Top Contenders for Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Best Brands Revealed

In today's bustling world, finding a moment of tranquility can be a challenge, which is why noise-canceling headphones have become essential for many. These innovative devices not only block out background noise but also enhance audio quality, making them highly sought after by music enthusiasts and commuters alike. The market is flooded with various brands claiming superior noise cancellation, but discerning which ones truly deliver can be daunting. For those interested in discovering the top contenders in the realm of noise-canceling headphones, look no further than the insightful list below.

Illustration of noise cancelling headphones

Best brands of noise cancelling headphones in 2025

Sony

Sony is a leading brand in the noise cancelling headphones market, known for its innovative products such as the WH-1000XM5, which features an 8-microphone system and advanced QN1 audio processors for superior noise cancellation. In 2022, Sony launched this model, enhancing its competitive edge in the market. The global noise cancelling headphones market, where Sony is a key player, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2022 to 2032, reaching a valuation of US$ 9.06 billion by 2032.

Bose

Bose is a leading brand in the noise-cancelling headphones market, known for its innovative products and superior sound quality. By the end of 2023, Bose held a significant market share, with about 12.5% of people in the U.S. using Bose headphones, making it the third-largest brand in the market. The company introduced the first noise-cancelling headset for aviation in 1989 and later adapted this technology for consumer use, resulting in the iconic QuietComfort headphones. In 2023, Bose launched the QuietComfort 50 SE, enhancing sound quality, battery life, and comfort. The global noise-cancelling headphones market, where Bose is a key player, is projected to reach $45.4 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2021 to 2031. For more details about their products, visit the Bose website.

Sennheiser

Sennheiser, a renowned German company with nearly a century of experience in audio systems, is a leading producer of noise cancelling headphones. Known for their high-quality sound and innovative designs, Sennheiser's products, such as the Momentum 3 and HD660S2, are highly regarded for their advanced noise cancellation technology and robust sound performance. The company's commitment to R&D has enabled them to maintain a strong presence in the market, with their wireless noise cancelling headphones segment contributing significantly to the overall market growth. For instance, the global noise cancelling headphones market, which includes Sennheiser's offerings, is projected to reach $45.4 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2021. Sennheiser's products are favored for their durability and enhanced audio capabilities, making them a top choice among consumers.

Apple

The Apple AirPods Max stands out as one of the best producers of noise-canceling headphones, offering exceptional active noise cancellation that outperforms competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, particularly in the low-frequency range below 100Hz. The AirPods Max consistently blocks out low and midrange noises, such as the hum of an air conditioner or airplane cabin noise, with a smoother and less intrusive adaptive noise-canceling system. This model also features an impressive transparency mode that amplifies external sounds, ensuring users remain aware of their surroundings. With low distortion and a clear, refined sound quality, the AirPods Max provides a high-end audio experience. Its adaptive EQ adjusts the sound based on the shape of the user's ears and the seal on the head, enhancing overall audio fidelity. For an in-depth review, you can find more information here.

Bang & Olufsen

Bang & Olufsen is a renowned brand in the noise-canceling headphones market, known for its premium and technologically advanced products. The Bang & Olufsen Cisco 980 headset, for instance, features active noise cancellation that adapts and adjusts based on the surroundings, and it is equipped with six geometrically placed microphones to isolate the user's voice and cancel out background noise. This headset also offers a class-leading audio experience with advanced codecs and provides all-day comfort. With Bluetooth 5.1 and Webex integrations, it is optimized for professional use, including phone calls, video meetings, and music listening. The headset's noise cancellation and transparency mode can be adjusted via the Bang & Olufsen app, enhancing its usability.

JBL

JBL, a renowned brand under Harman International, has cemented its position as a leading producer of noise-cancelling headphones, having sold over 200 million units since 2016. The brand's exceptional ability to understand and anticipate customer needs has driven its success, particularly in the true wireless earbuds and over-ear headphone segments. JBL's headphones, such as the JBL Tour PRO 2 and JBL LIVE 770NC, feature advanced noise-cancelling technologies, contributing to the brand's dominance in the market. With a growth rate of 17.6% CAGR predicted until 2028, JBL continues to innovate, introducing eco-friendly products and partnering with various industries to enhance user experience. JBL's commitment to quality and sustainability has earned it a silver sustainability rating from Ecovadis.

Bowers & Wilkins

Bowers & Wilkins is a renowned brand in the noise cancelling headphones market, known for its excellent active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7, for instance, excels in disrupting low-end noise and isolating sound, with a high clamping force and soft padding that ensures a good seal, attenuating sounds above 1kHz by 75% to 93.75% in loudness. Despite slightly higher prices, these headphones offer over 22 hours of battery life and are well-suited for commuting and travel. The brand continues to innovate, as seen in the PX7 S2 model, which features a companion app for tuning bass and treble to user preferences. Bowers & Wilkins is part of a growing market expected to reach $9.06 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2022 to 2032.

Shure

Shure, although not as prominently mentioned in the provided sources, is a well-regarded brand in the audio industry, known for its high-quality audio equipment. However, in the context of noise-cancelling headphones, brands like Bose, Sony, and Sennheiser dominate the market, with Bose and Sony leading in innovation and market share. For instance, in 2023, wireless noise-cancelling headphones, a segment where these brands excel, accounted for 87.5% of the market. The global noise-cancelling headphones market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 39.5 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 12.1%. Despite this, Shure's reputation in professional audio gear suggests it could be a contender in niche markets. For more information about their audio equipment, visit the Shure website.

Anker

Anker, under its Soundcore brand, is a standout producer of noise-canceling headphones, offering premium features at affordable prices. Their products, such as the Soundcore Space A40 Truly Wireless and Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless, feature advanced adaptive ANC systems that effectively reduce ambient noise, providing over 8 hours and nearly 28 hours of continuous battery life, respectively. These headphones also support LDAC codec for Hi-Res audio and come with customizable sound profiles via a companion app. Anker's focus on budget-friendly to mid-end options has made their noise-canceling headphones highly accessible, with features like multi-device and NFC pairing enhancing user convenience. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has positioned them as a significant player in the noise-canceling headphones market. For more information, visit their review page on RTINGS.

AKG

AKG is renowned as one of the top producers of noise-cancelling headphones, leveraging its substantial reputation in the pro-audio world. The brand's innovative designs, such as the AKG N90Q, feature advanced technologies like built-in DACs, DSP tone-shaping, and high-quality drivers, setting a new standard in the market. For instance, the AKG N90Q boasts 52mm drivers and a unique Japanese paper cone, delivering detailed and analytical sound with powerful bass. AKG's products are highly regarded for their performance, with models like the Y600NC offering excellent noise cancellation and comfort, although some users may find them slightly small for larger ears. The global noise-cancelling headphones market, which includes AKG's offerings, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.5% from 2024 to 2031, reaching a market size of USD 34,579.79 million by 2031.