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5 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones 2021: Sony, Bose, and more

Updated Aug 19th, 2021 8:28AM EDT

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Peace and quiet can be pure bliss. Being able to turn off the noise around you is such a sublime feeling and one that is not often enjoyed. For people who seek out the quiet, they are probably going camping or live in an area where there aren’t many other people. But for those who live busy and hectic lives in cities, searching for quiet can be difficult. If you’re someone who travels a lot, especially on planes or trains, you’re often times not looking to hear other people’s conversations or a child crying around you. You just want to listen to your show you’re watching or the music you’re listening to. That’s where noise-cancelling headphones are a must. These will drown out the sounds around you, allowing you to focus on what is being played into your ears. It also provides you a way to escape whenever you need. Take a look at our picks for the best noise-cancelling headphones below and enjoy the serenity.

Our favorite on-ear noise cancelling headphones: Sony

Sony WH1000XM3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones 2021: Sony, Bose, and more Image source: Sony/Amazon

Amazed by the design, the Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM3 are sleek. You can choose between black or silver, depending on how sharp you want to look. These feature industry-leading active noise-cancelling technology that lends a personalized, virtually soundproof experience. You can still wear this when you want to make a phone call, as they have a built-in microphone. You’ll have the Amazon library at your display, as they have Alexa capabilities. All you’ll need to do to quiet the music is cup the right ear, and they will shut it off, so you can have a conversation. Also, you’ll see that they will adjust ambient sound to your activity to deal with the best sound capabilities.

Key Features:

  • Features industry-leading active noise-cancelling technology
  • Built-in microphone
  • Adjusts ambient sound
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Cancel out a certain level of noise with these noise-cancelling headphones

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

If you want to find the best noise-cancelling options, then consider the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones. These feature three levels of world-class noise-cancellation for better listening experiences. These are also Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more. They have noise-rejecting dual microphones to produce optimum voice pickup and clear sound. You’ll enjoy balanced audio at any level and Bluetooth pairing is hassle-free. Also, they are Bose AR-enabled to let you lose yourself in an audio-only version of augmented reality.

Key Features:

  • Three levels of noise-cancellation
  • Alexa-enabled
  • Bose AR-enabled for audio-only augmented reality
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Don’t break the bank

Headphones can be extremely expensive, but if you’re looking for a great option that won’t kill your savings, check out the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. These will reduce noise up to 90% and the technology can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises. You’ll enjoy 100% stronger bass, thanks to the BassUp technology. Furthermore, this boasts up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge. But, even five minutes of charging can give you four hours of listening. The 40mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res audio.

Key Features:

  • Technology can detect and cancel out noises
  • BassUp technology for stronger bass
  • Up to 40 hours of playtime
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Pick your style of noise-cancelling headphones

Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones

can help you define your own personal style. These are high performance wireless noise-cancelling headphones that come in multiple colors. You can choose between shadow grey, matte black, red, blue, white, defiant black-red, and midnight black. The Active Noise Cancelling technology blocks external noise and the transparency helps you stay aware of your surroundings. They features the Apple W1 Headphone Chip and industry-leading Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts. It’s compatible with both iOS and Android systems. On top of that, these fold easily to make them portable.

Key Features:

  • Seven different color options
  • Extremely portable
  • High performance wireless noise-cancelling headphones
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The best noise cancelling headphone under $100

The TREBLAB Z2 Over Ear Workout Headphones boast some terrific technology to give you the level of concentration you want. This new level of silence and flawless connectivity are impressive to show off. These offer up to 35 hours of playtime and take almost no time to charge, as three hours will have you ready to go. They are IPX4 water-resistant as well as sweatproof. The Active Noise Cancelling technology and Bluetooth 5.0 aptX codec provide a high-listening experience. These are extremely comfortable and will more with you, thanks to the swivel ear cups. Also, the Z2 have a built-in mic and easy button controls for Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa and more.

Key Features:

  • Built-in microphone
  • Easy button controls for voice recognition
  • Offer up to 35 hours of playtime
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Check out our review of the JBL Tour One noise-cancelling headphones!

Chris Hachey Commerce Editor

Chris Hachey is Senior Commerce Editor for BGR. With over a decade of editing and journalism experience, plus thousands of hours of product testing and research, he has helped millions of consumers find the best products and deals to fit their lifestyles.

When he's not searching for top deals, he's likely watching his favorite sports teams or walking around his hometown with his wife and his dog.