10 Best Noise Canceling Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a strong choice for anyone seeking high-quality noise-canceling headphones. Its advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system uses 12 microphones and a fast processor to block out a wide range of noises, making it excellent for noisy environments like airplanes or busy streets. The sound quality is impressive, thanks to collaboration with mastering engineers and a lightweight carbon fiber driver that keeps music clear and balanced across all frequencies. Comfort is another highlight, with a wider, softly padded headband and adjustable ear cups designed for long listening sessions without discomfort. Battery life is generous, offering up to 30 hours on a full charge, and quick charging means just a few minutes plugged in can provide hours of playback. The headphones also feature touch controls and support both Bluetooth wireless and wired connections, adding to their versatility.

For calls, the built-in microphones and AI noise reduction deliver clear voice quality even in busy settings, which is great for phone or video calls. On the design front, the folding mechanism and compact carrying case make them easy to carry around. One thing to note is that they are not water-resistant, so they should be kept away from rain or sweat during workouts. Also, the price may be on the higher side compared to basic models, but the features justify the cost for frequent travelers or audio enthusiasts. These headphones are well suited for users who want premium noise cancellation, excellent sound, comfortable fit, and strong call quality in a sleek, portable package.

Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear noise-canceling headphones designed to deliver an immersive audio experience. Their pro-level Active Noise Cancellation is highly effective, blocking out twice as much background noise compared to many competitors, which is great for users who want to focus fully on their music or calls. The Transparency mode is a handy feature for staying aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones. Battery life offers about 20 hours of continuous listening with noise cancellation on, sufficient for most daily uses, and a quick 5-minute charge can provide 1.5 hours of playback.

Comfort-wise, the knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions provide a snug, cushioned fit that seals in sound well, although the headphones are on the heavier side (about 386 grams), which might feel a bit bulky during extended listening sessions. Sound quality is a highlight thanks to Apple’s dynamic drivers and personalized spatial audio technology that adapts to your ear shape, creating a rich, 3D sound environment ideal for music, movies, and gaming. Connectivity is seamless within Apple’s ecosystem, with effortless pairing and smooth switching between Apple devices via Bluetooth 5.0, but non-Apple users might not get the full experience.

Build quality feels premium with high-end materials, but they are not water-resistant, so caution is needed around moisture. Additional features like the Digital Crown for precise volume and playback control, Siri voice commands, and USB-C charging add convenience. While the AirPods Max come with a stylish but minimal Smart Case that preserves battery life, some may find the case’s design less protective than traditional hard cases. These headphones are suited for users who prioritize high-quality sound, strong noise cancellation, and tight integration with Apple devices, although they come with a high price tag and may be less ideal for those seeking a lightweight option or water resistance.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a strong choice for anyone looking for wireless noise-canceling headphones with rich sound and long battery life. Their custom acoustic platform delivers immersive audio, enhanced by personalized spatial sound that creates a 360-degree listening experience, which is a nice touch for music lovers. The fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) works well to block out distractions, and the Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. Comfort is good thanks to the over-ear design and lightweight feel, making them suitable for extended wear.

Battery life stands out with up to 40 hours per charge, and a quick 10-minute charge gives about 4 extra hours, so you won’t be frequently interrupted to recharge. Controls are user-friendly, combining touch, button, and voice commands, including easy access to Siri. The headphones also support lossless audio via USB-C, which helps improve sound clarity if you connect with a cable. Portability is decent with a foldable design and included carrying case, although they are not water-resistant, so caution is needed in rainy or sweaty conditions.

Call quality is crisp, thanks to voice-targeting microphones that reduce background noise, making these headphones a solid pick for phone calls and virtual meetings. Some users might find the fit a bit snug depending on head size, and while the Bluetooth 5.3 offers strong wireless range, occasional connection dropouts can happen in dense wireless environments. These headphones balance impressive sound, noise cancellation, and long usage time, making them well-suited for daily commuting, work-from-home, and casual listening on both Apple and Android devices.