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• Best Headphones
• Best Upper Mid-Range
• Best Mid-Range
• Best Budget
• Best Earbuds

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Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel headphones - spring 2024 reviews.

Whether you're a jet setter or just taking the subway to work every day, a good pair of travel headphones can be a total game-changer. Having something comfortable with great noise isolation can make your travels much easier to endure and even enjoyable at times.

When looking for travel headphones, you'll want something easy to use when hunting down your gate or running to catch a bus, with a long enough battery life to last you throughout the day. While many prefer over-ear headphones for long flights or train rides, earbuds or in-ear headphones are popular for their portability. Usually, models with active noise cancelling (ANC) do the best job at reducing the deep rumbling noises of bus or plane engines, but some in-ear headphones block out lots of noise passively.

We've tested over 775 pairs of headphones, and below are our recommendations for the best headphones for airplane use, traveling, and commuting. Also, make sure to check out our recommendations for the  best headphones , the  best noise cancelling headphones , and the best budget noise cancelling headphones .

Best Travel Headphones

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless are the best travel headphones we've tested. These top-of-the-line over-ears have a very comfortable fit and are suitable for long trips. They are equipped with powerful ANC and can block out a wide array of sounds, including the low rumble of bus and plane engines. And with their ANC on, they last 29 hours continuously, so you don't need to worry about running out of battery life. Unfortunately, the headphones need to be powered on if you want to use them wired, but at least you can plug them into in-flight entertainment without losing ANC.

These well-built over-ears have a bass-rich sound out of the box, delivering extra thump, rumble, and boom to your favorite tracks. You can adjust their sound to your liking using their companion app's graphic EQ and presets. You can even access a head-tracking feature for a more dimensional audio experience. Additionally, you can connect these headphones with up to two devices at a time, so you can stay connected to your smartphone and laptop simultaneously, and they come with a sturdy, durable carrying case to keep them safe in your bag.

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range Travel Headphones

For something premium at a less steep price, try the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. Even though they've been replaced by the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless and are getting harder to find in stock, these still provide the best noise cancelling performance for long journeys. Their fantastic ANC feature blocks bass-range noises like bus and plane engines and passenger chit-chat. They also last about 37 hours continuously, so you won't need to recharge them during a long trip. You can even use them wired while keeping ANC on, and they come with an airplane adapter, all of which you can safely store in their sturdy carrying case.

They have a lightweight and well-padded fit, though the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless still have the edge regarding comfort. However, you can wear them during long trips without experiencing too much fatigue. Their bass-heavy sound profile adds extra thump and rumble to your audio, and if you prefer a different sound, you can also tweak them via their app's graphic EQ and presets.

If you need to take calls on the go, it's worth considering the Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless . They're hybrid headphones designed for casual use as well as gaming but have a sleek design that doesn't stand out from the crowd. Their integrated mic offers a better overall performance, so your voice sounds clear and natural. However, their ANC system doesn't block out quite as much ambient noise as that of the Sony.

Best Mid-Range Travel Headphones

Travel is expensive enough without adding the cost of premium headphones. Fortunately, if you're looking for something more affordable, check out the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless, the best headphones for airplane trips we've tested at this price point. They have a shorter battery life than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and aren't quite as comfortable or well-built. However, they have an adaptive ANC system that adjusts itself to the noise around you and can block out a remarkable amount of ambient sound, including rumbling engines. Their overall noise isolation performance is even almost as good as the Sony.

Out of the box, they have a V-shaped sound profile with extra emphasis in the bass and treble, which lends your audio with intense rumble and punch, while instruments and vocals are bright and somewhat harsh. There's a companion app with graphic EQ and presets if you prefer a different sound. They last for around 27 hours continuously with their ANC on, and in a pinch, you can always plug the included audio cable into your phone or laptop to listen to audio passively.

Best Budget Travel Headphones

If you're looking for a cheaper option, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless are the best commuter headphones under $100 we've tested. Anker tends to dominate the mid-to-budget price range for over-ear headphones, especially when noise cancelling is important for use on a noisy plane or train. These headphones are significantly cheaper than the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless , but their ANC performs similarly, even though it's standard ANC and not adaptive. It does a fantastic job of blocking out the low rumble of engines and effectively reduces higher-pitched sounds like voices. Out of the box, their sound packs a lot of extra bass into your audio, so music has intense thump, rumble, and punch, but mixes can also sound muddy or cluttered. Like the previous pick, they have companion app support, including a graphic EQ and presets for sound customization.

These headphones are well-built and comfortable and have a long continuous battery life of around 44 hours. Unfortunately, they leak much more audio than the Q45, so your music is more likely to be audible to people nearby, especially if you like to listen at louder volumes. The Wyze Noise-Cancelling Headphones Wireless are also a good option if you want budget-friendly headphones with less leakage. They don't isolate from bass-range noise, like rumbling engines, as well as the Q30, but they still have a great overall noise isolation performance.

Best Cheap Travel Headphones

If you're on a tighter budget, the best cheap travel headphones we've tested are the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless. These are an earlier version of the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless that are still available. Like their successor, they outshine similarly priced headphones from other brands in noise cancelling. Their ANC system doesn't block out as much bass-range noise as the previous picks but still does a decent job of reducing engine noise. It also does a great job of reducing higher-pitched sounds like background conversations.

They have a V-shaped sound profile out of the box, with intense rumble and punch in the bass, bright and sparkly instruments, and lead vocals in the treble. This sound suits bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, pop, and rock. However, sibilants like S and T sounds can seem harsh, and they don't have sound customization features, unlike the Q30. That said, they have a similarly comfortable fit and a decently sturdy build quality, although they feel plasticky and only come with a cloth pouch instead of a rigid protective case like the Q30.

Best Travel Earbuds

Over-ears can be bulky and take up precious space in your bag or carry-on. If you're looking for something smaller and more portable, earbuds like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless are worth checking out. They're comfortable and come with a selection of ear tips and stability fins to help you find the best fit for your needs. Their compact design also makes it easy to toss them into your pocket. If their bass-heavy default sound profile isn't to your tastes, you can revamp it using their companion app's EQ and presets.

Like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless , they can block out a significant amount of ambient noise, thanks to their ANC system. They easily tackle common commuter noise like rumbly buses and trains as well as ambient chatter. While their seven-hour continuous playback time falls short compared to over-ear headphones, their carrying case holds an extra three charges if needed. They don't support multi-device pairing, so if you want to stay connected to your smartphone while working on your laptop, try the Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless . They aren't quite as comfortable, though.

If you're looking for more earbuds, check out our recommendations for the best noise cancelling earbuds !

• Apple AirPods Max Wireless: The Apple AirPods Max Wireless headphones have a premium design and a remarkably effective ANC feature, but they don't fold into a more compact design. Unlike the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless, they come with a carrying sleeve, which doesn't completely cover the headphones and won't protect them from significant damage. See our review
• Bose 700 Headphones Wireless: The Bose 700 Headphones Wireless are premium ANC headphones designed for business professionals. If you care about call quality, their mic offers significantly better overall performance than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. However, their ANC doesn't block out as much bass-range noise, but they still do an excellent job of reducing ambient noise around you overall. See our review
• Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3: The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 are wireless earbuds with a longer continuous battery life than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless. They're cheaper but less comfortable, and their ANC isn't as effective, particularly when blocking out low-pitched noise like rumbling engines. See our review
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless: The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless have a more premium build than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless, which you might appreciate, considering the price of either pair. They have an excellent noise isolation performance but don't block out as much noise as the Bose, and they have an even shorter battery life. See our review

Mar 04, 2024: As the Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless are the same price as the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless, we've removed the Razer as a separate pick and added them as a comparison to the Sony since they can be a viable choice if you care about call quality. We've also renamed the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless as the 'Best Mid-Range Travel Headphones' we've tested.

Jan 08, 2024: We've made the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless our top pick as they have a versatile performance and slightly outperform the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. We also replaced the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Truly Wireless with the next generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless.

Nov 02, 2023: Confirmed accuracy and availability of our picks. Some minor text edits for clarity.

Sep 06, 2023: Added the Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless as an alternative to the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Truly Wireless. Moved the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless to Notable Mentions.

Jul 13, 2023: We've made minor changes to the text of this article to improve its clarity, but our picks have remained the same.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best noise cancelling headphones for travel for most people to buy. We factor in the price (cheaper headphones win over pricier ones if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no headphones that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).

If you would like to choose for yourself, here is the list of all our reviews for headphones, ranked by their suitability for commuting and traveling. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There are no perfect headphones. Personal taste, preference, and listening habits will matter more in your selection, especially if you listen to audio at high enough volumes to drown out the ambient noise of your travels.

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Home » Gear » best travel headphones

The 8 Top Travel Headphones in 2024

These days a good pair of headphones is as important a travel essential as a decent travel bag or travel wallet. Travel headphones are a great way of keeping you entertained while traveling, with many of the best also offering the fantastic added extra of noise-cancelling functionality – which is always appreciated on a plane, train, or hotel with noisy air conditioning! What’s more, travel headphones are lightweight and compact too.

But which of the 250 travel headphones on the market should you spend your hard-earned money on? Check out our detailed reviews of the very best available now!

We’ve covered things like best headphones for hiking, best noise cancelling headphone, most compact, in ear, over ear, good travel headphones on a budget. You get the idea, we’ve got them all!

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Games

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• Top Travel Headphones – Bose QuietComfort 35 II
• Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $100 – Silensys E7
• Best Wireless Travel Headphones – Sony WI 1000X
• Best travel headphones for iPhone – Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices
• Best Travel Headphones with Microphone – Skullcandy Crusher
• Best Over-ear Travel Headphones – Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones
• Best Travel Earbuds – Skullcandy Earbuds
• BONUS! Best Travel Pillow to use with Headphones – Trtl Pillow Plus

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

• > Wired and wireless
• > Noise-cancelling

Silensys E7

• > Great price
• > Active noise-cancelling

Sony WI 1000X

• > Users can adjust the sound profile

Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices

• > Specifically made for Apple devices
• > Built-in microphone

Skullcandy Crusher

• > 40 hours battery life
• > Full range audio drivers plus subwoofer drivers

Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones

• > Lightweight
• > Can be used for fitness routines

Skullcandy Earbuds

• > Made for movement
• > Sweat-resistant

Trtl Pillow Plus

• > Comfortable
• > Perfect for travel headphones!

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These over-ear style closed-back headphones are incredibly comfortable to wear, feel sturdy in the hand, and are simple to set up and use. The QuietComfort 35 II by Bose can be used either wired or wireless and can be connected to two different devices at the same time.

These headphones also offer noise-cancelling functionality, capable of removing a large array of background sounds to create a well-balanced timbre that fits well whatever the music or podcasts you enjoy listening too, although they lack the ability to alter the sound to your own personal likes. The battery life for the QuietComfort 35 IIs is around 20 hours, with charging taking roughly two hours to fully charge.

• Wired and wireless
• Noise-cancelling
• Long battery life
• The over-ear style might not suit every user
• Cannot adjust timbre to personal choice
• Bose AR app only available for iOS users
• Quite bulky

Are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones for me?

If you’re looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that are going to serve you well during your travels – being comfortable, well-made, and featuring noise-cancelling – then the QuietComfort 35 II by Bose are certainly a very good buy!

The team were super impressed by these headphones, especially those that wanted a superior level of noise cancellation for things like noisy flights or hostel dorms. They love the control they have over the noise cancellation with the 3 levels which is super useful for different travel situations. The addition of alexa, music sharing and the connect app not only adds extra functionality but added levels of control too. They also found the headphones to be pretty light too given their high quality feel.

A pair of travel headphones don’t have to cost hundreds of dollars. Even if you’re on a tight budget as a student or backpacker there are some fantastic pairs of travel headphones on the market to consider. The Silensys E7 active noise-cancelling headphones are one such pair! Though they might lack some of the all-round styling of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, Silensys E7 do come in five cool colors as well as a glossy black.

More importantly perhaps for those on a budget, these headphones come in at a penny under $70, while still offering active noise-cancelling capabilities in both wired and wireless modes. A built-in microphone allows you to make hands-free calls from your smartphone, while the good-quality sound means you’ll always enjoy using your Silensys E7s.

• Great price
• Good color range
• Active noise-cancelling
• Over-ear style
• Weight of close to 1.5 lbs
• Batteries not included
• Not as sturdy as more expensive models

Are the Silensys E7 active noise-cancelling headphones for me?

Not only do the Silensys E7 headphones offer an excellent price point for anyone traveling on a budget in the need for a good pair of headphones, but also come in some cool color choices if plain black or white isn’t quite your look. Despite the price, these headphones also offer wired and wireless modes and hands-free call taking!

The team were really impressed by the levels of noise cancellation offered for such a great price. They felt that for those that don’t want to spend a few hundred $ on something that could potentially get broken, stolen or lost pretty easy on the road, these were a great solution. Another thing they liked was the cool range of colours which many other brands don’t offer.

Available in black and gold, the Sony WI 1000X are much more exciting than their name might suggest. These in-ear headphones are another closed-back form with a neckband that is both well-made and looks good. These headphones also offer some good noise cancellation despite not being an over-ear form of travel headphone.

Their basic set-up is pretty well-balanced to suit any genre of music, however, the WI 1000X also connect to Sony’s Headphones Connect app (on Android and iOS), from where users can adjust the sound profile to your exact personal tastes! These headphones provide the option of hands-free calling with vibration notifications on the neckband and have ten-hour battery life.

• Users can adjust the sound profile
• In-ear headphone
• Neckband might feel strange to some
• Only black and gold options
• Ten-hour battery life

Are the Sony WI 1000X headphones for me?

Although they are compact and lightweight, this doesn’t stop the Sony WI 1000Xs being wireless headphones with noise-cancelling functionality. They also boast the ability to receive hands-free calls, while true music lovers will adore the ability to adjust the headphones’ sound profile to exactly your preferred settings via the smartphone app.

Our team felt these were the best travel earphones for those looking for a compact in-ear configuration. They loved the deep base and clearer range of frequencies these Sony headphones offer them. They were also impressed by the fact that such a small, light and in ear headphone offers noise cancellation abilities and they felt they were very effective too.

If you have a more recent edition of an iPhone then Apple’s decision to do away with the standard 3.5mm audio jack a few years ago means you’ll be searching for travel headphones which use a lightning connector instead. Those fine folk at Bose have come to the rescue with the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphone for Apple devices.

These wired in-ear travel headphones have added StayHear+ tips to ensure the best and most comfortable fit possible, while a built-in microphone, neck-line controls and clothing clip make it incredibly easy to switch between listening to music and making calls on your iPhone.

• Specifically made for Apple devices
• No lightning adapters required
• Built-in microphone
• In-ear headphones
• 16-hour battery life
• Only in black

Are the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple Devices for me?

Apple product users are limited in their choice of headphones to some extent, however, that doesn’t mean they have to settle for second best. The Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Apple devices provide all the features you’d expect from a good pair of travel headphones at this price point while being specifically made for iPhone and other Apple devices!

Our team rate these as their best travel earphones for Apple users due to their superb sound quality and the awesome effectiveness of the noise cancellation for such small headphones. They felt being so small they were pretty much perfect for travellers, especially those who spend heaps of time flying. They also remarked how comfortable these were too.

The Skullcandy Crusher travel headphones are a simply phenomenal pair of headphones all around. Their sleek look – in black, maroon, olive green, and white – make these over-ear closed-back headphones very attractive and street worthy. But more than just looking great, these headphones do their job extraordinarily well too. The use of two full-range audio drivers in addition to two subwoofer drivers creates a strongly immersive experience with adjustable bass levels.

They are also wireless, with up to 40 hours of Bluetooth battery life after a full charge of 2.5 hours, while just ten minutes of charging promises to deliver three hours of functionality. On-ear buttons together with the built-in microphone allow you to answer calls, and adjust sound settings without the need to ever reach for your smartphone!

• Full-range audio drivers plus subwoofer drivers
• 40 hours of battery life
• Over-ear headphones
• Weight of 0.6 lbs
• No horizontal or vertical swivel
• Soft packing bag supplied

Are the Skullcandy Crusher Travel Headphones for me?

Anyone looking for a good pair of travel headphones with a built-in microphone should be drawn towards the Skullcandy Crusher headphones. They have a nice look and excellent audio and subwoofer drivers, while Skullcandy seems to have upped the build quality from previous headphone models! Fully wireless, they also boast an impressive 40-hour battery life.

The team love the Skullcandy headphones for many reasons, but the main one has to be how cool they look! Ok, they’re not that shallow, they also told us just how comfortable these headphones are, in fact, possibly the most comfortable they’ve ever used. They are also great in warmer weather too with the material not being as “sticky” when sweating! They also found the battery level to be almost unbeatable too and perfect for long travel stints and times when recharging is difficult.

We’ve already given you some great examples of over-ear travel headphones in our other categories, but the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones make the cut as our best over-ear travel headphones for a number of reasons. Firstly, they are incredibly lightweight, weighing in at an almost unbelievable 0.9 ounces! Then there’s the fact these travel headphones are waterproof and sturdy enough in their fit that they can be used for athletic events such as jogging or other fitness routines.

When it comes to tech, the Aeropex Headphones are wireless, and have a built-in microphone and volume control, while fitting snuggly behind the head/neck, allowing bone conduction technology to deliver sound through the skull so you’re still able to capture ambient sounds around you that you might need to hear!

• Lightweight
• Can be used for fitness routines
• Neckbrace style fitting
• 8-hour battery life
• Imported into the US

Are the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones for me?

If you need a lightweight pair of headphones that aren’t going to fall off as soon as you take a couple of steps jogging, you really should consider the Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones. Weighing less than an ounce, these headphones are waterproof too, meaning you don’t have to stop training with them if and when the weather turns. Additionally, these headphones have built-in volume control and microphone for taking calls!

The team feel these are the best headphones for hiking due to the way in which the design allows you to still be very aware of your surroundings whilst listening to music or a podcast. The design is also perfect for those who want to still be able to hold conversations with their headphones on. The style is also pretty low key and they found they stayed in place well whilst hiking or running and wern’t big enough to get hot or sweaty too.

The Skullcandy Method travel earbuds, or in-ear travel headphones, are also designed with sport and movement in mind and are sweat-resistant as a result. DualLock technology, together with the neck brace or ‘collar’ mean these travel headphones are easy to keep in place even when active.

They have Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in microphone for answering any calls you might receive while out and about, while you’ll find further controls within easy reach on the collar. The battery for the Skullcandy Method Earbuds charges in just 2.5 hours, giving users nine hours of music – enough for a double marathon!

• Made for movement
• Sweat-resistant
• Controls on neck collar
• Neck collar might be uncomfortable to some
• 9-hour battery life
• Not fully wireless

Are the Skullcandy Method Earbuds for me?

Using headphones while doing heavy exercise can be difficult, but the Skullcandy Method Earbuds have DualLock technology and a neck collar to prevent the buds slipping or falling out. What’s more, the collar incorporates a whole load of useful controls alongside a built-in microphone for taking calls and wireless Bluetooth connectivity so you don’t get tangled up in wires as you break those personal training records!

The team were really impressed by the sheer range of features and functions on such a small and lightweight pair of headphones. They felt in terms of travel headphones, there size and weight makes them perfect. In terms of battery life, for their size they were again suitably impressed.

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Ok, so you’ve got some good travel headphones, but you want to use a travel pillow. Hmm, what to do!?

You’re on a plane, or train, or bus, and want to while away the time with music and podcasts but also want to be comfortable throughout by using a travel pillow. What do you do? You need a travel pillow that won’t interfere with your headphones, with the Trtl Pillow Plus a great example of its kind.

Being scarf-like wrap rather than a traditional travel pillow it is soft to the touch, lightweight and unbulky while providing all the support you need to rest well thanks to a in-built plastic headrest. Leaving the ears and lower head free, the Trtl Pillow Plus doesn’t clash with headphones, whether you prefer to use over-ear or in-ear versions, making it the perfect addition to your travel must-haves!

• Comfortable
• Perfect for travel headphones!
• In-built support limits you to one sleeping position
• One-size only
• Not a traditional travel pillow
• No direct connectivity to travel headphones

Is the Trtl Pillow Plus Travel Headphone Pillow for me?

Offering a great combination of features that are easily useable in collaboration with a pair of travel headphones makes the Trtl Pillow Plus a great choice for any traveler. Lightweight, and much less bulky than a traditional travel pillow, it provides comfortable support for those looking to rest that doesn’t get in the way of headphone use.

Our team love this new style solution to that age old problem, sleeping whilst sat upright! The neck support allows them to avoid waking up stiff and sore and the low profile and lightweight construction makes it easier to carry than a conventional pillow/ neck pilow. Most importantly for this post, they love that the design doesn’t cover the ears allowing them to wear pretty much any kind of headphones with ease.

Plantronics Backbeat

The Plantronics Backbeat over-ear headphones have an attractive vintage look of black and tan that provides up to 24 hours of wireless music before having to connect up to a cable or charge. Its Bluetooth connectivity extends to a very healthy 100 meters with the ability to be connected to two different devices at the same time, while these headphones are also great for travel because they can be twisted flat and kept in a protective travel sleeve.

On top of that, the Plantronics Backbeat headphones have active noise-cancelling that massively reduces ambient noise while providing top quality audio with powerful audio drivers which create a sound that is rich right across the sound spectrum.

• Stylish look
• Travel-friendly design
• 100m Bluetooth connectivity
• Very specific style
• 6 lb in weight
• No built-in microphone

Are the Plantronics Backbeat headphones for me?

When it comes to headphones that look the part as well as sounding the part, the Plantronics Backbeat over-ear headphones are another fine choice! Not only do they offer great sound quality, but have a battery life that lasts an entire day on one charge, and twist flat so they can be safely packed away without taking up huge amounts of space.

The team love the classic look of these headphone and for those wanting something that they can wear in professional settings, these worked perfectly. The placement of the controls is also pretty unique and the team felt that they were easier to use than many others on this list. They also loved how bassy these headphones were, especially for those favouring heavy metal and dance music.

Sennheiser HD 4.50

Although the Sennheiser brand may not be as well known as Sony, Bose, or Skullcandy, we think these over-ear headphones deserve looking at! Although wireless, the use of Bluetooth 4.0 and aptx technologies ensures a fine sound quality can still be enjoyed. Users of these headphones can also enjoy NoiseGard active noise-cancelling, removing all that irritating ambient background noise that are frequently found in offices, and on various forms of transport.

Ear-mounted buttons make it really easy and simple to stay in control, while the built-in microphone ensures you can make and take calls without reaching for your smartphone. These headphones also come with a very good battery life of 19 hours after a full charge!

• High-quality sound
• NoiseGard active noise-cancelling
• Ear-mounted buttons and built-in microphone
• Over-ear design
• No protective carry case supplied
• Weight of 8 ounces
• Not great for those larger in stature

Are the Sennheiser HD 4.50 headphones for me?

If branding isn’t all important to you, lesser-known Sennheiser has been creating noise-cancelling headphones since 1984, giving them an incredible pedigree and heritage in this sort of technology. The HD 4.50 headphones also offer wireless listening for up to 19 hours in one go, alongside a built-in microphone for making wireless calls, and ear-mounted buttons for easy control.

The Sennheiser brand is well known throughout our team and they just love the high build quality which gives them a real sense on longevity. Another plus point is the superb and accurate sound levels that really blow other options out of the water.

Jabra Elite 85h

One of the chunkier over-ear headphones on our list, the Jabra Elite 85h are fully wireless headphones with smart active noise cancellation that kicks in automatically if it detects background noise such as the hum of an aircraft. Their very clever SmartSound technology means that you’re always guaranteed the best quality sound for your environment, while even with active noise-cancelling switched on they offer a battery life of 36 hours on a single charging.

Users can also get five hours of action with just 15 minutes of charging – perfect if you’re never in the same place for very long! The Jabra Elite 85h headphones also have eight built-in microphones for the very best call quality whatever the noise coming from your background surroundings.

• Fully wireless
• Smart active noise cancellation
• 36-hour battery life
• Multiple built-in microphones for making calls
• Quite bulky to wear
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• Short charging cable

Are the Jabra Elite 85h headphones for me?

These over-ear headphones are impressive all-rounders in an ever-busier marketplace. With active noise-cancelling that is triggered automatically when it picks up background noise, and SmartSound tech that guarantees top-quality sound whatever that background, users can be sure never to miss a beat. And with 8 different microphones built-in, those you talk to wireless won’t have any problem picking up what you’re saying either!

The team felt these were a great option for those on a budget wanting headphones which offer great noise cancellation, a range of features and functionality as well as looking good too. They also felt the sound quality and the base levels were also pretty damn good too for such well priced headphones.

Bose QuietControl30

The little brother or sister of the Bose QuietControl 35 II (already reviewed above), the Bose QuietControl30 wireless headphones offer great sound despite their lightweight nature! These in-ear headphones and next collar incorporate controls on the wire connecting earbud with collar, while these headphones are otherwise wireless.

These headphones also offer the ability to alter the level of noise cancellation to your immediate surroundings, while offering both Bluetooth and NFC connectivity. A dual microphone system makes calls clearer than with headphones using a single built-in microphone and can be used for up to 10 hours on a single full charge.

• Easy access controls at ear level
• Adaptive noise cancellation technology
• Dual microphone system for clear calls
• Neck collar may be awkward for some
• Do not allow Bose music sharing
• 10-hour battery life

Are the Bose QuietControl 30 headphones for me?

If you like the sound of the Bose QuietControl 35 II but are after something a little lighter and less bulky then the BoseQuietControl 30 are the ideal alternative. With Bluetooth and NFC wireless connectivity and two in-built microphones, you can listen to music and make calls without having to reach for your smartphone, with these headphones having enough battery life to keep you entertained on the move for up to 10 hours.

Our team felt these were a close second when it comes to the best headphones for hiking given how well they stayed in their ears. More than that though they were super impressed by the levels of noise cancellation offered by headphones that are so small and light. They also loved that the Bluetooth transmitter could fit inside a planes standard jack and so connect with the inflight entertainment system easily.

Philips PH805

Folding in on themselves to reduce the amount of space they take up in a bag, these over-ear headphones by Philips have a luxurious-feeling memory foam cover than rests over or on top of your ears, to make sure they remain comfortable throughout the day! There’s in-line control and a microphone switch for moving effortlessly between listening to music and taking or making a call, while the specially-designed standalone acoustic chambers and optimized 40mm neodymium drivers ensure good sound quality. The Philips PH805 headphones also feature noise-cancellation technology, and come in at just 8 ounces in weight!

• Folding to reduce storage space
• Memory foam covers
• Great quality sound
• Noise-cancelling tech
• Lack some style
• Over/on-ear headphones
• Not wireless
• Imported to US

Are the Philips PH805 headphones for me?

These Philips PH805 headphones provide a good balance between cost, sound quality, usability, and size. Ear comfort is protected through the use of memory foam covers, while the drivers and acoustic chambers used to create a wonderful sound. Further, the Philips PH805 have noise-cancelling technology built-in, so however noisy the surrounding environment you find yourself in, you’ll still be able to enjoy music as it should be heard.

For what are a super cheap pair of headphones, the team were pretty impressed by what they offered. For less than 40 quid you get decent noise cancellation, good portability and a lightweight design. The wires might be a drawback but for those wanting to switch between their phone, laptop and the entertainment system on the plane, they know it will be quick and easy.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

How to choose the best travel headphones for you

Over-ear versus in-ear headphones

One of the first questions you should ask yourself when you’re thinking of splashing out on a new pair of travel headphones is which sort of headphone do you prefer? Are you a fan of over-ear headphones that make it much easier to become fully immersed in what you’re listening to, or in-ear headphones which tend to be lighter but have slightly reduced sound qualities as a result? Do you like the feel of the neck collars/braces that accompany many modern in-ear choices?

Also, bear in mind what activity or activities you plan to use these headphones for! For example, if you intend to primarily use your new headphones for exercise or activities with a lot of movement, be sure to pick a pair that are specifically built for the purpose. That way, you’ll be sure that your headphones will last, and resist the rigours of running, for instance.

In general, if you’re going to be running or you’re looking for as an example, the best headphones for hiking, you’re going to want ones that will stay in whilst you’re being active too. So, looking for the best travel earphones, ones that go inside your actual ear, is perfect.

Wired, wireless, and true wireless

For most people, deciding between wired, wireless, and true wireless travel headphones is a pretty easy choice coming down to personal preference and what you’re used to. We’d say doing away with wires is definitely the way to go, especially when traveling, when there are already ten different things to get tangled up in! As for the difference between wireless and true wireless, a wireless travel headphone will connect to your smartphone or device through Bluetooth but might have a wire between earbud and neck brace, while you’ll find no wires on any sort in a truly wireless travel headphone.

Other features to consider

While most brands of headphone in the same price bracket will have similar features, its worth noting down exactly what you are looking for in your pair of travel headphones. We’d say finding a pair with good noise-cancelling functionality is all important when traveling – given the amount of noisy downtime you’re likely to face on planes, trains, and elsewhere. The so-called ‘ambient’ noise on a plane can hit 60 decibels for example, which explains why its always so difficult to fully hear films using the airline’s free headphones.

In addition, are you also looking for compact size, so that your travel headphones pack down really small (another reason to opt for in-ear headphones perhaps)? Maybe it’s sound quality which is more important to you.

You will also want to decide whether or not you’re going to want a built-in microphone system, enabling you to make hands-free calls. Frankly we say that if you’re going to be using your smartphone to listen to music, why not also have that hands-free capability!

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel gear, but here at The Broke Backpackers, we’ve got enough experience to have gotten pretty good at it!

When we set about testing a piece of gear, we start by handing each item out to various members of our team spread around the world. This means we always get different opinions and experiences when it comes to feedback.

Our testing revolves around a series of parameters we use for each item to fairly compare them to one another. We look at how well each piece fulfils its primary purpose. So when it comes to picking out good travel headphones that are things like portability, weight, size, noise cancellations, battery life and durability as well as sound quality.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced – So more expensive headphones that performed poorly were treated more harshly when it came to doling out points. On the other hand, cheaper headphones were given a bit more leeway.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Are bluetooth headphones better than wired headphones?

That depends on your personal preference. Bluetooth headphones are definitely handier but they also need to be charged which can get a bit annoying. However, the wire connected with your headphones can get tangled in your clothes and other objects.

Can you wear bluetooth headphones on a plane?

Yes, you can wear bluetooth headphones on a plane. If you’re worried, keep them disconnected during landing and take-off.

Are noise-cancelling headphones any good?

Noise-cancelling headphones are great for people that need to work on their laptop in a busy environment. There is no disadvantage of noice cancelling, unless you need to be aware of your surroundings.

What are the best budget travel headphones?

The Silensys E7 are the best noise-cancelling headphones that are not just high in quality, but also pretty affordable.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

A final point for all those iPhone and iPad users out there

Don’t forget that if you’re a user of Apple iOS products you’re going to need to take the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack into consideration for wired headphones, or you’ll also be faced with needing to add a lightning adapter to your kit list!

When you’re thinking about travel headphones there’s a lot to consider – as you’ve probably already discovered! However, the good news is that we’ve done much of the hard graft for you guys, and we’ve cast our eyes across the 250 different travel headphones out there to bring you only the very best! What’s more, our links make it really easy to make that purchase a reality – so get clicking!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The 11 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested noise-canceling headphones to find the best options for all of your travels.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Whether you can’t get enough of music, podcasts, or audiobooks, a pair of the best noise-canceling headphones can significantly improve the quality of your listening experience — especially if you’re traveling on a plane, commuting on a busy route, or working amid an abundance of background noise. 

In our New York City lab, we tested 27 pairs of noise-canceling headphones from the industry’s leading brands, including Apple, Samsung, and Jabra. We performed a series of tests that evaluated ease of use, functionality, comfort, and, of course, sound quality. We listened to a series of noises at different frequencies, such as a screaming baby, an airplane cabin, and a siren, to discover which headphones truly have the most ear-saving power. We then also tested all of these headphones out in the real-world to guarantee the best results to guide you while you shop.

The best noise-canceling headphones we tested are the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700. These tried-and-true wireless headphones blew us away with the ability to silence any fracas with their active noise-canceling. On top of that, they are exceptionally comfortable to wear and are easy to set up and use. If over-the-ear headphones aren’t your style preference, we also have versatile earbud recommendations as well as verdicts on the best multi-use and budget options.

Best Overall

Bose noise cancelling headphones.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Noise Cancelation 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

These have a unique adjustability with an expandable headband and ear cups that slide up and down for an even better fit.

They didn't feel as secure on the head as other headphones we tested.

The Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 earned the top spot on our list for the best noise-canceling headphones with superior performance across all of our testing categories. Most notably, these headphones blocked almost all outside sound with their active noise-canceling feature turned on. There are 11 levels of passive and active noise-canceling on this Bose model, and when we used the headphones at the highest setting, we couldn’t even hear ourselves voice talking. Even after six months of use, we found these to have the best noise cancellation capabilities of any headphones we tested.

Along with the great noise cancellation quality, we also love how slim the case is — those two qualities seem ideal for commuting to the office. We wore these on a five-hour flight, and they were comfortable the whole time. The right earcup has touch sensors to adjust the sound level and noise-canceling presets as well as power the headphones on and off. Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa can work with these Bose headphones to allow hands-free assistance for answering texts or changing music selections. They're simple and easy to set up, but users will need to download the Bose app to take advantage of the headphones’ full functionality. Additionally, they're comfortable to wear, but when we moved around a bit, they didn’t feel as secure as some of the other headphones we tested.

The Details: Up to 20 hours battery life | Up to 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 8.96 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Anker soundcore life p3.

• Sound Quality 4 /5
• Noise Cancelation 4 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5

The sound quality of the music is sharp and vibrant.

The sound quality isn’t as good during phone calls and it takes a few moments to turn them off and on.

For a pair of noise-canceling headphones at such an accessible price, we were impressed with the excellent sound projected from the Anker Soundcore Life P3 during testing. When listening to music at a low level, the active noise-canceling concealed all outside sounds, including the decibel tests with a baby screaming, a siren, subway sounds, and more. However, during the phone test, the person on the other end of our call could hear outside sounds. If some background noise during phone calls doesn’t bother you, this shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s something to consider if your primary use of these headphones would be for something requiring no disturbances.

After using these headphones for a full month, we found them to be so comfortable that we often forget we're wearing them. There are also several different sizes of tips included so you can tailor your headphones to your own preference. Users will need to download the Soundcore app to control the noise-cancelation settings, but the app was simple to use and the earbuds paired to our device immediately. 

The Details: 7 hours of playing time and another 35 hours with the case | Android and iOS | 2.24 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Sound, Earbuds

Samsung galaxy buds pro.

The headphones have crisp and clear sound quality. 

The price depends on the color — some are more expensive than others.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro headphones block out all surrounding noise and provide a vibrant sound. We love how lightweight and comfortable the earbuds are to wear, and they feel secure when you’re on the move. In lab testing, the active noise-canceling feature prevented almost all outside noises from being heard, except for some ambient noise at 84.5 decibels. Other than that, we couldn’t hear a siren, a baby screaming, an airplane cabin, or a construction drill at various decibel levels. Although Samsung is an Android product, we used an iPhone to pair with the earbuds and it was simple and hassle-free. Users can tap an earbud to adjust the active noise-cancelation and transparency levels as well as pause or play a song. We loved that it does a great job of adding bass to songs, creating a vibrant listening experience.

The Details: Up to 8 hours battery life | Up to 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 1.2 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Sound, Over-ear

Jbl tour one m2.

The smart noise cancelation instantly adapts to mask any new sounds introduced to your environment.

Talking on the phone or during video calls takes some getting used to as your own voice may sound echoey.

For daily commuters, frequent travelers, or anyone else who wants to be completely immersed in sound, JBL's Tour One M2 headphones have the adaptive technology you need to get that concert-quality experience. You can use these over-ear headphones right out of the box without the app, you just connect them to your device as you would any other Bluetooth device. The app, however, is helpful with interactive images to help guide you through headphone setup or to change the settings including the tap controls. Throughout our tests, we were able to connect to multiple devices, and especially love how it prioritizes your phone so, if you get a call while listening to your computer, it automatically switches devices when you answer.

These headphones are perfect for audiophiles as the noise-blocking capabilities are so advanced, it actually takes some getting used to. The Tour One M2's have smart noise cancelation that continuously adjusts as you’re wearing so if, for example, a train or siren goes by, the noise is blocked along with the regular nat sound of the room. We loved listening to music on these and felt more focused when listening to podcasts and audiobooks because there wasn’t any distracting background noise. It really allows you to be in your own world with whatever you’re listening to.

The Details: Up to 50 hours battery life | Android and iOS | 9.6 ounces | Over-ear

Most Comfortable, Over-ear

Sony wh-1000xm5 headphones.

 Amazon

• Ease of Use 2 /5
• Functionality 4 /5

They completely block out loud sounds and background noises.

The set-up can be tricky at first.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 are one of the most impressive all-around noise-canceling headphones we've used. We loved the lightweight and comfortable fit of the headphones; they aren't too snug or too loose but do appear slightly bulky on the head. During lab testing, these headphones impressed us with their automatic adaptive noise-canceling, which turns the noise-canceling on and off when someone starts speaking and allows users to easily skip or pause songs by tapping the side of the ear cups. When the active noise-canceling was turned on, it could prevent the sounds of a ride-on lawnmower from being heard while landscaping. And, when we walked around the city, the headphones created a “bubble” where outside noises were completely tuned out.

We did have some difficulties setting up the headphones due to a lack of instructions included by Sony, but once the app was downloaded, it became a much more intuitive experience. While the setup was tricky, these headphones more than made up for the inconvenience with incredible active noise cancelation.

The Details: Up to 30 hours battery life | Up to 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 8.8 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Most Comfortable, Earbuds

Jabra elite 85t earbuds.

• Functionality 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 4.5 /5
• Noise Cancelation 4.5 /5

The Jabra app has a tool that tests sound leakage and recommends which size of the rubber earbud tip should be used.

You may have to read the directions to help with connecting to your computer.

Earbuds can be uncomfortable to wear for long amounts of time, but the Jabra Elite 85ts come with several thoughtful features to enhance comfort. There are three different sizes of rubber earbud tips, and the Jabra Sound+ app has a tool that emits a sound to test for leakage so that it can recommend the best fit for improving sound and comfort quality. We loved how lightweight and secure the earbuds felt.

There are 11 sound levels with active noise-canceling and a transparency mode for when you need to hear surrounding sounds better. You can toggle between six included sound settings and create custom presets on the app or by tapping the earbud. After wearing these headphones regularly for one month, we found that the noise-canceling aspect does work really well and makes for much more pleasant rides on the commuter train. These earbuds would be ideal for commuting or extended flights when travelers want to listen to music for long periods of time without having to worry about ear pain. 

The Details: Up to 25 hours battery life | 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 1.06 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Splurge

Apple airpods max.

The sound quality and noise-canceling are excellent during phone calls.

They don't turn off unless they're in the case, so you have to always carry the case with you.

Apple’s first pair of over-the-ear headphones, the AirPods Max earned our fandom with noise-canceling abilities that blocked out nearly all outside commotion while providing crisp and vibrant sound for music and phone calls. We found the sound quality to be much higher than other options, and the cancel/transparency range is larger. We also appreciated how intuitive the headphones are to use thanks to buttons along the earpiece that allow you to adjust the sound level, play or skip a song, and change the active noise-cancelation and transparency settings. During our decibel tests, the headphones only let in the sound of a screaming baby at 75.3 decibels; otherwise, the noise-cancelation blocked out sirens, talking, construction drills, and more. Even with the transparency setting on, we noted that the headphones provided a noise-blocking effect.

The headphones are comfortable to wear and shaped nicely to our heads without many adjustments needed, but they still not be the best option to use during your workouts. Although these Apple headphones have a higher price point than some, we think the sound and material quality match the cost for those who have a larger budget. Even after six months of regular use, these headphones certainly live up to the hype and continue to deliver an amazing listening experience.

The Details: Up to 20 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 13.6 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Best Battery Life

Jabra elite 85h.

There are six preset equalizer settings, but you can save custom presets, too.

The noise-cancelation didn’t feel as strong as other headphones we tested.

On one single charge, the Jabra Elite 85H has a 36-hour battery life with the active noise cancelation turned on — an ideal length for travelers that might not have regular access to a power-up. To pair the headphones and control the noise-canceling abilities, users will have to download the Jabra Sound+ app, which includes features like sleep mode and a headphone tracker to find them if they get misplaced. We had no issues setting up the app and appreciated the tour the app gave that outlined how to use the headphones. After one month of regular use, these exceeded our expectations. The audio quality is amazing and the noise cancelation and hear-through mode works like a charm.

The noise-canceling feature especially impressed us by blocking out ambient noise like the sounds of an airplane cabin. We were able to hear the highest-pitched sounds like a baby screaming, but thoughtful features like the ability to play white noise from the app help block out noise. The headphones are comfortable to wear but aren’t as lightweight as the others we tested. On the plus side for portability, they fold up and fit into a compact carrying case that is perfect for air travel. 

The Details: Up to 36 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 10.4 ounces | Carrying Case | Over-ear

Best for Apple Users

Apple airpods pro.

• Durability 4.5 /5

It takes Apple users seconds and almost no effort to pair Apple AirPods Pro.

After six months of use, we noticed the battery life doesn't last as long as when they were new.

Apple users who are looking to stay within the iOS family should consider the AirPods Pros. The pairing process for Apple users takes minimal effort and almost no time at all. We paired the headphones to a phone easily and were able to adjust the active noise-canceling and transparency features without issue. The sound quality of the headphones didn’t blow us away, but we were thoroughly impressed with the noise-canceling ability that silenced any outside noise, including our simulated tests with sounds like a siren, a screaming baby, and a car honking. On a flight, we were impressed with the quality and its ability to drown out the airplane noises.

To suit your size preference, the Apple earbuds come with three different earbud tips so you can customize how snug you want them to feel in your ear. Another great feature for Apple users is the ability to track your earbuds if you misplace them by using the Find My Friends app on an iPhone. Android users can certainly enjoy a pair of AirPods Pros, but we think Apple users or people new to using wireless earbuds will appreciate the convenience the most. [Note: We tested the first generation headphones here, but we've also later reviewed the newer model as well.]

The Details: Up to 5 hours battery life | Android and iOS | 0.18 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Multi-use

Beats fit pro noise canceling earbuds.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

You can skip songs and adjust the volume level by tapping on the earbud.

The control buttons aren't easy to locate; you may have to feel around to find them.

Whether you're traveling, commuting, or working out at the gym, you'll love how comfortable and intuitive the Beats Fit Pros are. Pairing the headphones to a phone is incredibly easy — all you have to do is open the case and the device will automatically connect via Bluetooth. These earbuds have special audio that allows users to adjust the sound transparency to completely block out noise or allow it to filter through while using the earbuds. The sound quality for playing music was powerful, and nothing leaked through the active noise-cancelation. However, when talking on the phone, you may not want to activate the noise-canceling feature, otherwise you may not sound clear on the other end. After six months of regular use, we're so impressed with the battery power on these headphones and find that they only need to be charged once a week.

The Details: Up to 24 hours battery life | 33 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | Carrying Case | Earbuds

Best Customizable

Bose quietcomfort earbuds.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Comfort 3.5 /5
• Noise-Cancellation 5 /5

We love the quiet mode for when you really need to focus.

They may not be comfortable for people with small ears.

When it comes to noise-canceling headphones, we usually focus on blocking out sound so you can hear your music or movie without distraction. These headphones take things one step further by allowing users to customize their own noise-cancelation mode from a full cancelation "quiet" mode to a fully aware mode that automatically adjusts based on your surroundings. There's also an app you can use to track you earbuds — not just the case — in case one gets lost. We were also very impressed with the sound quality of these earbuds when listening to music. It feels like a full surround system and the music is so clear. The downside is that the left earbud doesn't work on its own since the Bluetooth actually connects to the right bud. Both earbuds also have tap controls, so these are best used together for optimal listening.

The Details: Up to 6 hours battery life | 30 feet Bluetooth range | Android and iOS | 0.3 ounces | Carrying Case | Earbuds

We gathered our product testers in our New York City lab to find the best noise-canceling headphones through a series of tests that evaluated ease of use, functionality, sound quality, comfort, noise-cancelation, and overall value. We tested 27 earbuds and headphones from industry-leading tech and audio brands like Apple, Bose, Sony, and more.

To test the ease of use, we had our participants unbox each set of headphones and note how easy it was to pair their cellphones to them. Some brands require an app to be downloaded that controls the features of each headphone, whereas others can be controlled by tapping on the earbud to adjust the settings. These features were tested for functionality to determine how difficult it was to navigate the headphones’ features.

Next, we carefully considered the comfort of each pair of headphones and earbuds. Some earbuds came with multiple sizes of rubber tips, and the over-the-ear headphones could be adjusted to fit the shape of the user’s head. Everyone made a phone call to test the microphone and asked the person on the other end of the call how clear their voice sounded. 

Our team used the headphones during a variety of noise-canceling challenges that included listening to music while walking around outside and participating in frequency assessments to listen for sounds at different levels with and without music playing. The decibel tests included a baby screaming, sirens, subway noises, construction drills, cars honking, and airplane cabin noises.

Travel + Lesiure / Vicky Wasik

Other Noise-canceling Headphones We Liked

Some noise-canceling headphones came close to making our list of top performers, but the pairs below lacked features and qualities compared to our winners. 

Bose QuietComfort 35 II : These headphones were comfortable to wear and easily blocked ambient sounds, but the sound quality didn’t impress us, and we think there are better headphones out there for the same price or less. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX : These have a great battery life and the app is easy to use, but the price is high considering we couldn’t fully tell the difference between the active noise-canceling and transparency settings. 

Sony WH-1000XM4 : Despite having excellent sound quality and noise-canceling abilities, the newer version of these headphones outperformed this older set during testing. 

OnePlus Buds Pro True Wireless Earbuds : These earbuds are simple to use, but they weren’t the most comfortable to wear and felt disorienting when listening to only one earbud at a time.

Tips for Buying Noise-canceling Headphones

Consider your primary use .

Depending on what you plan on using a pair of noise-canceling headphones for, be sure to consider factors like earbuds versus headphones, noise-canceling ability with phone calls versus music, and the price. If you’re planning on using a pair of noise-canceling headphones for work, consider prioritizing headphones that block out noise during phone calls specifically. For travelers, a lightweight pair of earbuds will be best for portability as well as long battery life and overall comfort for long journeys. 

Know the pros and cons of overhead versus earbuds

Overhead headphones and earbuds can both offer excellent noise-canceling abilities but differ when it comes to style, portability, and comfort. Travelers might find earbuds to be easier to carry around — especially if they are already bringing along a travel pillow — but headphones that go over the ears may end up being more comfortable for longer amounts of time. Plus, while earbuds are small and discreet, headphones are noticeable and could get in the way of workouts or sleeping on your side.

Noise-canceling headphones are designed to reduce background noise while listening to music or talking on the phone. While they can’t eliminate all surrounding sounds, active noise-cancellation can help with drowning out ambient noise and providing clear and crisp sound quality whether you’re listening to music or taking a phone call. Some headphones, like those from the Jabra brand, have white noise features that let users listen to sounds like ocean waves to help cover outside noise.

Active noise-canceling (ANC) neutralizes outside sounds using built-in microphones to pick up sounds and using sounds that are out of phase with the external sounds to counteract ambient noise. Passive noise-canceling features are the physical design of the earbud or headphones that prevent outside noise. For example, the shape and cushion of ear cups and the rubber tips on earbuds are passive noise-canceling features. 

Noise-canceling headphones, especially over-ear headphones, generally have padding and other components that block noise even when they are not projecting music. Active noise-canceling headphones (ANC) can block noise whether or not you are playing music.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best noise-canceling headphones based on a series of tests completed by our testers in our lab.

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Best noise-cancelling headphones for travel 2023

Cut out the background noise on the plane, train or bus with these top performing headphones.

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

I got caught overstaying my visa in Bali

Best noise cancelling earbuds to take travelling

Bali tourists surfing the street after flash flooding

Whether you're trying to drown out the sound of the snorers, chit-chatters, whingers or criers on the plane, or simply want to grab some precious sleep, noise cancelling headphones can give you the peace and quiet you need. Especially on a long-haul flight.

No matter your budget, preferred style or features wish list, tune in here for the best headphones you can grab for that upcoming trip.

How we choose products

Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.

Our top picks

• Best overall noise cancelling headphones: Bose Noise Cancelling 700 Over-Ear Headphones
• Best bluetooth wireless over-ear noise cancelling headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Best budget noise cancelling headphones (under $200): Sennheiser HD450 BT
• Best budget noise cancelling headphones (under $100): JBL Reflect  Mini NC
• Best noise cancelling headphones for flying: Bose QuietComfort II Noise Cancelling Earbuds
• Best noise cancelling headphones for bass: Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
• Best noise cancelling headphones that don't leak sound: Apple Airpods Max
• Best Beats noise cancelling headphones: Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earphones

Best overall noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling 700 Over-Ear Headphones, Amazon, $445

The Rolls-Royce of silence is what you're getting with these over-ears. Better still, any music you play will be crystal clear for longer with up to 20 hours of battery life in your back pocket.

11 levels of noise cancelling puts you in command of how much ambient noise you wish to let in. Lower it at the boarding gate so you don't miss a single announcement then jack it up on the plane so you can drown out the sound of your neighbour's whining.

Traveller James Booth says " they've never let me down " praising them for how well they work - even after months of sitting on the shelf.

Best bluetooth wireless over-ear noise-cancelling headphones

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, Amazon, $548

If you can afford to splash the cash, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a premium pair of over ears that offers superior sound quality in a lightweight design. Eight microphones work to stamp out high and mid frequency noise while Adaptive Sound Control is a handy piece of tech that automatically adjusts ambient sound levels as your environment changes.

I have the 1000XM3 and can't fault it. It's comfortable to wear for extended periods and blocks out noise on busy commutes.

Being the latest model the 1000XM5 comes with the most advanced Bluetooth 5.3. This makes it more energy efficient, with a battery life of up to 29-hours in Active Noise Cancelling mode. You'll also notice a more stable connection over long distances and less interference.

The 1000XM5 comes with a new Instant Pause, Instantly Play feature that stops music play when you pop your headphones off and resumes it when you put them back on. Hands-free voice control with Google and Alexa built-in is also particularly fantastic when you have your hands full of luggage and souvenirs.

Best budget noise-cancelling headphones: Under $200

Sennheiser HD450 BT, Amazon, $189

Active noise cancellation with deep dynamic bass and 30 hours of music playback make this a winner for long journeys.  Tend to forget to charge your tech before your flight? The short charging time of two hours lets you get it done while you throw your clothes into your suitcase.

You can also personalise your sound experience with the Sennheiser Smart Control App which features an equaliser, podcast mode and firmware updates.

Best budget noise-cancelling headphones: Under $100

Srhythm NC25 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Amazon, $85.99

Srhythm may not be a brand name that often appears on best headphones lists (or lists in general) but with over 23,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it's an lesser known brand with some big things going for it.

Available in four colours, it actively cancels out noise with a push of a button and is capable of isolating up to 90 per cent off surrounding sounds. Which is actually ideal when you're commuting or travelling as you'll still be able to hear some chatter and announcements.

With 50-hours of playtime you can wander around cities all day long with them in.  There's a built-in microphone for crisp call audio, has soft cushion cups for comfort and folds into itself for easy packing.

"Wore them for my long haul flights, super comfy and was able to sleep on the plane with them on (9 hours)" says one 5-star Amazon review.

Best noise-cancelling headphones for flying

Bose QuietComfort II Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Amazon, $239

In-ear noise-cancelling headphones like the Bose QuietComfort II are lightweight, can fit in your pocket and won't add pressure to your head like an over-ear style headphone does. Available in soapstone or black the QuietComfort II maps the shape of your inner ear to provide optimal sound quality and noise cancellation tailored to you. Toggle between quiet and aware modes, depending on your desired level of hush, and hook it up to the Bose Music App where to personalise equalisation and control the bass, mid-range and treble levels.

Perhaps the biggest downside is in its battery life, which cuts out at 6-hours. However you can score yourself a bonus 3 hours using the charging case.

Best noise-cancelling headphones for bass

Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2, Amazon, $338.49

Tried and tested by Stephanie Yip, eCommerce Travel Writer

One of Skullcandy Australia 's most premium over ears, the Crusher ANC 2 delivers a powerful bass, exceptional noise cancelling and clear sound. Putting them I instantly felt the velvet softness of the ear cups as they enclosed my ears. They were super roomy, so I could wear earrings with them without getting poked, and were stiff enough to feel secure but not add any headache-inducing pressure on my skull like other ANCs I've worn have.

There's quite a lot of buttons to work - and they're quite chunky compared to other headphones - but you eventually get a knack for them. The on/off sits on the left alongside bass control and crusher mode (20%, 50% and 80%). On the right you have volume (up and down are separate buttons), an ANC on/off/aware switch and a Spotify/call/pause button. The dimple on the Spotify/call/pause button is super helpful in orientating you.

As for performance? Wow. Up the bass and switch to 80 per cent crusher mode and you will feel that thump. It's quite intense and after listening to one alternative rock track I had to pull it down to 50 per cent (my version of heaven). But hey, whatever floats your boat.

The ANC is fantastic and managed to drown out the noise of the office to the point that I didn't notice my workmate sneak up on me until he was literally in my face. At home I missed two deliveries because I didn't hear the doorbell. In ambient mode you'll hear murmurs of conversation and announcements but nothing specific. If you've got a plane to catch or a stop to get off at I suggest pulling the volume way down or listening to something less rock, more indie to keep alert.

You've got 50-hours of playback here, putting it up there with the best on this list. Charging is lightning fast as well and using a fast charger I got it from 0-50 per cent in half an hour. The annoying thing is that the light to indicate it is charging is very discreet. It's hidden behind the on/off button and isn't easily visible in well-lit rooms.

Similar to other cans, they fold into themselves and pack into sturdy carry case. Bear in mind, the Crusher ANC 2 is chunkier and heavier than some of the other models on this list, so you'll need to make room for them in your bag.

Best noise-cancelling headphones that don't leak sound

Apple Airpods Max, The Good Guys, $899

At RRP$899 the Apple Airpods Max is on the premium side of things - but with good reason. They came out on top in a noise cancellation test by the Wirecutter based on a variety of factors, including sound leakage. They are quiet as a mime convention in noise-cancelling mode. Throw in fantastic audio quality and nine in-built microphones and it's well worth the coin. Then let's not forget the Spatial Audio which delivers cinematic surround sound for an experience like no other.

Best Beats noise cancelling headphones

Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earphones, Amazon, $168

If you prefer in-ear noise-cancelling headphones, the Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are water- and sweat-resistant, which makes them perfect for travelling. There are also two listening modes – Active Noise-Cancelling when you want quiet and Transparency when you actually want to be aware of your surrounds. As with all quality noise-cancelling buds you are also able to make and receive phone calls.

Do noise cancelling headphones work on an airplane?

Yes. Noise cancelling headphones work on airplanes as they would on the ground. You can connect to your device via bluetooth in the air or, if you have a wired headphone, can plug into the plane's entertainment unit using the headphone jack.

You'll often be instructed to take your headphones off during take-off and landing and during the safety announcement.

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones for an airplane?

The best noise-cancelling headphones while travelling (or doing anything really) usually have a feature called ANC (Active Noise Cancelling). This means they rely on internal electronic components to filter out noise you don’t want. The alternative is PNC (Passive Noise Cancelling) which relies on physical barriers – such as foam earpads – to dampen surrounding sounds.

What types of noise-cancelling headphones are there?

The three most common types of noise-cancelling headphones are over-ear (ones that close over your ears), buds (those which are inserted into the ears) and loop (clips onto the back of the ear).

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Stephanie loves to stretch her dollars on everything travel - from hotels to suitcases - and is always excited to share her knowledge of hacks and bargains so others can get more bang for their holiday buck. She was previously the Travel and Shopping Editor at Finder and has been featured in Travel Weekly, KarryOn and The Guardian. Stephanie can't resist a good flight sale, is a stickler for travelling as light as possible (sorry books, hello Kindle) and is currently navigating how to travel with a toddler.

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From Bose to Sony, these are the in-ear headphones to help you tune-in or tune-out when out and about.

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The best noise-cancelling headphones in Australia for 2024

Cancel out noise, not audio with top noise-cancellation

The quick list

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best premium
• Best mid-range
• Best for battery life
• Best for Bose fans
• Best for Apple fans
• Best for sound
• Best for design
• Latest updates

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best budget 4. Best premium 5. Best mid-range 6. Best for battery life 7. Best for Bose fans 8. Best for Apple fans 9. Best for sound 10. Best for design 11. How to choose 12. How we test 13. Latest updates

The best noise-cancelling headphones are designed to step in and limit the interference of ambient sounds so you can enjoy your music, podcast or movie-on-the-go to the fullest.

Yet not all noise-cancellation tech is equal, with different brands offering varying degrees of ANC, thus making your choice of noise-cancelling headphones that much harder. 

Active noise-cancellation (ANC) uses a combination of microphones and speakers to recognise external sounds and produce opposing frequencies – known as antiphases – to cancel them out. This technique allows brands to adapt and advance ANC technology to produce headphones that prioritise the music or the movie you’re trying to enjoy.

Naturally, this means that the best noise-cancelling headphones for you will depend a lot on your individual needs, so getting to know the top options to consider is an essential place to start for trying to find the perfect fit. 

We've tested several ANC headphones, looking at their sound quality, noise-cancellation ability, battery life, price and all other factors to come to a conclusion on our picks for the best noise-cancelling headphones in Australia. Whatever your needs might be, you’re sure to find the right option for you below.

And, if you're not keen on the over-ear or on-ear fit, then be sure to check out our round-up of the best noise-cancelling earbuds you can buy right. 

Best noise cancelling headphones overall

Unbeatable on sound quality, design and value, the WH-1000XM4s are the perfect all-rounder and have seamless ANC that keeps you locked in a sonic world. Read more below

Best budget noise cancelling headphones 

At this price point, it's hard to believe that 1More's Sonoflow deliver such convincing ANC but these over-ears really do the trick if you're not looking to spend a lot.  

Read more below

Best premium noise cancelling headphones

Don't mind spending a bit extra to get the best? The WH-1000XM5 are Sony's flagship cans and offer best in class ANC. They have all the XM4s features but do cost more than rivals. 

Best mid-range noise cancelling headphones

Offering a great combination of ANC and audio performance in an affordable package, these Sony's are great for those who can't stretch to the upper echelons of noise-cancelling headphones.

Best noise cancelling headphones for battery

There's nothing that will take you out of your sonic oasis quicker than a flat battery. These high-end cans are bliss, with smart control options, ANC and class leading sound that lasts.   

Best Bose noise cancelling headphones

Bose set itself the tough task of improving on the NC 700 headphones, but in the Ultra, it's succeeded. Still the best-in-class ANC, a new Immersive Audio mode and stellar sound quality rank them among the absolute best.

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Best Apple noise cancelling headphones

Apple was always a leader in ANC, so naturally its only over-ear AirPods are by far the best for top noice cancellation. They also offer great connectivity and features for iPhone owners.   

Best noise cancelling headphones for sound

For audiophiles who don't want to skimp on sound quality but also want convincing ANC from a pair of wireless headphones, the Focal Bathys are a top choice for sophisticated audio.  

Best looking noise cancelling headphones

Every single part of these headphones has been designed and made with precision and care. They not only look great with aluminum detailing and Nappa leather, but sound incredible.

The best noise-cancelling headphones in Australia for 2023

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you can find more in-depth reviews of our choices for the best noise-cancelling headphones, and you can click through the full reviews of each, written by TechRadar's team of audio experts.

The best noise-cancelling headphones overall

1. Sony WH-1000XM4

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Not surprisingly, the headphones that top our list for the best headphones overall manage to achieve the same feat here as the best noise-cancelling headphones. The Dual Noise Sensor tech of the WH-1000XM4 makes use of two mics in each ear-cup to take sound in for analysis with the QN1 noise cancelling processor, which then allows the headphones to adjust noise cancellation response at a swift, dynamic piece and tailor to your needs.

Elsewhere, the audio quality offered by the WH-1000XM4 headphones is exceptional, particularly thanks to their support for Sony ’s 360 Reality Audio format, which delivers spatial audio on stereo headphones, plus the LDAC codec that can send a bitrate of up to 990 kbps. Vocal clarity, bass levels and dynamic recreations of instrumentals seal the deal to make the sound quality of the WH-1000XM4 nothing short of top notch.

Unfortunately, these headphones can be prone to some sound leakage, making them not necessarily the best options for listening at higher volumes in quiet settings. And the lack of water resistance means that they also aren't suitable options for the gym.

Still, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones do not fail to impress in every category and particularly with noise-cancellation, and coming at a lower price to the newer Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones while maintaining most of the same features and assets sees them take top spot.

Read our full Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones review

• Check out our Sony coupon codes for this month's best deals
• ^ Back to the top

The best budget noise cancelling headphones

2. 1More Sonoflow

The 1More Sonoflow over-ear headphones prove that you can get great ANC for under AU$200, making them our top pick if you're on a budget but still want to experience immersive sound – and drown out the world while you're at it. The 1More app is easy-to-use despite it being sparse when it comes to features compared to competitor apps. It's mainly used to turn ANC on and off or adjust the EQ using presets. One of the most impressive features of the 1More Sonoflow headphones is its battery life, coming in at a huge 70 hours with ANC off and a still amazing 50 hours with ANC on – a five minute charge can also deliver more than 4.5 hours of extra listening.

Now, these aren’t the best noise cancelling headphones you can buy, but for the price you’re getting a great experience and we think most people would be impressed by how well they perform. Sound isn't high-end, but during our testing we were impressed with the powerful bass and detailed, crisp highs on offer, made capable thanks to the Sonoflow’s dual 40mm drivers. There’s support for Sony’s LDAC hi-res audio format too, but you do need a device that supports it as well as audio that offers a hi-res bit rate. 

These headphones have a simple design, quality hinges and there’s a matte-like finish to the plastic casing. The cups themselves are adjustable and are made from a super soft memory foam, which were comfortable to wear and lightweight at only 250g. You'll find physical buttons on the earcups for various controls. Some may prefer touch-based gesture controls, but unfortunately that's nowhere to be found here.

The 1More Sonoflow over-ear headphones are great value for money. We highly rated the battery life and comfort levels. They feel more high-end than they should, which is thanks to their matte finish, sturdy case and minimal design. You'll find better ANC and sound but, crucially, not for this price. 

Read our full 1More Sonoflow review

The best premium noise cancelling headphones

3. Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony has downsized the 40mm driver in the WH-1000XM4 headphones at the top of our list to the new 30mm driver in its latest WH-1000XM5 headphones. It's also changed the design. The XM5s no longer fold up completely. We were initially worried about these choices. Would the signature dynamism and space be lost with the smaller driver? Why change a design that's worked so well so far? Those fears were unfounded – they sound pretty much just as good as the exemplary XM4s, though we must admit they don’t sound dramatically better, either.

Sony’s again leaning on a one-two punch of both LDAC codec and DSEE Extreme support here to offer the best possible sound quality from your connected devices. LDAC is your hi-resolution audio option, and it's good: when Sinead O’Connor sings Nothing Compares 2 U she might as well be in the room with you, from forceful chorus to trembling bridge, these Sony cans pick up each inflection and sibilant cry with wondrous effect. 

The noise cancellation here is without a doubt the best in the business, but the XM4s are still our favorite choice for most people. The XM5s are a solid option if you can afford a premium price tag and only the latest tech will do. 

Read our full Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones review

The best mid-range noise cancelling headphones

4. Sony WH-CH720N

It's not just the premium market where Sony shines best, as it proves it can go toe-to-toe in the equally competitive mid-range space. This pair of Sony WH-CH720N cans delivers impressive noise cancellation, considering the price you're paying. Don't go expecting it to trouble the brand's own XM4 or XM5 headphones further up, but if you're on a budget and you want a pair of headphones to drown out external sounds, they do a fine job. 

This is a pair of headphones that really do benefit from various tweaks in companion smartphone app too, as we found out the box, the default setting made them sound a little too brash. A quick change of some settings, however, and we were delighted with what we listened to. Songs are afforded good energy, and we were able to happily while away the hours listening to our favourite tracks – which was also easy since they're so lightweight, coming in under 200g on the scales. 

Read our full Sony WH-CH720N review

The best noise cancelling headphones for battery life

5. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless have an incredible battery life, extensive feature set, and zealous sound that'll have you nodding your head happily wherever you go, not to mention some very talented noise cancellation that adapts to your surroundings.

These are an evolution to the November 2019-issue Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones, which we commended for their excellent sound, feature set and active noise-cancellation (ANC) while feeling disappointed by its underwhelming 17-hour battery life. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless now boast a whopping 60-hour battery life even with ANC deployed, eliminating our main downside to the third generation Sennheiser Momentum headphones entirely.

The sound quality and battery life are excellent here and the ANC truly shines, particularly as it is so easily adjustable with the ability to control it by 'pinching' the right ear cup in the same way you would to pan in and out of photos on your smartphone. If you want fantastic noise-cancelling in a design that boasts strong battery life, these are for you.

Read our full Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless review

The best noise cancelling headphones for Bose fans

6. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

They don't quite beat the options above them in terms of battery life or price, but the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones continue Bose's winning streak when it comes to blocking out external noise. 

In fact, the active noise cancellation here is so good, that the QC Ultra Headphones could certainly stake a claim for the top spot on this list. But, such is the quality of the Sony WH-1000XM4, coupled with their very attractive price, that we're keeping that pair on top for now. 

New to the QC Ultra Headphones over their Noise Cancelling 700 predecessor is Immersive Audio, which is Bose's take on the recent fad for 3D audio – such as Apple 's Spatial Audio or Sony's 360 Degree Reality Audio – but without discriminating by audio source. The idea is no matter what you're listening to, or whatever you're listening to it on, you'll be treated to an expanded soundstage. It definitely works, but the jury is still out as to whether it should be used for all songs, or whether it should be activated only in certain moments. 

Whether you do or don't activate it, either way your ears will be treated to a lively, energetic presentation chock full of detail. They're easily Bose's best-sounding headphones yet. 

• See our Bose coupon codes for this month's best discounts

The best noise cancelling headphones for Apple fans

7. Apple AirPods Max

If you're an Apple user and you want a pair of noise cancelling headphones that cover up your ears, the Apple AirPods Max are simply sublime. Not only are they effective noise cancellers, but they sport a design that sets them apart from most other pairs on the market. During our testing we were truly impressed by these headphones, but admit they're not for everyone.

Audio performance is exceptional and class-leading ANC impresses, but they're let down by their eye-watering price, lack of support for Hi-Res Audio codecs and lack of a 3.5mm audio port – audiophiles will be disappointed. If you're an Android user, then you can still revel in their impressive audio and ANC performance, but we don't think their high price would make them totally worth it. 

However, if you've already bought into the Apple ecosystem, you have a lot of money to burn, and you don't care about hi-res audio, you won't find headphones that sound better or are easier to use than the AirPods Max.

Read our full Apple AirPods Max review

The best noise cancelling headphones for sound

8. Focal Bathys

The Focal Bathys over-ear headphones are a top pair of wireless over-ear headphones that sound fantastic when used wirelessly, but listen in wired USB-C DAC mode for 24bit/192kHz decoding and you'll get exceptional sound, which is why they're our top pick for audiophiles. They cost just a bit more than the Apple AirPods Max, but their ability to support high-resolution audio (combined with superb sound) makes their price tag more justifiable. 

There's a five-band EQ, which includes presets or you can tweak it manually. We'd have expected a little more battery life, but 30 hours does beat some of the top rivals on this list, including the Bose NCH 700.

We'd ultimately recommend listening to the Focal Bathys via USB-C wired DAC mode for glorious hi-res audio whenever you can. But, if you want to go down the wireless route, you're still in for a treat. Removing the cable still sees the Bathys bringing detail, refinement, expanse and clarity to your favourite tracks. They really are a delight for sound quality, although ANC isn't the best of the bunch. Having said that, they do block out some sounds, they just don't wrap you in a cocoon of silence like other rivals on this list. 

Read our full Focal Bathys review

The best noise cancelling headphones for design

9. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

When it comes to sound, Bowers & Wilkins knows how to achieve premium audio quality and their flagship wireless headphones are proof of that. As we said in our review, the PX8 are the headphones to beat sonically. Yes, the ANC is OK rather than wonderful, but noise nixing does feature – what we mean is, these cans boast the kind of sound quality that normally means you have to forego ANC entirely. The agile, detailed and completely immersive sound they can produce is a level above just about everything else out there. It's exceptional and well worth the extra money if you value sound over all else. 

The listening experience is much more than just audio quality though and this is where the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 shine above the rest. They marry subtlety and flair in a way that we've not heard other over-ear headphones do, with beautiful die-cast aluminium arms, diamond-cut bright metal detailing and a comfortable Nappa leather headband. It's not just style over function either, as the drivers inside the chunky ear cups have been angled to sit parallel to your ears (rather than parallel to the outside of the earcups) for seamless timing and precise sound. 

The only really let down about the PX8s is the premium price tag that's attached to them. With even Apple's AirPod Max coming in less than them, these headphones are not cheap. But if you're prepared to pay extra for class-leading sound that comes in a super-stylish package, here you go. 

Read our full Bowers & Wilkins PX8 review

How to choose the best noise-cancelling headphones for you

When it comes to headphones of any description, getting an accurate idea of your needs and what you hope to find from your new headphones is an essential first step to helping you track down the right pair for you.

For those who expect to wear their headphones for longer periods, design and comfort will be important factors to consider, making the best over-ear headphones the top candidates for consideration. Being designed to sit over the ear rather than on them or pressed into them, over-ear headphones have an edge from the get-go when it comes to comfort. And when it comes to noise-cancellation, there's a good reason many of the top over-ear headphones are also some of the best noise-cancelling headphones. 

Over-ear headphones by virtue of their design generally offer the most effective and impressive noise-cancellation, with the closed, over-ear design working in concert with the built-in noise cancelling technologies to more totally close off your listening experience from the interference of exterior noise.

But over-ear headphones might not necessarily be the best for everyone, particularly if they're hoping to have a pair of noise-cancelling headphones they can take with them while exercising. For this purpose, earbuds are typically the better pick in being smaller and therefore less intrusive while also not overheating your ears during exercise (or trapping in sweat).

The best noise-cancelling earbuds might also be the preferred pick for those who expect to need their headphones while constantly on the move, as they'll save on space both wherever you need to store them and also while you're using them.

Beyond the design, another important factor to consider when picking the best pair of noise-cancelling headphones for you is your budget, with top options coming in at a variety of price points. Ultimately, to help you find the right option for you, we've put together the list above to get you across all the relevant details and what they offer.

The best noise-cancelling headphones: FAQ

What is noise cancellation.

Noise-cancelling headphones use analogue and electronic methods to block out the environmental sound around you, allowing you to listen to your music in peace without distraction. Most noise-cancelling headphones make use of the following two approaches:

Passive noise cancellation: Passive noise cancellation is when the headphones physically block outside sound from reaching your ears, and this can be achieved in a number of ways. Noise-cancelling over-ear headphones typically have heavily padded ear-cups to achieve this, while in-ear headphones need to fit snugly in your ear to create a tight seal, stopping environmental sounds from entering.

Active noise cancellation (ANC): ANC uses inbuilt microphones to analyse environmental noise and create 'anti-noise' frequencies that are mixed in with your music playback. This effectively cancels out the sound of your surroundings using analogue or digital filters.

Is it worth buying noise-cancelling headphones?

For most people, when wearing headphones, you want to be able to hear what you're listening to and not be distracted by environmental sounds. While turning up the volume may help to achieve this to enough of an extent for some people, others such as those who have regular, noisy morning commutes will want a more dedicated noise-cancellation solution.

A true pair of noise-cancelling headphones will be able to filter out unwanted sounds more effectively without reducing the quality of the music or podcast you're listening to. Many of the best cans offer this, in addition to opportunities to dynamically respond to the context in which you're using them if you need to suddenly start a conversation.

If you want the best audio experience without the risk of distraction or losing quality of sound to the interferences of the outside world, noise-cancelling headphones will definitely be worth considering.

How we test the best noise-cancelling headphones

We've tested every pair of the best noise-cancelling headphones on this list and to include them here, we were looking for each product to excel at a number of things. 

The first, of course, is effective noise-cancellation. We tested for headphones that were able to block out sound effectively, no matter whether you're on a daily commute or simply taking a walk. We also looked at additional features like multiple noise cancellation modes or how well their transparency mode worked. 

Audio performance was a key consideration too. Good noise cancellation should never have to mean poor sound quality – and we made sure to check thoroughly until we were satisfied that each pair of headphones here offer clear and powerful sound, irrespective of the deployment of ANC. 

From there, we looked at Bluetooth connectivity. We tested for stable and reliable connections. After all, there's nothing worse than losing a track just as it reaches the good bit.

Next up, we wanted to ensure the headphones were designed with comfort and style in mind. We tested how comfortable they were for long periods of time and assessed their looks, too, from minimal to suitably stylish, while appreciating that everyone has different taste.

We also considered additional features, such as voice assistant integration and app support. Not all of the headphones in this list have perks such as these, but it's nice to know which extras you can pick up, regardless of your budget.

Talking of budget, we also considered whether the noise-cancelling headphones in this list were good value for money. That doesn't mean we only looked at budget headphones – far from it – but we wanted to make sure that each pair offered something that made their price worthwhile. 

Our ultimate goal is to make sure you buy a set of noise cancelling headphones you'll be over the moon with. We want them to furnish you with good quality music, free of extraneous noise, for years to come. We hope we've achieved this

The latest updates to this noise-cancelling headphones guide...

June 23, 2023

Updated the format of the page to make navigation much easier. Removed some products which are now discontinued and replaced them with more up-to-date products. 

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Max is a digital content writer for TechRadar, covering home entertainment and audio, phones, laptops, gaming and virtually anything else that falls under the consumer electronics umbrella. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Max spent a combined five years writing for What Hi-Fi? and Pocket-lint, before moving to Australia in 2018. After a brief stint writing for men’s lifestyle publications, Max is back to working on his first passion of technology.

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Best noise canceling headphones for airplanes

Published on March 26, 2024

Your passport is ready, and you’ve packed your bags. You got through security and made it to the gate. Getting on the plane, you remember, no matter where you’re flying, airplane cabins are noisy. Ambient noise like engine hum and cabin chatter can be intrusive, and there might even be a crying child within earshot if you’re really unlucky. Flights can take a long time, so get comfortable with the best noise canceling technology . We’ve considered the factors that particularly impact folks when up in the air and whittled down the list to make your flight more pleasant—strap in for takeoff.

What's new?

• This article was updated on March 26, 2024, to add the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus to our recommendations, add captions to our isolation charts, and answer more FAQs.

The best noise canceling headphones for flying on an airplane are the Sony WH-1000XM5

With its excellent isolation and active noise canceling (ANC) technology and its comfortable fit, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is our pick for the best noise canceling headphones for air travel. It also happens to be one of the best headphones , period. But for flights, the headband of the WH-1000XM5 is supportive and light, while the ear cups effectively seal around your ears without a lot of pressure, making it easy to wear for hours, even if you fall asleep.

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Boasting 31 hours and 53 minutes of battery life on a single charge, the WH-1000XM5 will last most around-the-world trips. It may not be the most extended battery life we’ve tested, but considering what the battery is powering: DSEE Extreme , ANC, and Sony 360 Reality Audio , the figure is impressive. Using the Sony Headphones app, you can hone in on your EQ preferences , control preferences, noise canceling preferences, and codec choices.

A Bluetooth 5.2 connection with LDAC , AAC, or SBC codecs suits any accompanying device and ensures you won’t run into latency issues. Furthermore, Sony continues to support hardwired connections by including a detachable cable with a 3.5mm headphone jack . This allows you to plug into in-flight entertainment media consoles to watch TV or movies. The only downside to contend with is the price, and unlike the previous Sony flagship, Sony WH-1000XM4 , this pair does not collapse into a smaller footprint. Although, it’s worth noting that if you wear the headphones around your neck on the plane, it may not matter to you if they fold up.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have a long battery life

Sennheiser has airplanes in mind with the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless . The first sign that Sennheiser has designed the headphones for flying is the airplane adapter included in the package for use with the detachable 2.5mm to 3.5mm cable. While the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless does not have class redefining ANC on tap, it still cancels out a lot of environmental noise. Our review found that the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless feels comfortable with glasses, and the leatherette and fabric combination works well for longer listening sessions.

With an awe-inspiring battery life of 56 hours and 21 minutes, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is ready for several trips without needing a top-up charge. The fact that the case has ample storage and some rigidity to protect your investment does not go unnoticed, even though the headset lacks hinges to fold down. For many, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless’s excellent sound quality pushes the Sennheiser cans to the forefront. In addition, the AAC, SBC, and extensive aptX support (aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive ) means you don’t need to be concerned about whether latency will crop up as an issue with videos.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have features to spare

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are among the best headphones for flying, thanks to their exceptional active noise canceling (ANC) capabilities and comfort features tailored for travel. You’ll notice that the large, dense ear pads do a great job sealing to your head, leading to excellent  isolation , and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones do a rock-solid job of dispelling outside noise.

Comfort is paramount during long-haul flights, and the QuietComfort Ultra headphones don’t disappoint. They are designed with wide, soft-padded ear cups that comfortably encompass the ears, providing superior noise isolation and comfort. The headphones are impressively lightweight at 253g, minimizing head and neck strain during extended wear. The angled dynamic drivers also consider ear positioning, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

Furthermore, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a travel-friendly choice with their robust battery life, ensuring that they last for the duration of long flights without the need for frequent recharging. Including a compact carrying case with space for cables makes them easy to store and transport, adding to their convenience as a travel companion.

Apple users may want to check out the AirPods Max

We know it’s not cheap, but the Apple AirPods Max is still an incredibly comfortable, stylish, and effective noise canceling headset. Apple has produced soft mesh ear cups that airily conform to the shape around your ears while isolating out high-pitched noise.

You’re unlikely to find yourself without audio, with just over 21 hours of battery life. However, on the list of downsides, the AirPods Max requires a separate purchase of a Lighting to 3.5mm adapter if you are interested in plugging into the airplane’s entertainment system. If you mainly connect your Apple device, the H1 chip and AAC codec will ensure your connection remains stable. The AirPods Max is totally in its element for air travel.

Is now a good time to buy?

If you are an Apple user eyeing the AirPods Max, the second-generation AirPods Max 2 may arrive this year, so you may consider waiting if your next trip or vacation is far off.

What about the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)?

Each pair of headphones on this list takes up more space than a set of true wireless earbuds, like the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) . In terms of packing light, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) fits in virtually any pocket. The latest Apple buds possess some excellent noise canceling capabilities, too. For iPhone users, the H2 chip integration means you can reliably enjoy whatever media you’ve got on your device.

Of course, there are downsides compared to over-ear headphones, such as long-term comfort and shorter battery life (5 hours and 43 minutes). Also, the Bluetooth-only connection prevents you from plugging into any media console the airline provides. That said, if you’re hopping on a relatively short flight and your iPhone is readily packed with your favorite podcasts and movies downloaded, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) can cancel airplane noise very well.

Save your money with the Anker Soundcore Life Q30

The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 headphones are an excellent choice for air travelers seeking a balance of quality, comfort, and value. The active noise cancelation significantly reduces low and mid-frequency noise, minimizing cabin noise on the plane. They are also comfortable to wear for hours at a time, with ample padding around the ears if you end up falling asleep.

The transport mode is the most useful of the three available ANC modes since it blocks out frequencies that passive isolation alone struggles to attenuate.

Our standardized testing confirmed battery life at an impressive 46 hours and 35 minutes (ANC on), which should be sufficient for most trips. But if you do need more juice, the fast charging capabilities provide another four hours of listening time with just a five-minute top-up.

For only $80, you also get a hardshell carrying case, offering convenient storage and protection during travel. And with the ability to EQ the audio through the Soundcore app, travelers can adjust the sound profile more to their liking.

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus are good value for travel

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus headphones offer a solid choice for travelers, especially those looking for middle-ground active noise canceling (ANC) capabilities without breaking the bank. Priced under $300, these headphones come with a softshell carrying case, making them relatively travel-friendly, although their inability to fold up might be a slight inconvenience for some. They feature touch controls for easy operation and offer both wired (via a USB-C port and a 2.5mm TRS socket) and wireless Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, ensuring versatility during travel.

With an impressive battery life of over 53 hours with ANC on, travelers won’t have to worry about frequent charging. The ANC performance is decent, attenuating about 80% of outside noise, suitable for reducing the hum of an airplane or train, though not entirely eliminating it. While they may not compete with top-tier ANC headphones in noise cancelation, their comfort, battery life, and connectivity options make them a practical choice for air travelers seeking good value.

Notable mentions

• Anker Soundcore Space Q45 ( $149 at Amazon ): Striking up a nice balance between price and feature set, these cans include a surprisingly good app with an equalizer, as well as good ANC. That you get LDAC and AAC codecs mean it pairs with any operating system, while the 3.5mm cable means you can use it with the airplane media player.
• Anker Soundcore Life Q20   ( $59 at Amazon ): This is the headset to get if you want barebones, no-nonsense active noise canceling (ANC) on a budget. The lack of bleeding-edge features and an outdated USB port may be a drag, but this headset does very well for the price.
• Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 ( $379 at Amazon ): This pair of premium headphones cancels out noise handily. It does not fold down and isn’t as comfortable to wear as the QuietComfort 45, which is unfortunate, given that the aesthetics are slicker. For the accident-prone, the IPX4 rating is a nice feature.
• Monoprice BT-600ANC ( $84.99 at Amazon ): For most casual listeners, these are the best bang for your buck headphones. The combination of great isolation and noise cancelation, decent sound, and premium features is a sight for sore eyes in the sub-$100 headphone category.
• Shure AONIC 50 ( $298 at Amazon ): For the folks who wear glasses, the AONIC 50 has been tested as providing a pleasant fit. It’s made of premium materials and sounds good, with a huge slew of high-quality Bluetooth codecs and wired listening options.
• Sony WH-1000XM4 ( $348 at Amazon ): The older sibling of the WH-1000XM5 topping our list, this set doesn’t isolate noise quite as well, although it still does a very good job canceling noise generally. It also has the added benefit of folding hinges to take up less space in your bag.
• Sony WH-XB910N ( $148 at Amazon ): First off, by default, these headphones are too bassy for most listeners, but they are comfortable, but you can use the Sony Headphones app to improve the sound with EQ. It costs less than the flagship WH-1000XM5, which makes it worth a closer look.

What you should know about noise canceling headphones for flying on an airplane

Airplanes are loud, but with the advent of ANC, the din of the cabin need not bother you as much. Technically, you can use noise canceling headphones on a plane and probably have a better experience than non-noise-canceling headphones. With that said, if you’re shelling out the dough, we have a few tips to make your purchase more wisely.

Some simple features to keep in mind when looking for noise canceling headphones for flying, besides the noise canceling feature, include getting closed-back headphones. All ANC headphones have closed-backs, but this is a reminder to leave the open-back headphones at home. Using open-back headphones will annoy your seatmates because they will hear virtually everything you’re listening to. Not to mention, all cabin noise will still reach your ears.

We recommend going for over-ear headphones  rather than on-ear headphones . They may take up less room, but on-ear headphones typically aren’t comfortable over long periods. In addition, from an engineering perspective, it’s simply more challenging to create an isolating seal when the ear cup pushes against your ear rather than hugging around it as with over-ear headphones. That’s also why on-ear headphones feel less comfortable, as a general rule. They’re fine for short periods but cause discomfort on a long flight. Save yourself a literal headache, and choose closed-back over-ear headphones.

What you need to know about noise canceling and flying in an airplane

Given that airplane cabin noise runs the gamut of 60dB up to 114dB, averaging 85.6dB , it makes sense that you should want to turn it down. Ideally, your noise canceling headphones will have both good isolation and ANC. Isolation typically blocks high-pitched sounds, like crying babies or constant chatter. It achieves this effect by creating a seal around your ear. Because airplanes involve prolonged listening sessions, you’ll want to balance effective isolation and comfort.

For instance, some headphones can isolate very well but have vice-tight grips, which do not bode well for hours on end. This is particularly true for people who wear glasses  because some headphones clamp down too hard for comfort.

Whereas isolation blocks those incidental high-pitched sounds, you’ll want ANC that comprehensively filters the midrange and low-pitched noises in the airplane cabin. In particular, you want your ANC to cover around 1000Hz and below. ANC is well suited for the cabin environment and the droning sounds of the aircraft’s engine. Considering that ANC works by inverting waveforms to “cancel” out the noise, a droning waveform with little variation (unlike the baby crying) is the perfect application of the technology. You want to ensure that whichever headset you pick affects the critical lower frequencies because not all ANC is created equal.

Battery life is important for flying, but so is a headphone jack

You might have moved on and away from the headphone jack, but in-flight entertainment has not necessarily moved with the same speed. Indeed, some flights feature apps that allow passengers to access media from devices and laptops, in which case your Bluetooth headphones will do just fine, but not all airplanes have this. So, you’ll want to make sure your headphones can use a headphone jack. In addition, check that the headphones you pick don’t have any odd quirks like turning off the ANC when you plug in a cable, for instance.

If the in-flight entertainment of your choice consists of downloaded podcasts, music, and videos on a personal device, then you’ll want to check that your headphones have the battery life to last your flight. Nobody wants to get caught with a dead battery during a show. Bluetooth headphones have reached a point where you don’t need to worry if the battery will last your flight if fully charged. However, if you’re planning to board with noise canceling earbuds , you’ll want to check that the battery life can handle the length of your flight. In imperfect circumstances, a fast charge function might be important if you board with a battery that is not fully charged, eking out an hour or two from a few minutes of charging.

The AAC codec is optimal for Apple devices. For Android, something like aptX or LDAC yields better audio than AAC, and if you’re watching a video, definitely aim for something better than SBC or AAC. Otherwise, you may encounter latency in audio and video synchronization.

Which accessories will make your noise canceling headphones better for flying?

Everyone has their preferences and rituals with flying, but you may want a couple of items to improve the experience. For your headphones, you probably want a case . Some of our selections already come with a case. Typically, you should look for something that occupies minimal real estate in your bag but offers some protection from crushing. Internal pockets in a case can help keep your accessories together, like the charging cable.

You might’ve noticed that some airplanes use an unusual two-pronged connector for the built-in media players. To save you the hassle of purchasing the crummy earphones airlines offer, get an airplane adapter . It’s small and pretty cheap. You can stow it in your headphones case when not in use.

Check with your airline about capacity limits, but a battery power bank can improve most travelers’ experiences. Some cabins have USB ports for convenient charging, but it’s common to discover the one at your seat doesn’t work. Since many folks fly with power-hungry devices, keeping a battery pack on hand can help if your headphones’ battery drains before you land.

How we test the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes

We subject all our headphones to the same set of tests , from standardized battery life tests to measuring frequency responses and noise canceling efficacy with our Bruel & Kjaer 5128. In addition to using our objective measurements to support our findings, we review each set of headphones hands-on to see how well they perform their intended uses. Some products are better on paper than in reality, so we test and try everything we review.

How we choose the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes

We’ve selected the best noise canceling headphones for flying on airplanes by consulting our staff’s extensive knowledge and comparing all of our objective tests. The Best list here is not representative of a single individual’s opinions. Instead, it is the culmination of our shared expertise as an organization, as informed by objective measurements and reviews. For this list, we consider individual travelers’ variable and unique needs with necessary features. For example, we look for good noise canceling, comfort, and connectivity.

Why you should trust  SoundGuys

SoundGuys is not paid to endorse any products. Our editors and writers do not benefit financially by privileging one product over another. Furthermore, our advertising team is strictly separate from our editorial team. While SoundGuys does earn money through affiliate link sales, the money funds the organization and does not go toward individuals. Because of this, the editors and writers at SoundGuys rely on our expertise and desire to share knowledge when recommending any single product. Our editorial staff has no stake in pushing any one product unless it is measurably better than another product. Guided by our objective scoring scheme, we abide by strict journalistic ethics .

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can typically plug your headphones into a plane’s entertainment system using a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Make sure your headphones support a wired connection!

Whether to use headphones or earbuds on a plane depends on your preferences. Headphones generally offer superior noise cancelation and comfort for longer flights, making them ideal for travelers seeking to minimize cabin noise. Earbuds, however, are more compact and less intrusive, which might be preferable for convenience and portability.

No, you don’t need special headphones for airplane use. However, headphones with active noise cancelation (ANC) are highly recommended for air travel as they significantly reduce ambient cabin noise, enhancing your listening experience. Ensure your headphones or earbuds have a 3.5mm jack or an adapter for wired connections to the plane’s entertainment system. Use Bluetooth for a wireless connection to your personal devices while they are in airplane mode .

Yes, you can use Bluetooth on an aircraft. So that you know, you will need to put your device into airplane mode. Unless told otherwise by the flight attendants, you can use Bluetooth while in airplane mode. Most of the time, you’ll also need a hardwired connection to use the media player console aboard your plane.

Some airplanes use a two-prong audio jack system to deliver stereo sound to passengers. However, this is becoming less common with newer aircraft adopting standard 3.5mm jacks. The dual-prong setup was traditionally used to separate audio channels. If you encounter a two-prong system, you may need an adapter to use your own headphones that feature a single 3.5mm plug.

Yes, noise canceling headphones are designed to reduce ambient noise, making them especially effective at diminishing the consistent drone of airplane engines.

For airplanes, it’s preferable to have headphones with noise canceling capabilities to counteract cabin noise. Over-ear or in-ear styles both work, depending on your comfort preference. Also, ensure they are compatible with any devices you bring or the airplane’s entertainment system.

Here are some tips to block out loud noise on a plane:

• Wear noise canceling headphones .
• Use foam or silicone earplugs .
• Listen to music, white noise, or ambient sounds to mask the cabin noise.
• If you can, choose seats further up in the cabin, as they’re generally quieter than those near the engines.

Earbuds won’t have as effective passive isolation as headphones. Still, you can use earbuds from Bose, such as the QuietComfort Ulra , on airplanes, as the ANC is very effective.

Policies may vary by airline. Still, generally, it is okay to use noise canceling headphones so long as the device they are connected to is in Airplane Mode during takeoff and landing. Some airlines allow headphones once the aircraft is airborne, while others require passengers to wait until the plane reaches cruising altitude.

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The 12 Best Noise-canceling Headphones To Buy for Travel [2023]

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How Do Noise-canceling Headphones Work?

Active noise cancellation explained, 1. for those who like big brand names and crave extra gadgets, 2. best for serious music enthusiasts with deep pockets, 3. older noise-canceling headphones (but still competitive), 4. for minimalist apple lovers, 5. award-winning superior quality (and perfect for anyone who really appreciates music), 6. entry-level anc headphones (that compete with the bigger boys), 7. bose-brand brilliance for budget-conscious music lovers, 8. noise-canceling headphones for those who don’t follow the crowd, 9. lightweight, enjoyable anc audio for those on a budget, 10. efficient  sennheiser headphones for those on a budget, 11. semi-noise-canceling headphones for those who like their beats on a budget, 12. acceptable noise-canceling capabilities with plenty of customizable options, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Noise-canceling headphones use fancy technology that helps eliminate annoying external noises, allowing us to concentrate only on what we want to hear.

Perfect for busy commuter trains, noisy subways, and even to drown out the sound of fellow air passengers, noise-canceling headphones are the way forward for anyone who wants to be alone, even in public.

Of course, these wonders of modern technology come with an elevated price tag to match. But if you really want to enjoy uninterrupted tunes — or simply tune out from the world while you listen to your latest audiobook — these beauties can achieve levels of peace and quiet that leave regular headphones in the shade.

Noise-canceling headphones work by creating a noise-canceling wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the ambient noise around you.

This wave acts like a noise eraser and cancels out any surrounding sounds that diminish the audio you really want to hear. Noise-canceling headphones aren’t magic, but they can feel like something close to it in the right situations.

The clever processes that cancel out intruding sound waves only work really well at blocking out certain frequencies. On an airplane, for example, the low hum of engine noise is almost completely obliterated. But higher or transient sounds like crying babies and people’s voices may still be able to seep in depending on the quality of your headphones.

There are 2 commonly accepted forms of noise-canceling headphones available on the market. Passive noise cancellation relates more to the make and design of the headphones, which reflects the amount of noise cancellation offered by the physical device — or how well the headset works like an earplug.

But active noise cancellation is where the really clever stuff happens, as unique technological processes block out the bad sounds and emphasize the good ones.

With active noise cancellation (or ANC) technology, the headphone features a chip that “listens” to noise and generates audio that is opposite to it in nature (also known as pink noise), thus canceling it out.

Using simple physics, we know that sound travels in waves. So by firing out a sound wave that is the opposite phase and amplitude as an audio wave, you can cancel the original wave out.

Still with us? Just think of ANC technology as the antidote to unwanted sound — the unseen hero that takes care of distracting, annoying, and unwanted sounds and actively erases lower-frequency sound waves by using additional powered instruments.

ANC headphones work better when worn on your head instead of stuffed inside your ear canal. There can also be an element of decreased sound quality with ANC headphones, and a slight background hiss may be detectable over your music.

But, you win some, you lose some, right? ANC headphones still beat other types hands-down for a completely immersive listening experience.

The 12 Best Active Noise-canceling Headphones

Bose quietcomfort 45 wireless anc headphones.

Weight: 8.5 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 22 hours wirelessly, 40 hours wired

Cable Length: 3.9 feet

When is a pair of headphones not just a pair of headphones? When it can seamlessly interact with your other favorite technology, of course.

Bose doesn’t just bring the noise better than the competition — they are also world leaders when it comes to bringing the internet of things right to you, courtesy of your earholes.

These ergonomic, good-looking headphones don’t just offer fully balanced audio, hassle-free Bluetooth pairing, and noise-rejecting microphones for crystal clear sound. They now also allow you to ask Alexa to play your music or provide you with information whenever you need it. Bravo Bose, Bravo!

Of course, the biggest reason to choose Bose is the solid sound quality and future-proof technology. With the QuietComfort 45 series you can enjoy personalized settings as well as access to all future updates using the very smart and efficient Bose Connect App.

What We Like

• Alexa-enabled to control playback with your voice

What We Don’t Like

• Bluetooth connection can be intermittent

Sony WH1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones

Weight: 8.8 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 40 hours

Cable Length: N/A

These industry-leading noise-canceling headphones bring you the very best and nothing less when it comes to total musical immersion. With premium sound quality, you’ll never miss a beat thanks to the 40-millimeter liquid crystal polymer drivers, and the 40-hour battery life will keep you tapping your toes on even the longest of flights.

For those who don’t want to be left out even when listening hard, the Sony Speak-To-Chat and Quick Attention mode allows effortless conversation with those around you — without ever taking your headphones off.

A touch sensor control also allows the user to pause/play/skip tracks, control the volume, activate the voice assistant, and even answer phone calls effortlessly.

As you would fully expect from Sony, these are solidly built and include everything they promise and more. Excellent sound quality, 30-hour battery life (with a quick charge for an extra few hours when you need it), and smart auto-settings to optimize listening automatically based on your own behavior make these babies worth every last cent.

• Quick attention mode for conversations without removing the headphones
• Microphone can be sensitive to external noises when on the phone

Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM4

Weight: 9 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 30 hours

Fly high with these awesome noise-canceling headphones from global giant Sony. With an ergonomic design that wouldn’t look out of place on the coolest of cats, these ANC headphones offer punchy bass, refined treble, and brilliant noise-canceling capabilities.

Being the 2021 model in this range, you should be able to pick these up cheaper than the Sony WH1000XM5 .

The touchpad built into the surface of the right earpiece makes it simple to control the volume of your music or come back to reality for a moment using the Quick Attention Mode. You can also easily pause/play/skip tracks, control the volume, activate the voice assistant, and even answer phone calls.

Sony’s patented Smart Listening is the piste de resistance in these cans, as the headphones cleverly detect your activity to automatically adjust the ambient sounds you hear. Genius!

Up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging capability (10 minutes of charging for 5 hours of playback) means these headphones allow you to be as engaged with the real world as you want to be — or not!

• Quick charging for hours of playback
• Headband can break easily

Apple AirPods Pro

Weight:  0.19 ounces

Battery Life:  At least 24 hours of listening time, up to 11 hours of talk time

Cable Length:  N/A

Following the success of the first generation of Apple AirPods, the newly released AirPods Pro bring even more adaptive sound quality and high-tech features to the table.

Light as a feather, and incredibly easy to use, the new and improved AirPods Pro are designed to sync super quickly to your iPhone, iPad, or other Apple devices. They are also more comfortable than ever before, coming complete with a selection of different-sized ear tips to enable you, the user, to tailor the fit of the pod to your ear shape and size.

As a bonus, there is also a small pressure valve on the inside to help reduce the pressure inside your ear, making them feel more comfortable for longer.

To appeal to those that like to listen to music while they work out, the AirPods Pro are water-resistant and have an IPX4 rating that makes them far more resilient to sweat and water than ever before. Take note though, water-resistant is not the same as waterproof , and drenching them with water will inevitably ruin them.

Probably the most noteworthy addition to the AirPods Pro is the introduction of the active noise cancellation function that can be fully customized by the listener. Shut out the ambient sounds around you and lose yourself in the music, or set to transparency mode to allow you to hear what is happening around you at all times.

• Wireless charging case for on-the-go charging
• Speakers are very sensitive when cleaning

Sennheiser Momentum 4.0 Wireless with Active Noise Cancellation

Weight: 10.3 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 60 hours

These fourth-generation award-winning headphones from Sennheiser remain the #1 choice for hip and fashion-conscious music lovers . Thick leather ear pads, new padded headband, and foldable design make them easy to love before you’ve even started listening to them.

When it comes to sound quality, Sennheiser certainly does it well. The exciting blend of strong bass and subtle higher notes makes for a rich overall performance that’s so impressive you’ll want to close your eyes and just enjoy it.

To keep unwanted sounds at bay, these little beauties do an awesome job of lowering the external hubbub in an incredibly natural way.

With up to 60 hours of wireless play, intuitive controls, stylish looks, and awesome sound quality, you may even forget that these are some of the pricier ANC headphones on the market. Worth it? You decide.

• Exceptionally good sound quality
• Bluetooth range could be better

Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Weight: 8.0 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 30 hours wirelessly

Always serious about sound, Sennheiser developed these handsome (and surprisingly slim) cans that are as clever as they are attractive. Say goodbye to traffic noises and office hum — the PXC 550s hit each note with perfect clarity every time.

Intuitive user control means you can benefit from voice prompts, touch controls, NFC pairing, smart pause, and automatic on/off. Or go full space-age and use the Sennheiser CapTune App to manage the music player, check your battery status indicator, and adjust your EQ settings.

Its Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology works seamlessly, and the lightweight design (paired with the clever way they collapse for storage) makes these a great choice for travel. With just one touch you can activate your voice assistant Alexa, Google, or Siri, to help you on your travels or play music.

Small enough to pack away into a compact ball but big enough to eliminate all the background noise you never want to hear, these are a smart pair of headphones for the serious music lover who wants to look cool.

• Small and compact, perfect for travel
• Battery life can reduce over time

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones

Weight: 8.3 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 20 hours wirelessly, 40 hours wired

Perfect for those who want all the quality of Bose on a smaller budget, these noise-canceling headphones are a great entry-level pair. First launched in 2017, they still stand strong against the competition and will diminish most background noise to let you hear your tunes with clarity.

The lightweight and comfortable ergonomic design means you’ll never tire of wearing these little beauties, and the music, EQ, call-answer features, and other extras can be controlled simply by using your smartphone.

Designed to reduce unwanted noises while still producing powerful sounds, these headphones are comfortable enough to wear all day. And with a battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge, there is literally nothing stopping you from doing just that.

• Has an option cable connection as well as Bluetooth
• Noise cancellation can turn off by itself

Bowers & Wilkins PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

Weight: 11.8 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 22 hours wirelessly, 50 hours wired

Cable Length: 4 feet

Looking for something a little different? Bowers & Wilkins have proven their place as David against the Goliath of big brands like Sony and Bose with these really great noise-canceling headphones.

Offering a satisfying user experience, reliable Bluetooth connection, and easy-to-control audio playback, these headphones will cut out the drone of your daily commute and let you concentrate on your music.

B&W made a serious effort to ensure no noticeable drop in sound quality — even including the same drive units found in the revered P9 headphones by the same brand. It has also subtly angled the drivers to provide a natural, all-encompassing stereo sound every time you use them.

The PX is as smart as they are beautiful, too. Want to stop listening? Simply raise an ear cup — and when you’re done for the day, the PX stops playing when you put them away.

With an impressive 22-hour battery life, an instant power-saving sleep mode, and a dedicated Bowers & Wilkins headphone app, these are definitely the real deal.

• Easy to pause playback by lifting an ear cup
• Takes some time to get used to wearing them

AKG Noise Canceling Headphone Black (N60)

Weight: 5.3 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 15 hours wirelessly, 30 hours wired

Perfect for those on the go, these budget-friendly headphones can give you over 15 hours of listening pleasure using aptX Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. Better still, the wireless connectivity automatically turns on the active noise cancellation , making them a safe bet for those who like to listen while they run, walk, or travel.

Lightweight and easy to wear, these headphones remain well secured to your head, meaning you can bounce in them without them slipping off. The 3D folding mechanism and carry case also make it super easy to listen when you need to and store them when you don’t.

Sound quality is also impressive — beats are delivered with detail and precision, while the mid-range and treble remain crisp and delicate in every song. If you want great quality ANC headphones at a bargain price, the AKG N60 is a major contender that really can hold its own against the might of the bigger brands.

• Lightweight and comfortable to wear on the go
• Noise cancellation could be better

Sennheiser HD 4.50 Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancellation

Weight: 8.4 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

A futuristic-looking and ergonomic design is the first thing you’ll notice about these headphones. How cool will you look wearing them?

But the delight doesn’t end there: good sound quality comes in an affordable package, as the well-tuned mid-range and deep, throaty bass will have you nodding along wherever you are.

As you would expect from Sennheiser, the Bluetooth 4.0 and aptX technologies deliver seamless connectivity, while the NoiseGard active noise cancellation does its important job of reducing ambient noise levels and improving your overall listening experience.

With a 19-hour battery life, you should be all set for most long journeys — if you need to listen longer, use the connection cable for battery-free listening that still sounds great .

Ear-cup mounted controls offer intuitive options for changing tracks, upping the volume, or even making calls to tell someone how much you really love your new Sennheiser headphones. A great pair for anyone on a budget.

• Great value mid-range headphones
• You can’t charge and listen at the same time

Plantronics Voyager 8200 – Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Weight: 10.2 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 24 hours

While these may not be the prettiest things to look at, they are certainly worth considering if you want more bass for your buck. A solid choice for fans of rock music and EDM, these produce heavy, thumping low notes while keeping the mid-range crisp and clear.

Class 1 Bluetooth enabling means you can stream your favorite tunes from 98 feet (30 meters) away , and enjoy wireless connectivity for those moments when the air guitar solo comes calling.

The design of the Voyager 8200 is lightweight and practical, but not as chic as some of its main competitors. That said, the sound quality more than makes up for any loss in looks — so take your pick on which factor is more important to you.

Finally, this set’s 24-hour battery life will give you weeks of traveling joy, and you can recharge using a cable or USB.

• Great value headphones with superior sound
• The noise canceling could be improved

JBL Everest Elite 750NC Wireless Headphones

Weight: 9.88 ounces

Battery Life: Up to 20 hours wireless and up to 15 hours with noise cancellation activated

These JBLs are a solid choice for music enthusiasts looking for all-around performance paired with customizable options and an affordable price tag.

Offering Bluetooth 4.0 technology, it’s simple to stream your tunes from a variety of Bluetooth-enabled devices. The My JBL Headphones App offers simple controls and further customizable options.

End-user satisfaction is guaranteed if you don’t expect these to sound like a $400 pair of headphones . However, reliably good quality sound will come pouring into your ears, while annoying external noise will be muted for the most part. The adaptive noise-canceling technology means that you can control how much ambient noise you want to let in.

The rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery offers 15 hours of playback, and you can reach a full charge in just 3 hours.

• Handy app for checking the charge level
• Can’t use the headphones while charging

If you’re looking for an awesome pair of noise-canceling headphones that will keep the world out and the music in, there are a lot of choices out there.

For jaw-dropping sound quality that will keep you utterly immersed for hours on end, the Sennheiser Momentum 4.0 really is one of the best of the bunch . That said, the Sony WH1000MX5 is certainly on par performance-wise, and choosing a clear winner between them can only really come down to personal taste. The Bose QuietComfort 45 is also well worth considering.

However, any of these options have an investment-worthy price tag and should be treated as such. You’ll want to look after your new headphones carefully, as they may well cost more than the device you choose to stream from!

For a more affordable option, the Plantronics Voyager 8200 offers decent noise elimination and good throaty bass lines for those looking to enjoy proper tunes while they travel, while keeping those looking to drown out their daily commute perfectly happy.

If the brand is important to you or you want your headphones to look pretty, the Sennheiser PXC 550-II will give you the logo you’re looking for — but it won’t necessarily thrill you as much as the signature Momentum headphones. Alternatively, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II will give you good sound quality and a premium badge.

Are you interested in more top products to help you get the most out of your travels? Check out these other articles we’ve published:

• The Best Travel Cameras – Compact, DSLR, and Mirrorless Camera Guide
• The Best Camera Bags for Travel
• What Are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [We Found Several Options]
• The Best Laptop Backpacks to Buy for Travel
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth buying noise-canceling headphones.

If you are prepared to invest in a quality listening experience and the added benefit of blocking external noise when you’re in noisy situations, noise-canceling headphones are worth buying.

Can noise-canceling headphones cause hearing loss?

Noise-canceling headphones do not emit low-level radiation as phones do, so the risk is minimal. However, listening to music loud on any device, not just noise-canceling headphones, may be hazardous to your hearing.

What are the best noise-canceling headphones for travel?

These are some of our favorite noise-canceling headphones:

• Bose QuietComfort 45
• Bowers & Wilkins PX Active
• Sennheiser Momentum 4.0
• Sony WH1000XM5

Are noise-canceling headphones worth it for flying?

Noise-canceling headphones are worth the price tag, especially when flying. On an airplane, the low hum of engine noise is almost completely obliterated. But higher or transient sounds like crying babies and people’s voices may still be able to seep in depending on the quality of your headphones.

How do noise-canceling headphones work?

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Three of the best: Noise cancelling headphones for travelling

By Katherine Scott | 3 years ago

If it's been a while between sky-high jaunts, then you may only now be rediscovering the sheer zen-ness of flying with a pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds.

They've fast become the must-have accessory of frequent flyers, blocking out everything from shrieking babies to ambient aircraft noise, to let you check-out and enjoy whatever it is you're watching or listening to.

The technology has come a long way in recent years, though the adage of "you get what you pay for" tends to ring true in this case.

We've singled out three of the best.

Jabra Elite 85t Earbuds, $299

Jabra's Elite 85t Earbuds already have a cult following, drawing comparisons with Apple's AirPods Pro (but $100 cheaper than their rival!).

These stylish buds feature cutting-edge noise-cancellation tech, with advanced customisation settings including 11 different sound controls and adjustable 'HearThrough' tech that lets in your preferred level of ambient noise via a slider in the app.

The sound quality is great — I was amused to learn it customises it using age and gender software predictions, among other factors. Phone calls are crystal clear, thanks to advanced wind protection technology (important) and another feature that lets you hear your own voice.

I'm also a big fan of the buds' petite design, with an equally snug charging case that fits almost anywhere and contains enough juice to charge for up to 31 hours.

jabra.com.au

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, $399.95

With a supremely snug fit and crispy high-fidelity audio, Bose's noise-cancelling earbuds are fast becoming an industry favourite.

As someone with small and sensitive ears that don't take kindly to chunky, badly-designed earbuds, Bose's soft inserts and detachable silicone tips that lock the earbuds in place (each set comes with three different sizes to choose from), make for comfy listening. And I'm not constantly worried they're going to fall out, making them ideal for running — or rushing to an airport gate!

The tap and swipe feature on the earbud controls are pure genius, and the proprietory acoustic noise cancelling technology deliver wonderfully static-free sound, which you can easily switch to full transparency mode if you need the mics to pick up the ambient sounds around you while you're on the move.

bose.com.au

SONY WH-1000XM4 Headphones, $499

Yes, the price tag is on the dear side but these comfy and stylish headphones may just be our new favourite for sky-high commutes — and not just because this fourth-gen model features Sony's most advanced noise-cancellation tech yet.

Straight from the future, the award-winning set boasts a range of smart features that will have all your techy friends rubbing their hands together with envy — our favourite being the touch control on the right headphone, that lets you adjust sound or skip music at the tap or swipe of a finger. (Note: the only time this feature is annoying is when I hang out the washing and garments brush against the sensor.)

Another big plus for business travellers is the addition of a multipoint pairing feature that lets you connect your headphones to two devices without having to go through that annoying process of disconnecting and reconnecting. This means seamless switching between laptop and phone (tick).

In the air, good luck trying to get any kind of noise past this sucker without your express permission, with two microphones on each earcup and dual noise sensor technology delivering a seriously zen user experience. I say "without your permission", because you can adjust the settings to enable adaptive ambient sound control (another pretty rad featre), which will disable the noise-cancellation automatically for things like transport updates or airport flight announcements while you're on the move. (Note: I always switch off this feature when flying for optimal peace and quiet.)

sony.com.au

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Best headphones for travel 2024: noise-cancelling for holidays and work travel

It's time to grab a pair of the best headphones for travel, for long flights, train journeys, and car rides

If you’re not travelling with a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, you’re not doing it properly. Sure, you could travel with the same earphones you use on your 30-minute commute, but don’t be surprised when they’re uncomfortable and you can’t even hear your movie, audiobook or podcast.

Buses and trains are loud. Aircraft cabins are louder. In fact, at take-off and landing noise levels inside the cabin can reach 105 decibels (dB). At cruising altitudes, it’s about 85 dB. This is why pilots have for decades been wearing headphones that produce sound waves to physically cancel out ambient noise.

Now you can, too.

For frequent long-haul flyers, noise-cancelling headphones are standard issue or, at least, they ought to be. That white noise a big aircraft’s engines and air-con systems produce is a killer. Cue a precise arrangement of microphones inside and outside the ear-cups of noise-cancelling headphones that continuously measure, compare and react to the sound waves they detect.

Essentially creating sound waves to cancel out the low frequencies, the latest trend is for noise-cancelling headphones to go wireless. However, a lot of models are both bulky and expensive, which means that you do have to shop around if you want something more compact or more affordable.

Luckily, noise-cancelling earphones are now coming of age, with some great quality products to pick from across the price range.

If you're looking to fully update your travel kit, then you'll need to make sure your headphones are packed inside the best suitcase or best carry-on luggage and you'll want to read T3's ultimate travel guide . And if you want something that'll let you drop off en route, you might want to also consult our guide to the best sleep headphones .

The best headphones for travel

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

We've found two companies dominate wireless noise-cancelling headphones; Bose and Sony . When it comes to bulky wireless noise-cancelling headphones aimed at business travellers, for every benchmark Bose, there's a Sony lurking in the shadows. 

The newest of the lot, Sony's WH-1000XM5 – announced in 2022 – come with a number of useful upgrades over the XM4 that we think are perfect for travellers. They still boast market-leading noise-cancelling, but now also have Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connectivity, and USC-PD (‘power delivery’) charging, so a mere three minutes of charging is good for three hours of playback. That's perfect if you're just about to get on a long haul flight and need a quick juice up.

The ANC itself is adaptive relative to your circumstances. The XM5 will learn (or can be told) about your most commonly visited locations and can (if you wish) adapt itself to suit.

While the Sony WH-1000XM5 don’t come cheap, in our review, we found the combination of sonic fidelity, top-tier active noise-cancellation, flawless ergonomics, competitive battery life and impeccable eco-credentials, these are hands-down the best headphones for travel.

2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The Bose QC35 and QC35 II were an icon of travel headphones – catch any rush-hour train and board any flight, and you will see black and silver Bose headphones peaking out from the top of almost every headrest.

Now, there's a new model in town. The literally-named Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 introduce a sleek new design that is both lightweight and elegant. Behind the smart look, the headphones still pack 11 adjustable levels of top-notch noice cancellation, impressive audio quality, and up to 20 hours of wireless battery life.

Like with many of today's headphones, either Alexa or Google Assistant can be summoned with the press of a button, while the stainless steel headband and padded, angled ear cups are designed to put comfort first.

To bag a great deal check our Bose discount codes . 

3. Bowers & Wilkins PX7

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 is the kind of outstanding product that B&W built a global reputation on. It combines all their hard-won expertise in audio manufacture with cutting-edge noise cancellation and looks stunning as well

We think the headphones sound great, with B&W's usual exciting, but well balanced, signature sound. In fact, we'd say they sound slightly better than the other big-ticket noise-cancelling headphones. 

The PX7 also features motion-sensing, which means if you lift a cup from your ear, the sound is paused, and if you take them off entirely, they go into standby mode. We found that's very useful when travelling, as you'll frequently need to remove them to talk to people.

4. Sony WF-1000XM4

If you're a Sony fan but need portability from your carry-on earphones, then the WF-1000XM4 are for you. Sony claims these tiny earphones offer improvements in every area, including noise cancellation, over their predecessors, while maintaining a compact design and pocket-sized charge case.

Battery life is eight hours for the earphones themselves, that's longer than Apple 's AirPods Pro, and up to 24 hours when you top them up using the charge case.

In our review, we said 'while the QuietComfort Earbuds may have them beaten for noise cancelling, Sony’s buds sound a fair bit better than Bose’s overall. Sony WF-1000XM4 are the complete package.'

5. Apple AirPods Pro

When Apple launched its AirPods Pro we couldn't believe white how good their active noise cancelling was. Despite their tiny size, they block out plenty of ambient sound passively with a good, comfortable fit, then create near-silence when the active noice cancelling is switched on.

Their touch controls are easy to use and if you are a fully paid-up member of the Apple ecosystem you can enjoy the AirPods' ability to automatically switch between your iPhone , iPad and Mac, depending on how you use them.

Battery life is 4.5 hours for the earphones themselves, with a further 24 hours of playback possible by popping them into the charging case every few hours. That can be a bit fo a drag on a long-hawk flight, but their pocket-friendly convenience more than makes up for it.

6. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95

Created to celebrate the brand's 95th anniversary, the Beoplay H95 might just be the most luxe and stylish travel headphones on this list. A combination of exceptional adaptive active noise cancellation, incredible comfort, sleek design, and outstanding sound performance makes H95 the perfect travel companion for first-class globetrotters. 

The headphones have been created from luxurious metal and fabrics to deliver an ultra-premium product in both build-quality and long-lasting comfort. They're equipped with high-quality titanium drivers tuned to Bang & Olufsen’s signature sound.

7. Shure Aonic 50

If you want to listen to music at its very best on your next trip away, with good noice cancelling too, the Shure Aonic 50 are an excellent pair of headphones. Shure took its time to get into the headphone market, but not it's fear we are big fans, and this year awarded the Aonic 50 our Platinum Award and have them the full five-star treatment.

The headphones have a wide range of audio codecs to get the best out of your music, and have superb build quality and great design. The only drawback here is how the Shure's have a tendency to highlight the shortcomings of older and lesser-quality audio. But feed them with quality sound and you'll be in for a treat.

8. Cleer Flow II

These noise-cancelling, Bluetooth headphones from Cleer are fantastic value. For less than £250 / $300 you get a pair of great-sounding headphones with a long list of premium features. The Flow II's boast up-to 20 hours playback with noise-cancelling enabled (that's most flights around the world covered). As for the quality of noise-cancelling? That's up there with the best from Sony and Bose. 

Our two favourite features (other than the excellent sound quality) is Google Fast Pair, which makes pairing with Android phones a breeze, and Conversation Mode, which temporarily disengages ANC and automatically lowers the volume of whatever you're listening to when you place your hand over the left ear cup.

9. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport won’t fit into many people’s budget, especially those who are looking for a dedicated pair of earbuds to work out in. It’s hard to justify the price since there are a lot of solid, cheaper options that are just as feature-rich. There’s also the fact that the E8 Sports may not provide the kind of sound signature you like. You’ll find most of the competition to be brighter than these.

However, if the price doesn’t scare you off and you prefer warmer audio, then you would be hard-pressed to find a better pair. Not only do the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport earbuds sound terrific, but they’re also beautifully designed from the customizable tips and fins down to their intuitive UI. Considering all that, its price starts to make a lot more sense and therefore, is justifiable. 

The effort and thought that B&O put into these are apparent. The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport are not just another set of earbuds. They're a work of art. 

10. Beats Studio 3 Wireless

Are these the best Beats ever? These wireless noise-cancelling headphones’ killer feature is the way noise control can adapt to the ambient noise around you, whether that's aircraft engine noise, wind, or the jibber-jabber of other travellers. 

The anti-wind mode is impressive since a stiff breeze is often the nemesis of noise-cancelling headphones because of the way they use microphones to monitor ambient sound. However, an algorithm in the Beats Studio3 fades-out wind within a few seconds. In fact, it’s a silky noise-cancelling performance all-round because these are one of the rare pairs of headphones where you just don't 'hear' the noise cancellation process as much as you do with other really good ANC cans. 

Happily, the Beats Studio3 are also the best sounding of the Studio range to date, with a detailed sonic signature throughout. Also handy is a ‘fast fuel' feature that gives three hours of playback from a 10-minute charge, and easy pairing and device switching as found on Apple’s AirPods.

How we test the best headphones for travel

We spend a lot of time reviewing the latest headphones, so when it comes to recommending which are the best headphones for travel to buy, you can be safe in the knowledge that we'll recommend the best options for you.

We'll usually spend a week or longer testing the latest noise-cancelling headphones. We try out the very latest features to see if they work and if they're useful. This might be a noise-cancelling feature, a new app function, or a voice assistant. We test everything in-depth, with audio experts reviewing each pair thoroughly. 

All of these new features also get tested alongside everything a pair of headphones should be classically good at, such as sound quality, noise-cancelling ability, how long the battery lasts, and how comfortable they are to wear for long periods of time.

Once the initial review period is complete we'll publish a full review, give the headphones a star rating, and add an abridged review to this guide.

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As the Style and Travel Editor at T3, Spencer covers everything from clothes to cars and watches to hotels. Everything that's cool, stylish, and interesting, basically. He's been a part of T3 for over seven years, and in that time covered every industry event known to man, from CES and MWC to the Geneva Motorshow and Baselworld. When he's driving up and down the country in search of the greatest driving roads, he can be found messing around on an electric scooter, playing with luxury watches, or testing the latest fragrances.

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Sound On, Noise Off: The 7 Best Travel Headphones to Take on Your Next Trip

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

At a Glance: The Best Travel Headphones

• Best Overall: Sony WH-1000MX5
• Best Noise-Cancelling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
• Best Sound: Bang & Olufsen Px8
• Best Under $150: Soundcore by Anker Space Q45
• Most Durable: Sennheiser Momentum 3
• Best Audiophile Sound: Bowers & Wilkins Px8
• Most Compatible: Shure AONIC 50 (Gen 2)

Traveling and daily commutes can be stressful, to say the least. Often, the culprit is noise — be it a plane engine, crying babies, or loud road-trip companions. But with a pair of the best travel headphones , flights, road trips, and train rides can quickly become a peaceful time with your favorite music, podcasts, and movies.

Related: Tune Out to Jet Off: These Are the Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Travel

Because so many people are now finding tranquility with a pair of noise-reducing headphones , dozens of brands are making solid options with travelers in mind. But only a handful of these headphones can offer the crispness, full bass, and effective noise-reduction that audiophiles and frequent flyers are looking for.

The Best Travel Headphones to Buy Right Now

1. sony wh-1000mx5.

BEST OVERALL

Sony’s WH1000MX5s aren’t just the best headphones for travel – they’re also our number one pick for some of the best noise-cancelling headphones in general. Their predecessor, the WH-1000XM4s, were great, but the WH-1000MX5s introduce some slight improvements to make them the best in the business.

Editor’s picks

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Noise-cancellation was central in the WH-1000MX5s development, as the headphones boast industry-leading noise cancellation, now with the Auto NC Optimizer. Eight microphones pick up ambient noise, run it through a Noise-Cancelling Processor — we’ve been on several flights wearing these, and there’s truly minimal outside sound whether you’re in a busy airport or on a road trip .

These stellar headphones also offer multipoint pairing, which lets you connect to multiple devices at once. This means you can seamlessly switch between, say, Netflix on your laptop and a call on your phone. This is just one of the WH-1000MX5s several convenient features, which also includes auto-pausing when you speak. Plus, the headphones feature incredible 30-hour battery life, plus three hours of battery with a quick three minute charge.

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra

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As expected from premium headphones, sound quality with the QuietComfort Ultras is crisp and deep thanks to active EQ. You also get plenty of customizability with the sound through the Bose app. In terms of comfort, the QuietComfort Ultras get top marks as well with a lightweight, half-pound build and enough padding for hours of use while catching a long flight or grinding in the office (and with a pricey piece of tech, this is a major plus). Plus, they’ve got a stellar 24-hour battery life (18 with immersive audio turned on), so they’ll last through the longest hauls of your travels.

3. Bowers & Wilkins Px8

When celebrated audio companies try their hand at high-end headphones, it doesn’t always work. With Bowers & Wilkins , it did, and their latest PX8 headphones are the proof.

Soft earcups and a large, cushy headpiece make the Px8s comfortable enough for long-period usage, but the headphones’ real strength is audio quality. Beefy 40mm drivers and tuning by the B&W experts provide seriously good sound — no matter what type of music or movie you’re watching.

The Px8s are also very impressive technology-wise with a six-microphone setup for capturing and adapting to outside noise. They have what B&W calls “Ambient Pass-Through,” which is meant to relay the important stuff like conversational noises (so the plane engine will be silenced but you might catch the flight attendant’s drink offer). Plus, the headphones feature multipoint pairing for connecting to multiple devices at once.

For their sound quality alone, we recommend these headphones, but the added ANC and lengthy battery life makes these a great choice for travel .

4. Soundcore by Anker Space Q45

Traveling is pricey, but the best travel headphones don’t have to be. Case in point is these Soundcore Q45 headphones from Anker . At $150, the headphones are much more affordable than our other picks, but their sound quality and noise cancellation powers punch far above their price point.

In an effort to communicate better with your audio streaming device, the Q45s use LDAC technology to enhance Bluetooth files. Inside the cans are 40mm silk-diaphragm drivers, which lend enough bass for thumping hip-hop and full orchestral riffs. Noise cancellation, meantime, comes from two microphones on each earcup that pick up sound and adapt to block it out.

Other features we like about the Q45s are wearer detection (which turns off audio when you take off the headphones) and an exceptionally lightweight build. This lightness is both comfortable for long sessions and helpful when it comes to keeping luggage weight to a minimum. Overall, the headphones offer perhaps the best value of any travel headphones.

5. Sennheiser Momentum 3

Don’t get us wrong, the comfort factor is still there thanks to a headband made from genuine sheepskin leather and soft ear cushions with plush memory foam. Compared to Sennhesier’s newer Momentum 4s, we prefer the hard plastic and metal design of these headphones , especially with their sturdy frame and matte steel arms that can withstand being tossed around any carry-on bag.

Instead of plastic toggles, the Momentum 3s feature a rubberized material three-button interface that lets you quickly switch between listening to music and making phone calls, activating voice assistance, and adjusting the volume.

Sound performance is also stellar under the hood as well , with a 42-millimeter dynamic driver and an internal audio equalizer you can adjust from the Sennheiser app. Active noise cancellation and transparency mode also make it easy to wear these headphones out into the world and not worry about being interrupted while you’re playing your tunes or missing an important announcement in a train station or airport.

6. Bang & Olufsen H95

If you’re looking for a pair of luxury headphones fit for first class, check out these Bang & Olufsen H95s . The real upgrade with the H95s is in design quality, with the headphones sporting memory foam earcups, a leather headpiece, and anodized aluminum discs on the earcup exterior. These upgrades translate to more comfort (from the memory foam), an extremely elegant look, and lasting quality.

But the H95s aren’t all looks. Bang & Olufsen has equipped the headphones with Advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) which discerns and effectively blocks outside noises of different frequencies using eight microphones. And when you feel like hearing the world around you again, swipe the left earcup to activate transparency mode. The earcups also feature intuitive touch controls for pause/play, switching tracks, and so on. Further sound customization is available via the Bang & Olufsen app.

7. Shure AONIC 50 (Gen 2)

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Sound quality is very impressive with the Aonic 50s , largely thanks to the headphone’s 50mm drivers (hence the name). What’s more, the Shure headphones sound good with almost any input music as they support a very wide range of codecs. No matter what you’re listening to, expect balanced, full sound at every frequency.

Thanks to memory foam earcups, the Anoic 50s are prepared to sit comfortably on your head for long flights, road trips, and work sessions. The headpiece is also nice and chunky to avoid discomfort up top. Plus, since the design is foldable it makes it easy to carry them on the go.

You get two settings — “active noise-cancellation” and “environment mode” — but the latter (which lets in some outside noise) features multiple levels ranging from minimal noise to essentially transparent. This can be controlled via the ShurePlus PLAY app, while onboard buttons offer basic controls. You’ll also get up to 45 hours battery life with quick charge capabilities, more than doubling its runtime from the prior generation.

Buying Guide: How We Picked the Best Travel Headphones

Even top-of-the-line headphones have some variation in features and quality. Here are a few considerations we kept in mind while choosing the best travel headphones for your needs.

Noise-Cancellation : Not all noise-reduction systems are made equal. The headphones in our roundup all boast the maximum level of noise-cancellation, but some have more adjustability. This will allow you to customize noise reduction to your setting and needs (for example, transparency mode while walking down a busy street).

Comfort : The best travel headphones should be comfortable enough to wear for hours. But not all cans have the same level of comfort: some have softer ear cups and headpieces, while others are more lightweight. We’ve chosen brands that have taken extra steps to make their headphones as comfortable as possible, like adding memory foam or leather padding to the headset.

Battery : We’ve picked headphones with industry-leading battery life of at least 24 hours (or, about enough for two long-haul flights). Still, there’s some variation, and if you’re constantly on the go, a large battery of up to 40-50 hours is a must-have.

Microphone : All the headphones above have mics for making calls or talking to virtual assistants (i.e. Alexa, Siri, etc), but some have engineered their mics to block out ambient noise as well. This means your call recipient will actually hear your voice — and not the loud airport chatter around you.

Durability : Sadly, your new headphones are bound to be dropped, bumped, or caught in the rain while traveling. For this reason, we picked travel headphones with at least an IPX4-5 water resistance and a somewhat rugged build.

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We tested the 6 best noise-canceling headphones for travel

I can't fly anywhere without a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Even if I'm not actively listening to music or enjoying a TV show, I often use noise-canceling headphones to drown out background noise.

If you've traveled recently, I probably don't need to convince you of the value of a pair of these headphones. These days, there are more distractions than ever in airports and on planes — there are only so many times I can hear the same canned pitch for a cobranded airline credit card.

However, if you really want to drown out everything, which pair of headphones or earphones does it best? Here's a guide to my current favorites based on portability, sound experience, comfort, battery life and, of course, how well their noise-canceling abilities fare in the TPG hair dryer test.

Apple AirPods Pro

How portable are they.

Since their introduction in 2019, Apple's AirPods Pro have been my go-to travel headphones, thanks in no small part to their portability.

AirPods Pro have two components: a charging case and the earbuds. The charging case is where the AirPods sit when they're not in your ears, and there's even a built-in speaker to help you find the case if you misplace it.

The actual earbuds are much smaller than Apple's entry-level AirPods, and they're much less bulky and unwieldy than some other earbuds on the market.

How is the sound?

Apple recently introduced the second-generation AirPods Pro with a claim of double the active noise cancellation of the legacy model. If you were on the fence about these earbuds before, this updated model should make them a no-brainer for most travelers who use an iPhone.

With the second-generation buds, I am disturbed by fewer announcements and chatty passengers than with the original model. The sound quality is also noticeably better, thanks to a more powerful audio driver.

How comfortable are they?

Aside from the portability, the AirPods Pro also excel in terms of comfort.

As you decide which headphones are right for you, you'll need to choose between in-ear and over-ear models. Back in the day, in-ear headphones didn't offer great noise cancellation. However, Apple and its competitors have since introduced earbuds that feature this travel must-have.

That's great news since I find earbuds are generally more comfortable than over-ear headphones. Also, with four tip sizes included with the AirPods Pro, you're bound to find the right fit.

How is the battery?

The second-generation AirPods Pro offer up to six hours of listening time with a single charge. The charging case offers 30 hours of listening time, and just five minutes in the case provides about one additional hour of listening time.

The hair-dryer test

To simulate the background noise on an airplane, I borrowed my wife's Dyson hair dryer and blasted it at full force next to my ears while listening to the same song (Taylor Swift's "Enchanted") through each of the following six pairs of headphones (set at the same 80% volume level).

The verdict? I could hear the blow dryer when it was at the highest setting, but only just.

Are they worth it?

The fact that the AirPods Pro fit in my pocket makes them a game changer for travel. I used to lug around bulky over-ear headphones, but why bother when you can get great sound quality in a pair of earbuds that fit in the palm of your hand?

Sure, there are headphones that offer better noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro pack the best mix of sound, noise cancellation and portability that an iPhone user will find in a small package.

Additionally, with multiple microphones, they double as a great set of headphones for those who make phone calls while on the road.

Buy now for $199.00 and save 20% on the standard price of $249.00

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Bose's Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are the company's sleekest over-ear headphones, but you'll still need to tote around a nearly 1-pound pouch when the headphones are stowed safely in your bag.

Aside from Bluetooth wireless connectivity, I love that you can also use the provided 3.5-millimeter audio cable to plug the headphones into seatback entertainment systems that don't yet support Bluetooth.

Bose is renowned for its best-in-class noise-canceling headphones, and the 700 series builds on that legacy with some of the best sound and noise cancellation you'll get in a pair of headphones.

I always feel immersed in my music when I listen to these headphones, and the noise cancellation is among the best I've experienced.

I also love that you can adjust the noise-cancellation levels to control how much of the outside world you want to hear.

These headphones are much more comfortable than some of Bose's older models, but they aren't for everyone.

During long-haul flights, I find that my ears sometimes start feeling numb after wearing these headphones for prolonged periods (something that hasn't bothered me with other over-ear headphones like the AirPods Max).

Bose's top-of-the-line headphones offer up to 20 hours of nonstop listening. It takes about 2 1/2 hours to fully recharge the headphones, and a quick 15-minute charge will provide up to 3 1/2 additional hours of battery life.

I couldn't hear the faintest sound from the hair dryer, even when it was blasting at full force.

Back in the day, Bose was No. 1 when it came to noise-canceling headphones. The company now has some formidable competitors, but Bose builds on a very strong foundation with the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700.

These are among the world's best over-ear noise-canceling headphones, and you certainly can't go wrong with them. I just wish they were a tiny bit more comfortable for prolonged periods of use.

Buy now for $299.00 and save 21% on the standard price of $379.00

Sony WH-1000XM5

Like any over-ear noise-canceling headphones, you'll need to make room in your bag for Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones, though they only weigh around 250 grams and shouldn't add too much weight to your luggage. They come with a carrying case to keep them in tip-top shape while you're on the move — just note that the ear cups don't fold in for a more compact carrying experience.

Like the Bose headphones, Sony's top-of-the-line model can connect directly to seatback entertainment systems using a 3.5-millimeter audio cable.

These headphones pack some serious active noise-cancellation chops, building on the company's already industry-leading noise-canceling technology.

Unlike the Bose offering, you can't adjust the level of noise cancellation, but you'll have no issue tuning out your surroundings when listening to music with these headphones.

I find these headphones to be perfectly comfortable for long-haul flights. They aren't too heavy on the head and ears, and the padded headband helps keep them in place throughout the journey.

Sony's headphones offer some of the best battery life you'll find. The company advertises up to 30 hours of nonstop use, with the ability to quickly charge the headphones for three minutes to unlock an additional three hours of music playback.

Just like the Bose 700s, I couldn't hear any noise from the hair dryer while listening to music with these headphones. To test them further, I blasted some music at 100% volume on my home speaker, and I could still barely hear any distractions with the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones are about as good as you can get in the roughly $400 range. They've got great sound in a (somewhat) portable package with top-notch battery life.

In my experience, the Sony WH-1000XM5s slightly outperform the similarly priced Bose headphones in terms of noise cancellation — I am usually less distracted when wearing Sony's headphones on a plane.

Buy now for $328.00 and save 18% on the standard price of $399.99

Apple AirPods Max

There's no denying that these are among the sleekest headphones on the market, though that comes at the expense of some portability.

The AirPods Max include a magnetic smart carrying case, but it only protects the actual earpieces themselves. The headphones can't be folded to create a more compact configuration, so you'll need to make room in your bag for them.

While you might think that the AirPods Max only connect via Bluetooth, there's some great news. You can actually plug them directly into seatback entertainment systems using a Lightning to 3.5-millimeter Audio Cable, sold separately for $35.

As the most expensive headphones in this guide, you might not be surprised to learn that they offer the best noise cancellation I've experienced yet.

You can't control the level of noise cancellation, but when flying around with these headphones, you won't want to. With the AirPods Max, I had no trouble drowning out a crying baby sitting three rows behind me.

Combine this impressive noise cancellation with immersive sound, and these headphones offer travelers the best listening experience.

The AirPods Max aren't just sleek — they also boast an incredibly snug fit on the ear.

Apple did a great job designing the AirPods Max for inflight use, and for most domestic and transatlantic flights, your ears should stay cool and comfortable while using these headphones.

That said, some friends have complained about them getting a bit uncomfortable during the longest flights, something experts call "eardrum suck."

The AirPods Max offer up to 20 hours of listening time on a single charge, and five minutes of charging provides roughly an additional hour and a half of listening.

These numbers mean that you're set for all but the longest flight in the world (nearly 20 hours from pushback in New York to landing in Singapore).

As you might expect, the AirPods Max passed the hair-dryer test with flying colors.

The AirPods Max combine a best-in-class audio experience with top-notch noise cancellation in a modern and sleek package.

As the most expensive headphones in this guide, the AirPods Max are most definitely a splurge. However, if you're already in Apple's ecosystem and looking for the best travel headphones, these are it.

Buy now for $449.00 and save 18% on the standard price of $549.00

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Much like the AirPods Pro, these earbuds are among the most portable noise-canceling headphones you'll find. They also magnetically snap into a separate charging case, which is longer and narrower than the AirPods Pro case.

The buds themselves are small and sleek and should fit into your ear without any issues — more on that below.

What sets these earbuds apart is the noise cancellation. They're just as good, if not a tiny bit better, than Apple's second-generation AirPods Pro.

That said, I find the overall listening experience on AirPods Pro to be more immersive — I don't feel nearly as engrossed with my music when using the Bose earbuds.

Bose's QuietComfort Earbuds II are very comfortable. There are three different size options for the tips and ear bands.

With nine different possible combinations, you shouldn't have a problem finding a very stable fit, no matter the shape of your ear.

Bose advertises up to six hours of battery life on a single charge, but I was able to beat that estimate by about 30 minutes on a recent flight.

The charging case offers 18 additional hours of battery life, and just 20 minutes of charging in the case should deliver up to two additional hours of listening time from the earbuds.

Bose's earbuds outperformed the AirPods Pro on the hair-dryer test. They blocked slightly more noise, but both sets of in-ear headphones should do the trick on most flights.

For most travelers, these earbuds will compete head-to-head against the AirPods Pro. If you aren't in the Apple ecosystem, the Bose buds may be the right choice for you.

For everyone else, the choice is much trickier. AirPods integrate seamlessly into the entire iPhone (and Apple product) experience. Coupled with a quick setup and familiar controls, the AirPods will certainly do the trick for many.

However, if you're looking for best-in-class noise cancellation, I'd consider the $50 splurge over the AirPods Pro for Bose's earbuds.

Buy now for $236.55 and save 21% on the standard price of $299.00

Soundcore by Anker Life Q20

One of the best travel features of the Life Q20 headphones is that they swivel inward for increased portability. They come with a drawstring travel pouch, and they won't take up as much space as the other over-ear headphones in this guide.

Aside from Bluetooth wireless connectivity, you can use the provided 3.5-millimeter audio cable to plug the headphones into seatback entertainment systems that don't yet support Bluetooth.

As you might expect for a sub-$60 pair of headphones, the Life Q20s aren't going to beat the likes of Apple, Bose or Sony.

That said, given the price tag, they offer an impressive amount of active noise cancellation. I find that the sound quality is better than expected for such an inexpensive pair of noise-canceling headphones.

With memory foam ear cups, these headphones do a pretty good job of molding to your ears. They're a bit bulkier than some of the other over-ear models, but that's a trade-off you have to make, given the price.

Of all the headphones in this guide, the cheapest ones also pack the longest battery life. Anker advertises 40 hours of wireless playback on a single charge.

If you're pressed for time, you can quickly charge these headphones for five minutes to add four hours of listening time.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, these headphones did the worst job of blocking out the background noise from the hair dryer. At the highest setting, I could definitely hear the noise from the Dyson.

If you aren't a super-frequent traveler, the Life Q20s may be a great starter option for you. The active noise cancellation and sound quality aren't as impressive as with the other, more expensive brands, but you're saving around $300 with these headphones.

Several other features may feel quite basic, including the outdated micro USB charging port. However, that's not stopping nearly 50,000 customers from leaving five-star Amazon reviews for these headphones.

Buy now for $59.99

The Best Wireless Travel Headphones of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Take your tunes with you with our top picks

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Tripsavvy / Alli Waataja

Every traveler needs a great pair of headphones. After all, they’re the key to warding off boredom on long journeys by losing yourself in your favorite music and movies. Wireless headphones make sense if you’re often on the move since they afford greater mobility, have fewer parts to lose, and feel more compact. Other things to look out for include effective noise cancellation (essential for when you inevitably get seated next to the crying baby), superior sound quality, and the ability to fold into a robust carry case capable of withstanding life on the road.

To help you navigate the many options, our travel experts tested 14 of the best wireless travel headphones on the market, including options from top brands such as Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser. We scored each one for ease of use, functionality, sound quality, and noise cancellation—and the results determined the winners of categories ranging from Best Budget to Best Battery Life. The Soundcore by Anker Life Q35 headphones took the top spot, combining exceptional sound quality with lightweight comfort and an affordable price tag. Check out the other wireless travel headphones we tested below. 

TripSavvy's Picks

• Other Options We Tested

How We Tested

What to look for, why trust tripsavvy, best overall, anker soundcore life q35 wireless.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

Lightweight, secure-fitting comfort

Three effective noise cancellation modes

Unbelievably good value

If you’re looking for flawless performance at an incredibly reasonable price, you’ll love the Soundcore by Anker Life Q35 Wireless Headphones. We did, so much so that they received perfect scores across the board during testing. We connected them to our phone and laptop in less than a minute, with no instructions or specialist apps needed. They’re incredibly lightweight, with memory foam padding on the headband and ear cups—making them super comfortable to wear for extended periods. We especially liked that they remained securely in place even during an intense cardio session.

With 40-millimeter silk-diaphragm drivers, a Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, and advanced LDAC technology that transfers three times more sound detail than regular Bluetooth, the sound quality is insane. We experienced faultless consistency and found that the connectivity never wavered, no matter how far we moved away from the phone or laptop. The headphones also offer three noise-canceling modes (Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor), allowing us to eradicate ambient noise completely. When receiving phone calls, you can tap to switch to Transparency mode for crisp, clear sound on both ends of the conversation. 

Other highlights included the touch controls, a built-in sensor that automatically pauses sound when removing the headphones, a two-hour full charge time, and a battery life that we felt exceeded the 40 hours advertised. Finally, your purchase includes a compact travel case and an airplane adapter for easy integration with in-flight entertainment. 

Playtime: 40 hours | Charge Time: 2 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux, NFC | Charge Port: USB-C

TripSavvy / Marco Bebawy

Best Overal, Runner-Up

Bose quietcomfort 35 ii headphones.

• Comfort 4.5 /5

Three effective noise-canceling modes

The crisp, clear call quality

Easy set-up and personalization via the app

Sound could be richer at low volumes

Offering wired, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones are a worthy alternative choice. We could pair them immediately with our phone and laptop, then used the Bose Connect app for a guided tour of the different functions and features. The app also allows you to personalize your audio settings. The headphones also work with Bose AR and Amazon’s Alexa (giving you voice-control access to music and information). 

The headphones boast volume-optimized EQ, meaning balanced audio at any volume. Although the sound was generally clear and powerful, we had to increase the volume to get our desired richness for music and movies. The three levels of noise cancelation, though, were very effective. When we tested the call function, we could hear and be heard perfectly, while the padded headband and ear cups made the headphones incredibly comfortable. Finally, Bose claims a 20-hour battery life, but we could go weeks without charging them.

Playtime: 20 hours | Charge Time: 3 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux, NFC | Charge Port: Micro USB

TripSavvy / Lydia Price

Best Budget

1more sonoflow.

• Sound Quality 4 /5

Intuitive setup and operation

Reliable, high-quality sound

Impressive battery life

Noise cancellation was not very effective

The only option on this list to retail for under $100, the 1More SonoFlow Wireless Headphones impressed us with their excellent value, sound quality, and comfort. We found them incredibly easy to set up and connect, and the connection remained reliable even when we moved away from the phone. Operation is intuitive, too, with four easy-to-use buttons. The headphones feature 40-millimeter dynamic drivers and support LDAC coding technology for detailed Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified sound. 

We were impressed with the sound quality, especially given the headphones’ budget price. Clarity was best at higher volumes. Calls came through clearly thanks to an AI algorithm and beamforming microphones, and we found that the headphones fit comfortably, even over multiple ear piercings. With soft leather ear cups, they’re also pretty light. The only downsides were some slight slippage during active exercise and the underwhelming noise-canceling mode (although the headphones naturally muffled quite a bit of background noise). 

Playtime: 70 hours | Charge Time: 3 to 4 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux | Charge Port: USB-C

TripSavvy / Alessandra Amodio

Best for Kids

Puro sound labs puroquiet.

Volume is limited to a safe level for kids

It can still be used while charging

Hard case protects from rough handling

Relatively pricey for kids' headphones

Designed especially for children, PuroQuiet headphones offer one-touch Bluetooth pairing with all iPhone and Android devices and a generous 30-foot range. We found them amazingly easy to pair, set up, and use, even without instructions. They also come with a 3.5-millimeter audio cable if your child prefers a wired connection. The padded headband was very adjustable, allowing for a secure fit on various head sizes. Meanwhile, the heavily cushioned ear cups provide maximum comfort. 

We especially liked the sound quality, which was great at every volume. Volume is limited to 85 decibels to protect children’s sensitive hearing, but with effective noise canceling, they can still hear clearly no matter what’s happening in the background. We tested the headphones on a noisy airplane and found we couldn’t hear other passengers. Other clever features include a built-in microphone ideal for online classes, a cable with an audio splitter that allows two Puro headphones to connect to the same device, and up to 35 hours of playtime. 

Playtime: 35 hours | Charge Time: 3 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux | Charge Port: Micro USB

Best Battery Life

Sennheiser momentum 4 wireless.

• Ease of Use 3.5 /5

Super-fast recharging time

Amazing, customizable sound

Hinged headband for added comfort

Slightly tricky to pair initially

Considernnheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones if you want world-class battery life. Boasting up to 60 hours of battery, they particularly excel at recharging quickly—so much so that when they died, we only had to charge them for five minutes to watch an entire movie. The Auto On/Off feature also helps save battery. We did struggle to pair them at first, but once we did, the sound quality was phenomenal (and remained so no matter how far we moved from our device). 

The Sennheiser Smart Control app offers built-in EQ presets, sound modes, and full Sound Personalization. We found the noise cancelation effective even in a busy airport—and when you need to hear what’s happening around you, activate Transparency mode with a touch. Other clever features include Smart Pause (triggered when you remove the headphones) and dual beamforming microphones for crystal-clear calls on each side. We found the padded, hinged headband comfortable and secure, even when wearing glasses.

Playtime: 60 hours | Charge Time: 2 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux | Charge Port: USB-C

TripSavvy / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Splurge

Apple airpods max.

One-tap set-up across Apple devices

Exceptional sound at all volumes

Complete noise cancellation

It could be a little bit lighter

At roughly 3.5 times the price of our overall winner, the Apple AirPods Max headphones are undoubtedly a splurge; but one that we feel is worth it. Set-up is effortless—you can pair them with any of your Apple devices with a single tap. The frame features super strong and flexible stainless steel, with telescoping arms that adjust easily to create the perfect fit and a mesh headband so light we could barely feel it (although the ear cups are noticeably heavier).

The anodized ear cups rotate independently to create a perfect seal. Along with Apple’s custom-built driver and personalized Spatial Audio, this results in an unbelievably clear sound that’s powerful and vibrant at all volumes, with a distinct surround sound effect. A control dial lets you change the volume, skip tracks, answer calls, and activate Siri, while playback automatically pauses and resumes when the headphones are taken off and put back on. Finally, the noise cancellation is exceptional. We used it on a plane and the subway and could hear nothing unless we switched to Transparency mode. 

Playtime: 20 hours | Charge Time: 2 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux | Charge Port: Lightning 

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Sound Quality

Microsoft surface headphones 2.

• Comfort 3.8 /5

Intuitive voice, touch, and fingertip controls

Thirteen levels of Active Noise Cancellation

Excellent sound quality across all volumes

Pairing to Apple devices can be tricky

The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, and although our tester did have a few issues connecting to his Apple laptop, it was possible. Once made, the connection was strong and consistent even from several rooms away, while the voice, touch, and fingertip controls are intuitive and easy to locate. You can use them to play audio, make calls, or get help from your preferred digital assistant. The headphones are also compatible with Microsoft 365 for voice dictation in Word etc. 

We found that the headphones stayed in place well, even when we bent over or jumped while wearing them. They were a little uncomfortable after several hours; however, the crystal clear Omnisonic sound more than made up for this. Even at the very loudest volume, the sound quality was flawless. We were also impressed with the efficient, customizable Active Noise Cancellation, which is adjustable to 13 levels. Dual microphones offer exceptional call clarity, while audio automatically pauses after removing the headphones. 

Playtime: 18.5 hours | Charge Time: 2 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, aux | Charge Port: USB-C

TripSavvy / Kathryn Braet

The Soundcore by Anker Life Q35 Wireless Headphones (view at Amazon ) was our top pick, standing out for their fantastic sound quality, comfort, lightness, and complete noise cancellation. For a worthy budget alternative, try the 1More SonoFlow Wireless Headphones (view at Amazon ). 

Other Wireless Travel Headphones We Tested

Bowers & wilkins px8 wireless headphones.

These headphones had a lot to like, including their adjustable fit, comfort, and ease of use. However, the noise canceling mode was underwhelming, especially given the high cost.

Technics EAH-A800 Wireless Headphones

Accessing and understanding instructions for these headphones was a little tricky, and while we found them comfortable, we couldn’t get a secure fit. However, the sound quality was good. 

Urbanista Los Angeles Solar-Powered Headphones

Determining the headphones’ remaining battery was difficult, although they did last for the test duration. We also found them uncomfortable while the sound quality could be crisper. 

HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Headphones

These headphones were intuitive and quick to set up. The sound quality was consistently good, too, so although they have few bells and whistles, we feel they’re worth their reasonable price. 

Jabra Elite 45H Wireless Headphones

These headphones did not come with instructions. The fit was too loose, they don’t have a noise canceling mode, and the call quality was poor. However, they were comfy with good battery life. 

Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT Wireless Headphones

These headphones charged quickly and connected easily. They fit comfortably and stayed in place while exercising, but they didn't offer noise cancelation or work during our test calls.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

We could pair the headphones easily with both a phone and a laptop. They were very comfortable and cut ambient noise reasonably well. We would like to see the sound quality improved.

First, we unboxed and assembled (where relevant) each set of headphones. We assessed how clear the instructions were and how easy the headphones were to set up, including calibration, Bluetooth connectivity, and app installation. Next, we put them on and evaluated their fit, adjustability, and comfort. Then, while listening to music at an average volume, we scored each for sound quality and consistency, the stability of the Bluetooth connection, and how audible the external noises were. 

Tests continued with a thorough check of all functions, from adjusting the volume to skipping songs and testing “aware” and “noise cancellation” modes where relevant. We also tested how easy it was to receive a call while listening to music and call quality. Finally, we carried out a group test to check the efficiency of the headphones’ noise-cancelation feature. Testers were exposed to a series of noises at various volumes (corroborated by a decibel meter). Different headphones were compared side-by-side to see how well they blocked ambient noise. 

At the end of the testing process, headphones were scored from 1 to 5 for ease of use, functionality, sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and value. Overall scores determined our category winners. 

When deciding which wireless travel headphones to purchase, consider the kind of activities you’ll use them for. If the answers are mainly sedentary (like listening to music on the plane or taking work calls while driving), on- or over-ear headphones are typically best for comfort and unparalleled sound quality. But if you plan on using your headphones for physical pursuits like hiking or going to the gym, in-ear headphones are lighter, less bulky, and more secure. Of course, compactness is key for all travel headphones, so a foldable design and a durable carry case that will fit easily in your bag is important no matter what style you choose. 

Sound Quality

Sound quality depends on many different factors and is not necessarily correlative to headphone type (e.g., high-quality in-ear headphones may provide better sound quality than low-end over-ear headphones, and vice versa). Generally speaking, though, over-ear headphones offer the best potential for flawless sound for two reasons. One, they create the best seal, blocking out ambient noise and amplifying bass tones in the most natural way. Headphones with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enhance this isolating effect. Two, their size means they can accommodate a much larger driver diameter than in-ear headphones. 

Bluetooths and Mics

When it comes to wireless headphones, those with LDAC technology claim to deliver three times more sound detail than regular Bluetooth. It’s worth noting that Apple products do not currently support LDAC. Other Bluetooth factors to consider include how easily the headphones will pair with your existing devices. If you have an Apple smartphone or laptop, for example, opting for Apple headphones will enable you to pair in a matter of seconds simply by tapping an on-screen prompt. Some headphones offer NFC technology, allowing them to be paired with an NFC-enabled device by tapping them together. When it comes to microphones, choose headphones with dual beamforming mics on both sides to ensure superior call clarity.

Headphones on this list range in price from just under $100 to almost $550, and there are many options at even more extreme ends of the cost spectrum. While it’s generally true that trusted brands (like Apple, Microsoft, or Sennheiser) offer some of the best products on the market in terms of performance, it’s also true that supporting one of these big tech companies could see you paying over the odds for the brand name. Our overall winner, the Life Q35 headphones from Soundcore by Anker, was also one of the most affordable products we tested. It’s a good idea to check user reviews and industry write-ups carefully to get the best idea of which headphones offer the best value for money. 

For over- or on-ear headphones, start by removing the ear pads. Then, use a soft, clean toothbrush to remove visible debris, making sure not to push it into the drivers. Once finished, you can use a dampened microfiber cloth (not soaked) with soapy water to gently clean exterior surfaces. Repeating this step with rubbing alcohol will eliminate lingering germs, but be careful not to damage leather and plastic components. Finally, pat dry with a clean sheet of paper towel before reassembling. For in-ear headphones, remove the ear tips and use the included cleaning tool or a Q-tip to remove ear wax or other debris. You’ll also need to clean the charging case. In both cases, warm soapy water and/or rubbing alcohol work wonders. 

 You can wear whatever headphones you like when traveling by plane. Many people choose ones with Active Noise Cancelation to block out the engine's sound and other passengers. Using your personal headphones to listen to in-flight entertainment can be trickier. Some airlines now offer Bluetooth connectivity and allow Bluetooth devices to be used in flight mode at all times except during take-off and landing. Otherwise, you can purchase Bluetooth transmitters to make this connection. Some planes have standard 3.5-millimeter ports if you're using wired headphones. Others use two-pin ports that are only compatible with airline headphones; in this instance, you’ll need to purchase a special adaptor.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert. She also regularly contributes commerce articles relating to adventure and family travel. As a frequent traveler with a passion for music (and as the mom of a daughter who likes to watch Frozen on repeat in the car), she understands the value of a great pair of wireless headphones. This article is based on the results of real-life tests carried out by TripSavvy’s team of travel experts. 

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• The Best Headphones for 2024

Whether you're looking for a big over-ear pair or sleek AirPods, these are the best headphones and earbuds we've tested.

Sennheiser HD 450BT

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5

Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Urbanista Los Angeles

JBL Reflect Aero

Jabra Elite 10

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3

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• Sennheiser Over Ear Headphones HD 400S – A$129 (was $149, 13% off)
• Sony WH1000XM4 Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones – A$395 (was $549, 28% off)
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• RØDE NTH-100 Professional Over-Ear Headphones – A$189 (was $249, 24% off)

Check out more Australian electronics deals here .

When people find out I've written thousands of audio reviews for PCMag, the first thing they usually want to know is which headphones are the best. But, to me, that's like asking what type of music is best. Sure, we all have favorites, but the category is too broad to break down so simply. The real question is, what are the right headphones for you? And to answer this, you have to consider your sound preferences, desire for extra features, and, of course, budget.

With that in mind, we've gathered the absolute best headphones (and earphones) we've tested here, for a range of users and budgets. Read on for our top picks, followed by everything you need to know to find the perfect pair.

You Can Trust Our Reviews

Deeper dive: our top tested picks, bottom line:.

• Strong noise cancellation for the price
• Excellent audio performance
• Can be used in passive mode with cable, or wired mode with ANC enabled
• User-adjustable EQ
• Noise cancellation is solid, but not class-leading

Why We Picked It

Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are at the top of the active noise cancellation class. They almost eliminate deep lows entirely, and dial back mids and highs better than any other earphones we've tested. Additionally, they deliver an articulate, bass-forward sound that should please most listeners. AptX Adaptive support makes them more suitable for Android users than ever, too.

Who It’s For

If active noise cancellation in a true wireless design is your primary consideration, these Bose earbuds are unbeatable. Just keep in mind that the second-gen AirPods Pro make more sense for iPhone users.

• Best-in-class noise cancellation
• Crisp, full-bodied audio
• Active Aware feature blends noise cancellation and transparency modes
• Spatial audio support with head tracking
• Good Bluetooth codec support
• Case doesn’t support wireless charging
• No multipoint connectivity

The competition might be slowly catching up, but every new iteration in the Bose lineup , including the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, manages to leap ahead of the crowd. We're big fans of this model's crisp, bass-forward sound, highly comfortable design, and AptX Adaptive support.

These are for people who want the best noise cancellation you can get from headphones. They're also comfortable to wear for long flights or other travel excursions since they feature plush vegan leather, and they pack away neatly into a suitcase or bag for storage. Curious how they stack up with the best from Apple and Sony? Read our detailed comparison .

• Class-leading active noise cancellation
• Crisp audio with rich bass
• Adjustable EQ
• Immersive audio modes with spatial effects
• Adaptive noise cancellation might cause ear pressure

Sony's WF-1000XM5 earbuds sound excellent and cancel distracting noise just as well as top-tier competitors from Apple and Bose. Other highlights include a high-quality mic array, premium hybrid eartips that improve noise isolation, and a comprehensive companion app with an adjustable EQ. Support for the AAC, LC3, and LDAC codecs also makes them a versatile choice for cross-platform use.

If you don't want to compromise on sound quality or noise cancellation performance, these Sony earphones sit at the top of the premium segment. Just be prepared to spend quite a bit on them.

• Rich bass response and crisp, detailed highs
• Adjustable in-app EQ
• Excellent noise cancellation
• Top-tier mic clarity
• Case supports wireless charging
• Hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
• Some bloat in companion app

Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones keep the lineup's streak of excellence alive. They offer top-notch noise cancellation, a sophisticated look, a comfy fit, and among the best audio quality in the wireless realm. The capacitive touch panels on the outside of each ear cup work intuitively, as well.

Android users who want to take advantage of the hi-res-capable LDAC codec should put this Sony pair at the top of their list. They don't cancel distracting noise quite as effectively as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, but that's a fair compromise if you care most about sound quality.

• Excellent audio performance with robust bass depth and crisp highs
• Top-notch active noise cancellation
• Intuitive on-ear controls
• App offers an adjustable EQ and other customization settings
• Comfortable, stylish design

Anker's Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones prove that you don't need to pay several hundred dollars for a quality experience. We're particularly fond of their detailed sound presentation, commendable noise cancellation, and secure fit. The companion app is another strong point because of its adjustable EQ, as is the LDAC support for Android users.

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to settle for subpar audio or noise cancellation, these Anker earphones pack a lot of features despite their sub-$100 price.

• Potent bass depth with bright highs
• Commendable noise cancellation for the price
• LDAC support for Android users
• Capable companion app includes EQ
• Default sound signature has noticeable sculpting
• Average water-resistance rating

Apple's refined second-generation AirPods Pro join the true wireless noise-cancelling elite. Only Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Sony's WF-1000XM5 earphones surpass them, and even then only just. Beyond this, they offer a rich audio experience, an innovative Adaptive Audio (transparency) mode, and excellent compatibility with Apple devices. The case now uses a more future-proof USB-C port for charging, too.

First and foremost, the AirPods Pro are the best earphones for brand-loyal Apple users. No third-party competitor works as seamlessly across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. To see how they compare with the best from Bose and Sony, check out our in-depth comparison .

• Rich, well-balanced audio performance
• Excellent active noise cancellation
• Conversation Aware feature adjusts your music volume when you speak
• Charging case has a built-in speaker, USB-C port
• Seamless integration with Apple devices
• No hi-res codec support
• EQ presets aren't adjustable

The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones aren't quite competitive with class leaders in the audio or active noise cancellation departments, but they stand out for their ability to recharge via any light source. They represent a huge step forward for sustainability and we hope more products integrate this charging technology going forward.

Charging your headphones doesn't significantly increase your carbon footprint, but these headphones can still help you make a small impact. And the convenience of not needing to ever recharge your headphones (if you expose them to light every other day or so) should surely appeal to people who aren't always near an outlet.

• Solar-powered charging
• Impressive audio performance with rich, deep bass and crisp highs
• Quality noise cancellation for the price
• Stylish design
• No in-app EQ
• Noise cancellation slightly impacts sound signature

In a segment that seems content with underwhelming IPX4 ratings, the JBL Reflect Aero noise-cancelling earphones impress with a top-notch IP68 rating, meaning they are fully dustproof and waterproof. They also offer a powerful sound signature and a quality companion app with a customizable EQ.

If you want to listen to music on the beach or at the gym, the Reflect Aero earphones are up to the challenge. Feel free to get them dirty and then rinse them off as you see fit.

• Powerful audio performance with deep lows and bright highs
• Multi-band in-app EQ
• Supports hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
• Fully waterproof and dustproof design
• Average noise cancellation
• Sculpted, bass-forward sound signature won't appeal to everyone

Jabra's Elite 10 earbuds sport a durable IP57 rating and are almost on par with class-leading options from Apple, Bose, and Sony in the noise cancellation department. They also produce punchy, balanced audio, pair with a companion app that gives you lots of control over the sound signature, and come with a wirelessly charging case.

Who It's For

The Jabra Elite 10 earphones are pricey, but they are our top premium pick for exercise thanks to their above-average dust and water resistance, compelling sound, and excellent active noise cancellation.

• Powerful bass and bright highs
• Competitive noise cancellation
• Support for Dolby Atmos with head tracking, adjustable EQ
• High-quality build
• Easy to accidentally activate on-ear buttons
• Slight masking hiss in noise cancellation mode

The Momentum True Wireless 3 earphones look, feel, and sound like a luxury product. They don't cut back outside noise as effectively as top-end models from Apple and Bose, but their excellent audio experience makes them worth considering.

Sennheiser has always put sound quality above all else in its products and these earbuds are no different. Furthermore, if you like to customize your listening experience, you should appreciate the ability to tweak the sound and on-ear controls to your preference.

• Excellent audio performance with rich bass and detailed highs
• Solid active noise cancellation
• App features adjustable EQ and control customizations
• Sculpted default sound signature
• Limited EQ settings

Buying Guide: The Best Headphones for 2024

Should you pick earphones or headphones.

Earbuds do not seal off the ear canal and typically offer the worst audio performance of the bunch.  Earphones  seal off the ear canal and therefore offer better bass response, a more balanced stereo mix, and a more secure fit.

On-ear headphones  (which are also called supra-aural headphones) typically have smaller earcups that rest directly on the ear itself. Over-ear headphones (or circumaural headphones) have larger ear cups that rest around the ear.

Over-ear headphones typically provide a more immersive experience than on-ear headphones, but this isn't a rule—plenty of on-ear models sound amazing, and can even offer a little bit of passive noise isolation with the use of well-cushioned earpads. The main reasons to consider one over the other are comfort (this varies from person to person) and portability (on-ear pairs are often smaller and more travel-friendly).

Are Wired or Wireless Headphones Better?

Ever since Apple eliminated the headphone jack on the iPhone, wired headphones and earphones have faded from the forefront of this category in favor of  Bluetooth models  that require no cable at all. And true wireless headphones don't even have a wire connecting the two earpieces.

Audiophiles probably still prefer a cable, particularly for home listening (small cable adapters are available for Android and iOS devices with no headphone jack). If you prefer wired headphones , there are still lots of options available, but it's also worth noting that plenty of wireless headphones come with a cable that lets you use them in a passive mode. That use case doesn't drain the battery and gives you the best of both worlds.

The sonic advantage of wired headphones is still quite significant, even if Bluetooth audio has improved dramatically in recent years. No matter how much better Bluetooth has gotten, it is still based on a lossy codec stream, making it inherently inferior to a wired audio connection. If sonics are important to you and you want to go wireless, make sure your headphones have the right high-end Bluetooth codecs that work with your phone, like LDAC and AAC, and don't simply use the lower-quality SBC codec. Our guide to Bluetooth codecs explains everything you need to know.

What Are the Different Types of Headphone Drivers?

Headphones most typically have dynamic drivers, whereas earphones might have dynamic drivers or balanced armature drivers. Especially in headphones, dynamic drivers are the most common, because a larger dynamic driver—which the ear enclosure for a pair of headphones can accommodate—can get louder and produce more bass depth. In earphones, the dynamic drivers have to be much smaller; this can often affect bass response.

Many manufacturers, especially those in the business of making custom-molded in-ear monitors for musicians and engineers, turn to balanced armature drivers instead. Balanced armatures have the advantage of being tiny, which allows the earpieces to be smaller. Or, in the case of the aforementioned custom in-ear monitors, the earpieces can be quite large—freeing up room internally for several balanced armatures per ear, with each driver handling a specific frequency range. Generally speaking, it's possible to get excellent audio—or poor audio—from both dynamic and balanced armature drivers, although the two styles have dedicated fan bases.

In both headphones and earphones, the planar magnetic driver continues to gain ground slowly. Headphones with these drivers are typically (much) more expensive. But the advantage of planar magnetic drivers is that they, ostensibly, produce a more precise sound because of the flat, larger-than-a-dynamic-driver film that vibrates between two magnets to create sound.

Electrostatic speakers and headphones are similar to planar magnetic models in that they use a large, thin surface area to deliver the audio. But we see far fewer electrostatic headphones than any other type—they are typically through-the-roof expensive and best for home use.

What Is Active Noise Cancellation?

Noise cancellation  used to be one of the most expensive features you could find in headphones, but it's now mainstream in both the headphone and earphone realms. Not only that, but the shift from wired to wireless headphones in terms of popularity has meant that most of the active noise cancellation (ANC) pairs we see are now wireless.

That's excellent for convenience, but never assume that all ANC is the same. Simply put, the best of the ANC realm is quite effective, with Bose leading the category, but plenty of other manufacturers from Apple to Sony offer top-notch options. See how we test noise cancellation to understand how it works and how we test this feature.

When ANC goes wrong, there are three main ways to tell. One, it's just not very effective—it doesn't tamp down low-frequency rumble as it should, or the overall reduction in surrounding noise isn't profound enough to make it compelling. Two, the ANC circuitry creates a faint hiss—not necessarily unpleasant, but certainly audible (similar to white noise or tape hiss). This is often to mask the fact that the ANC circuitry can't effectively remove some higher-frequency sounds. Third, lower-quality, wireless headphones often have ANC modes that affect the sound signature.

When we describe headphones with excellent noise cancellation, it's more or less the opposite. They squash the low frequencies effectively, tamp down surrounding chatter and common environmental noises, and don't produce much of a high-frequency hiss (if any). The sound signature also shouldn't sound wildly different when this mode is active. Beyond that, several manufacturers, like Bose, offer apps that let you adjust the intensity of the noise cancellation mode.

An increasing number of noise-cancelling headphones now include mics that power ambient listening modes. The point is to allow you to hear your surroundings as if you didn't have your headphones on, so you can talk to others without removing them. It has become popular enough that plenty of non-ANC pairs now have this feature, too. Apple's Adaptive Audio mode is one of the best implementations.

For more, see the best noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds and the best headphones for your home office .

What Are the Best Headphones for Exercise?

Aside from sometimes offering ambient mics for hearing your surroundings, exercise-focused headphones and earphones typically offer water-resistant builds and extra in-ear fit security accessories.

The most important feature of any exercise-focused headphones remains the IP rating. IP stands for ingress protection, and you often see ratings such as IPX7 or IP65. The first number represents protection against solids like dust (X acts as a placeholder, usually because the manufacturer didn't officially test against dust or solids), while the second number describes protection against fluids like water and sweat. For more, see our  guide to IP ratings .

As mentioned, another consideration is in-ear fit. We all have different ears, and some earphones fit better than others. If you've had trouble getting in-ears to stay in place in the past, consider a pair that comes with multiple eartips or earfins that sit against the ear to help add stability. It's also worth considering foam eartips (which sometimes ship with earphones, but are less common than silicone) because they expand in the canal to create a stronger seal, much like earplugs. They also often have the benefit of increasing the bass response.

For more, see our picks for the best true wireless earbuds for running .

Do Headphones Work With Voice Assistants?

Most wireless headphones now include a button or action that summons your phone's built-in voice assistant. But the next frontier is headphones that are always listening, like  smart speakers . Many headphones can summon your smartphone's built-in voice assistant with a wake word or phrase (like "Hey Siri" or "Alexa") while others require a button press.

How Much Should You Spend on Headphones?

Quality and performance can certainly cost money, though that isn't always the case and they aren't the only factors that dictate the price of headphones. Currently, certain technologies—active noise cancellation and spatial audio are the two most obvious examples—tend to drive up the price. That doesn't mean you can't find affordable true wireless earphones, but the higher-quality options tend to kick in around $150, while most excellent noise-cancelling headphones start around $300. Iconic branding—think Apple, Beats, and Bose, to name a few—also impact pricing.

In short, you can pay as little as  $50 for good earphones or headphones and several hundred dollars 000 for  audiophile models . Generally speaking, we see most quality options fall in the range between $100 and $400. Plenty of strong in-ear, over-ear, and on-ear models are available in the $100 to $200 bracket, however.

Once you find the pair that's right for you, make sure to take good care of them with our five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones . We also have an article on the  eight ways you're using your headphones wrong .

More Inside PCMag.com

• The Best Wireless Headphones for 2024
• The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for 2024
• AirPod Alternatives: The Best True Wireless Earbuds for 2024
• The Best Earbuds (In-Ear Headphones) for 2022

About Tim Gideon

I've been a contributing editor for PCMag since 2011. Before that, I was PCMag's lead audio analyst from 2006 to 2011. Even though I'm a freelancer now, PCMag has been my home for well over a decade, and audio gear reviews are still my primary focus. Prior to my career in reviewing tech, I worked as an audio engineer—my love of recording audio eventually led me to writing about audio gear.

More From Tim Gideon

• The Best Noise-Cancelling True Wireless Earbuds for 2024
• The Best Kids' Headphones for 2024
• The Best Waterproof Headphones for 2024

I test headphones for a living — these are the best for travel

As an audio expert, I always have the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones with me for my daily commutes — here's why

As audio editor, sound quality is everything even when I'm choosing a pair of headphones to take away with me on my travels. But there are other factors to consider when seeking the best performance on the move. 

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones may have been around for a while, but they continue to be my favorite headphones for travel. I confess that I feel slightly guilty that I don't prefer the newer WH-1000XM5 version, which replaced the XM4 last year, but there are solid reasons for making them my travel choice. 

Firstly, they're foldable, which makes them so much more practical for sliding into my work or travel bag, and the protective case is a lot smaller too. And judging by the number of fellow travelers on my work commutes also sporting the older version of Sony's XM-series headphones on their head, I'm not alone.  

• The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are priced at $349 / $350 / AU$438 through the Sony website . They're also available via online retailers including Amazon , Best Buy , and Walmart , and are regularly discounted.

Selecting a pair of headphones to accompany me on my routine work commutes to and from the Tom's Guide office, or on my trips away, was not a decision I made entirely consciously. My choice came about as part of the natural day-to-day test routine while evaluating new headphone designs over the past 12 months. Eventually, I realized that I kept coming back to this one pair of headphones again and again, and they've stuck as my go-to travel companion for their high performance and practical reliability.

Travel utopia

Look around any airport, city street, or train station, and it's easy to appreciate that a pair of the best headphones or earbuds are an essential accessory to the way many of us travel and how we use the time. Headphones have become a vital element to the way we get our entertainment fix. Whether that's catching up on our favorite shows or movies downloaded to one of the best tablets or best phones to pass the time on a flight, listening to our best-loved tunes offline while walking to the office, or just tuning out the noise around you with a pair of the best noise-cancelling headphones , a pair of good-quality headphones can make all the difference to your journey.

What I look for in a pair of travel headphones

Although I am fortunate in that I get to try out plenty of different headphones, most headphone buyers have one shot when it comes to selecting the perfect travel headphones. So it's a good idea to think about what features will work best for your travel needs. 

For me, first and foremost, any pair of headphones have to sound great — compromise on sound quality and I might as well read a book to while away the time on a long flight or train journey. They also need to offer superior levels of comfort, robust build, and solid connectivity to be considered a valued companion for my travel plans. Oh, and they need to look pretty respectable, too.

Battery life is another important factor to consider, along with whether you want a set of headphones with some kind of noise cancelling tech to block out the sound of your fellow travelers. 

As it happens, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones score highly across the board, and have effective noise cancelling and battery life that runs to at least 30 hours playback time.   

Sony WH-1000XM4: Control app connectivity

I'm always trying out new wireless headphones on my train journeys to and from the office, but I've lost count of the number of times I've been unable to connect to partnering control apps downloaded to my playback device. Some apps are vital for adjusting the noise-cancelling levels, or tweaking the EQ settings for a sound balance that suits your tastes. But these are often rendered useless on my travels due to poor network and Wi-Fi connectivity. 

You see, as well as the Bluetooth wireless connectivity between the playback device carrying the audio signal to the headphones, some control apps need to connect to external servers via the internet using a Wi-Fi or a mobile network, and signals can be patchy when traveling on public transport. 

Then, of course, there's the firmware updates, which are required far too regularly for my liking, and often seem to pop up just as I go to start listening to a pair of headphones on a long journey home.  

Sony's Headphone Connect app has been very reliable so far. I haven't suffered from any connection issues or firmware updates during my daily commutes. In fact, I managed to perform all of the audio customization adjustments I suggested in my how to make Sony's headphones sound even better without any app connectivity issues whatsoever while on a train journey home.

Sony WH-1000XM4: Great for comfort

If you're going to wear a pair of headphones on a long journey, you want them to be comfortable. And as it turns out, comfort and fit have been great for me on the WH-1000XM4. I can easily spend the majority of my journey time with them placed on my head without any discomfort from the clamping force or the earpads making my ears hot. I do often give my ears a break after an hour or so, though, just to prevent any kind of listening fatigue or tiredness setting in. But when we originally reviewed them in 2021, our reviewer found that he managed to wear them for three hours daily during a three-day weekend without any problems. 

I found the headband extenders are flexible enough to get just the right fit, and the plush cushioning on the earpads is like resting my head on a soft pillow. The larger earcup cutouts provide good ventilation, which prevents moisture buildup during long listening sessions, too.

Sony WH-1000XM4: The popular travel choice

Having listened to the XM4 headphones extensively to compare them to the next-gen WH-1000XM5 flagship version, it's easy to understand why the older version continues to be so popular given their great sound and ANC performance, build, and practical foldable design. 

Although the new flagship headphones should be applauded for moving the XM-series on and bringing eco credentials to the design, they're less practical from a travel point of view. And it looks as though Sony and plenty others agree. 

Despite being superseded, Sony's XM4 headphones continue to be available and are easily the most popular travel headphone I see on my work commutes — and I know several colleagues in the Tom's Guide office who feel the same. These are the best kind of traveling companion; one that helps me switch off and relax, and makes the journey time to my destination pass more quickly.

Planning on a longer journey? Then check out my recommendations for the best headphones for travel . 

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As a former editor of the U.K.'s Hi-Fi Choice magazine, Lee is passionate about all kinds of audio tech and has been providing sound advice to enable consumers to make informed buying decisions since he joined Which? magazine as a product tester in the 1990s. Lee covers all things audio for Tom's Guide, including headphones, wireless speakers and soundbars and loves to connect and share the mindfulness benefits that listening to music in the very best quality can bring.

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Best headphones for plane travel in 2024

Block out the sound of other passengers with the best headphones for plane travel

The best headphones for plane travel are essential if you want some much-needed peace and quiet on your journey. That's because when you're travelling on an airplane, there are all kinds of noises you can't control, like the sounds of passengers talking and snoring, or babies crying.

But a good pair of the best noise-canceling headphones can block out those sounds to varying degrees, making them ideal for planes. Many of the headphones in our list, like the Apple AirPods Pro 2 , below have "Active noise canceling" technology, or ANC, which refers to headphones that emit sounds to your ear that specifically cancel out certain unwanted sounds in your environment. 

In short, they provide the best possible experience. And although some won't completely block out all sounds, they do a good enough job to help you relax and even get some sleep while everyone else is eating, watching movies and chatting around you.

Block out annoying sounds with the best headphones for plane travel

You can always trust iMore. Our team of Apple experts have years of experience testing all kinds of tech and gadgets, so you can be sure our recommendations and criticisms are accurate and helpful. Find out more about how we test.

Best for Apple lovers Apple's AirPods Pro 2 slip easily into a pocket and connect to your iPhone seamlessly. Unlike previous AirPods, the AirPods Pro have active noise-canceling, making them a perfect travel companion on your next flight. They're an upgrade on the previous AirPods Pro because they have personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, which places sound around you.

Luxurious choice

These special headphones offer three noise cancellation levels, a noise-rejecting microphone, built-in Alexa, and even audio-only AR (augmented reality.) Get 20 hours of battery life from a single charge. Want to spoil yourself when you travel? This is how you do it.

Beautifully designed

Master & Dynamic MW07 Plus True Wireless Earphones offer 40 hours of total playtime with the stainless steel charging case and include active noise cancelation, as we raved about in our review. What's not to love?

Secure freedom

Read about the superior sound, secure ear hooks, and nine hours of listening time (24 hours with the charging case) with the truly wireless Beats by Dr. Dre - Powerbeats Pro in our review . Connect to any smartphone, as they are compatible with iOS and Android.

Colorful choice

While these active noise-canceling headphones come in a bunch of fun fashion colors, they are serious tech. Get 30 hours of wireless talk or playtime from a four-hour charge.

Bargain true wireless

As I pointed out in my review, you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a good pair of wireless noise-canceling earbuds. Earfun Free Pro Wireless Headphones give you a lot of bang for the buck. The charging case charges via USB-C or wirelessly, and gives you up to 32 hours of listening on a single charge. The earbuds come with several sizes of ear tips so everyone can have a perfect fit.

Ultimate headphones

While the price point may put this one out of reach for some, Apple undeniably knows sound. Get the ultimate personal listening experience with Apple's AirPods Max , the high-fidelity wonder we loved reviewing. Choose from a handful of color options.

You can't go wrong with Sony's popular premium over-ear headphones. The WH-1000XM4 gives you great sound, battery life, and comfort. They come in several neutral colors. The active noise canceling is top-notch. 

Nicely priced

Proving once again that you don't have to spend a lot to get a great pair of headphones, Anker's offering blocks up to 90% of ambient noise. Get up to 40 hours of nonstop play time while in active noise canceling mode, or up to 60 hours in standard mode. A five-minute quick charge buys you another four hours.

Apple sauce for less

Get that Apple magic in a pair of over-ear headphones that cost far less than AirPods Max. You'll get the Apple W1 chip and Class 1 wireless Bluetooth connectivity plus 40 hours of play time. Note that these do not offer active noise canceling, but the over-ear style means you'll get some passive noise blocking.

Air travel headphones don't have to be wireless; in fact, if you want to plug into the airplane's sound system, you need that headphone jack. Plug in with these nicely priced over-ear headphones from sound expert brand Sony. Watch the in-flight entertainment with these; they'll be a major upgrade over the free headphones offered by the airline.

A good mid-range option

The Anker Q35 are a good pair of commuting headphones thanks to their excellent 44 hours of battery life, comfortable fit and excellent noise cancellation. Sound is great here and the app has an option to tweak the EQ and other settings, which is good news for audiophiles.

• Back to top^

Which headphones are the best for plane travel?

The best headphones for plane travel tend to be noise-cancelling headphones. But that's not strictly necessary. If your headphones fit well, the passive noise isolation may be sufficient. 

If you're looking for something more compact and pocketable, we'd recommend a pair of the best true wireless earbuds , like the Apple AirPods Pro 2 , especially if you own a lot of Apple devices as they work so seamlessly together. Turn on active noise cancellation for fully immersive sound, or put on transparency mode for important airplane announcements or conversation with your travel companions. 

No list of headphones could be complete without mentioning Apple's AirPods Max . If they're within your budget, we'd highly recommend checking them out. They're not as compact as true wireless earbuds, but if you're looking for a pair of the best wired headphones, they're some of the most advanced on the market.

If you're looking for something more bargain-friendly, you'll enjoy the Earfun Free Pro Wireless Headphones . We took these on a recent flight and watched several television shows without being disturbed by the sounds around me. The sound, battery life, features, and price are quite nice.

If you don't need headphones specifically for travel but would like to know which are the top devices out there right now, then take a look at some of our other lists, including our best Bluetooth headphones for Apple Watch guide, our selection of the best wired headphones for Apple Music Lossless Audio and our best USB-C Headphones for iPad Pro list.

Master your iPhone in minutes

iMore offers spot-on advice and guidance from our team of experts, with decades of Apple device experience to lean on. Learn more with iMore!

Karen is a contributor to iMore.com as a writer and co-host of the iMore Show. She’s been writing about Apple since 2010 with a year-long break to work at an Apple Store as a product specialist. She's also a contributor at TechRadar and Tom's Guide. Before joining iMore in 2018, Karen wrote for Macworld, CNET, AppAdvice, and WatchAware. She’s an early adopter who used to wait in long lines on release days before pre-ordering made things much easier. Karen is also a part-time teacher and occasional movie extra. She loves to spend time with her family, travel the world, and is always looking for portable tech and accessories so she can work from anywhere.

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Great ideas are born in silence

Headphones for Travel

For lush sound that surrounds you as you speed along to your destination, pamper yourself on your next trip with the best travel headphones in Australia—AKG. Nothing calms the “are we there yet” feeling like your favourite music, piped into your ears in all its splendour, as you head down the highway or across the skies. This is the reason why the AKG team has designed & crafted the best travel headphones in Australia & the world over. What makes AKG stand apart from other travel headphones? Australia’s seasoned travellers know. It’s the relaxing, pure sound you can't find anywhere else.

Signature Sound That Soothes

Long battery life for long trips, convenient features for easy packing, enjoy comfort, convenience in your travel headphones, for the ultimate in portable sound, buy akg travel headphones.

When we designed the AKG travel headphones, our engineers focused on one thing: making sure you could experience the purest, cleanest sound available anywhere. They delivered that—and more. Not only do our headphones balance out distracting low frequency-range noises, but they go far beyond to provide a world-class acoustic experience that’s as clear as if you were sitting in a concert hall. Maybe even better.

Warm bass that thunders. Trebles with pure notes that make you shiver with delight. Though you may be in a plane crowded like a can of sardines, with AKG headphones, you’re alone—your music being your only companion. While exceptionally performing throughout the whole noise spectrum, the technology behind our range the headphones is optimized for traveling. Tuned up for reducing ambient noise especially towards the low frequency ranges (like for example the airplane background humming or the traffic noise), it allows a clear and pure sound/quiet experience.

If you buy headphones for travel, the last thing you want is for them to run out of power before the trip’s over. No worries with your AKG travel headphones. Our models range from 15 to 30 hours of continuous battery life. With our convenient USB charging cable, you can keep the Grammy-winning sounds coming for as long as you like. For long haul flights you can use your headphones to experience in-flight entertainment with the airline adapter that comes with the headphones of the travel range. The headphones in our travel range are comfortable for long hours of listening pleasure and they are the best companion a journey requires.

When you try to find travel headphones online, you’ll find that other headphones are awkward, bulky, with no way to pack them easily. Not so with AKG headphones. the AKG Travel line headphones are lightweight and foldable flat for the convenience of all those travelling light. Our 3D folding mechanism makes it easy to stow them away. We even furnish a carrying case to make it easier to bring them along. With AKG, it’s easy to bring your tunes along for the ride.

Gone is the pinch from standard travel headphones you can’t get just right. Gone is the bug-in-the-ear feeling most earbuds give you. With AKG’s line of headphones and in-ear travel sound systems, you’ll enjoy cushy comfort for your ears—and your head—with our memory foam cushions, lightweight aluminium construction, and butter-soft leather accents. The N20 & N60NC headphones come with a range of accessories designed to make integrating your headphones into your journey completely seamless. As for convenience, you have control at the touch of a button with our universal remote. Our wireless models even let you take calls hands-free while you’re on the road. Comfort like you’ve never had before. Convenience for all your travels. That’s the AKG advantage.

With cutting-edge technology, plush, long-lasting comfort, and award-winning sound, there simply isn’t anything on the market like our headphones for travel around Australia—or around the world. Change the atmosphere of your journey with each new song & remain completely undisturbed by the sounds of your bus, plane or train. Before your next trip, grab a pair of AKG headphones and enjoy the journey. Our headphones for travel promise to change the way you think about your time spent travelling. To learn more about the advantages of choosing AKG, contact the AKG Australia team today.

First Class Noise Cancelling in-ear headphones fine-tuned for traveling

• 20-hours battery life
• Universal 3-button remote with compatibility switch

First Class Noise Cancelling headphones fine-tuned for traveling

• 30-hours battery life
• Universally compatible one-button remote with microphone
• Convenient USB charging cable

N60NC Wireless

First Class Noise Cancelling wireless headphones fine-tuned for traveling

• 15-hours lossless wireless Noise Cancelling audio playback (30-hours with BT off)
• Detachable universal cable with one-button remote control

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'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

The best headphones for 2024: Expert tested

A good pair of headphones can become a daily companion. Buying the right headphones is a personal experience, as everyone wants and needs different things. Maybe you want headphones with noise canceling strong enough to mute a crying baby on a plane. Perhaps you want headphones that will help you appreciate your favorite songs in new ways. Or, maybe those things don't matter to you, and you just want  headphones that work and won't break the bank .

Also: The best over-ear headphones: Expert tested and reviewed

No matter what your headphone needs are, there's a pair for everybody, and you shouldn't be toting a pair of headphones that don't best serve you. Once you find your perfect match, you'll want to hold onto them for many years. There are many things to consider before buying headphones, and I've tested dozens of pairs to recommend the best ones.

What are the best headphones right now?

After extensively testing all of the top headphones available today, my pick for the best headphones overall right now are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones for their best-in-class noise cancellation, stylish and premium design, and all-day comfort. These headphones are great for people willing to splurge on a pair of reliable, everyday cans. If you're looking for headphones for more specific use cases, keep reading and check out my top suggestions.

The best headphones of 2024

Bose quietcomfort ultra headphones, best headphones overall.

• Best-in-class ANC
• Comfortable fit
• Customizable EQ
• Battery life could be longer
• Carrying case is restrictive

Bose's latest release easily tops competitors in the noise-canceling and comfort department, as the name QuietComfort suggests. I wear these headphones during intensive writing sessions at my desk, while traveling, and while lounging. Bose improved the QC Ultra's soundstage with this model, offering a more profound, fuller bass response than any other Bose headphones I've tested.

The vegan leather ear pads have perforations to allow for better breathability, decreasing the likelihood of these headphones making your ears feel hot. Even after hours of wear, it's easy to forget you're wearing the QC Ultra on your head -- they're that comfortable.

Review:  Bose QuietComfort Ultra 

The QC Ultra's noise-canceling is the best I've tried in any headphones, as the ANC offers you protection from low, middle, and high-pitched droning noises like a lawnmower, car engine, or running refrigerator. Unlike other ANC headphones, the QC Ultra do a great job at diminishing light conversational noises, making them a great companion for people working in public spaces, like a library or coffee shop.

However, the QC Ultra are on the expensive side, retailing at $429 and remaining over $350 even with seasonal discounts. Additionally, their battery life is 24 hours, so if you wear your headphones a lot, you'll need to plug in a few times a week.

If you're ready to splurge on a pair of everyday headphones, I can't recommend these more. They're equipped with every feature you need and deliver an enjoyable listening experience while offering an enormous amount of comfort.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra  tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.3) |  Battery life:  24 hours (ANC off) |  Driver size:  35mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB): -28 dB  |  Wired  option(s):  3.5mm headphone jack

Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones

Best headphones for software fanatics.

• Great for voice calls
• Comfortable
• Does not fold

The Sony XM5 over-ear headphones are some of the most popular ones on the market, and that's for good reason. These headphones have exceptional noise-canceling properties, great sound, a solid battery life, all-day comfort, and a sleek and premium design.

When Sony released these headphones in 2022, they were packed with software features competing headphones lacked, like Speak-to-Chat. This feature pauses your music when the headphones detect that you're speaking to someone and enables transparency mode so you can better hear them.

The XM5's 40-hour battery life means you can wear these headphones throughout the week with minimal charging, making them great for commuters, travelers, and desk workers. Not to mention, the impressive noise-canceling is some of the best out there. 

Review:  Sony WH-1000XM5

When ZDNET's Matthew Miller reviewed the XM5 headphones, he said the noise-canceling tech allows for "an environment of isolation and focus," so these headphones are great to wear when you need to block out the world around you. 

The XM5 and Bose's QC Ultra headphones are neck-and-neck for the best headphones. However, I think the QC Ultra have slightly better noise-canceling and are significantly more comfortable. Still, Sony's XM5 allow access to Sony's LDAC Bluetooth codec, have a longer battery life, and don't need to be turned on to listen over a wired connection, unlike the QC Ultra.

Essentially, both headphones are more than capable of quieting noisy environments, boiling your decision down to sound preferences and brand loyalty.

Sony WH-1000XM5 tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.2) |  Battery life:  40 hours (ANC off) |  Driver size:  30mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB): - 27 dB |  Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack

JBL Live 770NC

Best headphones for everyday use.

• Marathon battery
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Lots of software features
• Middling ANC
• Spatial audio is a miss

A pair of reliable headphones that can live inside your work or school bag is a must-have, and the JBL Live 770NC are a great option. These headphones are the latest upper-mid-range headphones from JBL, as the company announced them in January at CES. The Live 770NC include a laundry list of premium software features like wear detection, spatial audio, adaptive noise-canceling, and more. 

The Live 770NC's design and build materials are more premium than competitors at this price point, as JBL fitted the 770NC with big, plushy ear cups and a headband covered in soft fabric. When I tested the 770NC, I wore them for about five hours before I experienced any head or ear fatigue. 

Review:  JBL Live 770NC

Sound-wise, the 770NC don't reproduce the most elevated sound I've heard, even within this $200 to $250 price range. Still, these headphones are more than suitable for casual listeners and people who want headphones solely to shield them from external noises.

The 770NC have adaptive noise-canceling, which means the noise-canceling adjusts based on how loud your environment is. The adaptive aspect of this technology is very intuitive and effective, but the actual noise-canceling isn't anything to write home about.

Overall, if you want headphones that are new, sound great, have a long battery life, are comfortable, and can get the job done all for less than $250, these are the way to go.

JBL Live 770NC tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.3) |  Battery life:  60+ hours (ANC off) |  Driver size:  40mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB):  -23dB |  Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack

Monoprice BT-600ANC

Best budget noise-canceling headphones.

• Effective ANC
• Durable build
• No EQ settings or companion app
• No up-to-date software features

The Monoprice BT-600ANC headphones are best for people who want strong noise cancelation without paying too much for it. At $100 (and sometimes as low as $60 on sale), the BT-600ANC are the best budget ANC headphone. 

The BT-600ANC's ANC is stronger than some higher-end ANC headphones, but it's not as intuitive. Although these headphones deploy hefty amounts of noise-canceling, they do struggle to block higher-pitched frequencies. When I tested the BT-600ANC, I didn't sense any adaptive noise-canceling tech, so if you experience what feels like airplane ear  (noise-canceling headphones don't actually  cause airplane ear) while wearing noise-canceling headphones, you're sure to experience it while wearing these.

Review:  Monoprice BT-600ANC

The BT-600ANC have a sturdy build that resembles Sony's WH-1000XM4 headphones and sports thick, plushy polyurethane ear cups. The thick ear cups help create a seal that aids in the effectiveness of the noise-canceling. When I tested the BT-600ANC, I was surprised by how much you get for one Benjamin. Usually, headphones in this price range skimp on accessories or build quality to keep the internal components of higher quality.

However, Monoprice gives you a solid carrying case and a functional build for ultimate portability. Despite that, the BT-600ANC headphones don't have a companion app, which means they have no native EQ settings. You're stuck with the out-of-the-box sound, which is very bass-forward and a little muddy.

Overall, if noise-canceling for a lower cost is your main priority, the BT-600ANC are a great choice.

Monoprice BT-600ANC tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.0) |  Battery life:  40 hours (ANC off) |  Driver size:  40mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB): -35 dB  |  Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack

Samson SR850

Best budget open-back headphones.

• Open soundstage
• Natural fit
• Very affordable
• Some genres sound better than others
• Can be uncomfortable after a few hours
• Cheap build

There are headphones that are better for commuting, working, and traveling, and there are headphones that are better for critically examining music, whether that be listening for enjoyment, mixing audio, or editing audio. The Samson SR850 fall in the latter group. The SR850 are reference headphones, so they're optimized to expose tiny details (good or bad) in the audio you're listening to.

These headphones are incredibly affordable and a great entry point for budding audiophiles and students or hobbyists learning to mix and master audio. The SR850's semi-open ear cups allow for air passage, opening the soundstage and lending an open and airy sound. Their open-ear cups make them less ideal for recording audio -- you'll want closed-back studio headphones for that. Additionally, their open-back design means they're not ideal for commuting or listening in public areas.

The Samson SR850 sport a self-adjusting headband and velour ear pads. They aren't the most comfortable, but that's expected for their $50 price tag. You get a 3.5mm to 3.5mm headphone jack and a screw-top 6.3mm adapter. With a 32ohm impedance, these headphones are incredibly easy to drive, making them a great option for beginners.

When I tested the SR850, I used them for casual listening in my living room. I found the sound profile was exaggerated in the treble, which took some time to get used to. Still, I heard smaller, more minute details in my favorite songs that I'd never heard before.

Overall, if you can't or don't want to spend hundreds, if not thousands, on higher-quality open-back headphones, the Samson SR850 are for you.

Samson SR850 tech specs: Form factor:  Semi-open, over-ear |  Bluetooth:  N/A |  Battery life:  N/A |  Driver size:  50mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB):  N/A |  Wired  option(s):  3.5mm headphone jack, 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2

Best studio headphones.

• Retro meets modern design
• Long cable included
• Tight clamping force
• Bluetooth can be finicky

Studio headphones aren't headphones you'll want to take on your daily commute or with you to the office. But if you record audio professionally, you'll want to get your hands on these. The ATH-M50xBT2's closed-back design is great for recording, as you can listen intensively and avoid sound from the headphones bleeding into the mic.

Their sound is very neutral, in typical studio headphone fashion. If you want headphones with punchy, boomy bass, these can't give it to you. However, if you do enjoy neutral-sounding headphones, the BT2 aren't only reserved for recording audio -- they are great for listening, too.

Review:  Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2

For their $200 price, these headphones are a great value and have a sturdy build. The ear cups are covered with vinyl ear pads and their retro look is true to Audio-Technica's M-series design.

When I tested these headphones, I thought their neutral and balanced sound helped me appreciate my favorite songs in new ways. Plus, in a world of overly complicated software features, the BT2 are a breath of fresh air with their lack of digital tinkering. If you manage to run down the battery, you can wire these headphones and access up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz sampling rate.

If you're a budding podcaster or are studying music recording and production, these are a great pair of studio headphones. If you enjoy the sound of studio headphones but don't want to pay for high-end ones, you get a lot of value for the BT2's $200 tag.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.0) |  Battery life:  60+ hours |  Driver size:  45mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB):  N/A |  Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack

Sennheiser Accentum Plus

Best mid-range headphones for casual listening.

• Lightweight
• Great sound for the price

Sennheiser is known for its pro-grade audio products, but the higher-end products aren't suitable for everyone. If your friends in the audio space recommend you try a pair of Sennheiser cans, but you don't want to pay upwards of $600 to experience the company's iconic sound, try the Accentum Plus.

The Accentum Plus are the company's latest mid-range headphones that debuted at CES 2024. The Accentum Plus have an incredibly clear and immersive sound for their price tag, offering detailed highs and punchy, deep bass. 

The Accentum Plus boast adaptive noise canceling, which I found wasn't the strongest, but helps keep your music center stage while keeping louder external noises at bay. These headphones are great for commuters, travelers, and desk workers, as they have a marathon battery life that can last more than 50 hours.

Review:  Sennheiser Accentum Plus

However, you must have the right head size to get the most out of these headphones. Maybe my head was too big, but when I tested the Accentum Plus, I couldn't wear them for more than an hour without my ears hurting. 

Despite that, if you prefer wireless headphones but prioritize sound quality and want great sound for less than $250, the Accentum Plus will do you good.

Sennheiser Accentum Plus tech specs: Form factor:  Over-ear |  Bluetooth:  Yes (5.2) |  Battery life:  60+ hours (ANC off) |  Driver size:  40mm dynamic |  Noise cancellation (in dB):  -25dB |  Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack

What are the best headphones?

The best headphones for you are the ones that best serve their intended purpose. If you're looking for headphones to take on your daily commute, consider the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. If you frequently record audio, try the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2. If mixing audio is your top use case, the Samson SR850 are best for you.

Which headphones are right for you?

While all of these headphones are excellent picks, it ultimately depends on what type of connectivity you prefer, if noise cancellation is important to you, what your use cases are, and how much you're willing to spend.

Factors to consider when choosing a pair of headphones

I've spent many hours testing headphones, from big names like Sony and Bose to lesser-known brands, to show you that you have a sea of options. The headphones your best friend loves and recommends you try might be the worst headphones you've ever worn, which is why it's essential to consider these factors before you buy:

• Battery life:  Nothing is worse than throwing on your headphones and seeing they're on 5% battery. If you often forget to charge your headphones, you'll want a pair with an extensive battery life. So, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra might not be your best option, but the JBL Live 770NC could work better for you.
• Use cases:  There are many types of headphones, so you must ensure you're buying the right kind that matches your specific use cases. Perhaps your friend recommended the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones for their great sound, but you didn't realize they didn't have noise-canceling -- a feature you desired. If you want headphones for commuting, make sure the headphones you're eyeing are suitable for that. If you need headphones to record your podcast, ensure you aren't purchasing headphones like the Sony XM5 over-ears.
• Lifestyle headphones vs. audio-focused headphones: I like to categorize headphones into these two categories. Lifestyle headphones are the headphones you see from brands like Bose, Apple, and Sony. However, brands like Sony and Sennheiser manufacture both lifestyle and audio-focused headphones. Lifestyle headphones can accompany you on your daily commute, to the office, and to the gym -- all on the same day. On the other hand, audio-focused headphones may lack the comfort, noise-canceling tech, and portability that lifestyle headphones possess since their primary use case is to examine audio critically.

How we test headphones

The ZDNET team spends weeks with a pair of headphones, using them in many environments like libraries, coffee shops, grocery stores, trains, and the office. We do so to test how well a pair of headphones perform in various environments, as each environment offers a different symphony of sounds.

Although you can test headphones objectively on a noise isolation graph or sound profile chart, you should conduct your own testing in your frequented environments to see how they hold up. At the end of the day, the only way to know if a pair of headphones works for you is to try them yourself.

How do I choose the right headphones?

Before you buy a pair of headphones, there are a few things aside from price you should think about. A pair of headphones' form-factor, connectivity, and features are equally as important. If you're consulting this list, I'm assuming you've decided that you're not looking for earbuds . To help you out, think about if you want:

• Wired or wireless (Bluetooth)?: I recommend wired headphones for people who want to occasionally listen to music critically. Over a wired connection, you can access high-resolution music playback. If that doesn't matter to you and you'd rather have headphones that are portable and wire-free, you want wireless headphones. Fortunately, many consumer headphones can be wired or wireless, and many wireless headphones in this list can achieve high-resolution audio playback via a wired connection.
• Closed-back or open-back?: Closed-back headphones comprise most of the options on this list, and they're best for commuting and listening in public spaces. Because the back of the ear cups are closed, others around you hear less of your music and you hear less of others around you. If you want noise-canceling, then you want closed-back headphones. If you mix or master music, enjoy listening to music critically, or want to invest in higher-quality audio gear, consider open-back headphones.

Should I buy on-ear or over-ear headphones?

I prefer over-ear headphones over on-ear headphones. As a result, I only recommended over-ear headphones in this list. On-ear headphones sit on your ears, while over-ear headphones cover your entire ear. Over-ear headphones create a better seal between your ears and the outside world, allowing for increased noise isolation.

Over-ear headphones provide a more immersive listening experience, and the tighter seal on your ears allows for increased noise-canceling performance.

However, you may like on-ear headphones if you want headphones with a more compact shape. If you don't like noise-canceling or prefer to better hear your surroundings, you should consider on-ear headphones.

Should I buy earbuds or headphones?

The term "headphones" encompasses many types of listening devices, and earbuds are a type od headphone. However, for the sake of simplicity, let's conclude that earbuds are listening devices that go inside your ears and headphones are listening devices that go over your ears.

You should buy earbuds if:

• You don't want large, bulky headphones.
• You vigorously exercise frequently.

You should buy headphones if:

• You want longer battery life.
• You want better sound quality.
• You don't like objects inside your ears.

Are there alternative headphones worth considering?

While the options listed above should get you pretty far, you might still be interested in alternative options. Here are a few of our other high-rated recommendations to consider. 

ZDNET Recommends

The best earbuds you can buy: expert tested, the best noise-canceling earbuds you can buy: expert tested, the best headphone deals: airpods, beats, bose, and more.