The world we live in is amazing, but also incredibly noisy for most of us. There are many opportunities out there, and you will need all your focus to seize them. This is where active noise-canceling (ANC) earbuds come in, helping to block out the noise. Using these earbuds is like slipping into a cocoon of silence, free from the distractions of traffic, office buzz, or idle chatter—removing all that unwanted noise.
What makes the top ANC earbuds stand out, besides their superior noise cancellation technology, is their top-tier ergonomics and long battery life. For the best experience, add high durability to the mix as well.
Here are the best ANC earbuds list
Marshall Motif Two Earbuds Review
Let’s talk about the Marshall Motif 2, a stunning pair of earbuds that are as stylish as they are functional. These earbuds feature the iconic design reminiscent of classic Marshall amps, making them perfect for those who appreciate aesthetics as much as sound quality. Unlike many generic models, the Motif Two is sleek with a rock-and-roll vibe that’s hard to ignore.
But it’s not just about looks; they sound incredible too. The Motif 2 comes with improved active noise cancellation (ANC), allowing you to enjoy your music without interruptions, whether you’re on a crowded subway or relaxing at home. The transparency mode lets you easily tune back into your surroundings when needed.
As you might expect from Marshall, the sound is all about clarity and balance, meaning you can crank up the volume without any loss in quality. Additionally, these earbuds are a sustainable choice, with both the case and earbuds made from 70% post-consumer recycled materials. You’ll also get up to 30 hours of extended playtime with the charging case, making this an environmentally friendly and long-lasting option.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX Review
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX: If you’re on the hunt for the absolute best sound quality ANC earbuds can offer, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX should be at the top of your list. These premium earbuds are designed for an unmatched listening experience and are well worth the high-end price tag.
They feature adaptive active noise cancellation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in music even in windy environments. The Beoplay EX model also boasts finely tuned acoustics, so listening to your favorite tracks feels like you’re right in the studio with the artist. Unlike more affordable models that often muddy the sound, these earbuds provide high-resolution, low-latency audio. Every note is crystal clear, whether you’re enjoying tunes, watching movies, or on a call.
The sleek, wireless design ensures they’re comfortable for all-day wear. They’re not just great for casual listening but also for sports and exercise. In terms of battery life, you’re looking at up to 20 hours of playtime, so frequent charging won’t be an issue. Punchy, high-resolution sounds like this isn’t something you come by every day.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 Review
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Now, let’s put the spotlight on the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, a relatively new model packed with advanced features.
These earbuds come with optimized adaptive ANC and an anti-wind mode, which means they excel at blocking out unwanted noise, even in the windiest conditions—a major improvement over many earbuds that struggle with background noise outdoors.
Sennheiser also integrated their True Response transducer system and lossless audio technology, giving these earbuds a clear edge in sound quality. From the moment you put them on, you’ll notice crisp, detailed audio that enhances the sound of your favorite songs. This is crucial if you refuse to compromise on sound quality, especially compared to standard earbuds that often sacrifice clarity for affordability.
In terms of battery life, these earbuds offer up to 30 hours of listening time, meaning you can go days without needing a charge. Plus, if you’re in a hurry, a quick eight-minute charge gives you an extra hour of playtime. Comfort is also key, and these earbuds feature extra soft silicone ear tips for a snug and comfortable fit.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Review
Apple AirPods Pro 2: Let’s move into the Apple realm with the AirPods Pro 2, a perfect choice if you’re already part of the Apple ecosystem.
These earbuds are equipped with next-level Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), creating a personal bubble of peace around you. Plus, they feature Transparency Mode, allowing you to be aware of your surroundings when needed. Apple has also introduced Adaptive Audio, which intelligently balances noise cancellation and transparency for an optimal listening experience in any setting.
What truly sets the AirPods Pro 2 apart is Apple’s proprietary H2 chip, which not only enhances noise cancellation but also delivers a super crisp and rich sound experience. Whether you prefer sharp highs or deep bass, the audio quality here rivals what you’d expect from larger over-ear headphones.
These earbuds are built for real life too, boasting an IP54 rating that makes them resistant to dust, sweat, and even light rain—ideal for workouts or daily wear. And we can’t forget the personalized spatial Audio, which adapts to your ear shape, making you feel like you’re in the center of a live concert.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Review
Sony WF-1000XM5: If you’re into fitness and need earbuds that keep up with your active lifestyle, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is worth checking out. These earbuds are equipped with two proprietary processors, making them perfect for noisy environments like gyms or outdoor runs. While many earbuds claim to reduce noise, the dual processors in the WF-1000XM5 take it a step further, effectively cutting out distractions, allowing you to focus on your workout.
The sound quality is fantastic, thanks to the Dynamic Driver X, delivering rich and detailed vocals across a wider frequency range than most competitors. This means your playlist sounds better and clearer, a noticeable upgrade over standard earbuds.
Design-wise, the Sony earbuds are stylish and comfortable, featuring noise-cancellation earbud tips that fit snugly and help block out external sounds. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, you won’t have to worry about sweat or rain affecting your session.
The battery life is solid, offering up to 8 hours of playtime on a single charge and 24 hours with the case. Plus, quick charging provides an hour of extra playtime with just a three-minute charge, making it perfect for spontaneous gym visits.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Let’s get 100% serious now with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, the best ANC earbuds overall and the clear winner for today.
The first standout feature is the CustomTune technology, which analyzes the shape of your ears to adjust the sound perfectly. This feature is a game changer for audiophiles, as most earbuds only offer a one-size-fits-all noise cancellation, but these go the extra mile.
Another highlight is the spatial audio capabilities, making your favorite songs feel as if the sound is surrounding you. Music becomes incredibly real and immersive, far beyond typical stereo sound.
In terms of comfort, the QuietComfort Ultra comes with nine different ear tips and stability bands to ensure the perfect fit. This means you can wear them for hours without discomfort.
There are also three listening modes:
- Quiet mode for top-tier noise cancellation.
- Aware mode to hear your surroundings.
- Immersion mode, which combines the best of both worlds for a fully engrossing experience.
Lastly, the multi-point Bluetooth feature allows you to seamlessly switch between devices like your phone, laptop, or tablet without missing a beat.
