Let's get real: life is loud. From the rumble of subway trains to the never-ending chatter in open-plan offices, noise is everywhere. That's why I've spent months testing the best noise-cancelling headphones of 2025 to find the ones that truly deliver. Whether you're a commuter, a gym-goer, or someone who wants peace during a chaotic day, this guide will help you cut through the noise.

I used to think noise cancellation was just a fancy feature. Then I tried it. Imagine sitting on a plane; instead of hearing the engine roar, you hear nothing. It’s like magic. But not all headphones are created equal. Some block out low rumbles (think traffic), while others tackle higher-pitched sounds (like crying babies). The best ones do both, and they do it without making your music sound flat.

After testing dozens of models, these are the ones that stood out.

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

This would be it if I had to pick one pair to rule them all. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra isn't just good at blocking noise—it's scary good. I wore them on a cross-country flight, and by the time we landed, I realized I hadn't heard a single engine hum or seat-kicker. Whether blasting rock or podcasting, the sound quality is rich and balanced. They're pricey at $429, but if you want the best, this is it.

2. Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony's WH-1000XM5 is like the Swiss Army knife of headphones. It cancels noise almost as well as Bose, but where it shines is customization. You can tweak the settings to let in enough ambient sound to hear announcements without taking them off. The battery life is wild—30 hours on a single charge—and the fit is so cosy I've forgotten I'm wearing them.

3. Apple AirPods Pro 2

For iPhone users, the AirPods Pro 2 is a no-brainer. The noise cancellation is top-tier, and the spatial audio makes movies feel like you're in a theatre. They're not as customizable as Sony or Bose, but if you're deep in the Apple ecosystem, they're seamless. Plus, the case charges wirelessly and even works as a speaker.

4. Anker Soundcore Space Q45

Being budget-friendly doesn't mean being bad. The Anker Soundcore Q45 costs under $200 and punches way above its weight. The noise cancellation is solid for the price, and the sound is crisp enough for most people. The battery lasts 50 hours, which is wild for this price range. If you're not ready to splurge, start here.

5. Jabra Elite 7 Pro

These earbuds are tiny but mighty. They fit snugly in your ears, making them perfect for workouts. The noise cancellation isn’t as strong as over-ear options, but they’re great for calls—the mic picks up your voice clearly, even in windy conditions.

Not all headphones are built the same. Here’s what I learned matters most:

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Quality

This is the big one. ANC uses microphones to counteract outside noise. The best models adjust in real-time, like when a truck drives by or a baby starts crying. Test them in different environments if you can.

Sound Quality

Some headphones block noise but make music sound hollow. Look for ones with balanced bass and clear highs. If you’re an audiophile, this is non-negotiable.

Comfort

You’ll wear these for hours. Over-ear headphones with plush ear cups are comfier for long sessions, while earbuds are better for on-the-go.

Battery Life

Aim for at least 20 hours—some models, like the Anker Q45, last two days on a single charge. Wireless charging is a nice bonus.

Extra Features

Do you need waterproofing for workouts? A microphone for calls? Multipoint pairing to switch between devices? Make a list of your must-haves.

Your needs dictate what’s “best.”

For Travel

Go with Bose QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WH-1000XM5. Both block aeroplane noise and have long battery life.

For Work

The Sony WH-1000XM5’s ambient mode lets you hear coworkers without removing the headphones. Perfect for hybrid meetings.

For the Gym

Jabra Elite 7 Pro stays put during runs, and the IPX5 rating handles sweat.

For Budget Buyers

Anker Soundcore Q45 is a steal under $200.

In 2025, brands are getting creative. Some headphones now use AI to adapt ANC to your surroundings. Others have "conversation modes" that lower the music volume when someone talks to you. It's wild how fast this tech is evolving.

The best headphones make your life better. Try them on, listen to your favourite songs, and test them in noisy places. And remember: spending a little more now could save you from headaches (literally) later.