved
Shure AONIC 50
- PREMIUM STUDIO-QUALITY SOUND: Custom-engineered 50mm dynamic drivers deliver high-fidelity audio developed from decades of professional stage and studio experience. Engineered for critical listeners who demand accuracy and detail in every note
- SPATIALIZED AUDIO TECHNOLOGY: Proprietary algorithm expands the soundstage to replicate the experience of listening through high-end speakers without introducing artifacts. Choose from three unique modes (Music, Cinema, or Podcast) for optimized immersion
- ENHANCED NOISE CANCELLING: Gen 2 upgrade delivers improved ANC performance that blocks distractions for truly immersive, natural listening. Focus on your music, calls, or content without ambient noise interrupting your experience
- 45-HOUR BATTERY: More than double the runtime of Gen 1, with quick charge capability that provides 5 hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging. Premium communication through beamforming mics with automatic gain control
- CUSTOMIZABLE EQ AND BLUETOOTH 5: Create personalized sound profiles in the ShurePlus PLAY app and save directly to your headphones. Class 1 Bluetooth transmitter delivers enhanced stability with range up to 100 meters (320 feet) for seamless connectivity
The Shure AONIC 50 headphones are designed for audiophiles who love high-quality sound and versatile connectivity. With 50mm drivers, the AONIC 50 provides a well-rounded audio experience while maintaining decent ANC capabilities.
The headphone features a sleek and modern design with plush ear pads for comfort during long listening sessions. With up to 20 hours of playtime and a customizable EQ setting via the ShurePlus Play app, these headphones are a great choice for audio enthusiasts.
Pros:
- High-quality sound
- Sleek and modern design
- Customizable EQ settings
- Comfortable ear pads
Cons:
- Less effective noise cancellation compared to pricier competitors
- Battery life could be better
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.
For those integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem, the Surface Headphones 2 is a fitting option. Featuring intuitive touch controls and excellent sound quality, these headphones are both functional and stylish. With a dual-finish design and adaptive noise cancellation, they can isolate the listener significantly.
This model boasts a battery life of 20 hours with ANC active, and voice assistants can be easily accessible. Customizing noise cancellation levels is practically seamless.
Pros:
- Smart touch controls
- Great sound quality
- Seamless integration with Microsoft devices
- Adjustable ANC settings
Cons:
- Limited bass response
- Build quality could be more premium
Final Thoughts
Among the selections mentioned, each of the best ANC over-ear headphones in 2026 serves a different target audience, ranging from high-end audiophiles to budget-conscious consumers seeking quality sound. With so many excellent choices, choosing the perfect fit depends on your unique preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, or versatility, the right pair of headphones is out there to enhance your listening experience.
Buying Guide for the Best ANC Over-Ear Headphones
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) technology has transformed the way we experience audio, providing an immersive listening environment free from distractions. When shopping for the best ANC over-ear headphones, consider the following factors to ensure you select the perfect pair for your needs.
1. Sound Quality
- Drivers: Look for headphones with high-quality drivers, typically measured in millimeters (mm). Larger drivers tend to produce better sound quality.
- Frequency Response: Aim for a wide frequency response range (e.g., 20 Hz to 20 kHz) for rich bass and clear highs.
- Sound Profile: Consider whether you prefer balanced, bass-heavy, or treble-focused sound.
2. Active Noise Cancellation Performance
- Type of ANC: Some headphones offer adaptive or hybrid ANC technology, which adjusts noise cancellation based on surrounding sounds.
- Transparency Mode: This feature allows external sounds in so you can be aware of your surroundings without taking off the headphones.
- Effectiveness: Read reviews and consult expert opinions to gauge how well the ANC performs in different environments.
3. Comfort and Design
- Ear Cup Design: Choose between circumaural (surrounding the ear) or supra-aural (sitting on the ear) designs.
- Padding: Look for memory foam or cushioned ear pads for comfort during extended use.
- Weight: Lightweight designs will make long listening sessions more bearable.
4. Battery Life
- Playtime: Check how long the headphones last on a single charge, especially with ANC activated. Look for at least 20-30 hours of usage.
- Quick Charge: Some headphones offer rapid charging features, allowing for several hours of playtime from a short charging period.
5. Connectivity
- Wired vs. Wireless: Decide if you prefer wireless convenience or the reliability of wired connections.
- Bluetooth Version: Look for Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for better range and power efficiency.
- Multi-Device Pairing: Some models allow you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously (e.g., phone and laptop).
6. Additional Features
- Built-in Microphone: Essential for calls and voice assistants. Make sure it has good clarity and noise reduction features.
- Control Options: Consider headphones with touch controls, physical buttons, or app integration for customized settings.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with virtual assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa.
7. Durability and Build Quality
- Materials: Look for headphones made from durable materials (e.g., high-grade plastic, metal for hinges).
- Foldable Designs: If portability is important, consider headphones that can fold for easy storage and transport.
8. Price Range
- Budget Options: Many excellent ANC headphones are available at lower price points but may skimp on features or sound quality.
- Mid-Range & High-End: Generally offer superior sound quality, build quality, and features. Brands like Bose, Sony, and Sennheiser are known for premium products.
9. Brand Reputation and Warranty
- Research Brands: Go for reputable brands with positive reviews and customer service.
- Warranties: Check the warranty period; longer warranties indicate confidence in product quality.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ANC over-ear headphones involves balancing sound quality, comfort, and additional features with your budget. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and find a pair that enhances your listening experience, whether at home, on a commute, or while traveling. Happy listening!
