Seeking tranquility? Discover the best noise-canceling headphones of 2024. We've rigorously tested and reviewed models from leading brands, evaluating audio quality, comfort, and, of course, noise cancellation efficacy. Find the perfect headphones for focus, travel, or immersive listening. This review helps you choose the right pair based on your budget and needs.
Drowning out the world and focusing on what matters is more important than ever. Whether you're battling a noisy commute, seeking solace in a bustling office, or simply craving undisturbed peace at home, noise-canceling headphones have become essential tools. But with countless options flooding the market, finding the perfect pair can feel overwhelming. That's why we've rigorously tested and reviewed the top contenders to bring you the definitive list of the 10 best noise-canceling headphones of 2024.
Our Top Picks: A Quick Glance
Before diving into the detailed reviews, here's a sneak peek at our top choices, categorized for your convenience:
Category |
Headphone Model |
Key Features |
Why We Love It |
|---|
Best Overall |
Sony WH-1000XM5 |
Exceptional noise cancellation, comfortable design, clear call quality, long battery life. |
The gold standard for a reason. A nearly perfect blend of performance and features. |
Best Value |
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 |
Impressive noise cancellation for the price, customizable EQ, comfortable earcups. |
Provides incredible bang for your buck. A fantastic option for budget-conscious buyers. |
Best for Travel |
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 |
Superior noise cancellation, sleek design, excellent microphone system for calls. |
Perfect for frequent flyers and those who need crystal-clear call quality on the go. |
Best for Apple Users |
Apple AirPods Max |
Premium build quality, spatial audio, excellent noise cancellation, seamless Apple ecosystem integration. |
A luxurious experience for Apple enthusiasts. Pricy, but packed with features. |
Best for Bass |
Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 |
Adjustable Sensory Bass, excellent noise cancellation, long battery life, Tile finding technology. |
For bassheads who want to feel their music without sacrificing noise cancellation. |
In-Depth Reviews: The Top 10 Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2024
Now, let's delve into the detailed reviews of each headphone, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5: The Undisputed Champion
The Sony WH-1000XM5 continues to reign supreme as the best overall noise-canceling headphone. Its industry-leading noise cancellation effectively silences distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your audio. The comfortable design ensures hours of listening pleasure, while the improved call quality makes it ideal for both work and leisure. The long battery life is another major plus, providing ample power for extended use. The advanced features and customizable settings further solidify its position as a top contender.
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700: Sleek and Effective
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 stand out with their sleek design and exceptional noise cancellation capabilities. While slightly less powerful than the Sony WH-1000XM5 in certain scenarios, the Bose 700 boasts a superior microphone system, making it perfect for calls and virtual meetings. Its intuitive controls and comfortable fit also contribute to a premium user experience. This makes it a top choice for professionals and travelers alike who need to stay connected and focused.
3. Apple AirPods Max: A Premium Apple Experience
The Apple AirPods Max offers a luxurious audio experience for Apple enthusiasts. Its premium build quality, combined with exceptional noise cancellation and spatial audio capabilities, creates an immersive listening environment. The seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem makes it incredibly easy to switch between devices and access features like Siri. However, the high price tag makes it a less accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. It remains, however, an excellent choice for dedicated Apple users.
4. Anker Soundcore Life Q30: Unbeatable Value
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 punches way above its weight in terms of value. Despite its affordable price, it delivers impressive noise cancellation that rivals more expensive models. The customizable EQ allows you to tailor the sound to your preferences, while the comfortable earcups ensure a pleasant listening experience. If you're looking for a budget-friendly noise-canceling headphone that doesn't compromise on performance, the Soundcore Life Q30 is an excellent choice.
5. Technics EAH-A800: A Strong All-Around Performer
The Technics EAH-A800 delivers a well-rounded audio experience with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. Its comfortable design and long battery life make it ideal for extended listening sessions. The call quality is also impressive, ensuring clear communication in various environments. It's a slightly less well-known option than the Sony or Bose offerings, but a strong contender nonetheless, particularly for those seeking a balanced sound profile.
6. Jabra Elite 85h: Durable and Reliable
The Jabra Elite 85h is known for its durability and reliability. Its rain-resistant design makes it suitable for outdoor use, while its long battery life ensures uninterrupted listening. The noise cancellation is effective in most environments, and the sound quality is clear and balanced. It's a solid choice for those who need a rugged and dependable noise-canceling headphone that can withstand daily wear and tear.
7. Sony WF-1000XM5: True Wireless Excellence
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds bring the legendary Sony noise cancellation technology to a truly wireless form factor. These earbuds offer excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. They are perfect for anyone looking for a compact and convenient noise-canceling solution without compromising on performance. The improved call quality compared to previous generations is also a welcome addition.
8. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Customizable Comfort
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II offer exceptional noise cancellation in a truly wireless design. Their custom fit kit allows you to personalize the fit for maximum comfort and stability. The sound quality is excellent, and the noise cancellation is incredibly effective at blocking out distractions. They are a top choice for those who prioritize comfort and performance in a small package.
9. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Audiophile Appeal
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless combines excellent sound quality with effective noise cancellation. Its sleek design and comfortable fit make it a pleasure to wear for extended periods. The intuitive controls and customizable settings add to the overall user experience. While its noise cancellation might not be quite as aggressive as the Sony or Bose, it's a strong contender for audiophiles who prioritize sound fidelity.
10. Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2: Bass-Heavy Noise Cancellation
The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 stands out with its adjustable Sensory Bass, allowing users to customize the level of bass to their liking. It also boasts excellent noise cancellation and a long battery life. The inclusion of Tile finding technology is a convenient feature for preventing loss. This is the perfect choice for bass enthusiasts who want to feel their music without being disturbed by external noise.
Choosing the right noise-canceling headphones depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, listening habits, and desired features when making your decision. With our top 10 picks, you're sure to find the perfect pair to help you escape the noise and focus on what truly matters.
