Some things in life just make sense together like coffee and early mornings or noise cancellation and earbuds. When I’m out and about, earbuds are my go-to for blocking distractions, taking calls, and sinking into my favorite playlists without the background chaos.
I live in Brooklyn, which means I’m constantly surrounded by city noise. Whether I’m commuting, working, or trying to focus in a crowded coffee shop, a good pair of noise-canceling earbuds makes all the difference. I’ve tested and researched some of the best ones out there, and in this guide, I’ll break down my top picks.
If you want earbuds that actually cancel noise (not just claim to), last all day, and fit comfortably, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it.
Over-ear noise canceling headphones more your thing? - we have you covered in our linked guide 👈
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps reduce background noise for clearer audio and focus.
- Comfort & Fit are important considerations for long listening sessions, especially for commuters and remote workers.
- Battery Life varies. Some earbuds last all day, while others require frequent recharges.
- Connectivity Features like multipoint pairing and transparency mode can enhance usability.
- Budget vs. Performance – High-end models deliver premium sound, while budget-friendly options balance cost and features.
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What should I look for in earbuds with ANC?
Obviously, you’re in the market for a product with active noise cancellation so that is your top priority.
Here’s a few things to consider while you’re browsing:
- Price: A budget helps you stay within range for a pair of earbuds that suits your lifestyle and your needs.
- Connectivity: Connectivity is an important feature that makes transitioning from one task to another and listening in itself seamless, pleasant, and convenient.
- Noise cancellation: While this is the main feature you’re seeking, it’s a vital one. This mode helps you stream audio at safe volume levels and provides a clear and consistent channel for calls, listening, and more.
- Passive noise cancellation: The reduction of external noise achieved through the physical design of the earbuds themselves, rather than through electronic means. This includes ear cups and a snug fit which helps support blocking ambient noise.
- Adaptive active noise cancellation: Automatic adjustments of the microphone and speakers to your surroundings.
- Transparency mode: Connect with the world around you any time, without ending a call or removing the earbuds.
- Adjustability: Features and modes that let you adjust and fine tune the level of background noise you hear through manual adjustment (or via an app).
Keep scrolling for our best picks for noise canceling earbuds.
HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless
- High-Definition Audio: Enjoy 24Bit/192Khz sound quality, rivaling expensive audio systems.
- Advanced Diaphragm Technology: The Topology Diaphragm offers more natural and detailed sound.
- Effective Noise Cancellation: Reduces ambient noise by up to -35dB for an immersive experience.
- Extended Listening Time: Provides up to 35 hours of playback with charging case support.
The HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless earbuds combine advanced audio technology with user-friendly features, offering a high-definition audio experience.
- Exceptional Sound Quality: Featuring the Topology Diaphragm with a nanoparticle coating, these earbuds deliver a natural and detailed sound, enhancing your listening with clarity and depth.
- Efficient Noise Cancellation: Equipped with ANC deep noise cancellation, they effectively reduce noise up to -35dB, providing an immersive audio environment ideal for focus and relaxation.
Overall, the HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless earbuds are an excellent choice for those seeking superior sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
- Superior Sound Quality: Users praise the Svanar Wireless earbuds for their exceptional audio clarity and richness, comparable to high-end wired options.
- Easy Connectivity: Many find the setup process straightforward, enjoying seamless connections, especially in Hi-Fi mode.
- Comfort and Fit: Although some mention the design can feel bulky during extended wear, many appreciate the overall comfort and fit.
- Battery Life: Users value the long battery life, with earbuds lasting for hours before needing a recharge.
- Noise Cancellation: The active noise cancellation receives positive feedback for effectively reducing ambient noise, enhancing the listening experience.
- Minor Connectivity Issues: A few users note occasional connectivity drops, particularly with LDAC, but these are generally outweighed by the earbuds' performance.
Overall, the HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless earbuds are highly regarded for their outstanding sound quality and user-friendly features.
- Exceptional sound quality with high-definition audio capabilities.
- Innovative diaphragm design enhances acoustic performance.
- Long battery life supports extended use without frequent charging.
- Charging case fits most silicone tips, accommodating larger sizes for comfort.
- Premium price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Some users report minor connectivity issues, particularly with the LDAC connection.
- Bulky design might be uncomfortable for extended wear.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX
- Adaptive Noise Cancellation: Automatically adjusts to block out surrounding noise, enhancing focus on your music.
- Clear Calls: Beamforming microphones ensure your voice is crisp and clear, even in busy environments.
- Durable Design: IP57 rating makes these earbuds resistant to water, sweat, and dust, perfect for workouts.
- Extended Battery Life: Offers up to 8 hours of playtime, with fast recharge capabilities for less downtime.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX earbuds stand out for their premium audio quality and versatile design, suitable for various activities, from workouts to daily commutes.
- Adaptive noise cancellation helps minimize surrounding noise, allowing you to focus on your music or calls, even in windy conditions.
- IP57 waterproof rating ensures durability, making these earbuds a reliable choice for exercise and outdoor use.
These earbuds offer a great balance of sound quality, comfort, and durability, catering to users who prioritize both performance and versatility.
- Rich, Immersive Sound: Users consistently praise the earbuds for delivering deep, well-balanced audio that enhances their favorite tracks with clarity.
- Comfortable, Secure Fit: Many appreciate the snug fit, noting that the soft ear tips stay comfortable during extended wear, whether at the gym or on a commute.
- Reliable Connectivity: Reviewers highlight strong Bluetooth connections, reducing interruptions when listening or making calls.
- Great for Active Lifestyles: The IP57 waterproof rating makes these earbuds a popular choice for workouts and outdoor activities, adding peace of mind in wet conditions.
- Battery Life Meets Expectations: With up to 8 hours of playtime, users find the battery life sufficient for daily use, especially with fast recharging options.
- Minor ANC Limitations: While users acknowledge that the active noise cancellation isn’t the best on the market, they still find the overall sound quality and comfort well worth the investment.
- Strong noise cancellation adapts to windy conditions.
- IP57 waterproof rating for reliable outdoor use.
- Clear call quality thanks to advanced microphone technology.
- Comfortable fit with customizable ear tips for prolonged wear.
- Active noise cancellation may not completely block all background noise.
- Bluetooth connectivity may require occasional resets.
- Limited battery life when using noise cancellation continuously.
Sony WF-1000XM5
- Advanced Noise Cancellation – Dual feedback microphones and adaptive noise control significantly reduce external sounds.
- Detailed, High-Resolution Audio – Wide frequency range and dynamic drivers deliver clear, balanced sound with rich detail.
- Long Battery Life – Up to 8 hours of continuous playback, plus 24 extra hours with the charging case.
- Intuitive Touch Controls – Easily switch between noise cancellation, playback, and calls with responsive touch gestures.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless noise-canceling earbuds offer a blend of advanced noise cancellation, high-resolution audio support, and user-friendly features, making them a strong choice for those prioritizing immersive listening.
- Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation – The earbuds use dual feedback microphones and advanced noise isolation ear tips to reduce external noise, enhancing focus in busy environments.
- High-Quality Sound with Extended Battery Life – A dynamic driver and wide frequency range deliver detailed sound, while up to 8 hours of playback (plus 24 additional hours with the case) ensures longevity for daily use.
With additional features like IPX4 water resistance and voice assistant support, the Sony WF-1000XM5 provides a well-rounded listening experience for those seeking effective noise cancellation and premium sound in a compact design.
- Clear, Detailed Sound - users praise the crisp, well-balanced audio, with some noticing subtle details in their music that other earbuds miss.
- Powerful Noise Cancellation - many highlight the stellar noise cancellation, stating it significantly reduces external noise, even in busy environments. Some find it almost disorienting how well it blocks background sound.
- Secure & Comfortable Fit - the snug ear tips create a firm seal, improving both noise isolation and long-term comfort. While most find the fit secure, a few mention needing occasional adjustments.
- Reliable Battery Life - with up to 8 hours of playback and an additional 24 hours from the case, users appreciate the longevity. Quick charging is also a welcome convenience.
- Crisp and detailed sound quality enhances music clarity and depth.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions.
- Reliable battery life with quick charging support.
- Water-resistant (IPX4), making them suitable for workouts or light rain.
- Touch controls may take time to master and can be sensitive.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- ANC may feel overly isolating for some users in quieter environments.
- Fit may require adjustments for a secure seal, depending on ear shape.
Beats Fits Pro
- Secure Fit for Active Use – Wingtip design keeps the earbuds stable, making them ideal for movement and workouts.
- Customizable Listening Modes – Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode let you switch between full immersion and situational awareness.
- Seamless Apple Integration – Features like automatic switching, “Hey Siri” voice control, and audio sharing make them a great choice for Apple users.
- Immersive Spatial Audio – Dynamic head tracking enhances sound for a more immersive experience in music, movies, and games.
The Beats Fit Pro are truly wireless earbuds designed for a secure fit, making them a solid choice for users who need stability and high-quality audio in a compact package.
- Secure Fit and Versatile Listening Modes – The wingtip design helps keep the earbuds in place during movement, making them well-suited for active users. With Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and Adaptive EQ, they offer flexibility whether you need to block out distractions or stay aware of your surroundings.
- Seamless Apple Integration and Spatial Audio – Featuring the Apple H1 chip, these earbuds support automatic device switching, voice assistant access, and audio sharing within the Apple ecosystem. Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking enhances immersion for gaming, movies, and music.
With up to six hours of battery life per charge and a pocket-sized case extending use to 24 hours, the Beats Fit Pro provide a balanced mix of stability, sound quality, and smart features for everyday listening.
- Comfortable & Secure Fit – Many users praise the wingtip design for keeping the earbuds in place, especially during workouts or movement-heavy activities. They find them more stable than standard AirPods.
- Clear, Balanced Sound – Listeners appreciate the well-rounded audio quality, noting that music and calls sound clear without overpowering bass or distortion.
- Effective Noise Cancellation & Transparency Mode – Users highlight the strong noise cancellation, which blocks out background noise effectively, while Transparency Mode allows for situational awareness when needed.
- Seamless Apple Integration – Those in the Apple ecosystem find features like automatic switching and “Hey Siri” voice control convenient, making connectivity smooth across devices.
- Physical Button Controls – Many prefer the tactile button controls over touch-sensitive alternatives, saying they provide more reliable playback and call management.
- Battery Life Could Be Longer – While most users find the six-hour battery life sufficient, some wish it lasted longer between charges, especially for extended use.
Overall, the Beats Fit Pro are well-received for their secure fit, strong noise cancellation, and seamless Apple connectivity, making them a solid choice for everyday use.
- Secure and comfortable fit, especially for active users.
- Strong noise cancellation with the flexibility of Transparency Mode.
- Spatial Audio enhances immersion for entertainment.
- Physical button controls for reliable playback and call management.
- Seamless integration with Apple devices for smooth connectivity.
- Battery life maxes out at six hours per charge, shorter than some competitors.
- Wingtip design may not suit all ear shapes.
- Some users find the case slightly bulky for pockets.
JLab JBuds ANC 3
- Customizable Noise Control: Adjust noise settings to fit any environment using the JLab App.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 42 hours of playtime for all-day listening.
- Secure Fit and Durability: Designed for active use with IP55 sweat and dust resistance.
- Seamless Device Connection: Connect to two devices at once with multipoint connection for easy switching.
The JLab JBuds ANC 3 earbuds are designed for users seeking effective noise cancellation and flexibility.
- Smart Noise Control Options: Equipped with three adjustable noise control modes (ANC On, ANC Off, and Be Aware), these earbuds let users manage ambient noise, whether on a busy commute or outdoors, all customizable via the JLab App.
- Extended Battery Life: With up to 42 hours of playtime (including 33 hours from the charging case), the JBuds ANC 3 provide long-lasting power, ideal for extended listening without frequent charging.
Overall, the JLab JBuds ANC 3 offer reliable performance with features like noise customization and durable battery life, making them suitable for users prioritizing control and convenience.
- Sound Quality and Clarity: Users report clear, balanced audio with solid bass, making these ideal for music and podcasts.
- Effective Noise Cancellation: The ANC mode is praised for reducing background noise, particularly helpful in noisy settings like public transport.
- Long Battery Life: Many users appreciate the impressive battery life, often lasting through multiple days of use.
- Secure Fit: Comfortable and stable in the ear, the JBuds ANC 3 are favored by active users, especially during workouts.
- Ease of Use with App: The JLab app allows for simple customization, though some users find it necessary to access all features.
- Minor Downsides: Some mention slight discomfort over prolonged use, and a few note that setup with multiple devices can be tricky.
Users find the JBuds ANC 3 earbuds a dependable choice for active and daily use, especially at a competitive price.
- Adaptive noise-canceling that learns and adjusts to your environment
- Long battery life with up to 42 hours, including the charging case
- Customizable sound settings via the JLab app
- IP55 rating offers sweat and dust resistance for active use
- Requires app setup for full customization, which some users find complex
- Some users experience minor discomfort over extended wear
- Occasional connectivity issues when switching between devices
What is Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)?
Essentially, Active Noise Cancellation, also known as ANC, is a system that utilizes relies on built-in microphones which picks up both external and internal sounds, an ANC chipset that inverts these soundwaves, and an internal speaker that emits counteractive waves to cancel out external noise—a process akin to mathematical equilibrium.
Want a more direct example? Think of it as a math equation in which you’ll add +2 from outside to -2 from the inside, resulting in zero (i.e., a balanced silence).
So earbuds with ANC technology work to dissipate sound waves as they come in while increasing in-ear sound.
5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Noise-Canceling Earbuds
1. Find the Perfect Fit for Maximum Noise Isolation
Noise cancellation is only half the equation. If your earbuds don’t seal properly, outside noise will sneak in no matter how advanced the ANC tech is.
- Try different ear tip sizes until you get a snug, comfortable fit. Most brands include small, medium, and large options.
- Want even better isolation? Swap out the standard silicone tips for memory foam ear tips that mold to your ears for an ultra-tight seal.
- A good test: Play music at low volume. If you still hear outside noise, try a different ear tip size.
2. Optimize ANC for Your Environment
Not all noise is created equal, and different settings call for different ANC modes.
- Loud environments (airports, public transport): Turn ANC to max mode for full noise cancellation.
- Office or coffee shop: Use Transparency Mode to stay aware of conversations without pulling your earbuds out.
- Windy conditions: If your earbuds have an “anti-wind” ANC setting, activate it to prevent distortion.
3. Extend Battery Life Like a Pro
Nobody wants their earbuds dying mid-commute. Here’s how to keep the tunes rolling:
- Running low? Switch to one earbud at a time - it’ll double your listening time.
- Lower ANC intensity when full noise cancellation isn’t needed (some apps let you adjust this).
- Keep your case charged—most earbuds juice up fast in the case, so drop them in when not in use.
4. Upgrade Your Audio Quality
Good noise cancellation is one thing. Great sound is another.
- Use high-quality streaming (Spotify Premium, Apple Music Lossless, Tidal) instead of low-bitrate free versions.
- If your earbuds have custom EQ settings, tweak them to match your taste (boost bass for hip-hop, enhance vocals for podcasts).
- Enable 360 Audio or Spatial Audio if supported—it creates an immersive soundstage for music, movies, and games.
5. Take Care of Your Earbuds (So They Last)
Treat your earbuds right, and they’ll keep delivering crisp, distraction-free audio for years.
- Clean them regularly - earwax buildup and dust can mess with sound quality and fit.
- Store them in the case to avoid losing them or damaging the charging contacts.
- Avoid extreme temps - leaving them in a hot car or freezing conditions can shorten battery life.
Final Thoughts on the best noise canceling earbuds
The world is loud, but your listening experience doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re commuting through a noisy city, grinding through work in a busy café, or simply sinking into your favorite playlist, the right pair of noise-canceling earbuds can make a huge difference.
From the high-definition immersion of the HIFIMAN Svanar to the budget-friendly powerhouse of the JLab JBuds ANC 3, there’s a perfect pair for every lifestyle and budget. Looking for all-day wearability? Sony’s WF-1000XM5 has you covered. Need a secure fit for workouts? The Beats Fit Pro won’t let you down. And if you want premium adaptability with studio-quality audio, Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay EX is a standout choice.
At the end of the day, the best earbuds aren’t just about specs, they’re about how they fit into your life. So pick the pair that makes your world sound the way you want it to. Happy listening!
