TOP 15 best active noise canceling headphones

The rating turned out to be interesting: while I was, I picked up a couple of models for myself. I tried to choose noise-canceling headphones with different prices and functionality. I highlighted the most “delicious” advantages in the pluses, compared the models with myself and gave concrete facts on how they differ. Rating of the best active noise canceling headphones years, based on technical specifications, value for money and customer reviews.

TOP-7 overhead with active noise reduction

JBL Tune 600BTNC

Open the rating of the best compact on-ear headphones, reproduce high-quality sound, transmit powerful bass. Play music via Bluetooth version 4.1 and through a one-way cable, like Bowers & Wilkins PX. Price - .

Pros:

• Lungs - 173 g.
• Foldable design, convenient storage.
• Attractive design, choice of color from 4 shades.
• Suitable for connecting to portable equipment.
• Own Li-Pol battery with a capacity of 610 mAh.
• Autonomous work - 12 hours
• Fast recharging - 2 hours, which is faster than in expensive models, for example, Marshall Mid A.N.C. (3 hours).

Minuses:

• Removes only a small range of sounds.
• Wire to connect directly through a poor quality jack.
• Thin skin on the headphones.
• Doesn't support AAC codec like Bowers & Wilkins PX.

For their money, according to users, normal headphones. Reproduce high and low ranges, medium support connection to the phone. True, not all external sounds suppress, only high, low remain. Sometimes the sound gurgles. Users advise music lovers to take models more expensive, for example, Bowers & Wilkins PX.

Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT)

The model successfully combines sophisticated design, comfort socks in any weather, excellent reproduction and sound. The shock absorbing pad of the headband and ear pads are made with the addition of alcantha - a breathable material. The peculiarity of the material does not cause discomfort during prolonged wear and in hot weather. An expanded range of frequency reproduction, a stereo picture of sounds due to the Sennheiser dynamic emitter. Price - .

Pros:

• Bluetooth transmission with aptX audio codec support.
• Pairing with portable devices using NFC technology.
• Unlike the JBL, the Tune 600BTNC have a proprietary hybrid active noise cancellation system with 4 microphones.
• To improve the quality of speech when connected to a smartphone, the patented VoiceMax technology is used.
• Battery life - 22 hours, as in Bowers & Wilkins PX.
• Standby time is 360 hours.
• Voice dialing function as in Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
• The option of waiting and holding a call, repeating the last number.

Minuses:

• There is no storage case, as in the Bose QuietComfort 35 II or Marshall Mid A.N.C.
• There is no volume control, as in Bowers & Wilkins PX.

Headphones with reliable dual audio connection via USB or Bluetooth. High noise reduction after warming up - 20 hoursThey sit well on the head, but for a large size they are small (according to reviews). Interference breaks through only when switching from a computer to a phone with incoming. Easy to manage. According to users, they can be an alternative to expensive models, for example, Marshall Mid A.N.C.

Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT

Unlike the previous rating models - ATH-SR50BT supports Bluetooth version - 5.0. These Bluetooth earphones with a microphone are comfortable for prolonged wearing, with a balanced design and soft ear cushions, with Quiet Point's proprietary active noise reduction system, which makes it easy to listen even in the cabin of an airplane or in a subway car or train. Price - .

Pros:

• Accurate assessment of the surrounding sound environment due to the base on 4 microphones, a pair in each cup. Generation of the optimal counter signal.
• Wireless headphones supporting Qualcomm® aptX ™ enhanced audio codec, as in the Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT).
• Bluetooth version is 5.0.
• Management of touch sensors.
• Built-in rechargeable battery for 25 hours of runtime, higher than Bowers & Wilkins PX.
• Dual-layer memory foam-filled ear cushions provide high and gentle protection against external noise.
• Accurate playback sound. Balanced dynamic drivers (45 mm).

Minuses:

• No case or case included like Marshall Mid A.N.C.
• There is no adapter for the aircraft, as in the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i.
• There is no voice dialing, as in Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT).

Good model for office or home. The soft and pleasant pads do not crush or cause fatigue. According to reviews, the sound over the wire is a bomb even when listening to the iPhone, where it is "tight" with lossless. Difficulties can be caused by turning on the noise reduction through the application: in Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i, it is easier to set up, more convenient to use.

Marshall Mid A.N.C.

The legendary brand in the world of audio equipment is always recognizable by its original design. A model with a proprietary active noise cancellation system and support for Bluetooth aptX technology, like the Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT. Surround sound transmission with detailed sound. Price - .

Pros:

• The patented Marshall ANC Active Noise Cancellation system with 4 microphones for accurate detection and measurement of external noise. Only the sound of music without interference and external stimuli.
• Autonomous operation with noise reduction turned on - up to 20 hours, in standard mode - up to 30 hours.
• Included - a stylish leather case for transportation.
• With a soft headband made of velvety microfiber, with ergonomic 3-D hinges that adapt to the peculiarities of the anatomy of the head, original metal inserts with anodized coating.
• Customizable dynamic drivers with stable reproduction, optimal bass balancing.
• Multi-position handle control.
• Supports phone calls function.
• Share music through a free 3.5mm jack, as in Bowers & Wilkins PX.
• The set includes a twisted cord, which is not available in other rating models, and a MicroUSB cable.

Minuses:

• No call hold like Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT).
• There is no NFC function like the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i.

High-quality headphones, fit comfortably, do not cause fatigue when worn for a long time. Even without noise reduction, many sounds are removed, and with the system turned on, even at low volumes, the maximum is removed. According to reviews, the hum of the subway is barely audible. Large volume reserve, convenient joystick. Ideal for listening to any genre of music, except for metal and similar to it, where there is a lot of drive. There is something else to watch for this music, such as the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i or Bowers & Wilkins PX.

Bowers & wilkins px

Headphones with smart, intuitive behavior-responsive listening controls with tilted reference speakers and the latest Bluetooth atpX HD technology. Intuitive control with built-in sensors - no knobs like Marshall Mid A.N.C. It is enough to put on the headphones and turn it on. To return to Standby mode, simply remove it. PX pauses and resumes broadcasting at your command. Convincing soundstages with oblique speaker references. Price - .

Pros:

• 24-bit wireless streaming with the latest atpX HD Bluetooth technology.
• No distortion, high harmonic performance - 0.3%.
• Adapted from iPhone like Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
• Own Li-Pol battery with a capacity higher than in Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i (850/770 mAh). Higher battery life - 22 hours versus 18 hours.
• Three filters for the external environment - Flight, City, Office.
• Durable nylon around the ear cups.

Minuses:

• There is no voice dialing as in the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
• No Multipoint like the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
• No airplane adapter like the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i.

Easily connect to iPhone with huge volume headroom and smooth sound. According to reviews, it sounds better than the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. Excellent noise reduction, tested by users in the metro: except for music, nothing outsiders can be heard. Not a bad passive noise reduction device for city streets. The minus of the model is that at high volume the surrounding people will listen to your music; for complete isolation at the output, they recommend Marshall Mid A.N.C.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Model with built-in Google Assistant and three levels of noise canceling settings. Google Assistant plays music, receives SMS, performs daily tasks, supports voice search. Simple, convenient communication through the Action button. Price - .

Pros:

• Without connecting to an assistant, the same button adjusts the noise reduction level: medium, weak, strong.
• Connects to iPhone like Bowers & Wilkins PX. You can call Siri.
• A quick 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of extra sound.
• Shockproof housing, synthetic leather ear pads.
• Updatable software.

Minuses:

• After firmware 4.5.2, noise reduction is completely destroyed, leaving 30-40% of the original. The manufacturer acknowledged the fact of the problem, but so far it has not been solved.
• I wanted a longer work, at least as in Bowers & Wilkins PX - 22 hours, not 20.
• The set includes the cheapest version of the USB cable.
• The branded application, according to reviews, is just an icon on the phone screen. In it, you can change the name of the headphones, switch the noise level (or a physical button, which is easier), see the battery charge, although in iOs this status is already displayed in the bar, you can add it to the widget. The application itself is heavy and does not open well.

Excellent headphones with one big "but". An updated software that reduces the level of noise cancellation to a "cheap" device. Users are not advised to take this model until the manufacturer fixes the problem with updates. Everyone advises to stop either at Marshall Mid A.N.C. or Bowers & Wilkins PX.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i

Intuitive ultra-responsive on-ear touch controls with transparency mode, new bass port and proximity sensors. Price - .

Pros:

• Clear, accurate, detailed sound with deep, powerful bass.
• Full noise cancellation mode (deep silence) and transparency mode, when you can hear the surrounding sounds.
• Easy control of functions on the touch interface on the earcup. Forward / backward, up / down gestures respond to touch. The high sensitivity of the sensors on the aluminum plate will allow you to operate in cold weather without taking off your gloves.
• Built-in battery like Bowers & Wilkins PX.
• Headphone material - natural: polished anodized aluminum, soft lambskin. From time to time, it acquires the effect of patination, which makes the device more attractive. Ear cushions - with adaptive foam, memory effect.
• Updated features. Proximity sensors for automatic broadcast or pause.
• Advanced noise cancellation system - 2 electrets per earpiece.
• In non-anc mode, it works 23 hours.

Minuses:

• Hard headband - you get tired in an hour. For example, in Marshall Mid A.N.C. there is no such thing, you can go all day and notice the headphones.
• No hard case included like the Bowers & Wilkins PX.
• Very poor functionality for the phone, bad headphone firmware according to version 5.0.4.

Shumodav moderately drowns out sounds, for example, in the subway, the noise of an approaching train is heard. His 18 hours of work with the included anc fulfills 100%. Other wireless models - Bowers & Wilkins PX, Bose QuietComfort 35 II, Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT) - deliver great sound in any genre of music. It connects perfectly with iPhone 8, Bluetooth does not fall off either on the plane or in the subway.Convenient function - transparency mode, clear sound transmission in any, even windy weather.

TOP-4 full-size active noise canceling

Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC

Headphones with the patented anc NoiseGard system, Bluetooth atpX support and connection to various portable devices via NFC, as in the Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2. Price - .

Pros:

• Convenient location of the control panel at the end of the cup.
• Signature 32mm dynamic drivers with precise balanced sound, internal damping of the cups.
• Automatic adjustment of the swivel mount to fit the head.
• Own built-in Li-Pol battery with a reserve of 19 hours of operation with anc NoiseGard on and up to 25 hours without noise cancellation.
• High harmonic distortion - less than 0.5%, sensitivity - 113 dB, which is higher than in Sony WH-1000XM3 (104 dB).

Minuses:

• Doesn't connect to iPhone like the Beats Studio 3 Wireless.
• Doesn't support atpX HD codec like Sony WH-1000XM3.
• According to reviews, the high frequencies with the included noise reduction are slightly cut, but you can solve the problem through the equalizer.
• The cord is without control, and when it is connected, the buttons on the ears stop working.

Excellent control of volume, rewind and pause. Very voluminous bass, detailed sound. Soft comfortable ear cushions, long headband. Connects quickly with Android, Bluetooth does not fall off. An excellent volume reserve in the metro is 20%, this is 3 steps out of 16 on a smartphone, the maximum sound is output to the headphones. If you have an iPhone, then Beats Studio 3 Wireless or Platronics BackBeat PRO 2 will do.

Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2

L-connector model, with Bluetooth 4.0 streaming up to 100m, iPhone compatibility and smart power management. Price - .

Pros:

• Automatic broadcast, pause when removing and putting on headphones.
• Connects quickly to iPhone like the Beats Studio 3 Wireless.
• The duration of work on a single charge has been increased due to intelligent energy management.
• Connects to various portable devices via NFC, like the Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC.
• Support for A2DP profile and high-quality stereo signal on the headset when listening to music from the memory of the phone, PDA, car radio, as in the Sony WH-1000XM3.
• Receiving a signal and making a call from a phone due to support for the Headset profile

Minuses:

• Built-in sensors that record the moment "take off / put on" often work falsely. User advice: when connected to a TV, turn off the Call and Mute Mic buttons simultaneously for 4 seconds if the gadget automatically mutes the audio track.
• Not all devices can be connected via Bluetooth.

All users noted the sound in the model: it is correctly wound. The infra-bass is well raised and a little - the very top, a pleasant velvet color is obtained at the exit. Broadcast even from the most "seedy" gadget is adjusted by the equalizer. The result is inimitable surround sound - it is an order of magnitude higher than in the Sony WH-1000XM3.

Beats Studio 3 Wireless

A model of a famous American brand with Pure ANC real adaptive noise reduction system and Apple W1. Headphones from the Beats Skyline collection in four luxurious colors: Midnight Black, Shadow Gray, Sand Dunes, Crystal Blue. Price - .

Pros:

• The Pure ANC system blocks out external sounds with high efficiency, automatically responds to changes in fit. Selects the best version of the broadcast, provides a wide range of sound, conveys all the nuances of the performance of the composition.
• Ear cushions with excellent ventilation, increased ergonomic rotation.
• Perfect iPhone connection. More functional than Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2.
• With noise cancellation on, it works for 22 hours, and without it - 40 hours thanks to the Apple W1 processor and modified electronics.
• Fast charging with fast fuel technology: 10 minutes gives 3 hours of listening time.
• Wide coverage, reliable Bluetooth Class 1 connection.
• By signing up for iCloud, iOs 10 and 11 owners can easily switch from talking on their iPhone to watching a movie or listening to music on their MacBook.

Minuses:

• The price is too high, I would like it to be 5-6 thousand less.
• According to reviews, unexpectedly small ear pads for those who wear glasses. Arches stick out, discomfort.
• Small headroom - worse than Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2.
• A slight hiss is heard when the noise damper is on.

Excellent compatibility with Apple devices, iCloud sync and instant switching between MAC / iOS / Watch. Long operating time without noise cancellation - almost two days. Fast charging, stylish "chic" carrying case, wired connection, colors to choose from. Visually solid headphones, but lightweight. A useful additional feature in headphones is passive noise cancellation. They are inferior to Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 in sound volume and headroom.

Sony WH-1000XM3

Model with new HD noise canceling QN1 processor, snug-fitting ear pads, intelligent quick-attention features, voice assistant compatibility, touch and adaptive sound control. Price - .

Pros:

• The ultimate elimination of extraneous sounds with patented technology: close-fitting ear pads and noise canceling HD QN1 processor. Now playback is not affected by processor performance.
• The only airborne noise canceling rating model with NC-optimized barometric pressure at altitude.
• The maximum data transfer rate is 990 Kbps using LDAC technology, which is an order of magnitude higher than in classic models with Bluetooth, such as Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC or Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2.
• Category-leading S / N, low distortion, built-in amplifier for portable devices.
• Powerful 40 mm drivers reproduce the full frequency range - up to 40 kHz.
• Recovers the quality of compressed files to high-resolution audio using DSEE HXTM digital audio enhancement technology.
• Automatic Sound Setting Smart Listening.
• Quick attention function - communication without removing the headphones, muting the volume with one touch.
• Volume adaptation for actions: travel, pedestrian, waiting.

Minuses:

• When connected via USB to a PC, the noise reduction is automatically disabled.
• At sub-zero temperatures (1-9 degrees), the touch adjustment does not respond.
• When the temperature changes, for example, we went from the cold to the heat, the sensor starts to work falsely, “think” that you have put your hand, switches tracks, minimizes sound.
• Unable to work with 2 devices.

According to reviews, an amazing noise reduction is many times better than the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. Normal application to the device, many settings. Remembers the volume level of each state. Gorgeous appearance. Great sound. Convenient NFC technology for pairing gadgets. But the sound of the Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 is still richer and cleaner, the bass does not boom.

TOP-3 plug-in (plugs) with active noise reduction

Samsung EO-BG920 Level U

Refined design, four laconic colors, comfortable open hybrid earbuds, flexible polyurethane neckband, 500 hours standby. Price - .

Pros:

• Sound adjustment in a special mobile application Samsung Level, the ability to receive SMS, schedule signal and more.
• Built-in raised volume keys.
• 2-mic noise and echo cancellation system.
• 10 hours of music streaming, 11 hours of mobile communication, 500 hours of standby time.
• Magnetic attachment built into the ear buds.

Minuses:

• Quiet sound, on the street you can hear only at the maximum level.
• Bluetooth is constantly falling off.
• With active movement, the headset constantly moves out.

They hold a charge well, connect with iPhone and Android, and are comfortable to wear. They are not suitable for active movement, for example, for sports, you need special HUAWEI FreeBuds. The Chinese assembly of the gadget affects durability. Users write that after 2–6 months problems begin: one of the headphones stops sounding, the mount breaks.

HUAWEI FreeBuds

Sports TWS headphones with an original golf club design, high quality sound and music playback 12 hours. Price - .

Pros:

• Only the first Bluetooth pairing with the device is done manually. The next connection is automatic.
• Automatic pause. A built-in infrared sensor stops broadcasting when you take out the headphones.
• Enhanced titanium / polyurethane composite diaphragm drivers, rich bass, accurate sound reproduction across all ranges.
• Supplied with 3 pairs of hypoallergenic silicone tips.
• Special breathable head for training with reduced sound pressure.
• Waterproof.
• Reinforcement and dynamic.

Minuses:

• There is no voice dialing and call hold as in Samsung EO-BG920 Level U.
• Low battery life - only 3 hours, in Sony WF-1000XM3 - 6 hours.

Rebar radiators produce better sound than wired ones, but the quality drops at high volumes. Instant connection, just insert it into your ear and the headset works. Excellent connection range. Several codecs for audio playback, between which the device switches automatically. The first is listening to music in high definition, the second is the headset mode when making calls. Remembers paired devices, easily switches between them. Waterproof, with function to eliminate the effect of the stethoscope. According to reviews, the device belongs to the “golden mean” between expensive models like Sony WF-1000XM3 and cheap ones like Samsung EO-BG920 Level U.

Sony WF-1000XM3

Advanced noise cancellation on HD QN1e processor, innovative wireless dual sensor technology, strict stylish design, smart playback. Price - .

Pros:

• Dual noise canceling sensor: two microphones, external and internal, pick up extraneous noises to the maximum from the hum in an airplane or in a subway train to the noise of cars and speech on the street.
• Energy efficient HD QN1e noise canceling processor with digital ANC, 24-bit audio processing and digital to analogue converter with amplifier.
• Headphones with a miniature and powerful speaker deliver deep, clear and spacious sound.
• Recovers the quality of compressed files to High-Resolution Audio using DSEE HXTM digital audio enhancement technology like the Sony WH-1000XM3.
• Stable connection with new Bluetooth chip and optimized antenna. The sound is transmitted simultaneously to both headphones.
• Instantly sync audio to video.
• The shape of the headphones is based on the "three points of contact" principle in the ear. Stable and secure fit.
• Magnetic charging case.
• Innovative technology for smart listening SENSE ENGINE.
• Control via Sony Headphones Connect app, automatic adjustment for ambient sounds, volume control of background noises, equalizer adjustment.
• Built-in wearing sensors.
• Connect with the voice assistant Google Assistant.
• Receiving and answering calls in hands-free mode.

Minuses:

• I would like to work longer, not 6 hours. In the cheaper Samsung EO-BG920 Level U - 10-11 hours.
• Unstable and poor-quality communication, especially in the metro during rush hours.
• The software is crude, it still needs to be improved. For example, in a new headset, noise reduction devices can be connected to each earphone in different ways, it is treated with a complete reset.
• I would like wireless charging.

Verdict. Unmatched design, sound at the level of "large" models Sony WH-1000XM3, deep bass, not overcrowded. Good build quality, foam ear pads, comfortable to wear, do not fall out of your ears when running or walking. Easy setup of each earphone in the app. Quickly connects with smartphones. Clear sound even at maximum volume. Sensitive touch control zones. No audio lag when watching videos.

Best in-ear active noise canceling headphones

Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2

Model for broadcasting music, making calls, with intelligent voice and touch control. Price - .

Pros:

• Support for Bluetooth 5.0 version.
• Connect with smartphones with MIUI interface.
• Duration of work - 4 hours.
• Fast charging - 1 hour
• The infrared sensor reacts to the position of the headset and pauses.

Minuses:

• Not very well held in the ears, fall out when walking fast.
• Doesn't support iPhone.

Excellent combination of price and quality. Broadcast in normal quality is worse than in full-size models of the same class Samsung EO-BG920 Level U, but better than in JBL Tune 600BTNC. A useful gadget for drivers, good communication with smartphones on Android. Easy to operate.