The 10 best noise-cancelling headphones we use, love, and recommend

In 2026, the search for the best noise-cancelling headphones can be overwhelming due to the ever-growing number of options available. However, some brands stand out for offering a great balance of comfort, sound quality, and active noise cancellation (ANC). According to Mashable editors and reviewers, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) provide the best overall value, making it a top recommendation. On the other hand, if you prioritize active noise cancellation, Sony XM6 headphones are the clear winners.

The testing process involved numerous headphones and earbuds from well-known brands like Apple, Beats, Bose, Sony, and Sonos. Regardless of the price range, Mashable's team found options that cater to every budget and preference. While cheap headphones can still block some external noise, the true game-changer is active noise cancellation, which electronically masks the sounds from your surroundings.

This is achieved by using internal microphones to pick up ambient noise, then inverting and playing it back through the speakers, effectively cancelling out the original sound.

For the best over-ear headphones, the Apple AirPods Max were tested but ultimately did not make the final cut for this guide. The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones were also closely examined, offering a great mix of ANC performance and overall sound quality. However, it's essential to remember that not all ANC performs equally. Some models, while affordable, might produce a noticeable hissing sound when noise cancellation is activated, which can be quite distracting for some users. Other headphones may excel at blocking low tones but struggle with high-pitched frequencies.

It's crucial to note that premium headphones generally offer superior performance across the board, but budget options still provide solid ANC capabilities. In the past, wireless earbuds didn't feature ANC on the same level as over-ear headphones. However, newer iterations like the Apple AirPods Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds have proven to be competitive in the ANC space.

Still, if you're seeking maximum silence, over-ear headphones remain the superior choice due to their ability to create a tighter seal around the ears and incorporate more microphones for enhanced ANC.