Best Noise Canceling Earbuds

By: Owen Moore | 29.12.2022, 14:00

Do you need the perfect pair of earbuds for listening to music, playing sports or engaging in any other type of activity? What about a suitable set that can effectively reduce outside noises and provide you with clear audio quality? If this is what you are looking for, then noise canceling earbuds might be just what your ears have been missing. These days, many companies offer excellent products when it comes to noise cancellation technology which makes it simpler and easier than ever before to keep distractions at bay while enjoying your favorite music or podcasts. Here I’ll explain why these types of earphones are such a great choice and reveal 10 of the best noise canceling earbuds available right now on the market. Keep reading to find out which noise-canceling headphones are right for you and your lifestyle!

BEST CHOICE
Sony WF-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Earbud
Flagship in-ear wireless headphones with active noise canceling system. Connected via Bluetooth 5.0 and supports SBC, AAC and LDAC codecs. They are IPX4 splash-proof.

Read Verified Customer Reviews

10 Best Noise Canceling Earbuds

Author’s Choice
Sony WF-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Earbud
  • Good sound quality and wireless charging support
  • 8 hours long battery with Noise Canceling
  • IPX4 Water resistance
People’s Choice
Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds
  • Three distinct listening modes including ANC mode to block out unwanted sound
  • Up to 6 hours of battery life with pocket-sized charging case
  • IPX4 Water resistance
Premium Choice
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2
  • Secure fit with three pairs of ear tips and stability bands
  • Long lasting battery life up to 6 hours
  • IPX4 Water resistance
Beste Budget
JBL Tune 230NC TWS Noise Cancelling Headphones
  • Active Noise Canceling technology with 2 microphones to reduce distractions
  • Up to 40 hours of battery life
  • IPX4 water resistance
Best from Apple
Apple AirPods Pro 2
  • Up to 6 hours of listening time without recharging
  • Four pairs of silicone tips for maximum comfort and acoustic seal for noise protection
  • Charging case allows you to track your earbuds and charge with your Apple Watch or MagSafe charger
Best from Google
Google Pixel Buds Pro Noise Canceling Earbuds
  • Active noise cancellation with Silent Seal to block outside sounds
  • Up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case
  • Transparency Mode helps you be more aware of your surroundings
Best Water Resistance
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
  • Up to 8 hours of battery life so you can go all day long
  • IPX7 Water Resistance
  • Wireless charging case doubles as a phone charger
Support Wireless Charging
Sennheiser MOMENTUM Earbuds
  • Up to 28 hours of play time, the 7-hour battery life
  • Three advanced active noise canceling microphones on each earbud for clear speech
  • IPX4 splash resistance and Qi wireless charging
Controllable noise cancellation
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
  • Controllable noise cancellation and Transparency Mode
  • Long battery life of up to 6 hours with an additional 12 from charging case
  • IPX4 Water resistance
Best for Sports
Jabra Elite 75t Earbuds
  • Superior sound quality with no audio dropouts or interruptions
  • 5.5 hours of battery life, up to 24 hours of charging case (ANC on)
  • IP55 Resistance to dust and water

Detailed Overview

Let's take a closer look at noise canceling earbuds and choose which one is right for you.

Author's Choice

Sony WF-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Earbud
  • Good sound quality and wireless charging support
  • 8 hours long battery with Noise Canceling
  • IPX4 Water resistance

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Sony WF-1000XM4 is an industry-leading pair of noise canceling bluetooth earbuds. The Integrated Processor V1 provides exceptional sound quality with supporting LDAC codec, perfect for high-resolution audio playback. With a beam forming microphone and a bone-conduction sensor, the call quality is crystal clear even in noisy environments. It has a Speak-to-Chat technology that automatically reduces volume during conversations. The earbuds can last up to 8 hours with Noise Canceling and are also IPX4 water resistant for outdoor use. With the multipoint connection, two devices can be connected at once (available via firmware update). Sony WF-1000XM4 is the perfect companion for both your audio and communication needs.

This model is available in black and silver colors.

Pros:

  • Excellent noise canceling system
  • Long battery life and wireless charging support
  • A lot of useful features
  • Nice look and comfortable design
  • Good sound quality
  • 8 hours long battery with Noise Canceling
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Cons:

  • No multipoint support

People's Choice

Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds
  • Three distinct listening modes including ANC mode to block out unwanted sound
  • Up to 6 hours of battery life with pocket-sized charging case
  • IPX4-rated sweat and water resistant design

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Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Noise Canceling Earbuds are the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and audio quality. With an IPX4-rated sweat and water resistant design, secure fit wingtips for lasting stability and comfort, three distinct listening modes including Active Noise Canceling (ANC) mode to block out unwanted sound, plus up to 6 hours of battery life with a pocket-sized charging case, these earbuds are designed for all-day listening. The Apple H1 chip ensures Automatic Switching, Audio Sharing (with another pair of Beats headphones or Apple AirPods), and “Hey Siri” voice assistant integration — making it easy to control your music, take calls, and more. With Beats Fit Pro, experience unbeatable sound quality with their custom acoustic platform delivering powerful, balanced audio plus Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a truly immersive music experience. Get ready to listen anywhere.

This model is available in black, purple, white, sage gray.

Also pay attention to the new Beats Fit Pro earbuds in collaboration with Kim Kardashian - Beats Fit Pro x Kim Kardashian

Pros:

  • Secure fit wingtips for lasting comfort and stability
  • Three distinct listening modes including ANC mode to block out unwanted sound
  • Apple H1 chip ensures Automatic Switching and audio sharing (with another pair of Beats headphones or Apple AirPods)
  • Powerful, balanced sound with custom acoustic platform
  • Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive music, movies, and games
  • Up to 6 hours of battery life with pocket-sized charging case
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Cons:

  • Fairly large case
  • No wireless charging

Premium Choice

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2
  • Secure fit with three pairs of ear tips and stability bands
  • Long lasting battery life up to 6 hours
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Check Price

Experience the world's best noise canceling technology with Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2. These next generation wireless earbuds are engineered to fit you, providing all-day comfort and a secure fit with three pairs of ear tips and three pairs of custom stability bands. Featuring advanced Bluetooth 5.3 capability and up to 6 hours of battery life, these earbuds offer a strong and continuous connection. IPX4 water-resistance rating, USB-C charging case, and up to 24 hours of battery life with the included charging case. With the Bose Music app, you can access all of your preferences, including noise cancellation levels and Bluetooth connections. Whether you're listening to music or making calls, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 will provide you with a truly immersive audio experience.

This model is available in triple black and soapstone colors.

Pros:

  • Great noise cancellation technology
  • Secure fit with three pairs of ear tips and stability bands
  • Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 capability for a strong, continuous connection
  • Long lasting battery life up to 6 hours
  • Bose Music app for easy access to preferences and settings
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Cons:

  • May not stay connected when more than 30 feet (91m) away from the paired device
  • Quick charge option provides only 2 hours of battery life from a 20 minute charge

Best Budget

JBL Tune 230NC TWS Noise Cancelling Headphones
  • Active Noise Canceling technology with 2 microphones to reduce distractions
  • Up to 40 hours of battery life
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Check Price

JBL Tune 230NC TWS Noise Canceling Headphones are your perfect on-the-go audio solution for a superior listening experience in any environment. These headphones feature Active Noise Canceling technology with 2 microphones to reduce distractions and Smart Ambient that lets you tune into the world around you. The 10mm drivers deliver JBL's iconic Pure Bass sound for an immersive audio experience. With 4 microphones, you can make crystal clear hands-free calls without hassle. And with up to 40 hours of battery life and IPX4 water resistance, these headphones are ready for anything. Enjoy superior sound quality anywhere, anytime with JBL Tune 230NC TWS Noise Canceling Headphones.

This model is available in black, blue and white.

Pros:

  • Active Noise Canceling technology with 2 microphones to reduce distractions
  • 10mm drivers deliver JBL's iconic Pure Bass sound for an immersive audio experience
  • 4 microphones let you make crystal clear hands-free calls without hassle
  • Stylish and lightweight design for easy portability
  • Up to 40 hours of battery life
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Cons:

  • Customizable sound settings require additional purchases

Best from Apple

Apple AirPods Pro 2
  • Up to 6 hours of listening time without recharging
  • Four pairs of silicone tips for maximum comfort and acoustic seal for noise protection
  • Charging case allows you to track your earbuds and charge with your Apple Watch or MagSafe charger

Check Price

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the great wireless earbuds. They feature an Apple-designed H2 chip, which provides advanced audio performance and smarter noise cancellation for a more immersive sound experience. With up to six hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled, you can enjoy your music or podcast uninterrupted. The four pairs of silicone tips provide maximum comfort and an acoustic seal to keep out noise. Plus, with personalized spatial audio, dynamic head tracking, and easy access to Siri, you can enjoy a truly magical experience. The AirPods Pro 2 also comes with a charging case that allows you to track your earbuds and charge them with an Apple Watch or MagSafe charger, or use the Lightning connector or a Qi-certified charger. Elevate your audio experience with the Apple AirPods Pro 2.

Pros:

  • Improved sound quality with Apple-designed H2 chip for more effective noise cancellation and more immersive sound
  • Up to 6 hours of listening time without recharging
  • Four pairs of silicone tips for maximum comfort and acoustic seal for noise protection
  • Personalized surround sound, dynamic head position tracking and easy access to Siri
  • Charging case allows you to track your earbuds and charge with your Apple Watch or MagSafe charger

Cons:

  • Price may be too high for some customers or compared to some competitors
  • Available in one color

Best from Google

Google Pixel Buds Pro Noise Canceling Earbuds
  • Active noise cancellation with Silent Seal to block outside sounds
  • Up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case
  • Transparency Mode helps you be more aware of your surroundings

Check Price

Google Pixel Buds Pro Noise Canceling Earbuds are the perfect audio solution for people who want to enjoy their music without being disturbed by outside noise. These earbuds feature active noise cancellation, 11mm speaker drivers, Volume EQ, up to 11 hours of listening time and 31 hours with the charging case, plus Transparency Mode that allows you to be aware of your surroundings. With beam forming mics, a voice accelerometer and wind-blocking mesh covers for crystal clear calls even in loud places, and easy switching between compatible devices, Pixel Buds Pro are the perfect choice for anyone looking for the ultimate audio experience. With these earbuds, you can enjoy the music or take a call without the noise of the world getting in the way. Experience true audio freedom with Google Pixel Buds Pro Noise Canceling Earbuds.

This model is available in fog, coral, lemongrass and charcoal.

Pros:

  • Active noise cancellation with Silent Seal to block outside sounds
  • Transparency Mode helps you be more aware of your surroundings
  • Beam forming mics and wind-blocking mesh covers for crystal clear calls even in loud places
  • Easy switching between compatible devices
  • Custom 11 mm speaker drivers and Volume EQ for amazing sound quality
  • Up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case

Cons:

  • If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance.

Best Water Resistance

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
  • Up to 8 hours of battery life so you can go all day long
  • IPX7 Water Resistance
  • Wireless charging case doubles as a phone charger

Check Price

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are the most innovative wireless earbuds available. With advanced audio technology and intuitive touch controls, they provide a truly immersive listening experience that is tailored to your tastes. With comfortable earbud tips that fit snugly in your ears, these buds will keep you comfortable and connected all day long. The noise-canceling features keep you focused while the battery life of up to 8 hours keeps you on the go. With enhanced 360-degree audio, superior fit and HD Voice Technology, you can enjoy high-quality sound from every angle with the clear separation of your voice from surrounding noise. These earbuds are IPX7 waterproof and come with a case that doubles as a phone charger. Sleek design, wireless charging capabilities. Enjoy crisp, clear sound quality and the freedom to listen wherever you go with the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. Get ready to experience sound like never before.

This model is available in graphite, purple and white colors.

Pros:

  • High-quality audio technology for immersive listening experience
  • Intuitive touch controls for easy use
  • Noise-canceling capabilities for distraction-free listening
  • Up to 8 hours of battery life so you can go all day long
  • Wireless charging case doubles as a phone charger
  • IPX7 Water Resistance

Cons:

  • Not as much bass response as other earbuds in its price range

Support Qi Wireless Charging

Sennheiser MOMENTUM Earbuds
  • Up to 28 hours of play time, the 7-hour battery life
  • Three advanced active noise canceling microphones on each earbud for clear speech
  • IPX4 splash resistance and Qi wireless charging

Check Price

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM Earbuds deliver high-quality sound with superior audio thanks to TrueResponse and aptX Adaptive for the highest resolution sound reproduction. With a customizable equalizer, preset settings including Bass Boost, and a sound personalization feature for a tailored listening experience, the headphones provide an optimized sound experience. Multipoint connectivity allows users to connect to two devices, while adaptive noise cancellation and transparency mode allow users to control their surroundings. With up to 28 hours of playback time, three advanced active noise canceling microphones on each earbud for clear speech, IPX4 splash protection and Qi wireless charging, MOMENTUM Earbuds are ideal for any activity. Plus, customize the touch controls to easily manage your music and access your voice assistant with intuitive controls. Enjoy great sound with Sennheiser MOMENTUM Earbuds.

This model is available in graphite, black and white colors.

Pros:

  • TrueResponse transducer and aptX Adaptive provide superior sound
  • Customizable audio equalizer, presets including Bass Boost, and sound personalization function for individual listening
  • Multi-point connection to two devices
  • Adaptive noise cancellation and transparency mode for environmental control
  • Three advanced microphones with active noise cancellation on each earpiece for clear speech transmission
  • Up to 28 hours of playback time, 7-hour battery life
  • IPX4 water resistance and Qi wireless charging

Cons:

  • Limited compatibility with some Android devices
  • Touch Controls may take time to get used to

Controllable Noise Cancellation

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
  • Controllable noise cancellation and Transparency Mode
  • Long battery life of up to 6 hours with an additional 12 from charging case
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Check Price

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are designed to be the ultimate noise-cancelling earbuds. Engineered with world-class noise cancellation, Bose controllable noise cancellation and full Transparency Mode let you eliminate or let in any amount of external sound for your listening pleasure. Perfect for listening on the go, these earbuds are equipped with high-fidelity audio, comfortable wireless earbuds and three sizes of StayHear Max eartips for an optimal fit. Simple touch controls let you control your noise cancellation settings, pause, play and volume right from the side of the earbud itself. With advanced noise-rejecting microphones that focus on your voice, you can stay connected and less distracted during phone calls.

A long battery life of up to 6 hours lets you listen all day and the charging case provides an additional 12 hours with USB-C cable or wirelessly with any Qi-certified charging mat (not included). These IPX4-rated wireless earbuds are weather and sweat resistant and Bluetooth 5.1 provides a strong, consistent connection to your device within 9m (30 feet). Compatible with iOS and Android, these earbuds are simple to set up and custom settings available through the Bose Music app. Experience ultimate comfort and sound with Bose QuietComfort Earbuds.

This model is available in black and white colors.

Pros:

  • Controllable noise cancellation and Transparency Mode to let in any amount of external sound
  • High fidelity audio with Volume optimized Active EQ
  • Three sizes of StayHear Max eartips for secure fit and comfort
  • Simple touch controls, Compatible with iOS and Android
  • Strong, consistent Bluetooth 5.1 connection with devices within 9m (30 feet)
  • Simple setup and custom settings via Bose Music app
  • Long battery life of up to 6 hours with an additional 12 from charging case
  • IPX4 Water resistance

Cons:

  • Only two available colors
  • Just two full charges with a case

Best for Sports

Jabra Elite 75t Earbuds
  • Superior sound quality with no audio dropouts or interruptions
  • 5.5 hours of battery life, up to 24 hours of charging case (ANC on)
  • IP55 Resistance to dust and water

Check Price

Jabra Elite 75t is the perfect choice if you are looking for an immersive listening experience. These headphones deliver superior sound quality and advanced noise cancellation technology so you can enjoy crystal clear sound in any environment. With a compact design and ergonomic shape, they provide a secure and comfortable fit, allowing you to take calls and listen to music without sound loss. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and 4-microphones for clear calls, these earbuds offer you up to 5.5 hours of battery life on one charge without the case or 24 hours (ANC on) with the charging case. With a rainproof IP55 rating, you can keep them on while you take on any adventure in any weather. The Jabra Elite 75t Earbuds are perfect for listening to your favorite music and staying connected during your day-to-day activities. Experience the convenience, comfort and exceptional sound quality of Jabra Elite 75t.

This model is available in copper black, navy, mint, sienna and gray colors.

Pros:

  • Secure and comfortable fit
  • Noise cancellation technology
  • Superior sound quality with no audio dropouts or interruptions
  • 4-microphones for clear calls
  • Pocket-friendly charging case provides up to 24 hours of battery life (ANC on)
  • 5.5 hours of battery life without the charging case
  • IP55 Resistance to dust and water

Cons:

  • Limited features on the app
  • Limited touch controls on earbuds
  • Non Bluetooth Multipoint

Best Noise Canceling Earbuds - Buyer's Guide

What to look for before buying earbuds?

Battery Life

When considering earbuds, you must also take into account the battery life. Some models have superior uptimes compared to others; however, when accounting for charging cases and other factors, the difference may be much less significant. Depending on how often you need your headphones – if it's mainly a few commutes or extended trips - will determine whether this factor is more important than storage capabilities in their case.

Dust and Water Resistance

If you're familiar with the IP rating system, then you know it is a universal indicator of how well electronics can hold up to various elements. Usually, "IPX" will be followed by some digits like IP67 or even just one number. The first digit speaks for dust resistance and further signifies the amount of ingress protection; while the following figure expresses water-resistance capabilities. Generally speaking, higher numbers mean more robust performance in terms of resilience against both dust and water damage.

For example: If you are looking for a pair of earbuds that can provide sound during activities such as running in the rain, then you should look for the IPX6/IPX7 marking. In our review it is Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

IPX4 - Protection against water spray, i.e. sweat and small splashes. Spraying water in any direction towards the device will not have a harmful effect on the device.

Size and Comfort

Making the best decision on which earbuds to purchase can turn out to be a daunting task, yet with some tips and guidance from us you'll be able to make an educated choice! To begin, consider how attractive it looks as well as whether or not the earbud sizes are adjustable. It is equally helpful watching videos of people wearing them so that you may better visualize yourself in them. Last but certainly not least look into customer reviews for honest insight about their experiences with different models. With this information at your disposal, we’re confident that choosing the right pair of earbuds will be a breeze!

Top Benefits of Best Noise Canceling Earbuds:

  • Blocks out background noise and ambient sound
  • Adjustable noise canceling function
  • Excellent sound isolation and high-fidelity audio
  • Compatible with most devices, including laptops, phones, and tablets
  • Sleek design
  • Superior sound quality
  • Long battery life
  • Easy to use/setup

Best Noise Canceling Earbuds - FAQ

What is Active Noise Canceling?

Originally created for pilots, noise-canceling technology uses tiny microphones to reduce the effect of ambient sound in your vicinity by canceling out disruptive frequencies. ANC headphones have become a necessity for those who commute on public transport, frequent gyms or work environments that are particularly distracting.

Can active noise cancellation be turned off?

Most of today's earbuds come with two choices. You can either select to turn off the noise cancellation feature completely or switch it into transparency mode for a set amount of sound to enter (depending on the particular technology). Both options provide you with an opportunity to hear exterior noises that could be helpful concerning protection and convenience.

Are noise canceling earbuds worth it?

Music aficionados should invest in noise canceling earbuds for an optimal listening experience. Whether you're a fan of the details or simply desire to drown out external noises, these specialized devices are designed to obliterate outside sounds with excellence. Plus, they come without any fuss - so you don't have to think too hard about your purchase!

Can I use noise canceling earbuds with my phone or laptop?

Yes, the earbuds are compatible with most smartphones and other audio devices.

Are the noise canceling earbuds waterproof?

Yes, almost all earbuds are rated IPX4 or higher against water and sweat.

Conclusion

When choosing earbuds, consider which features are the most important to you. Are your main goals sound quality and balanced bass, mids and treble? Is comfort a priority so that they can be worn for long periods of time without discomfort? Do you have a particular phone in mind that will work well with specific earbuds such as AirPods Pro or Samsung do? What matters most to you in choosing active noise canceling headphones is up to only you to decide; however, if you want to get a deeper insight into a specific quality, be sure to check out the full reviews linked above.

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