Top 5 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones for Ultimate Sound Quality in 2025

Introduction

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) headphones are a must-have for anyone who values clear sound quality and wants to block out unwanted noise. Whether you’re traveling, working, or simply enjoying music at home, these headphones can provide an immersive listening experience. In this article, we’ll review the top 5 active noise cancelling headphones available in 2025. These headphones stand out for their exceptional sound quality, comfort, battery life, and noise cancellation technology. Let’s dive into the details of each product.

1. Sony WH-1000XM4

Sony has long been a leader in the audio industry, and the WH-1000XM4 continues that tradition. These headphones deliver excellent sound quality with Adaptive Sound Control, which adjusts the noise cancellation based on your environment. They feature a comfortable design with plush ear cups, making them ideal for long listening sessions. The WH-1000XM4 also comes with a built-in mic for phone calls and Alexa voice control, allowing you to easily manage calls and smart home devices.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the noise-cancelling performance. Whether you’re in a crowded office or on a noisy airplane, the WH-1000XM4 will block out the distractions, providing a peaceful environment for listening. The battery life is impressive too, with up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge.

Pros:

• Excellent noise cancellation
• Long battery life (up to 30 hours)
• Alexa voice control and mic for calls
• Comfortable fit with plush ear cups
• Seamless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0

Cons:

• Premium price tag
• No water resistance

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is undoubtedly one of the best active noise cancelling headphones available in 2025. Its advanced features, exceptional sound quality, and industry-leading noise cancellation make it a top choice for audiophiles and frequent travelers.

2. Soundcore Anker Life Q20

Soundcore’s Life Q20 headphones offer excellent value for those looking for effective noise cancellation at an affordable price. These over-ear Bluetooth headphones feature hybrid active noise cancelling, which effectively blocks out background noise. The Life Q20 also boasts 40mm drivers for high-quality sound, along with Hi-Res Audio certification for superior audio clarity.

The battery life is impressive, offering up to 60 hours of continuous playtime, making it perfect for long trips or all-day use. The memory foam ear cups provide a comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions. Additionally, the headphones feature USB-C charging, ensuring quick and easy recharging.

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• 60 hours of playtime
• Hybrid active noise cancelling
• Comfortable memory foam ear cups
• Hi-Res Audio support

Cons:

• Not as premium as higher-end models
• Slightly bulky design

The Soundcore Life Q20 offers excellent value for money, providing strong noise cancellation, impressive battery life, and clear sound. While not as premium as some other models, it is a solid choice for those on a budget who still want high-quality ANC headphones.

3. TOZO HT2

TOZO’s HT2 headphones are another excellent option for those seeking high-quality active noise cancellation on a budget. These headphones feature a hybrid ANC system that effectively reduces both low and high-frequency noise. The sound quality is impressive, with deep bass and clear treble, making them great for music, podcasts, and movies.

With 60 hours of battery life, the HT2 headphones can easily last for long flights or road trips. The custom EQ via the TOZO app allows you to fine-tune the sound to your liking, ensuring a personalized listening experience. The ear cups are designed for comfort, and the overall build is lightweight, making them perfect for travel.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• 60 hours of playtime
• Custom EQ via app
• Comfortable design
• Good noise cancellation

Cons:

• Build quality could be improved
• The app may require additional setup

The TOZO HT2 headphones provide a great balance between performance and affordability. With long battery life, effective noise cancellation, and customizable sound options, they’re a great option for both casual listeners and frequent travelers.

4. Raycon The Everyday

Raycon’s Everyday Wireless Bluetooth Headphones offer a solid combination of active noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality. These headphones feature awareness mode, allowing you to adjust the level of noise cancellation depending on your surroundings. The sound profile is tuned for a balanced audio experience, with good bass and clear mids.

Battery life is rated at 40 hours, making these headphones ideal for long commutes or daily use. The IPX4 water resistance rating adds an extra layer of durability, making them suitable for workouts or light rain exposure. The built-in microphone ensures that you can take calls and interact with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.

Pros:

• Awareness mode for customizable noise cancellation
• 40 hours of battery life
• IPX4 water resistance
• Comfortable and lightweight design
• Good sound quality for the price

Cons:

• Noise cancellation could be better compared to premium models
• May not be as durable as higher-end competitors

Raycon’s Everyday headphones offer solid performance at a mid-range price point. While they might not rival premium models like Sony’s, they provide an excellent balance of features, comfort, and affordability for everyday use.

5. Sony WH-CH720N

The Sony WH-CH720N is an affordable alternative to the WH-1000XM4, offering great value without compromising on key features. These headphones feature advanced noise cancellation technology, which effectively reduces ambient noise, making them ideal for noisy environments. The sound quality is clear and rich, with a focus on providing an immersive listening experience.

The WH-CH720N also offers up to 35 hours of battery life, making it a reliable option for long listening sessions. Additionally, the headphones come with Alexa built-in, allowing for hands-free control and smart home integration.

Pros:

• Good noise cancellation for the price
• Up to 35 hours of battery life
• Comfortable design
• Alexa built-in for smart control
• Affordable pricing

Cons:

• Not as premium as the WH-1000XM4
• Slightly lower audio quality compared to high-end models

The Sony WH-CH720N is an excellent budget-friendly option for those who want solid noise cancellation and good sound quality without breaking the bank. While not as advanced as the WH-1000XM4, it’s a great choice for casual listeners and everyday users.

Conclusion

Choosing the best active noise cancelling headphones depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize premium features like the Sony WH-1000XM4 or are looking for a more affordable option like the Soundcore Life Q20, there’s something for everyone in this list. From exceptional noise cancellation and long battery life to customizable sound profiles and comfort, these headphones are all top contenders in 2025. No matter your choice, each of these models will enhance your listening experience and provide peace in noisy environments.

FAQs

• What is the best active noise cancelling headphone for travel? The Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely considered the best for travel due to its superior noise cancellation and long battery life.
• Are budget-friendly ANC headphones effective? Yes, options like the Anker Life Q20 and TOZO HT2 provide solid ANC performance at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
• Can I use these headphones for working out? Some models, like the Raycon Everyday headphones, feature IPX 4 water resistance, making them suitable for light workouts.
• How long does the battery last on noise cancelling headphones? Battery life varies by model, but most ANC headphones last between 30-60 hours on a single charge.
• Is the noise cancellation on all these headphones similar? While all models provide noise cancellation, premium models like the Sony WH-1000XM4 have more advanced ANC compared to budget options like the Raycon Everyday.
• Do all these headphones support Alexa voice control? Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and WH-CH720N have Alexa voice control, but it may not be available on all models.