Wireless headphones and earbuds with active noise cancellation features offer some of the best experiences for pure audio immersion. Lose yourself in your favorite music or podcasts, while the sounds of the outside world are filtered out.

Whether you prefer over-ear headphones or earbuds (or a bit of both) there are some great noise-canceling options out there that don't cost the Earth.

Here are the best noise-canceling headphones that are affordable.

Premium pick

1. JBL Live 460NC

9.00 / 10
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The JBL Live 460NC Wireless On-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones make an excellent choice for audiophiles looking to enjoy high-fidelity wireless sound on the go. They produce a big, punchy, bass-heavy sound thanks to their 40-millimeter drivers, and will run for up to 50 hours on a full charge.

ANC keeps unwanted background noise out of the picture, allowing you to focus on your music. Ambient Aware technology increases ambient noise as you walk through busy environments, to allow you to safely negotiate your way through, and a Talk Thru function lowers the sound of your music and increases speech volume for crystal clear voice chat.

Activate your favorite voice assistant with a simple voice command, or by tapping the side of the earcup. Use this to switch between ANC or Ambient Aware modes, check battery levels, or manage voice calls. With great sound quality and impressive battery life, these JBL Live 460NC headphones are highly recommended.

Key Features
  • ANC (adaptive)
  • TalkThru music feature
  • 50-hour battery life
  • Ambient Aware feature
  • Voice assistant compatible
  • Earcup controls
Specifications
  • Brand: JBL
  • Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
  • Material: Padded headband
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
  • Waterproof: No
  • Weight: 7.4oz
  • Colors: Black
  • Foldable: Yes
Pros
  • Rich, bass heavy sound quality
  • Massive battery life
  • Stereo sound for calls
Cons
  • On the expensive side of cheap
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JBL Live 460NC

These Skullcandy Hesh ANC Over-Ear Headphones offer high-quality audio with excellent acoustics and dynamic range. Powered by 40-millimeter drivers, they can hit you with a good old slap of bass, too. They also have four-mic active noise cancellation, for when you want to keep the outside world at bay.

For those times when you need to tune in to your surroundings, you can switch to Hesh’s Ambient Mode. Two swift taps to the earcup activate this mode, and lets you hear everything around you. Once you’re safely across the road (for instance) another double-tap re-engages ANC mode.

With noise canceling mode activated, these headphones will run for around 22 hours. And soft cushioning across the headband and on the inside of the earcups make these comfortable to wear for hours as well. A great blend of comfort and sound.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • Ambient mode
  • 22-hour battery life
  • Tile finding technology
Specifications
  • Brand: Skullcandy
  • Battery Life: 22 hours
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
  • Waterproof: No
  • Microphones: Four
  • Weight: 0.007oz
  • Colors: Black
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Charging type: USB-C
Pros
  • Design looks cool
  • Plenty of bass for the price
  • Easy touch controls to switch between ANC and Ambient modes
Cons
  • Battery life is lower than some other ANC options
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Skullcandy Hesh ANC Over-Ear Headphones

There may be times when it’s just not practical to wear a big pair of over-ear headphones, and you need something a little more discreet. Whether it’s for exercising, commuting, or you just prefer the feel of wireless earbuds, there are plenty of noise-canceling options out there. And JBL’s Tune 230NC earbuds are one of the best value options.

Their 10-millimeter drivers provide a rich, bassy sound, while their ANC mode uses two built-in microphones to drown out external noise. Ambient Aware mode increases peripheral ambient noise for when you’re out in the world, and Talk Thru mode allows easy voice calls, without you having to remove your earbuds.

Hassle-free voice calls are facilitated thanks to four microphones that provide stereo sound for each and every conversation, and a 40-hour battery life gives you plenty of juice for whatever you’re doing with the day. A great pair of noise-canceling earbuds with a great price to boot.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • Ambient mode
  • 40-hour battery life (inc charging case)
  • TalkThru mode for voice calls
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Brand: JBL
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Driver Size: 10mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 30 hours
  • Weight: 2.05oz
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 3 x 3 x 3 inches
  • Colors: Black
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Good and bassy
  • Great for exercising with
  • Perfect clarity for voice calls
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Case needs to be kept upright for charging to work
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JBL Tune 230NC TWS True Wireless In-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones

The Beats Studio Buds are a premium pair of noise-canceling earbuds with more trimmings than a Thanksgiving dinner. They feature both an ANC mode and a Transparency Mode, for when you need to hear what’s around you.

They are IPX4 water-resistant and sweat resistant, making them a solid choice for the gym or for pounding the sidewalk. Built-in dual-beam forming microphones provide a high-quality voice call performance, and on-ear controls let you easily and deftly switch between music or call functions.

Battery life is only around eight hours, but this can be extended to almost 24 hours, using the earbud charging case. They are compatible with your favorite voice assistant, and one-touch pairing for Apple and Android devices is a breeze. With a stable and comfortable in-ear fit and excellent sound quality, these Beats will definitely take some beating.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • Transparency mode
  • 24-hour battery life (with case)
  • IPX4 water-resistant
  • Compatible with voice assistants
  • Supports voice calls
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours (24 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Beats
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.81 x 0.73 x 0.59 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2.83 x 2 x 1 inches
  • Colors: Black, White, Red, Blue, Gray
Pros
  • Sound quality is great
  • Crystal clear voice calls
  • Good to exercise with
  • One touch pairing is simple and convenient
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Battery life is not great
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Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds

These wireless over-ear noise-canceling headphones by Sennheiser may be a little bit bigger than some of the other options out there, but when you listen to them, you can understand why. These HD headphones deliver superb sound quality, with deep dynamic bass. And built-in equalizers ensure that every aspect comes through with perfect clarity.

The ANC mode works very well, but this headset is missing an ambient or transparency mode to complement the ANC function. The Transparency Mode here works for voice calls only, and not for music. Nevertheless, it allows for superior voice call sound quality and works well with your favorite voice assistant. And you can enjoy 30 hours of battery life, even with ANC mode engaged.

The free Sennheiser Smart Control app enables you to customize your sound output even further, with selectable sound modes available for those that like to tinker. Podcast mode lets you optimize the sound for your favorite podcasts and audiobooks too. Superior sound quality makes these headphones an excellent choice for ANC, as long as you’re untroubled by the lack of an ambient mode.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • Transparency mode for voice calls (not music)
  • 30-hour battery life
  • Built-in equalizers
  • Sennheiser smart app control
Specifications
  • Brand: Sennheiser
  • Battery Life: 30 hours
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
  • Waterproof: No
  • Weight: 8.4oz
  • Colors: White
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Charging type: USB Type-C
Pros
  • Great HD sound
  • Customization options available via Sennheiser app
  • ANC is very good
  • Battery life is decent
Cons
  • Transparency mode only works for voice calls
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Sennheiser HD 450BT Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless Headphones

Another pair of noise-canceling earbuds to consider are these Soundcore by Anker Life P3 Noise Cancelling Earbuds. Featuring three noise-cancellation modes: transport, outdoor and indoor, you probably don't need to use your imagination to determine which one best suits your current location.

Custom 11-millimeter drivers provide the sound here, and a separate Bass Up mode helps to up the bass for a more intense sound. Each of the noise-cancellation modes are fully optimized for its respective environments, and you can use the Soundcore app to noodle even further with your custom settings.

Six onboard microphones help isolate your voice from background chatter or buzz, for ultra-clear voice calls. Plus, you’ll enjoy a massive 50-hour battery life with these buds. Or, if you’re pressed for time, a quick 10-minute charge will pay you back with around four hours of playtime. Colorful and cool, these are ideal for all you active, on-the-go types.

Key Features
  • 3 ANC modes
  • Transparency mode
  • BassUp technology
  • IPX5 water-resistant
  • Wireless charging
  • 50-hour battery life (inc. charging case)
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Six
  • Brand: Soundcore
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IPX5
  • Driver Size: 11mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 40 hours
  • Weight: 2.24 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2.56 x 1.97 x 1.18 inches
  • Colors: Sky Blue
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Three modes of ANC allow you to find the perfect one for your location
  • You can never have too much bass
  • Ultra-clear voice calls
  • Product looks cool and colorful
Cons
  • Occasional sound cut out can occur if too many wireless devices nearby
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Soundcore by Anker Life P3 Noise Cancelling Earbuds

ANC mode as well as an awareness mode for more transparent listening are both offered with these Philips PH805 Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones. High-resolution sound, a comfortable fit, and 30 hours of playtime on a single charge are also part and parcel.

40-millimeter acoustic drivers deliver a rich and bass-heavy sound, as you’d expect from Philips, with all midrange frequencies sounding clear and crisp. A simple button press activates your voice assistant, and built-in mics with echo cancellation keep you loud and clear during voice calls.

Lightweight and comfortable, these headphones can be adjusted for the perfect fit, and are easily folded for storage. Earpad controls let you adjust volume, skip tracks, and so on with a quick swipe of your finger; making them very convenient to use—a good example of form and function, and a great pair of ANC headphones.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • 30-hour battery life
  • Voice calling
  • Voice assistant compatibility
  • Awareness mode
Specifications
  • Brand: Philips
  • Battery Life: 30 hours
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
  • Waterproof: No
  • Weight: 9.8oz
  • Colors: Black
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Charging type: USB-Type C
Pros
  • Hi-res audio quality
  • Awareness mode works well
  • Decent battery life
  • Easy swipe controls
Cons
  • Headband can cause some pinching
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Philips PH805 Active Noise Canceling (ANC) Over Ear Wireless Bluetooth Performance Headphones

Leaning towards the budget end of the scale when it comes to ANC headphones, are these Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. And if comfort is your thing (and let’s be honest, why wouldn’t it be?), then just know that the memory foam ear cups on these headphones feel like plunging your ears into a soft, fluffy pillow.

The ANC mode here can reduce ambient noise by up to 90%, eliminating a wide range of low and mid-frequency noises like traffic sounds. A BassUp mode lets the bass thump into your head at the tap of a button; while the standard sound mode uses 40-millimeter drivers to produce hi-res audio with exceptional clarity.

With up to 40 hours of non-stop use in ANC mode (and 60 hours in standard mode), the Q20 is a serious contender. And fast charging offers you an impressive four hours of playtime with only a five-minute charge, too. Add crystal clear voice calls to the mix, and you have a very decent pair of ANC headphones to ponder.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • BassUp mode
  • Memory foam ear pads
  • 40-hour battery life with ANC
  • Fast-charging
  • Voice calls
Specifications
  • Brand: Soundcore
  • Battery Life: 60 hours (standard), 40 hours (ANC)
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
  • Waterproof: No
  • Microphones: One
  • Weight: 0.58lbs
  • Colors: Black
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Charging type: USB Type-C
Pros
  • Super comfortable
  • Extra bass is nice and meaty
  • Really good battery life
Cons
  • Doesn't support voice assistants
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Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

ANC with a 21-hour battery life, the JVC Compact True Wireless Headphones are a decent choice for anybody looking for ANC earbuds but doesn’t want to spend a fortune on them. They’ll even work for single-ear use, and there’s a low latency mode for video streaming which can help preserve battery life.

These earbuds are IPX4 waterproof, making them suitable for exercising with, or for taking a walk in the rain. There’s a bass boost function to give things a bit of extra welly, and easy-operation touch sensor controls on the side of the earbuds make selections nice and simple to engage.

You won’t find any kind of transparency or ambient mode here, although there is a one-touch mute option which is handy if you have the ANC on and need to snap out of it quickly. High-quality audio and an effective ANC mode make these well worth considering.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • IPX4 waterproof
  • 21-hour battery life (with case)
  • Low latency mode
  • One-touch mute option
  • Single bud use option
  • Bass boost option
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 21 hours (inc charge case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JVC
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Weight: 3.2oz
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 5.67 x 3.74 x 2.44 inches
  • Colors: Black
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Low latency mode can help preserve battery life
  • Supports single bud use
  • Sound quality is good
Cons
  • No transparency mode
  • Doesn't support voice assistants
Buy This Product
JVC Compact True Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancelling

FAQ

Q: Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Worth It?

Yes, if you want to reduce background noise and focus on what you're listening to.

This is especially useful if you are on an airplane, train, or walking in a busy area.

Q: Does Noise-Canceling Mode Drain Battery?

ANC will consume more battery power, but most headphones should display the average battery life with ANC on and off.

If battery life is important to you, you may want to consider a pair of ANC earbuds that include a wireless charging case.