Best noise canceling headphones for 2024

Frequent trips and flights, a long stay in a crowded noisy place, monotonous activity of system units in the office - sometimes the surrounding sounds become simply unbearable. That is why there is an urgent need to purchase a device that can eliminate extraneous noises and give the nervous system a sense of balance and comfort. Products of which leading brands may be of interest to the consumer from this point of view will be considered in this article.

Selection criteria for noise canceling headphones

When choosing a device with a noise suppression mode, the consumer is guided by the following key points:

• the effectiveness of eliminating extraneous sounds;
• headphone sound parameters;
• indicator of autonomous work;
• ergonomics and build quality of the product, its equipment.

Best noise canceling headphones

Overhead models

Bower & Wikins PX

The design of the product is durable and comfortable. Bower & Wikins PX fit organically on the head, creating sufficient distance between the auricle and the speaker. On the inside, both the headband and ear cushions are made of soft leather. The outer surface of these elements is covered with nylon. The design does not fold, but the flexibility of the headband and rotating ear cups make both storage and handling easy.

The main feature of the considered bluetooth headphones is to provide good sound quality through the aptXHD codec. The device borrows the acoustic design from the P9 Signature: the drivers responsible for the sound are placed in such a way that it goes directly to the center of the ear opening. The sound parameters are adjusted, the bass sounds powerful and deep. It should be noted that Bower & Wikins have worked hard to eliminate the shortcomings of their technology or to minimize them, because it is no secret that when the noise suppression mode is connected, the sound saturation and volume are lost. The new device has 3 noise reduction modes: office (minimum), city, flight (maximum). Plus - a special mode through which the user can hear that something is being said to him. If the headphones are removed or lifted, the music will automatically stop, and, conversely, will continue if you put them on your ears. The device enters sleep mode, which saves energy when placed on the shelf. Under normal conditions, the headset can operate for up to 50 hours, with continuous music playback, the discharge will occur after 22 hours. Switching modes is possible in one of the following ways: by means of a button located on the side of the earcup or using an application.
The headset connects to electronic devices via bluetooth, as well as via a 3.5 mm jack. The USB type-C port is useful for listening to music on your phone (computer) or charging the device.

The average price of the model is 26,000 rubles.

• comfort during operation;
• excellent quality of the transmitted sound;
• efficiency of noise reduction modes;
• high battery life;
• aptX HD support.

• aptX HD codec is available on a limited list of electronic devices;
• decent price.

Sony WH-1000ХМ3

Sony has created this model for those who are often forced to move in noisy vehicles like airplanes, trains, subways.

The manufacturer offers a potential consumer to choose the color of wireless noise canceling headphones from the available options: black and silver. In general, the product is ergonomic; the presence of the structure on the head does not cause any unpleasant sensations in any position. The model is equipped with a fabric cover with an additional compartment for the cord.

The control is carried out by means of a touch panel located in the right earpiece.
The peculiarity of the headset is its "ability" to adapt to its owner, taking into account the size of the head, the presence of glasses, the length of the hair. The QN1 chipset is responsible for noise cancellation: it makes it possible to adjust the noise suppression parameters for different types of noise. In addition, the device has found application in the development of the company LDAS codec, which provides audio coding for wireless transmission. It should be noted that the functioning of LDAS depends on the parameters of the source (it is regulated by setting up applications on the device).

Operation of the headphones is possible with the program from Sony: when connecting for the first time, touch the NFC icon on the headset. The program selects the sound and quality of the connection. It is also able to determine if the user is in a static position or moves in space, and, accordingly, changes the settings and operating mode.
The charging connector is USB Type C. The on / off button when the device is running indicates the charge level. Operating time from one charge to 30 hours (taking into account the use of the noise suppression mode). The device is fully charged in 3 hours, but thanks to the support of fast charging, in the event of an emergency, 10 minutes will be enough to ensure operation for 5 hours.

The average cost of a product is 25,500 rubles.

• excellent noise reduction;
• high level of autonomy, implementation of fast charging;
• uncomplicated management.

• sound quality with LDAC codec;
• defects in the mobile application.

Sennheiser HD 4.5 BTNC

The Sennheiser product is designed in a traditional, discreet German style. The main materials from which the product is made are pleasant to the touch leatherette and matte plastic. The folding design is distinguished by high-quality assembly, no backlash. The headband is equipped with a leatherette pad. Ear pads are made of the same material. Headphones are considered full-size, but those with large ears claim that they are too tight for them. The adjustment range for the head parameter is sufficient.

The gadget is controlled by means of the power (pairing) keys, switching (stopping) tracks, volume control (activating noise reduction). There is a mini-jack connector and a microUSB port. The NFC module is located on the left side. Pairing with a smartphone is seamless.

The headphones support the aptX codec, which means that with a bluetooth compatible device, sound will be transmitted at the level of a good MP3: for most users this is quite enough.
The Sennheiser HD 4.5 BTNC can also be connected to an electronic device using a mini-jack cord (spare in case of discharge).

Another key feature is the presence of an active noise suppression system. Like many other bluetooth headphones, the model is equipped with a microphone, and therefore it can be used as a headset.
The built-in battery ensures that the device can work up to 25 hours.

The average cost is 11,000 rubles.

• quality of body materials;
• good sounding;
• availability of NFC;
• excellent battery life.

• insufficient cup sizes;
• primitive carrying case.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

The model from the leading manufacturer is simple in design, elegant and comfortable. In addition, it is quite durable: twisting and bending the headset in different directions does not damage it. However, for better protection, it is better to use the branded carrying bag that comes with the package.

On the body of the device there are buttons for changing the volume level, a power key, a 3.5 input and a micro-USB connector.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II supports Google Assistant, which will execute any user command in seconds. And the Bose Connect + app helps you remap the action key to adjust Active Noise Cancellation (high, low, and off position).

The device shows a high level of reliability in terms of the quality of connection and communication.

When listening to musical compositions, it should be noted that the vocals are loud and clear, the bass is pleasant, the low and middle frequencies are clear, and the high frequencies can be flat.

The level of active noise canceling is excellent. This is important for those who travel by public transport every day.
The level of autonomy is considerable: the manufacturer claims 20 hours of continuous operation. In practice, this indicator is confirmed.

The average cost of a product is 21,000 rubles.

• a convenient, practical accessory with a minimalistic design;
• excellent noise reduction;
• comfortable work with a google assistant;
• simultaneous connection to two gadgets;
• the presence of a protective cover.

• considerable cost.

JBL E65BTNC

The headset has a classic design. The cups with leatherette cushions instill a sense of reliability. The headband follows the shape of the head, covering it more tightly, eliminates external sounds before the active noise reduction is activated, which the model in question possesses, taking into account the letters NC in the product labeling. Another pair of letters BT indicates that the headphones can be connected via Bluetooth. Studies show that the most acceptable connection range for a device is about 10 m. Do not forget that bluetooth connection is inextricably linked with the implementation of the active noise cancellation function (possible only when a headset is used without wires). It works with dignity, there are no complicated tricks for managing it (it is enough to turn on or off the noise suppression mode). As for the sound, it should be noted that the famous sound from JBL is somewhat simplified when listening to musical compositions wirelessly with activated noise reduction. The situation changes dramatically when wires are used: the soundstage becomes clear and filled with colors. This information can be useful for those who want to listen to music in the best sound quality.

The indicator of autonomy is good news: when the noise isolation mode is on, the battery will work for about 15 hours, when it is off - up to 20 hours. In addition, only a couple of hours is enough to fully charge the battery. That is, to enjoy your favorite tracks for 20 hours, 2 hours of charging is enough. This is one of the reasons why the device is chosen for travel and for long journeys in vehicles.

The average price is 7,500 rubles.

• foldable headband;
• effective suppression of extraneous noise;
• the optimal ratio of the indicator of autonomy and cost.

• sound quality degradation when noise canceling mode is activated.

In-ear models

Huawei ANC3

The main body of the model is made of special plastic with metal inserts. The design of the product consists of several elements, including silicone caps. The medium cord (1.2 m) is enclosed in a silicone sheath.

The present control panel will allow you to adjust the volume, as well as control the playback of tracks.In addition to the 2 standard keys, there is another one that activates the ANC option: it will help to answer a call and change the noise canceling mode.

In general, the device looks stylish, fits comfortably in the ears, and thanks to the noise reduction system, the user will be isolated from extraneous sounds.

In the headset from Huawei, the USB Type-C connector was used, through which it is connected to a device (tablet, smartphone, etc.). The ANC system has 3 modes:

• "Travel" - useful for those who are forced to move frequently in vehicles (airplanes, metro, trains);
• normal - designed for use in the bustle of the street, shopping centers, catering or leisure;
• aware - will find application in office premises or waiting rooms.

The equipment of the model includes dynamic drivers and effective diaphragms, thanks to which the high-frequency transmission becomes clearer and the bass deeper.
Earplugs can be a good choice for a smartphone owner who needs a mobile accessory with high-quality sound transmission and noise cancellation effect.

The price of the model is from 2930 to 4641 rubles.

• ergonomic design, reliability of fastening by means of original "ears";
• microphone quality for voice transmission;
• active noise reduction system, excellent study of frequencies.

• connects only to devices with USB Type-C;
• not protected from moisture.

Razer Hammerhead USB-C ANC

Structurally, the model under consideration is in-ear headphones. Their cord is partially wrapped in a fabric braid to prevent tangling and for greater convenience. The microphone and control panel are separated. The latter is compact but functional. It contains round-shaped keys with which you can adjust the volume, get instant access to certain functions of mobile devices. On the side there is a 2-position switch that activates the noise suppression mode.

The specially configured earbuds with an extended sound tube are the headphone housing. It is made of metal and painted matt black. At the end of the sound channel tube, 13 mm ear pads are attached (the package includes three additional ones for 10, 11, 13 mm, as well as enhanced comfort ear pads from Comply with a soft foam structure and memory effect).

The ergonomic body contains sound drivers: dynamic in response to the low-frequency range, reinforcing - for the transmission of high frequencies. In general, the device provides pleasant sound, the sound is clear regardless of the volume level, there are no wheezing or rattling. It has a sufficient volume reserve, and therefore, even in a noisy environment, there is no need to use the maximum parameter. There is no need to increase the volume too much because in public places activated noise reduction will help to eliminate extraneous sounds: the sounds of operating mechanisms, gusts of air are cut off, but human voices remain accessible for perception (this will help the owner of the gadget not to miss the desired metro or minibus stop). Having selected comfortable ear pads, the user can enjoy their favorite music on a noisy street or while in a vehicle.

The Razer headset is practical and compatible with most mobile devices with a USB 3 Type-C connector. In addition, it will find application as a mobile gaming: the accuracy of reproducing the virtual sound stage is easy for it. The quality level of the microphone as a mobile headset is acceptable.

The average cost of the product is 7390 rubles.

• good sounding dual radiators;
• effective noise reduction system;
• product design and ergonomics;
• equipment.

• cost;
• incompatibility with some smartphones due to the presence of the USB-C connector.

Xiaomi AirDots Pro

According to the generally accepted opinion, Air Pro is very close to the concept of the sensational Airpods: they also have a good indicator of autonomy, a charging case similar in format, and presence sensors in the ears. But they also have certain differences.

Both the earbuds and the charging case are made of white or black plastic. The lid of the case and the headphones located inside are held by magnets for a snug fit. Therefore, removing the airdotes from the box with gloved fingers is not so easy, but the likelihood of accidental shaking is also prevented. On the right side of the case there is a key for synchronizing the headset with the device, on the bottom - a standard USB port. The dimensions of the case are not entirely comfortable: it is rather big, moreover, it has a sharp edge on the top, which can cause discomfort when worn in tight clothes. The earbuds themselves in the shape of barrels may not look highly aesthetic, but they fit comfortably in the ears, they do not fall out in case of active movement with the correct size of the ear pads, which makes them convenient for sports.

When connecting for the first time to synchronize with the gadget in the phone menu, select the Bluetooth settings, Mi True Wireless Earphones and open the case with the headset. Pairing will take place. Subsequent connections will be carried out automatically - it will be enough to remove the barrels from the box and connect the bluetooth. Headset type - in-ear. The device is equipped with a touch control panel located on the back. Tapes on it allow you to control calls, play music, call the voice assistant on the phone. An infrared sensor detects the presence of headphones in the ear: even if you remove one of them, music playback is temporarily interrupted. On the side surface of each plug there are microphones for noise suppression, and on the bottom you can find spoken microphones.

If there are two earplugs in the ears, holding the touch panel key for 3 seconds activates the active noise reduction mode. But the panel does not control the volume and cannot flip through music tracks (as Airpods can).
As for the sound quality, AirDots reproduces it well, but not expressively. It will be effective to use the headset as a communication means even in windy weather or near a road with transport, given the available ANC noise reduction system.

One of the features of the model is protection against moisture (IPX4 standard) - this feature will be of interest to athletes, travelers - to all those who are on the move: thanks to the presence of such protection, the device will not break down due to sweat.

Continuous use from a single charge - up to 3 hours. It will take an hour to fully charge the case.

The cost of a model from China is from 3600 to 7990 rubles.

• good build quality;
• comfortable and secure fit;
• the presence of moisture protection;
• stability of synchronization with an electronic device;
• the presence of a Type-C connector.

• lack of a proprietary application for setting up the headset;
• voice notifications are sounded in Chinese;
• mediocre noise reduction;
• dimensions and configuration of the case and headphones.

Summarizing

The rating presented above is based on feedback from the owners of this product and the existing demand for the model. Of course, the selection of headphones for a specific user is an individual process. Each parameter, be it sound, microphone volume, ease of wearing, is subjective. But, perhaps, one of the models popular among consumers will be useful to the reader of this article.