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 Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones deliver strong active noise cancellation with three modes—Quiet, Aware, and Immersion—giving you flexibility depending on your environment. Their spatial audio and CustomTune technology provide a rich, immersive sound experience that adjusts to your ears, which is great for music lovers wanting detailed sound. Comfort is a highlight, thanks to soft ear cushions and a pressure-distributing headband, making long listening sessions easier on the ears. Battery life is solid, offering up to 24 hours of playback, though it drops to about 18 hours when using the immersive audio feature. Quick charging is handy, with 15 minutes providing a couple of hours of use. Controls are intuitive with touch-sensitive earcups and gesture activation, and the Bose app adds customization and updates. The design is sleek and portable, including a sturdy hard case, but the headphones don’t offer water resistance, so they’re best kept away from moisture.

On calls, the microphone system effectively filters background noise for clear conversations, which is an advantage for frequent phone users. These headphones are well-suited for anyone wanting premium noise cancellation with excellent sound and comfort; however, if you need rugged or water-resistant gear, you might want to look elsewhere.