Finding the perfect noise cancelling earbuds can transform your daily audio experience, whether you’re commuting, working from home, or simply wanting to immerse yourself in your favorite music. With countless options flooding the market, identifying the best noise cancelling earbuds for 2025 requires careful consideration of sound quality, ANC performance, battery life, and overall value. This comprehensive guide examines the top 10 models that excel in blocking unwanted ambient noise while delivering exceptional audio performance.
Modern noise cancelling earbuds have reached impressive levels of sophistication, offering adaptive ANC that automatically adjusts to your environment, premium drivers for audiophile-quality sound, and intelligent features that enhance both music listening and call quality. Whether you’re seeking flagship performance or excellent value for money, our curated selection covers every budget and preference to help you make an informed decision.
Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds Comparison: Features, Sound, and Battery Life
| Model | Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Sound Quality | Battery & Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | Industry-leading ANC, reduces ambient noise by 87% | 8.4mm drivers, LDAC support, balanced sound | 8h playback (24h with case), quick charge, multipoint, Speak-to-Chat, IPX4 |
| Apple AirPods Pro 3 | Improved ANC, ~90% noise reduction | Enhanced bass, wider soundstage, Adaptive Transparency | 8h playback, 5 ear tip sizes, heart rate sensor, Live Translation, iPhone integration |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) | Top-tier ANC, immersive silence | Spatial audio, clear & balanced sound | 6h playback (24h with case), Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Adaptive, stable fit |
| Technics EAH-AZ80 | High-quality ANC, JustMyVoice tech | 10mm drivers, reference-quality audio | 7.5h playback (25h with case), multipoint 3 devices, wireless charging |
| Sennheiser Momentum TW4 | ANC present but less advanced, IPX4 | Neutral, accurate sound signature | 7.5h playback (30h with case), aptX HD, minimal app customization |
| Nothing Ear (2) | Adaptive ANC, environment-aware | 11.6mm drivers, warm sound | 6h playback (22.5h with case), LDAC, wireless charging, app customization |
| Jabra Elite 85t | Adjustable ANC, professional call focus | Clear vocals, controlled bass | 5.5h playback (25h with case), multipoint 2 devices, IPX4, sound profiles |
| Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC | 98.5% ANC, adaptive ANC 2.0 | 11mm drivers, punchy bass, clear mids | 10h playback (50h with case), quick charge, wireless charging, multipoint, IPX4 |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro | Advanced ANC, adaptive | Dual drivers, AKG tuning, 360 Audio | 6h playback (30h with case), Samsung integration, IPX7, auto pause/play |
| Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW | Moderate ANC, effective passive isolation | Natural mids, controlled bass | 6.5h playback (24h with case), standard Bluetooth codecs, focus on sound quality |
Sony WF-1000XM5: Industry-Leading Performance Champion
The Sony WF-1000XM5 stands as the current benchmark for noise cancelling earbuds, representing the pinnacle of Sony’s engineering excellence. These flagship earbuds feature the company’s most advanced V2 processor, delivering class-leading ANC performance that reduces ambient noise by an impressive 87% according to independent testing. The redesigned housing is approximately 20% smaller and 25% lighter than its predecessor, making them significantly more comfortable for extended wear while maintaining the exceptional build quality Sony is renowned for.
Sound quality remains exceptional with Sony’s proprietary LDAC codec support, enabling high-resolution audio streaming that audiophiles will appreciate. The 8.4mm dynamic drivers have been optimized for balanced sound reproduction, delivering rich bass, clear midrange, and sparkling treble that brings music to life. Battery performance is equally impressive, offering up to 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled, extending to 24 hours with the charging case. Quick charging provides 60 minutes of playback from just 3 minutes of charging, making these earbuds ideal for busy professionals and frequent travelers.
The companion Sony Headphones Connect app provides extensive customization options, including adaptive sound control that automatically adjusts settings based on your location and activity. Multipoint connectivity allows seamless switching between devices, while the Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses music when you start speaking. With excellent call quality enhanced by precise voice pickup technology and IPX4 water resistance, the WF-1000XM5 justifies its premium price point through superior performance across every metric.
Apple AirPods Pro 3: The Ultimate iPhone Companion
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 represents a significant evolution in the AirPods lineup, introducing groundbreaking features that extend beyond traditional audio playback. These earbuds feature Apple’s most advanced H2 chip, delivering twice the noise cancellation performance of their predecessors while maintaining the seamless integration that iPhone users expect. The redesigned foam-silicone ear tips come in five sizes, ensuring optimal fit and comfort for virtually every ear shape while improving passive noise isolation.
What sets the AirPods Pro 3 apart are their health-focused innovations, including a built-in heart rate sensor and Live Translation capabilities that make them genuinely multifunctional. The heart rate monitoring works reliably when the earbuds maintain a secure fit, opening up possibilities for fitness tracking without additional wearables. The improved ANC reduces external noise by an average of 90%, outperforming many competitors in noisy environments like airplanes or busy streets.
Audio quality has received notable improvements with enhanced bass depth and a wider soundstage compared to previous generations. The Adaptive Transparency mode intelligently adjusts ambient sound levels, automatically reducing volume when loud noises like construction equipment are detected. Battery life offers approximately 8 hours of playback per charge, representing a significant 2-hour improvement over the previous model. For iPhone users seeking the most integrated experience with cutting-edge features, the AirPods Pro 3 deliver unmatched convenience and performance at a competitive $249 price point.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): Silence Redefined
Bose has long been synonymous with noise cancellation excellence, and the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) maintain this reputation while adding modern conveniences. These earbuds offer what many reviewers consider the most effective active noise cancellation available in any earbud, creating an almost supernatural silence that allows you to focus completely on your audio content. The redesigned fit includes stability bands that ensure secure placement, making them ideal for extended wear during commutes or long flights.
The immersive audio technology represents Bose’s take on spatial audio, using inertial measurement units and proprietary signal processing to create a layered, three-dimensional soundscape from any source material. This technology works across all content, not just specially encoded tracks, making every listening session more engaging. Sound quality emphasizes clarity and balance, with controlled bass that doesn’t overwhelm the midrange and smooth treble that avoids harshness.
Battery performance provides approximately 6 hours of continuous use, extending to 24 hours with the charging case. While this falls slightly behind competitors, the trade-off comes in the form of superior ANC performance and build quality. The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive codec compatibility, ensuring high-quality wireless transmission across various devices. Bose’s companion app offers intuitive controls for ANC levels and sound customization, making these earbuds perfect for users who prioritize maximum noise reduction above all other considerations.
Technics EAH-AZ80: Audiophile Excellence with Unique Features
The Technics EAH-AZ80 represents Panasonic’s premium entry into the noise cancelling earbuds market, targeting audiophiles who refuse to compromise on sound quality. These earbuds feature meticulously engineered 10mm free-edge dynamic drivers housed in an optimized acoustic chamber that delivers reference-quality high-resolution audio reproduction. The sophisticated driver design minimizes distortion while maximizing detail retrieval, making them ideal for critical listening of complex musical arrangements.
What makes the EAH-AZ80 truly unique is their ability to connect simultaneously to three devices via multipoint connectivity, a feature unmatched by any competitor. This capability proves invaluable for professionals who need to seamlessly switch between computer audio, smartphone calls, and tablet media consumption throughout their workday. The improved JustMyVoice technology employs eight high-sensitivity MEMS microphones combined with advanced noise suppression algorithms to deliver crystal-clear call quality even in challenging acoustic environments.
Battery life extends up to 7.5 hours with ANC enabled, reaching 25 hours total with the compact charging case. The earbuds support wireless charging and feature eco-friendly packaging made from plant-based materials, reflecting Technics’ commitment to environmental sustainability. LDAC codec support ensures high-resolution audio transmission, while the comprehensive companion app provides extensive EQ customization and spatial audio options. For users seeking uncompromising audio quality with professional-grade connectivity features, the EAH-AZ80 delivers exceptional value despite its premium pricing.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Sound Excellence Perfected
Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4 continues the brand’s legacy of exceptional audio reproduction, offering what many consider the most neutral and accurate sound signature available in wireless earbuds. Built on Qualcomm’s S5 Sound Gen 2 platform with Snapdragon Sound technology, these earbuds are future-proofed with upcoming support for 24-bit/48kHz streaming and Auracast compatibility through firmware updates. The balanced sound profile sits perfectly between the bass-heavy Sony approach and treble-forward alternatives, delivering a natural presentation that suits virtually every musical genre.
Construction quality reflects Sennheiser’s attention to detail, with a premium felt-lined charging case and metallic accents that elevate the overall aesthetic. The earbuds themselves feature an ergonomic design with multiple ear tip and fin sizes ensuring secure, comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. Despite lacking some competitors’ advanced features like adaptive ANC or multipoint connectivity, the MTW4 focuses on delivering pure audio excellence with minimal compromise.
Battery performance provides approximately 7.5 hours of continuous playback, extending to 30 hours with the charging case. The earbuds feature IPX4 water resistance and support both aptX HD and standard Bluetooth codecs for maximum device compatibility. While the companion app offers fewer customization options than Sony or Bose alternatives, the included 3-band EQ and listening mode controls provide sufficient personalization for most users. For audio purists who prioritize sound quality above flashy features, the Momentum True Wireless 4 represents an outstanding investment in long-term listening satisfaction.
Nothing Ear (2): Transparent Design with Solid Performance
Nothing’s Ear (2) brings a unique aesthetic philosophy to the premium earbuds market, featuring a distinctive transparent design that showcases the internal components while delivering surprisingly robust performance. These earbuds challenge the notion that premium features require premium pricing, offering adaptive ANC, high-quality drivers, and comprehensive app customization at a more accessible price point. The transparent case and earbuds create a conversation starter while providing practical functionality that rivals established competitors.
Active noise cancellation adapts intelligently to your environment, automatically adjusting intensity based on detected ambient noise levels. The 11.6mm custom drivers deliver engaging sound with punchy bass and clear treble, though the overall presentation leans slightly warm rather than perfectly neutral. This tuning makes them particularly enjoyable for popular music genres while remaining versatile enough for classical and jazz listening.
Battery life extends up to 6 hours with ANC enabled, reaching 22.5 hours total with the charging case. The earbuds support wireless charging and feature Hi-Res Audio certification with LDAC codec compatibility. The Nothing X app provides extensive customization including EQ presets, gesture controls, and device switching options. While call quality and build quality may not match flagship alternatives, the Ear (2) offers exceptional value for users seeking distinctive design combined with solid performance across essential features.
Jabra Elite 85t: Professional-Grade Communication
The Jabra Elite 85t earbuds target professionals who demand exceptional call quality alongside solid music performance, making them ideal for remote workers and frequent business travelers. Jabra’s expertise in professional audio shines through in the advanced microphone array and voice processing algorithms that ensure crystal-clear communication even in challenging acoustic environments. The adjustable ANC system allows users to fine-tune noise cancellation levels based on their specific needs and preferences.
Sound quality emphasizes clarity and vocal presence, making these earbuds particularly suitable for podcast listening and audiobook consumption. The overall sonic presentation remains engaging for music, though bass response is more controlled compared to consumer-focused alternatives. This tuning choice enhances speech intelligibility during calls and conference meetings, fulfilling the earbuds’ primary professional focus.
Battery performance delivers up to 5.5 hours of continuous use with ANC enabled, extending to 25 hours with the charging case. The earbuds feature multipoint connectivity allowing simultaneous connection to two devices, making it easy to switch between computer audio and smartphone calls. IPX4 water resistance provides protection against sweat and light rain, while the comprehensive Jabra Sound+ app offers extensive customization options including personalized sound profiles and ANC adjustment. For professionals prioritizing communication quality and workplace functionality, the Elite 85t represents excellent value despite being slightly older than current flagships.
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Budget Champion with Premium Features
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC proves that exceptional noise cancelling performance doesn’t require flagship pricing, delivering 98.5% noise reduction through advanced ANC technology that rivals far more expensive alternatives. These earbuds feature adaptive ANC 2.0 that continuously calculates and adjusts to both your ear canal shape and external environment, maximizing effectiveness across various listening scenarios. The comfortable stem design ensures secure fit while maintaining easy touch control access.
Sound quality impresses with 11mm oversized drivers housed in an innovative noise isolation chamber that enhances both passive and active noise reduction. The overall presentation offers engaging bass response and clear midrange, though treble can occasionally sound slightly harsh at higher volumes. The comprehensive Soundcore app provides extensive customization including a hearing test that automatically adjusts EQ settings based on your personal hearing profile, a feature typically found only in premium models.
Battery life stands as a major strength, offering nearly 10 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled and an remarkable 50 hours total with the charging case. Quick charging provides 4 hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charging, making these earbuds practically unstoppable for daily use. IPX4 water resistance, wireless charging support, and multipoint connectivity complete a feature set that dramatically exceeds expectations for the under-$100 price category. For budget-conscious users seeking flagship-level noise cancellation without premium pricing, the Liberty 4 NC represents extraordinary value.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Seamless Android Integration
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro showcase the company’s commitment to creating the ultimate Android companion earbuds, featuring deep integration with Samsung devices and broader Android ecosystem compatibility. These earbuds introduce Samsung’s most advanced ANC processor, delivering impressive noise reduction that adapts intelligently to your listening environment. The redesigned form factor with improved ear tip selection ensures comfortable fit for extended wear while maintaining secure placement during physical activities.
Sound quality benefits from Samsung’s collaboration with AKG, resulting in a well-balanced presentation that works effectively across diverse musical genres. The dual-driver configuration includes dedicated woofers and tweeters that provide controlled bass response and crisp treble detail. Samsung’s 360 Audio technology creates immersive spatial sound experiences when paired with compatible content and devices, though the effect varies depending on source material quality.
Battery performance offers approximately 6 hours of continuous use with ANC enabled, extending to 30 hours with the charging case. The earbuds feature seamless device switching within the Samsung ecosystem, automatic pause/play when removing or inserting earbuds, and voice assistant integration with both Bixby and Google Assistant. Water resistance meets IPX7 standards, providing protection against heavy sweat and rain. For Android users, particularly those with Samsung devices, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer optimized integration and performance that justifies their position among premium alternatives.
Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW: Value-Focused Performance
Audio-Technica’s ATH-CKS50TW earbuds bring the company’s renowned audio engineering expertise to the wireless noise cancelling market at an accessible price point. These earbuds focus on delivering exceptional sound quality through carefully tuned drivers that emphasize natural midrange reproduction and controlled bass response. While ANC performance may not match flagship alternatives, the effective noise reduction combined with excellent passive isolation creates a satisfying listening environment for most use cases.
The earbuds feature Audio-Technica’s signature attention to detail in driver design and acoustic tuning, resulting in sound quality that punches well above their price category. Musical instrument separation and vocal clarity excel, making these earbuds particularly appealing for jazz, classical, and acoustic music listening. The overall presentation maintains Audio-Technica’s house sound characteristics with slightly forward midrange and smooth treble response.
Battery life provides up to 6.5 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled, extending to 24 hours with the charging case. The earbuds support standard Bluetooth codecs including AAC and aptX, ensuring good compatibility across various devices. While lacking some premium features like multipoint connectivity or advanced app customization, the ATH-CKS50TW focuses on core audio performance and reliability. For users seeking Audio-Technica’s renowned sound quality in wireless form factor without premium pricing, these earbuds deliver focused performance that prioritizes musical enjoyment over feature abundance.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Selecting the ideal noise cancelling earbuds requires evaluating several critical factors that directly impact your listening experience and daily usability. Active noise cancellation effectiveness varies significantly between models, with premium options like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WF-1000XM5 offering superior performance compared to budget alternatives. Consider your primary use cases – commuting on public transportation benefits most from strong low-frequency cancellation, while office environments may require better mid-frequency noise reduction for conversation blocking.
Battery life considerations extend beyond simple playback duration to include charging speed, case capacity, and power management features. Models like the Anker Liberty 4 NC excel with exceptional battery performance, while premium options may sacrifice some endurance for advanced features. Evaluate whether quick charging capabilities align with your usage patterns, as some earbuds provide several hours of playback from just minutes of charging.
Sound quality preferences are highly personal, ranging from bass-heavy presentations to neutral audiophile tuning. Consider whether you prioritize accurate reproduction for critical listening or engaging enhancement for casual enjoyment. Codec support becomes important for high-resolution audio playback, with LDAC offering superior quality for compatible Android devices while AAC provides excellent performance across all platforms. App customization capabilities allow personalization of sound signatures, ANC levels, and control schemes to match your specific preferences and listening habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes noise cancelling earbuds different from regular earbuds?
Noise cancelling earbuds feature active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that uses microphones to detect ambient sound and generates inverse sound waves to cancel unwanted noise. This electronic cancellation works alongside passive noise isolation from the physical earbud seal to dramatically reduce external sounds. Regular earbuds rely only on passive isolation, making them less effective in noisy environments like airplanes, buses, or busy offices.
How long do noise cancelling earbuds typically last on a single charge?
Most modern noise cancelling earbuds provide 6-10 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled on a single charge. Premium models like the Sony WF-1000XM5 offer up to 8 hours, while budget options like the Anker Liberty 4 NC can exceed 10 hours. Including the charging case, total battery life typically ranges from 24-50 hours depending on the model and usage patterns.
Can noise cancelling earbuds completely block all external sounds?
While noise cancelling earbuds significantly reduce ambient noise, they cannot completely eliminate all external sounds. ANC works most effectively on consistent, low-frequency noises like airplane engines or air conditioning. Sudden, high-frequency sounds like voices or alarms may still be audible for safety reasons. The combination of active and passive noise reduction typically blocks 80-90% of ambient noise in most models.
Are expensive noise cancelling earbuds worth the premium price?
Premium noise cancelling earbuds typically offer superior ANC performance, better sound quality, longer battery life, and more advanced features compared to budget alternatives. However, excellent value options like the Anker Liberty 4 NC prove that effective noise cancellation is available at lower price points. The decision depends on your specific needs, usage patterns, and whether premium features justify the additional cost for your listening preferences.
Do noise cancelling earbuds work well for phone calls?
Most modern noise cancelling earbuds include dedicated microphone arrays and voice processing algorithms that provide excellent call quality. Models like the Jabra Elite 85t and Technics EAH-AZ80 specifically target professional users with advanced call quality features. The noise cancelling microphones help reduce background noise during calls, though performance varies between models and environmental conditions.
Looking for more audio gear recommendations? Check out our latest songs for testing your new earbuds, compare different models in our earbuds comparison guide, or explore our headphones comparison section for over-ear alternatives.