Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2025: The Ultimate Guide
Noise-canceling headphones have revolutionized how we listen to music, work, and travel. With advancements in audio technology, 2025 has brought a wave of high-performance headphones that deliver immersive soundscapes and cutting-edge noise cancellation. In this guide, we review the top contenders – comparing their features, performance, and pricing – to help you find the perfect pair of ANC (Active Noise-Canceling) headphones for your needs. We’ve also included tips on what to look for (battery life, comfort, codecs, and more) and recommendations based on different use cases. Let’s dive in!
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1. Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony continues to dominate the noise-canceling market with the WH-1000XM5, a flagship over-ear headphone offering top-tier sound quality and intelligent noise cancellation. Released in mid-2022, the XM5 introduced an updated design and Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology with an Integrated Processor V1, enabling industry-leading ANC performance. It can dynamically adapt to your environment – whether you’re facing airplane engine drone or office chatter – effectively silencing ambient noise without adding uncomfortable pressure or hissrecordingnow.com. This model also delivers rich, enjoyable audio out-of-the-box, and you can fine-tune the sound to your liking via the Sony Headphones Connect app’s EQ and presets.
Key Features: Up to 30-hour battery life per charge (even with ANC on)recordingnow.com, with quick-charging that gives ~3 hours of playback from 3 minutes of charging. Supports Bluetooth 5.2 multipoint pairing (so you can connect to two devices simultaneously). High-resolution audio support is available via the LDAC codec (for Android users), and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio provides an optional spatial audio experience with supported music. Touch controls on the earcup make playback and volume adjustments easy, and handy features like Speak-to-Chat and ambient sound mode enhance convenience.
Why Choose the XM5: If you want arguably the best overall noise-cancelling performance on the market paired with a balanced, customizable sound, the XM5 is a top pick. Its ANC is often neck-and-neck with Bose’s latest for the crownrecordingnow.com, and it offers a more customizable audio experience than most competitors. The lightweight design (254g) and thick ear cushions make it comfortable for long listening sessions. Sony also includes a premium hard case and cables in the box. At an MSRP around $399 (often on sale for less), it delivers excellent value for a flagship headphone. The only downsides are a somewhat fragile hinge design (Sony reverted to a folding design in the newer XM6 to address this)soundguys.com, soundguys.com and the lack of water resistance – but for everyday music listening and travel, the WH-1000XM5 is a superb choice.
Learn more about the Sony WH-1000XM5 – Check price on Amazon 🎧
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Bose’s QuietComfort line is practically synonymous with noise cancelation, and the QuietComfort Ultra (released late 2023) lives up to that legacy. The QC Ultra headphones boast enhanced noise cancellation that’s arguably the best-in-class – in fact, many tests and reviews rate Bose’s ANC slightly above even Sony’s XM5recordingnow.com, recordingnow.com. With Bose’s CustomTune technology, the headphones automatically calibrate ANC and sound to your ears and environment for optimal effectrtings.com. They also introduce Bose’s Immersive Audio feature, which is a spatial audio mode with head tracking (comparable to Apple’s Spatial Audio) for a more immersive listening experience. True to their name, the QuietComfort Ultra are designed for comfort: they’re lightweight (≈254 g) and have generous padding, making them easy to wear for hours on long flights or work sessionsrecordingnow.com,, recordingnow.com.
Key Features: Up to 24 hours of battery life with ANC on (Bose’s spec)recordingnow.com – a solid all-day battery, though a bit lower than some competitors. They charge via USB-C and support quick charge (15 minutes for ~2.5 hours playbackrecordingnow.com). The QC Ultra supports multipoint Bluetooth pairing and the latest aptX Adaptive codec for high-quality wireless audio on compatible devicesrtings.com (including aptX Lossless on select phones), alongside standard AAC and SBC. Controls include tactile buttons and a unique touch-sensitive volume strip on the earcup for easy adjustments. The Bose Music companion app allows you to adjust ANC level (11 levels between full Transparency and max Noise Cancelation)recordingnow.com, tweak EQ, and customize settings.
Why Choose the QuietComfort Ultra: These headphones are best-in-class for travelers and commuters who demand the very highest noise-canceling performance and comfort. On a noisy airplane, the QC Ultra’s ANC will create a remarkably quiet bubble, reducing even low-frequency rumbles more effectively than othersrecordingnow.com. Bose’s sound signature is balanced and pleasing; and while the Sony and Sennheiser might edge it out in certain audio nuances, the QC Ultra actually delivers excellent sound quality as well (especially if you use the EQ to your taste)recordingnow.com, recordingnow.com. They’re ideal for long-haul flights, office use, and remote work setups – basically any situation where you need to block out distractions and stay comfortable. The main trade-offs are the premium price (MSRP ~$429) and battery life that, while good, is surpassed by some rivals. If those aren’t deal-breakers, Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers arguably the most effective ANC you can get along with the reliable Bose build and support.
Learn more about the Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Check price on Amazon 🎧
3. Apple AirPods Max
Apple’s AirPods Max bring a premium design and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, combined with superb sound quality and unique features like Spatial Audio. Clad in aluminum and steel with memory-foam earcups, the AirPods Max have a build quality and aesthetic that stand out – they look and feel as expensive as they are. Sound-wise, they are often praised for their exceptional audio fidelity, with a warm yet detailed output that especially excels in the midrange (vocals, guitars, etc.)recordingnow.com. When paired with Apple devices, the AirPods Max unlock Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, which can make movies and supported music incredibly immersive. The active noise cancellation on the AirPods Max is very effective for everyday environments, easily hushed coffee shop chatter or office noise. However, Bose and Sony still have a slight edge in pure noise-canceling strength for the most extreme noises (for example, on airplanes the AirPods Max ANC is good but not the absolute toprecordingnow.com).
Key Features: Active Noise Cancellation plus Transparency Mode (to let ambient sound in when needed) – easily toggled with a dedicated button. Apple’s H1 chips in each earcup enable instant pairing and automatic switching between your iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc. (if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, this seamless connectivity is a huge conveniencerecordingnow.com). The Digital Crown on the headphone gives precise control over volume and playback, and it’s very satisfying to use. Battery life is up to 20 hoursamazon.com, which is decent though notably lower than most competitors – enough for a long workday or flight, but you’ll be charging it more often if you use ANC all day. Unfortunately, there’s no power off button; the headphones enter an ultra-low-power state when placed in the included Smart Case. The AirPods Max use Apple’s Lightning port for charging (recent revisions might move to USB-C), and if you want wired audio you need a special Lightning-to-3.5mm cable (sold separately).
Why Choose AirPods Max: For Apple enthusiasts or those who prioritize audio quality and design, the AirPods Max are a compelling choice. In terms of sound quality, many reviewers rank them among the very best wireless headphones, with an articulate, balanced sound profile and excellent dynamic range. They particularly shine with Spatial Audio content – if you watch a lot of Apple TV+ or Apple Music Dolby Atmos tracks, the immersive surround effect can be delightful. They also integrate Siri voice assistant hands-free and have great build durability. On the downside, they are the heaviest of the bunch (≈385 g), which some listeners find less comfortable over marathon sessionsrecordingnow.com, and the noise cancelation, while very good, falls just short of Sony’s and Bose’s ultra-high levels in challenging noise environmentsrecordingnow.com. The price is also the highest here (around $549 retail). If you live in Apple’s world and value impeccable build and sound – and don’t mind the cost – the AirPods Max can be incredibly satisfying. But if you need longer battery life or aren’t heavily invested in Apple devices, you might find better value among the other options.
Learn more about Apple AirPods Max – Check price on Amazon 🎧
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless is a blend of elegance and powerful performance. Known for their audiophile heritage, Sennheiser tuned the Momentum 4 to have a rich, detailed sound that will please music purists – it delivers deep, punchy bass and clear highs, and an overall warm sound signature characteristic of the brand. One of the headline features of the Momentum 4 is its phenomenal battery life: up to 60 hours on a single chargerecordingnow.com. This is double or more what most competitors offer, meaning you can go days (or even weeks) without needing to recharge under moderate use. The active noise cancellation is adaptive, automatically adjusting to your surroundings, and while its maximum noise-blocking may be a notch below Sony’s or Bose’s latest, it’s still highly effective for travel and office use. In fact, users report it can block about 90% of ambient noise on flights, which is often “good enough” for quiet comfortrecordingnow.com. The Momentum 4 also sports a more understated design than some flashy competitors – a minimalist matte finish with soft leatherette padding, and it folds flat into a slim hard case for portability.
Key Features: Unrivaled 60-hour battery life (you basically charge once and forget for a week or more). Adaptive ANC that you can customize via the Sennheiser Smart Control app – you can dial in how much transparency vs cancellation you prefer. Codec support includes aptX Adaptive for high-quality, low-latency audio on Android (better than standard aptX)rtings.com, as well as AAC and SBC. There’s a built-in EQ in the app and various sound modes to tweak the audio. The Momentum 4 uses touch controls on the earcups (swipe and tap gestures) for playback, volume, and calls. Four beamforming microphones ensure clear voice call quality and voice assistant access, with automatic wind noise suppression for outdoors. Sennheiser also includes a 3.5mm analog cable and airplane adapter in the box – nice extras for travelers.
Why Choose Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 Wireless is ideal for listeners who want a high-end headphone experience at a slightly lower price, and especially for those who value battery life. It’s often priced around $349 (and frequently on sale under $300), making it significantly more affordable than Sony, Bose, or Apple’s flagshipsrecordingnow.com,, recordingnow.com. Yet you’re not sacrificing much: you still get premium sound quality that some even prefer over the pricier models (especially without EQ tinkering)recordingnow.com, very good noise cancellation, and a comfortable build. In fact, some reviews note the Momentum 4’s comfort and build quality are excellent – the earpads are spacious and soft, and at ~293 g it’s lighter than the AirPods Max and only slightly heavier than Sony/Boserecordingnow.com. If you’re an audiophile on the go, the Momentum 4’s support for aptX Adaptive and Sennheiser’s refined tuning will appeal to you. These headphones are a “steal for the price” given they deliver 90% of what the $400–$500 models do in terms of performancerecordingnow.com. On the flip side, Bose and Sony still edge out Sennheiser in ANC prowess and perhaps in comfort for some (the Momentum’s clamping force is gentle, but Bose’s is even lighter). Also, the design is more utilitarian and less “luxury” than Apple or B&W’s offerings. Overall, if you want the best all-around value in high-end noise-canceling headphones, the Momentum 4 should be high on your list.
Learn more about Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless – Check price on Amazon 🎧
5. Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Last but not least, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is a luxurious entrant in the noise-canceling arena. B&W is a famed British audio brand known for high-end speakers, and they’ve infused the Px8 with that same pedigree of impeccable craftsmanship and sound quality. These headphones are built with premium materials — Nappa leather on the headband and ear cups, memory-foam cushions, and aluminum detailing — giving them a sophisticated, timeless look and robust buildrtings.com. Inside, the Px8 uses custom 40mm Carbon Cone drivers, which deliver an extremely clear and refined sound. Audio enthusiasts often describe the Px8’s sound as richly detailed and controlled, with deep, accurate bass and a smooth treble. The tuning skews slightly warm and forgiving, making it non-fatiguing for long listening sessionsaudioholics.com. In terms of noise cancelation, the Px8’s hybrid ANC is very good at handling everyday noise (it will definitely quiet a busy office or loud streets), though it’s not quite at the level of Bose or Sony when it comes to the absolute cancellation of low-frequency rumblesreddit.com. However, the Px8 wasn’t purely aiming to max out ANC – it’s more about offering just-enough noise canceling with no compromise to sound quality.
Key Features: Premium build and design (available in Black or Tan, as well as special editions like a McLaren Edition). Battery life around 30 hours with ANC on, and it supports fast charging – about 7 hours of playback from a 15-minute top-upamazon.com. It uses physical buttons for controls (power, volume, ANC toggle, etc.) which many users appreciate for their tactile response. The Px8 supports advanced Bluetooth codecs including aptX Adaptive for high-quality wireless sound, alongside aptX HD, AAC, and SBC, ensuring you get the best possible audio from any device. You can use the Bowers & Wilkins Music App to adjust the sound and noise-cancellation modes (including an ambient pass-through mode). Notably, the Px8 also includes a USB-C audio cable in the box, so you can listen via USB (digital audio) from a computer/phone, in addition to the analog 3.5mm cable. At ~320 g weight, the Px8 is fairly hefty, but thanks to thick memory-foam ear pads and a well-designed headband, it remains comfortable to wear for hours – B&W basically made it feel like “a leather couch for your head” in terms of comfortsoundguys.com,, soundguys.com.
Why Choose the B&W Px8: This model is for the deep-pocketed audiophile or style-conscious listener who wants a statement piece as much as a high-performance headphonesoundguys.com,, soundguys.com. The Px8 doesn’t try to win on value; it’s the most expensive on this list (around $699). What it offers is boutique build quality, brand prestige, and truly excellent sound for a Bluetooth ANC headphone. If you demand the absolute best audio fidelity and are willing to pay for diminishing returns, the Px8 will likely satisfy with its detail and tonal richness (many say it competes with wired hi-fi headphones in sound). It’s also a great choice if you find other headphones too plasticky or common – the Px8 feels exclusive and durable. Travelers will appreciate the 30h battery and effective ANC, and it’s certainly capable on long flights, though Bose still wins if your primary need is maximum noise reduction. Overall, choose the B&W Px8 if you value style and sound quality over bang-for-buck. It’s a luxurious listening experience that caters to those who want the finer things (and it definitely looks the part). Just don’t expect it to be a better noise-canceler than the less costly options – this one is about the whole package of premium audio and design.
Learn more about Bowers & Wilkins Px8 – Check price on Amazon 🎧
Comparison Table
| Model | Battery Life | Noise Cancellation | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | ~30 hours | Advanced (Adaptive ANC) | $399 – $429 |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra | ~24 hours | Industry-Leading | $429 MSRP |
| Apple AirPods Max | ~20 hours | Good (Spatial Audio feature) | $549 MSRP |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 | ~60 hours | Adaptive | $349 – $399 |
| B&W Px8 | ~30 hours | Very Good | $699 MSRP |
Tips for Choosing Noise-Canceling Headphones
When shopping for the best noise-canceling headphones, keep the following tips in mind to ensure you get a pair that suits your needs:
- Evaluate ANC Performance: Not all noise-canceling is equal. If you frequently fly or are very sensitive to noise, prioritize models with adaptive or high-end ANC systems that can handle a variety of environments. Bose and Sony tend to lead in this arearecordingnow.com, but others can be nearly as good in typical settings. Also consider if the ANC is adjustable – some headphones let you dial the level of noise cancelation up or down, which is useful for safety or comfort.
- Consider Comfort and Build: The headphones should feel comfortable for long periods. Look for padded ear cups and headbands, lightweight materials, and low clamping force. For example, Bose’s QuietComfort series is renowned for its all-day comfortrecordingnow.com, recordingnow.com. If possible, try them on (or check weight specs) – a difference of 50–100 grams can be noticeable. Durable build quality is also important if you’ll travel with them often (metal reinforcements in the headband hinge, for instance, can extend longevity).
- Look at Battery Life: Long battery life ensures uninterrupted listening, especially on trips. Anything above 20 hours with ANC on is generally sufficient for a full day. Some models like the Sennheiser Momentum 4 offer an outstanding 60 hoursrecordingnow.com – useful if you often forget to charge. Also consider quick-charge capability: many headphones now can give ~3–5 hours of use from just a 10-15 minute charge, which is great in a pinch.
- Check Device Compatibility: Make sure the headphones play well with your devices. If you’re an Apple user, something like AirPods Max will integrate seamlessly (auto-switching between iPhone/Mac, spatial audio in iOS, etc.), whereas Android users might benefit from headphones that support aptX/LDAC codecs for better sound quality. Multipoint Bluetooth is another feature to look for – this lets you connect to, say, your laptop and phone at the same time and switch audio between them. All the top picks above support multipoint (except AirPods Max, which instead favor Apple’s own device switching approach).
- Audio Quality and Codecs: For those particular about sound quality, consider the headphone’s audio codec support and driver technology. Models like the Sony XM5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4 support advanced Bluetooth codecs (LDAC, aptX Adaptive) that can deliver higher fidelity audio if your source supports it. Also, some headphones have larger or special drivers (e.g., B&W’s carbon drivers) that can offer an edge in sound clarity. If possible, read sound-focused reviews or try them with your favorite genres to see if you like the sound signature (brands differ: Bose is typically balanced, Sony has a bit more bass, Sennheiser is warm, B&W is refined, etc.).
- Extra Features: Think about bonus features that matter to you. Do you plan to take a lot of calls or Zoom meetings with them? Check microphone quality in reviews. Want to use them wired occasionally? See if a 3.5mm jack (or USB-C audio) is available. If you’re interested in spatial audio for movies or games, look into whether the headphones offer 3D sound processing (Apple, Bose Immersive Audio, Sony 360 Reality Audio, etc.). Lastly, some headphones come with handy companion apps that get firmware updates (potentially improving ANC or adding EQ features over timertings.com), so strong app support can be a plus.
By evaluating these factors – ANC strength, comfort, battery, compatibility, sound, and features – you’ll be better equipped to choose a noise-canceling headphone that perfectly fits your use case.
Which Headphones Are Best for You?
Even among the “best of the best,” each headphone shines in different scenarios. Here are our user-specific recommendations to help you decide:
- Best for Frequent Flyers and Commuters – Bose QuietComfort Ultra: If you spend a lot of time on airplanes, trains, or noisy commutes, the Bose QC Ultra is our top pick. Its noise cancellation is unmatched in snuffing out engine drone and crowd noiserecordingnow.com, and it’s extremely comfortable for long wear. You’ll arrive at your destination more rested, and the 24-hour battery will last even the longest flights.
- Best for All-Purpose Everyday Use – Sony WH-1000XM5: The Sony XM5 is an excellent all-rounder. It does everything at a high level – top-tier ANC, great sound, long battery, and lots of features – making it perfect for office work, studying, travel, and home listening alike. The multipoint pairing and speak-to-chat function add convenience if you’re multitasking between calls and music. In short, if you want one headphone that can do it all really well, Sony’s a safe bet.
- Best for Apple Ecosystem – Apple AirPods Max: If you primarily use Apple devices (iPhone, Mac, iPad), the AirPods Max will delight you with how seamlessly they integrate. They’re the only over-ear that supports Apple’s spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and features like instant device switching and hands-free “Hey Siri” are huge perks. Plus, the sound quality is superb for music lovers. Just keep in mind the higher weight and price. For Apple die-hards who appreciate design and easy connectivity, the AirPods Max are a natural choice.
- Best for Audiophiles and Luxury Seekers – B&W Px8: Do you demand the creme de la creme in sound and build? The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is tailored for you. These exude luxury, from the aluminum/leather construction to the refined audio that will please discerning ears. They’re perfect if you want style and substance, and are willing to invest accordingly. The Px8 is great for high-end home listening on wireless, or making a statement in the office. (If the Px8 is above budget, consider the Sennheiser Momentum 4 as a more affordable audiophile-friendly option.)
- Best for Battery Life and Budget-conscious High-End Buyers – Sennheiser Momentum 4: If you don’t want to charge your headphones every day (or every week!) and still want flagship-grade performance, the Momentum 4 is unbeatable. Battery anxiety simply isn’t a thing with 60-hour endurance. Also, price-wise, the Momentum 4 often undercuts rivals by $100+recordingnow.com, making it the value pick. It’s a fantastic choice for students, office workers, or travelers who want long playtime and a balanced, rich sound without paying a premium.
- Best for Calls and Work-from-Home – (Tie) Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QC Ultra: If you’ll be using your headphones frequently for voice calls or Zoom meetings, consider Sony or Bose. Sony’s mic quality and voice pickup are quite good (and it has a speak-to-chat feature that automatically pauses music when you talk). Bose also has very good mic performance and multi-device pairing, which is handy if you switch between phone and laptop. Both will do well at letting you focus by cutting background noise during work. If your work involves Apple products heavily, AirPods Max are also a strong contender due to their seamless device switching and good microphones.
Each of these top headphones excels for certain users, but importantly, they all do a lot of things well. Think about your primary use cases and priorities – whether it’s absolute silence, sound purity, long battery life, or platform integration – and you can narrow down the best fit.
Final Thoughts
The best noise-canceling headphones of 2025 cater to a variety of needs and preferences, from the frequent flyer seeking peace in a noisy world to the audiophile chasing wireless hi-fi sound. All five models we’ve highlighted are excellent in their own right, and none would be a “bad” choice – it really comes down to what features you value most. Sony and Bose continue to set the gold standard in ANC technology and all-around performance, Apple’s AirPods Max offers a premium experience especially for Apple users, Sennheiser strikes an amazing balance of quality and value, and Bowers & Wilkins provides a no-compromise luxury option.
In the end, the “ultimate” headphone is the one that best suits your lifestyle. Whether you prioritize total silence, sublime sound, or just an affordable way to tune out distractions, 2025’s top noise-canceling headphones have something for you. Happy listening, and enjoy the serenity (or the music)!
Explore more of our headphone guides and in-depth reviews, and let us know which headset you picked and how you like it.