Top 5 Noise-Cancelling Earbuds in 2025: Best Picks for Your Ears

Looking for the best noise-cancelling earbuds in 2025? Check out our top 5 picks for ultimate sound isolation and comfort.

Why Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Matter

Sometimes, we all crave a bit of peace and quiet. Whether you’re commuting or working in a busy office, earbuds that effectively block background noise can be a game changer. Gone are the days when you needed bulky over-ear headphones for active noise cancellation (ANC). Today’s tiny, in-ear noise-cancelling earbuds pack impressive punch in silencing ambient sounds. Even earbuds without ANC can offer excellent passive isolation by physically sealing your ear canals.

After testing over 340 models of earbuds and in-ear headphones, we’ve compiled the best noise-cancelling earbuds of 2025 for you to consider.

1. Technics EAH-AZ100 – Best Overall Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

The Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds stand out as the best noise-cancelling earbuds we tested. Their remarkable ANC system reduces noise across the frequency spectrum, from the low hum of a train engine to the high-pitched buzz of a nearby fan. Walking down a busy street with these on, even sharp sounds like car horns become significantly muted.

With ANC activated, they last an impressive 12.2 hours on a single charge, plus the charging case gives you another 1.5 full charges. This offers the longest battery life among fully wireless earbuds with continuous ANC playback we’ve tested so far. They also feature multipoint Bluetooth connectivity with up to three devices and support high-quality LDAC and LC3 audio codecs.

The earbuds fit snugly but sit deeper in the ear canal, which might feel a bit uncomfortable for some. Thanks to their tight fit, they’re unlikely to fall out, and their IPX4 rating means they can handle a run in the rain. Their sound profile leans toward a warm tone with a bass boost and treble reduction, but you can adjust it easily via the graphic equalizer.

“Walking down a busy street with these on, even sharp sounds like car horns become significantly muted.”

2. Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless – Best Upper-Midrange Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds don’t block noise quite as well as the Technics EAH-AZ100 but deliver excellent ANC performance for a lower price. Their foam ear tips excel at passive isolation, especially against high-frequency sounds like crying children. Even with ANC on, they better muffle certain high-pitched noises than the Technics. However, their low-frequency noise cancellation is less effective, so you’ll still notice engine hum and airplane noise more.

The earbuds have a warm sound profile that naturally delivers detailed bass and vocals. They come with a slight bass boost but don’t overwhelm other frequencies, and the companion app lets you customize the sound further.

Battery life with ANC enabled is about 8.75 hours, plus two extra charges from the case. Although not as long-lasting as Technics, they’re often discounted, making them a smart compromise.

3. Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless – Best Midrange Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

The Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless shine in the midrange category. Their build quality and noise-cancelling performance resemble the WF-1000XM5 but come at a more wallet-friendly price. They easily suppress noises like airplane engine hum and office chatter.

Battery life clocks over seven hours with ANC active, and the charging case provides 2.3 extra charges. Some users have reported the battery draining quickly, so it's wise to check store return policies before buying.

Their small, lightweight design fits comfortably, ideal for smaller ears. The sound is a bit more subdued than the WF-1000XM5, with less clarity in the high frequencies, so sibilance and cymbals sound a bit muffled, but instruments and vocals remain detailed. You can tweak the sound through the app’s equalizer and presets.

4. Anker Soundcore Space A40 Truly Wireless – Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

For those on a budget, Anker Soundcore Space A40 Truly Wireless earbuds are the best value with ANC. Despite their lower price point, they outperform Sony LinkBuds S in overall noise isolation. Their adaptive ANC efficiently reduces low-frequency noises like airplane engines and also handles mid and high-frequency sounds such as chatter and computer fans.

They support multipoint device pairing and the LDAC codec for high-res audio streaming. The build is solid, and the sound signature is warm, adjustable with the app’s equalizer and presets. Battery life exceeds eight hours per charge, with a charging case providing four additional charges.

However, the built-in microphone isn’t great at voice transmission during calls, making your voice sound distant and harsh to the listener.

5. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) – Best for iPhone Users

If you want premium earbuds that perfectly sync with Apple gadgets, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are your go-to. Priced similarly to the Sony WF-1000XM5, they feature superior ANC that blocks office chatter and pedestrian noise more effectively.

Exclusive iOS features like Spatial Audio create an immersive soundstage, while the H2 chip ensures smooth connection with Apple devices. Their adaptive EQ delivers a warm sound ideal for jazz, folk, and similar genres. However, sound customization is limited to iOS users, unlike Sony’s broader compatibility.

Battery life with ANC is about six hours, plus four additional charges via the case. The fit is comfortable but might require occasional adjustment as the earbuds may shift. For those preferring a different fit, Apple’s AirPods 4 with ANC offer an open design but lesser high-frequency noise cancellation.

Noteworthy Alternatives

• Devialet Gemini II True Wireless. High-end earbuds blocking slightly more street and office noise than Technics but with shorter 5-hour battery life and a premium price.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro. Slightly better ANC in everyday scenarios than Technics but limited to Android app support and poorer mic quality.
• Technics EAH-AZ80. Excellent ANC, slightly behind the EAH-AZ100, supports multipoint connectivity and LDAC streaming.
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. Great all-rounder with warm sound but not quite matching Technics or Apple for ANC.
• Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC. Similar noise cancellation as Anker Space A40 but with a stem design and bass-heavy sound that can drown vocals.

Anker Soundcore Space A40 Truly Wireless… offers even better noise isolation than Sony LinkBuds S, making them a great pick for travelers.

Have you tried any of these earbuds? Which one matches your needs best?

FAQs

• What’s the biggest difference between active and passive noise cancellation?
  Active noise cancellation uses electronics to counteract external sounds, while passive relies on physical ear sealing.
• Can I use these earbuds for workouts?
  Many models like Technics EAH-AZ100 have an IPX4 rating, meaning sweat and light rain won’t harm them, making them suitable for exercise.
• Which earbuds have the longest battery life?
  Technics EAH-AZ100 leads with over 12 hours of ANC use per charge.
• Are these earbuds compatible with Android devices?
  Most earbuds support Bluetooth universally, but some features like Apple’s Spatial Audio or Sony’s app equalizer may be limited to specific platforms.
• How important is earbud fit for noise cancelling?
  A snug fit enhances both passive and active noise isolation, so selecting ear tips that suit your ear shape is crucial.

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