Top Noise-Cancelling Headphones of 2026: ANC Models from Bose, Sony, and Apple

Explore the best noise-cancelling headphones of 2026 that redefine sound with ANC technology from Bose, Sony, and Apple.

Experience Sound Like Never Before with ANC Headphones

Noise-cancelling headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) have the incredible power to transform how you experience sound. Whether you're taking a stroll in the park, frequently jet-setting across time zones, or simply commuting to work, these headphones block out distracting background hums, letting you dive deep into your music, podcasts, or calls.

From relaxing at home to focusing intently in a bustling office, ANC headphones create a sonic bubble that helps you immerse in your audio world. And if you rely on calls—chatting with friends, family, or colleagues—you’ll appreciate the crystal-clear sound these headphones deliver.

For our curated list, we picked top-tier models across different price ranges, including the best in-ear noise-cancelling options if you prefer something compact without compromising on ANC performance.

Top 3 Noise-Cancelling Headphones

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Best Overall

When it comes to delivering supreme sound quality, outstanding noise cancellation, and travel-friendly design, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra stands proudly at the top. These headphones are a traveler’s dream—lightweight yet packed with advanced tech to shut out the world.

Features:

• Battery life: 24 hours
• Type: Over-ear, full-size
• Weight: 250 grams

Pros:

• Truly effective active noise cancellation
• Foldable, lightweight, and comfortable
• 18 hours battery life when using Immersive Audio

Cons:

• Pricier than some competitors
• Limited touch controls

Designed with music lovers in mind, these headphones excel not only in sound but also in isolating you from the hustle and bustle. The foldable design and carrying case make them ideal for long journeys—perfect to block out the airplane’s engine roar or chatter in busy terminals.

In our detailed review of the Bose QC Ultra, we proclaimed:

Long live the king of noise cancelling! If you’re hunting for unbeatable travel headphones, this is your find.

Though they come at a premium price, the investment feels justified every time you slip them on.

2. Sony WH-1000XM6

Best Travel Companion

Features:

• Battery life: 40 hours
• Type: Over-ear, full-size
• Weight: 254 grams

Pros:

• Superb sound quality
• Industry-leading active noise cancellation
• Comfortable design

Cons:

• On the pricier side
• Battery life, while good, isn’t record-breaking

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 is a continuation of their legendary full-size headphone series. They bring back the foldable design that’s key for travelers and pack in superb sound quality and ANC.

Our review described their noise cancellation as “incredible,” giving Bose a serious run for their money. Though these cost more than their predecessors, the premium sound and build quality make them worth it.

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Best In-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Features:

• Battery life: 6 hours (24 hours with charging case)
• Type: In-ear
• Weight: 7.7 grams per earbud

Pros:

• Premium sound quality
• Incredible comfort
• Outstanding noise cancellation

Cons:

• Larger charging case than some rivals
• Relatively expensive

Despite their small size, these earbuds pack a punch with excellent sound and noise isolation. They’re arguably the best in-ear ANC earbuds available, though they come with a larger charging case and higher price tag.

Our review highlighted:

Exceptional noise cancellation and sound that won’t tire your ears even during extended use.

If you want top-notch in-ear ANC and your budget fits, these Bose earbuds won’t disappoint.

More Noise-Cancelling Gems

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3

Luxury ANC Headphones

Known for their audiophile-class quality, these headphones offer powerful noise cancellation and a robust, premium build. While the fit isn’t the tightest and some features activate with a slight delay, their sound quality is confidently rich and immersive.

Features:

• Battery life: 30 hours
• Type: Over-ear
• Weight: 300 grams

Pros:

• Exceptional ANC performance
• High-quality, confident sound
• Excellent build and finishes

Cons:

• Loose fit for some users
• Delayed startup for some functions

Apple AirPods Max

Best ANC Headphones for Apple Users

For those embedded in the Apple ecosystem, AirPods Max offer seamless integration and excellent sound. Though they’re on the heavier side and quite pricey, their comfort and natural sound reproduction make them a standout.

Features:

• Battery life: 20 hours
• Type: Over-ear
• Weight: 385 grams

Pros:

• Rich, natural sound
• Effective noise cancellation
• Very comfortable fit

Cons:

• Expensive
• “Smart” case offers little protection

Our review praised their sound as “full, natural, and detailed,” paired with “absolutely superb” noise cancellation.

Sonos Ace

Best for Comfort and Home Use

Sonos’ first foray into headphones brings excellent sound, effective ANC, and outstanding comfort thanks to memory foam padding. While they don’t fold and aren’t perfect for travel, their cinematic features and spatial audio make them a joy for home use.

Features:

• Battery life: 30 hours
• Type: Over-ear
• Weight: 312 grams

Pros:

• Supreme comfort
• Powerful sound with spatial audio
• Fun personal theater features

Cons:

• ANC could be better
• Not travel-friendly due to non-folding design

How We Test Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Our testing philosophy is simple but thorough: we listen—everywhere. From quiet rooms to noisy streets, public transit, airplanes, and crowded shops, we put headphones through their paces in real-world environments.

We evaluate all music genres to gauge bass, mids, highs, and EQ performance. Battery life is measured alongside fast-charging claims. And because communication quality matters, we test microphones in silence, wind, and bustling settings to ensure clear calling.

Choosing the Right ANC Headphones for You

The good news? You don’t always need the priciest model. Start by figuring out your primary use—gym, office, daily commute, or travel.

• Want the world to disappear? Invest in strong ANC.
• Frequent workouts? Look for sweat-resistant earbuds.
• Prefer invisibility? In-ear buds might be your pick.
• Like to show off your gear? Over-ear headphones have that statement look and rich soundstage.

Comfort and personal style are key. We’ve covered a range of ANC headphones to suit every budget and preference, so your perfect soundtrack companion awaits.

FAQ

• Wired or wireless?
  Wired headphones often deliver more stable sound, and can work when the battery dies, but ANC still needs power. Some models offer both connections for versatility.
• Over-ear or in-ear?
  Over-ear models generally provide better noise isolation and soundstage, but in-ear buds are more portable and stay put during activities.
• What about ANC modes?
  Multiple noise-cancelling modes, such as transparency or ambient sound, help control how much outside noise reaches you.
• Is Bluetooth Multipoint useful?
  Absolutely! It lets you connect headphones to two devices simultaneously, like a laptop and phone, for seamless switching.
• Which Bluetooth codecs matter?
  Support for LDAC, aptX, and similar codecs ensures high-quality wireless sound. Make sure both your headphones and device support common codecs.

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