Top 8 Wireless Over-the-Ear Headphones with Noise Canceling
Wireless over-the-ear headphones with active noise canceling (ANC) have revolutionized how we listen to music, offering the ultimate combination of sound quality, comfort, and immersion. Whether you're commuting, working from home, or just relaxing, a great pair of ANC headphones can make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll look at the top wireless ANC headphones on the market, including options from Sony, Bose, Apple, and others.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is widely regarded as one of the best over-the-ear ANC headphones available. Building on the success of the previous models, the XM5 offers exceptional noise-canceling capabilities, audio performance, and comfort.
Key Features:
- Adaptive ANC: Sony’s dual noise sensor technology adjusts the noise canceling based on your environment, making it perfect for loud and quiet spaces.
- 8 microphones for superior call clarity.
- 30-hour battery life: Plenty of power for long commutes or travel.
- New lightweight design: More comfortable for extended use.
The WH-1000XM5 sets the bar high with LDAC support for high-resolution audio streaming and Speak-to-Chat functionality, automatically pausing the music when you speak. These are hard to beat if you're looking for premium sound and top-tier noise canceling.
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▲Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones in Chilled Lilac
Bose is synonymous with noise-canceling headphones, and the Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones continue to uphold that reputation. Known for their comfort and active noise cancellation (ANC), they’re a go-to choice for frequent travelers and office workers.
Key Features:
- Acclaimed noise cancellation: Bose uses proprietary technology to deliver some of the most effective ANC on the market.
- Eleven levels of noise cancelation: Allows you to adjust how much ambient noise you want to let in.
- Up to 20 hours of battery life: Sufficient for most users’ daily needs.
- Lightweight design: Known for being one of the most comfortable ANC headphones available.
While the sound quality may not match Sony’s XM5, the Bose QuietComfort headphones are still an excellent option for anyone prioritizing comfort and noise cancellation.
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▲SoundPEATS Space Headphones
For those on a budget, the SoundPEATS Space Headphones offer a solid balance of features without breaking the bank. While they may not match the premium options in terms of sound quality or ANC performance, they’re a fantastic option for casual listeners.
Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC: Combines feedforward and feedback microphones for decent noise cancelation.
- Up to 40 hours of battery life: Impressive longevity, especially considering their affordable price point.
- Bluetooth 5.2: Provides stable connectivity and energy efficiency.
While not on the same level as Sony or Bose, the SoundPEATS Space headphones offer great value for money, especially for those who don’t need top-tier noise cancellation.
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▲Skullcandy Crusher ANC2
The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 stands out with its bass-heavy sound profile and unique adjustable sensory bass. It could be your ideal choice if you love feeling the bass in your music.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sensory bass: Feel the bass in your music with Skullcandy’s signature feature.
- Active noise canceling: While less effective than premium models like the WH-1000XM5, it’s good enough for most environments.
- Personal sound profiles: The Crusher ANC2 can tailor the sound to your hearing preferences.
These headphones are ideal for bass lovers, offering a unique listening experience compared to other more balanced-sounding models.
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▲Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones
Sennheiser
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are well-known for their excellent sound quality. They offer a refined and balanced audio experience. While their ANC performance may not be as strong as Bose or Sony's, they make up for it with top-tier sound reproduction.
Key Features:
- Audiophile-grade sound: With deep bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs, these are perfect for those who prioritize sound quality.
- ANC: While effective, it’s less powerful than the top competitors.
- Luxurious build quality: High-quality materials and a premium feel.
For users seeking the best sound quality over noise canceling, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are an excellent choice.
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▲Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM3 have a class-leading 30 hours of battery life
Despite being an older model, the Sony WH-1000XM3 remains a strong contender for premium ANC headphones at a slightly lower price than the XM5.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading ANC: Though not as advanced as the XM5, the XM3 still delivers excellent noise cancellation.
- 30-hour battery life with quick charge functionality.
- Touch controls: Easily control playback and volume with simple touch gestures.
- Comfortable fit: Plush ear cups and lightweight design make these great for long listening sessions.
- Alexa Built-in: These Sony headphones have Alexa built-in, which allows you to control your smart home devices by voice.
The XM3 also includes LDAC for high-res audio, making it a great choice for audiophiles on a budget.
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▲Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
Sonos, known for its home speakers, has entered the headphone market with the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones. These headphones offer Sonos’ signature sound quality and easy integration with the Sonos ecosystem.
Key Features:
- Seamless integration: Easily connects to other Sonos devices for multi-room audio.
- Solid ANC performance: The Sonos Ace's noise-canceling technology is exceptional. It effectively blocks ambient noise so that even someone shouting nearby is inaudible.
- Wireless freedom: Enjoy uninterrupted sound across devices with smooth transitions.
While Sonos Ace offers incredible ANC technology, it provides exceptional sound quality and convenience, especially for Sonos ecosystem users.
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▲Apple AirPods Max
Apple's AirPods Max is the most luxurious choice on our list, boasting premium materials, a unique design, and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
Key Features:
- Custom-designed driver: Produces high-fidelity sound with deep bass and precise mids and highs.
- Active noise cancelation: Very effective at blocking out ambient noise, though slightly behind Sony and Bose in terms of raw power.
- Spatial Audio: Apple's Spatial Audio creates an immersive listening experience, making you feel like you're surrounded by sound.
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration: Perfect for users with multiple Apple devices, as the transition between them is flawless.
With a premium price tag, the AirPods Max is best suited for Apple users who want a high-end listening experience and value integration across devices.
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▲Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing the best wireless over-the-ear headphones with active noise cancellation depends on your needs and preferences. The Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling headphones are excellent choices if you're looking for top-tier ANC and sound quality. The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless headphones are hard to beat for those prioritizing sound quality. Meanwhile, Apple users might prefer the AirPods Max for their seamless integration and premium design.
On a budget? The SoundPEATS Space Headphones offer great value, while the Skullcandy Crusher ANC2 is perfect for bass lovers. Ultimately, any of these options will deliver a fantastic audio experience, but the Sonos Ace remains the best all-around choice regarding features, sound, and noise-canceling performance.
Check out The GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine. It can help you find, buy, and connect any smart device. It can even help you find other smart devices or systems compatible with your existing smart devices, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa-enabled devices.
