The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Gamers, Travelers, and Commuters
By Ed Malaker
Noise-canceling headphones are great tools for listening to audio in noisy environments. Whether you are a gamer looking for deeper immersion or are someone who is listening to music while commuting to work or school, noise-canceling headphones will improve your experience. However, with so many brands available, it can be tough to find one that works for you, so keep reading while we list some of the best options.
Sony WH-1000XM5 – Best Overall Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are incredibly popular and are our choice as the best overall noise-canceling headphones. They feature 20 levels of noise cancellation via a dedicated app. The sound is great, with lots of separation and deep bass. They are also wireless, lightweight, and have a long 30+ hour battery life.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Best for Comfort and Noise Cancellation
If you are looking for the best-performing noise-canceling headphones that are also exceptionally comfortable at any cost, it will be tough to beat the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. They have a clear transparency mode and well-defined bass, which provide the legendary Bose music experience no matter where you are. They are perfect for traveling and for those who want to separate themselves from the world around them for a time.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless – Best Battery Life
If you need to travel a lot or engage in gaming sessions that have you struggling to keep your headphones charged, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a real lifesaver. A single charge lasts up to 60 hours, twice what many other popular brands offer, even with active noise cancelation (ANC) in use. They sound great when listening to any genre of music, and they are comfortable and lightweight.
Apple AirPods Max – Premium Option for Apple Users
The new Apple AirPods are absolutely amazing and have many cutting-edge features, like the ability to substitute for clinical hearing aids and provide great sound and exceptional noise canceling. They also integrate seamlessly with other Apple products, like the iPhone, which makes them easy to control and use. They are also popular due to their comfort and aesthetic appeal, whether wearing them over or in the ear.
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 – Best Budget Option
If you’re looking for something truly budget-friendly, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 delivers surprisingly good ANC and sound quality for its price. The headphones are comfortable, and with over 44 hours of battery life, they are a great pick for daily commutes.