10 Best Anc Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a strong contender in the ANC earbuds category, especially for users who value exceptional sound quality and noise cancellation. The active noise cancellation effectively reduces background noise, making them ideal for commuting or working in noisy environments. Transparency mode is a thoughtful addition that allows users to hear their surroundings when needed, enhancing safety and social interaction. The new H2 chip provides immersive sound with a balanced bass and clear treble, which is great for music lovers and those who make calls frequently.

Comfort and fit are also well-addressed; four different sizes of silicone tips ensure a snug fit for a variety of ear shapes, making them suitable for longer listening sessions. The AirPods Pro 2 boast impressive battery life, offering up to 6 hours per charge with noise cancellation activated, and a total of 30 hours when using the charging case. This makes them perfect for extended use.

On the downside, the AirPods Pro 2 are relatively expensive compared to other options in the market, which may deter budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, while they are water and sweat-resistant (IP54), heavy-duty sports users might find them less durable than other rugged alternatives. The reliance on Apple’s ecosystem for features may also limit their appeal to users with non-Apple devices, as some functionalities work best with Apple products.

The Apple AirPods 4 are designed to deliver an impressive audio experience, especially for those who appreciate rich sound and effective noise cancellation. One of their standout features is the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which efficiently reduces external noise, allowing users to fully enjoy their music or podcasts. The addition of Adaptive Audio also enhances the listening experience by automatically adjusting sound settings based on the environment. Sound quality is further improved with features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Voice Isolation, which ensures clear communication even in noisy settings.

Comfort is a significant focus in the design of the AirPods 4. They are rebuilt for all-day wear with a refined shape that fits securely in your ears. However, the fit may vary depending on ear shape, so some users might find them less comfortable during extended use.

Battery life stands out too, offering up to 4 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled, and 20 hours when using the charging case. This is quite decent, although some competitors provide longer playback times. The convenience of USB-C charging and wireless charging options also adds to their appeal.

In terms of durability, the AirPods 4 are rated IP54, making them resistant to dust, sweat, and light water splashes. This rating is beneficial for users who may use them during workouts or in light rain.

On the downside, although the AirPods 4 boast many advanced features, they are likely best suited for those already in the Apple ecosystem, given their seamless connectivity with other Apple devices. Additionally, while the price reflects their premium features, it may not be justifiable for users seeking basic functionality without the extra bells and whistles.

The AirPods 4 cater well to users looking for high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and smart features, making them ideal for fitness enthusiasts, commuters, or anyone seeking a premium listening experience—provided they are comfortable investing in a premium device.

The JBL Vibe Beam earbuds offer a solid performance for those seeking a pair of true wireless earbuds with a focus on deep bass sound. Featuring JBL's signature Deep Bass, these earbuds deliver a robust audio experience with 8mm drivers, making them suitable for bass enthusiasts. The earbuds are also noted for their ergonomic design, which provides a comfortable fit and enhances the listening experience by excluding external sounds. This is particularly beneficial in noisy environments, although the active noise cancellation feature isn't explicitly detailed here.

Battery life is a significant advantage, with up to 32 hours total - 8 hours from the earbuds and an additional 24 hours from the charging case. The quick charge feature is handy, offering an extra two hours of listening time with just a 10-minute charge when needed. For connectivity, the JBL Vibe Beam uses Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a stable and efficient connection with a range of up to 10 meters, suitable for most everyday uses.

In terms of durability, these earbuds are IP54-certified, meaning they're resistant to dust and water, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities. However, the charging case is only IPX2-rated, which provides limited protection against water ingress. The earbuds also feature hands-free calls with VoiceAware, allowing users to adjust how much of their own voice they hear during calls, which can enhance the calling experience. Control is managed via touch, which some users may find convenient, though it can be less precise than physical buttons.

While these earbuds cater well to music lovers, especially those who favor bass-heavy tunes, they may not fully satisfy users looking for advanced noise-cancelling capabilities. Thus, they are best suited for casual users seeking durable, bass-rich earbuds with extended battery life.