10 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Work and Travel in 2025
Block out distractions with the best noise-cancelling headphones tested for ANC performance, sound quality, comfort, and battery life.
Whether you work in a noisy office, commute by train, or travel frequently, noise-cancelling headphones are essential for focus and relaxation. The best models block out ambient noise without sacrificing audio quality or comfort during extended wear.
We tested the latest over-ear noise-cancelling headphones in real-world environments including offices, airplanes, coffee shops, and city streets.
How We Tested
ANC effectiveness was measured using calibrated microphones in environments with consistent noise profiles. We evaluated sound quality with reference tracks, tested comfort over 8-hour wearing sessions, and measured actual battery life at moderate volume with ANC enabled.
What to Consider
ANC effectiveness varies significantly between models and noise types. Comfort is critical for all-day wear — consider headband pressure, ear cup size, and weight. Sound quality matters if you care about music. Battery life should last your longest journey.
Our Top Picks
WH-1000XM5
The gold standard in noise-cancelling headphones with exceptional ANC, superb sound, and all-day comfort.
- +Best-in-class ANC
- +Excellent sound
- +Very comfortable
- +Great call quality
- -No folding design
- -Premium price
QuietComfort Ultra
Legendary Bose noise cancellation with spatial audio, plush comfort, and intuitive controls.
- +Supreme comfort
- +Excellent ANC
- +Immersive audio
- +Easy controls
- -Expensive
- -Shorter battery than Sony
AirPods Max 2
Premium over-ear headphones with stunning build quality, spatial audio, and seamless Apple integration.
- +Premium build
- +Excellent sound
- +Great ANC
- +Seamless Apple integration
- -Very expensive
- -Heavy
- -Smart case design
Momentum 4 Wireless
Audiophile-grade sound quality in a wireless ANC package with elegant design and excellent build.
- +Best sound quality
- +Premium materials
- +Good ANC
- +60-hour battery
- -Touch controls finicky
- -ANC not class-leading
Zone Vibe 125
Purpose-built for remote work with excellent microphone, comfortable all-day wear, and certified for Teams/Zoom.
- +Best for video calls
- +Very comfortable
- +Certified for UC
- +Lightweight
- -Average ANC
- -Sound quality not audiophile
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