Apple popularized the wireless earbud category when it launched the original AirPods back in 2016so it's no surprise that the AirPods Pro sparked interest in wireless earphones with active noise cancellation (ANC). Noise-cancelling earbuds existed well before the AirPods Proof courseand PCMag has been reviewing them since their inception. If you care about getting the most effective noise cancellation possiblethe Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are our top pickwhile Anker's Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds are your best bet for around $100. Stillit's worth checking out all of our favorite models here to determine which pair best meets your needs. Our recommendations cover as many different budgets as possibleand we explain everything you need to know before making a purchase further down.
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Overview
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![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Pro 3
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![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)]()
Best Noise Cancellation OverallBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
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![Sony WF-1000XM5]()
Best for AudiophilesSony WF-1000XM5
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![Anker Soundcore Liberty 5]()
Best Noise Cancellation for Around $100Anker Soundcore Liberty 5
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![Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation]()
Best Open Design for TransparencyApple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation
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![Beats Powerbeats Pro 2]()
Best for Working OutBeats Powerbeats Pro 2
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![Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024)]()
Best (Relatively) Affordable Bose EarbudsBose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024)
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![Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro]()
Best for Samsung Galaxy UsersSamsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
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![Google Pixel Buds Pro 2]()
Best for Google AssistantGoogle Pixel Buds Pro 2
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Eric Zeman
![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Pro 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The third-generation AirPods Pro deliver top-quality noise cancellationwiping out deeplow-frequency rumble and more complexhigher-frequency sounds. Beyond the improved ANCApple's Adaptive Audio mode gives you a more natural way to monitor your surroundings without letting loud noises harm your hearing. The re-tuned audio is still rich but more balanced than beforeproviding a first-class listening experience. In additionthey include advanced featureslike live language translationheart rate monitoringworkout trackingand a bevy of hearing health tools—all for the same price as the old model.
Who It’s For
Apple lovers: First and foremostif you want seamless integration between your earphones and iPhone or Macyou will enjoy the AirPods Pro experience. Pairing is as simple as opening the casewhile the iOS settings menu provides all the necessary controls and features.
Fitness enthusiasts: These earbuds can also serve as activetransparent earplugs and a fitness-tracking tool that doesn't require a smartwatchthanks to their built-in heart rate monitoring sensors.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 8 hours for earbudsand 24 hours with case Charging Support LightningMagSafeQi WirelessUSB-C Chip H3 headphone chip; U2 chip for case Connection Type Bluetooth Hands-Free Siri In-Canal Seal On-Ear Controls Volume swipes; press and press-and-hold gestures (ANC/Transparency selectioncallsplaybackSiritrack navigation) Spatial Audio Personalized Spatial audio with Head tracking Transparency Mode Standard and Apdative Transparency True Wireless Type In-Canal Water Resistance IP57 Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review -
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![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)]()
Best Noise Cancellation OverallBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The second-gen Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds produce impressive results through a combination of calibration tests and subtle adaptive noise-cancelling tweaks. They're even more effective against low and high frequencies than the first generationrepresenting some of the best ANC you can get from earbudsalong with the AirPods Pro 3. The Bose earbuds have an Active Aware mode that tamps down louder environmental noises while still allowing you to hear your surroundings. Support for the AptX Adaptive codec adds valueas does the new charging casewhich can now recharge wirelessly.
Who It’s For
Cross-platform listeners: You should choose the second-generation QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds if you want the most effective noise cancellation on a mix of platforms (AndroidWindowsand Apple products).
The situationally aware: Most transparency modes on noise-cancelling earbuds sound artificial and artifact-filledmeaning you only want to use them occasionally and briefly. Bose manages to keep ambient sounds natural even though they're being reproducedwhich is ideal if you need to keep tabs on your surroundings or order a latte.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless -
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![Sony WF-1000XM5]()
Best for AudiophilesSony WF-1000XM5
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sony's WF-1000XM5 earphones don't quite overtake the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in the noise cancellation departmentbut they are still especially good at blocking out higher frequencies thanks to their hybrid eartips. They also produce superb soundsupport the LC3 and LDAC codecsand offer excellent mic quality.
Who It’s For
Those seeking the best of both worlds: If you value noise cancellation and audio performance equallythese are the earphones to buy. They're a particularly strong option for Android users who can take advantage of the high-res-capable LDAC codec.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Sony WF-1000XM5 Review -
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![Anker Soundcore Liberty 5]()
Best Noise Cancellation for Around $100Anker Soundcore Liberty 5
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
These earphones are the full package for a just-above-budget price. They boast improved active noise cancellation that closes the gap with the Apple Airpods 4 With ANCand more well-rounded audio qualityalong with powerful bass and surprisingly long battery life.
Who It's For
Bargain hunters: If you only want to spend around $100 on noise-cancelling earbudsAnker delivers. These earbuds offer impressive sound quality and battery lifeintuitive controlsand an adjustable equalizer.
Gym bunnies: The earbuds feature an IP55 ratingensuring they can withstand sweaty sessions on the treadmill or in the weight room. Given their low priceif you accidentally drop a dumbbell on themit won't ruin your day entirely.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 Review -
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Credit: Tim Gideon
![Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation]()
Best Open Design for TransparencyApple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
For their pricethe Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation earbuds effectively dial back low-frequency rumble and do a commendable job against the mids and highs—despite the open-ear design. Otherwisethey deliver a detailed audio signature and excellent transparency features. We also like that they work natively with Apple's iPhones.
Who It’s For
Open-ear design fans: These earbuds are ideal for anyone who wants an open-ear design but also requires decent noise-cancelling capabilities.
Apple users on a budget: These earbuds offer the same seamless integration with Apple products as other AirPodsbut cost $70 less than the AirPods Pro 3.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 4 hours with ANC Charging Support USB-CMagSafeQi Wireless Chip H2 headphone chip Connection Type Bluetooth Hands-Free Siri On-Ear Controls Volume swipes; press and press-and-hold gestures (ANC/Transparency selectioncallsplaybackSiritrack navigation) Spatial Audio Personalized Spatial audio with Head tracking Transparency Mode Standard and Apdative Transparency True Wireless Type Open- earbuds Water Resistance IP54 for both earbuds and case Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless -
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![Beats Powerbeats Pro 2]()
Best for Working OutBeats Powerbeats Pro 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earphones improve their durability and extend their battery lifewhile upping the ante further by adding solid noise cancellation and accurate heart rate monitoring to accompany the energizingbass-forward sound signature. The earbuds have an IPX4 water-resistance ratingwhich means they can handle sweat and rain but not submersion.
Who It’s For
Get the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 if you want to eliminate noise during your workout routine or otherwise.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Review -
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![Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024)]()
Best (Relatively) Affordable Bose EarbudsBose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The relatively affordable QuietComfort Earbuds from Bose sound great and cancel noise almost as well as the company's top-of-the-line earphones. They come in several colorshave long-lasting battery lifesupport multipoint pairingand charge wirelessly.
Who It's For
The QuietComfort Earbuds are a good value for people who like the Bose sound profile but don't need the absolute top noise cancellation performance.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2024) Review -
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Credit: Christian de Looper
![Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro]()
Best for Samsung Galaxy UsersSamsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro back up quality ANC with excellent audio chops. Additionallytheir Samsung Seamless Bluetooth codec for hi-res streaming (on somebut not all Galaxy devices) helps the dual drivers in each earpiece shine. And the ANC experience is above average for the price.
Who It’s For
We wish we could say all Android usersbut to get the full capabilities here (including 24-bit hi-res streaming and Galaxy AI features)you need a Galaxy smartphone running Android 10.0 and One UI 6.0 or higher with 1.5GB RAM. If your device meets those base specificationsthese earbuds are an obvious choice.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Review -
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![Google Pixel Buds Pro 2]()
Best for Google AssistantGoogle Pixel Buds Pro 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2s are a significant improvement over the originals thanks to a smaller footprintclearer audiolonger battery lifeand cleaner noise cancellation. Seamless integration with Pixel phones and Gemini makes them a good match for Google users.
Who It's For
The Buds Pro 2 are good noise-cancelling earphones for people who own Google Pixel phones and want the best experience with Google Assistant.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Review -
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5.0 Exemplary |
4.5 Outstanding |
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4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
5.0 Exemplary |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
Best For | Best for iPhone Users | Best Noise Cancellation Overall | Best for Audiophiles | Best Noise Cancellation for Around $100 | Best Open Design for Transparency | Best for Working Out | Best (Relatively) Affordable Bose Earbuds | Best for Samsung Galaxy Users | Best for Google Assistant | Best for iPhone Users | Best Noise Cancellation Overall | Best for Audiophiles |
Type | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | Open- earbuds | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal |
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Connection Type | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
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Active Noise Cancellation |
Buying Guide: The Best Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earbuds for 2026
Do Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Block All Sound?
Active noise cancellation (ANC) debuted in over-ear and on-ear headphones first but is now prevalent in wireless earphones. As the first word of the term suggestsactive noise cancellation requires poweras opposed to passive noise reduction. Battery power feeds ANC circuitry that uses microphones to create a liveinverse signal of the surrounding noise. Just like how adding a negative number to its positive equivalent nets zerothe goal here is to offset the ambient noise with inverse sound waves.
Does it work? That depends on the manufacturer and the character of the surrounding noise. Even competent ANC is typically far more effective against low to mid frequencies, especially unchangingdrone-like sounds such as from an engine or an appliance. The best ANC does the same for higher-frequency soundslike office chatter and keyboard clicks. But a tight in-ear seal is what helps most against these sounds.
Speaking of an in-ear sealpassive noise cancellation (or passive noise isolation) uses the physical sealing off of the ear canal to block out surrounding sound. There are no mics or batteries involved in this methodbut it isin many waysmore effective than active noise cancellation because it helps cut back frequencies across the board. Earplugs still exist for a reason—they work.
Bad Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: What to Avoid
Lower-quality ANC circuitry often produces an audible high-frequency hiss—like white noise or tape hiss—that masks some of the higher frequencies it can’t eliminate. The easiest way to tell if this is happening is to activate the ANC in a totally quiet environment—if your headphones seem to make the noise floor louderthey are adding a hiss. Most earbuds we test add some degree of hissbut the quality of the ANC dictates its prevalence.
Another aspect of low-quality ANCespecially in wireless headphones and earphonesis the difference in how music (or any audio) sounds when it is active. The ANC shouldn’t change how music sounds at allbut some models we test produce wildly different sound signatures when ANC is onsuch as more bassmore trebleand higher volume levels. The effect (in most cases) isn't too disruptivehowever.
What Is the Ambient (or Transparency) Mode?
Plenty of wireless models include a feature that allows you to monitor your surroundings without removing the earpieces. This is useful in offices and airports and for runners who need to be aware of traffic and car horns. Not all wireless earbuds with an ambient monitoring mode also include noise cancellationbut most of the ones we’ve tested do.
Many offer on-ear controls that allow you to cycle through ANC and ambient/transparency modes. We note whether earphones include this feature and how well it works in each of our reviews.
Are Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Worth It?
The best wireless earphones that deliver audiophile-pleasing audio and excellent ANC can easily cost over $300but those aren't your only options. We're starting to see some worthwhilebudget-friendly alternatives that deliver commendable noise cancellation and sound quality for under $100.
Whether they are worth the money depends on the character of noise in your environment and how much it prevents you from focusing on whatever you need to do. If you can't think clearly without silence or (at least) a greater sense of quietnoise-cancelling earphones are well worth the peace of mind.
Once you find the perfect paircheck out our stories on five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and eight ways you're using them wrong.