10 Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones offer a solid performance in the budget noise-cancelling category. With hybrid active noise cancellation, these headphones can effectively reduce ambient noises like car and airplane engines, making them a good choice for travel and office use. The 40 mm dynamic drivers deliver Hi-Res audio, ensuring clear and detailed sound quality. Additionally, the BassUp technology enhances low frequencies for a richer bass experience, especially when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop.

Comfort is addressed with memory foam ear cups that fit snugly over the ears, making long listening sessions more enjoyable. The impressive battery life stands out with up to 60 hours of playtime in standard mode and 40 hours with noise cancellation active, plus quick charging capabilities that provide 4 hours of listening from just a 5-minute charge. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth, and the inclusion of an AUX cable offers versatility for wired use.

The build quality is decent for its price range, with a lightweight design that is easy to carry around. However, while the plastic construction helps keep costs down, it may not offer the same premium feel as more expensive models. In summary, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones are a well-rounded option for those seeking effective noise cancellation, good sound quality, and long battery life without breaking the bank.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones are a strong contender in the budget noise-cancelling headphones market. They excel in several key areas, particularly noise cancellation and sound quality. The headphones feature multiple noise cancelling modes, including Quiet Mode and Aware Mode, which effectively filter out background noise, making them ideal for travel, business, and entertainment use. The CustomTune technology and spatial audio offer a personalized and immersive listening experience, enhancing the sound quality significantly. Comfort is another standout feature, with soft ear cushions and a well-distributed headband pressure, ensuring long-lasting wear without discomfort.

The 24-hour battery life is also impressive, though it's slightly reduced to 18 hours when using the immersive audio feature. A quick 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of playtime, which is convenient for users on the go. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.3, boasting a range of up to 30 feet, and the touch controls on the earcups offer easy access to volume, track changes, and calls.

However, the build quality, while durable, includes a mix of leather and plastic, which may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, without water resistance, these headphones might not be the best choice for outdoor or sports use. The Bose app provides access to updates and new features, ensuring the headphones stay current with the latest technology. All things considered, these headphones are an excellent choice for those seeking quality noise cancellation and sound in a comfortable, feature-rich package, though they may not be suitable for rugged or water-prone environments.

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones stand out with an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours, making them ideal for long trips and extended use without frequent recharging. The quick charging feature is an added convenience. Sound quality is customizable through the Sony Headphones Connect App, offering personalized audio experiences.

The headphones are lightweight and designed for comfort with adjustable headbands and soft ear pads, suitable for all-day wear. While they excel in many areas, the key drawback is the lack of active noise cancellation, which might be a dealbreaker if you're looking for effective noise isolation in noisy environments. Connectivity is robust, with Bluetooth 5.2 and multipoint connection allowing easy switching between devices.

The built-in microphone ensures clear calls, and features like DSEE enhance the sound quality of compressed music files. However, the build quality is mostly plastic, which might not be as durable as other materials. Additionally, the headphones are not water-resistant, limiting their use in certain conditions. If noise cancellation isn't a priority for you, these headphones offer great value with strong battery life, good sound quality, and comfortable design.