Reviewing the Latest Noise-Canceling Headphones: Top Picks for 2024

In 2024, noise-canceling headphones are no longer a luxury; they’re a necessity for anyone who wants to experience sound without distraction. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or simply trying to escape the constant hum of daily life, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can transform your audio experience. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right pair? Let’s break down the best noise-canceling headphones —whether you’re a casual listener looking for comfort or a tech aficionado chasing the latest in audio innovation.
What Makes Noise-Canceling Headphones Special?
Noise-canceling headphones use clever technology to block out unwanted sounds. By detecting external noise and producing “anti-noise” waves, they cancel out the disruptions around you, giving you a more immersive listening experience. For some, this means the ability to zone out while listening to music, while for others, it’s the peaceful silence needed for focus or relaxation. With the tech evolving rapidly, 2024’s models offer more than just quiet—they deliver enhanced sound quality, comfort, and usability for a variety of needs.
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The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2024
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
Best for Exceptional All-around Performance

Sony continues to dominate the noise-canceling market with the WH-1000XM5, an upgrade over their already stellar WH-1000XM4. These headphones excel in every area: noise cancellation, sound quality, comfort, and battery life. Featuring advanced noise-canceling technology that uses dual processors and multiple microphones, the WH-1000XM5 provides an almost magical level of silence. Whether you’re on a crowded subway or in a noisy office, these headphones create a quiet bubble so you can focus on what matters.
The sound quality is top-notch too—deep bass, clear vocals, and balanced treble. Plus, Sony offers full customization through their app, allowing you to adjust the sound to match your personal preference. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capabilities (just 3 minutes of charging for 3 hours of playback), these headphones are perfect for long trips or workdays. Their lightweight design and plush ear cups make them comfortable to wear for hours without causing discomfort. If you want the best overall performance, the WH-1000XM5 should be at the top of your list.
Ups:
- Best-in-class noise cancellation.
- Rich, customizable sound with the Sony Headphones Connect app.
- 30 hours of battery life and quick charge capabilities.
- Comfortable, lightweight design.
Downs:
- A bit pricey, especially for those on a budget.
- Some users may find the touch-sensitive controls a bit finicky.
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Best for Comfort and Crystal-clear Calls

Bose is renowned for its premium sound and effective noise cancellation, and the Bose 700 series builds on that legacy. These headphones are particularly loved for their comfort and ease of use, making them a great choice for anyone who wears headphones for long periods, such as remote workers or frequent travelers.
What sets the Bose 700 apart is their adjustable noise cancellation. You can fine-tune how much outside noise you want to block out—whether you need full isolation or just a little peace and quiet. Their sound profile is warm and natural, with a focus on clear vocals and balanced sound, making them great for podcasts, phone calls, or music. The comfort factor is another standout, with soft ear cups and a lightweight design that doesn’t clamp down on your head.
The 700s shine in the call quality department too. Thanks to an array of microphones that pick up your voice clearly while blocking out background noise, these are an excellent choice for business calls and video conferences. With 20 hours of battery life and a sleek, modern design, the Bose 700s are perfect for anyone who needs a dependable, comfortable pair of headphones for work and play.
Ups:
- Adjustable noise cancellation with 11 levels of control.
- Excellent comfort with soft ear cushions and lightweight build.
- Top-tier call quality with advanced microphone system.
- Sleek, modern design.
Downs:
- Battery life of 20 hours isn’t the longest compared to competitors.
- Sound profile may not be as dynamic as some other brands (like Sony).
3. Apple AirPods Max
Best for Apple Ecosystem and Premium Sound

For Apple users who want the absolute best, the AirPods Max offers a combination of cutting-edge sound and seamless integration with other Apple products. These headphones take full advantage of Apple’s proprietary H1 chip to offer an ultra-fast pairing experience, making them ideal for anyone who’s already embedded in the Apple ecosystem.
In terms of sound quality, the AirPods Max is one of the best on the market. The spatial audio and dynamic head tracking features make it feel like you’re surrounded by your music, offering an immersive experience that’s perfect for movies, games, and music alike. The noise cancellation is excellent—blocking out even the most persistent sounds around you.
They also come with a Transparency mode, so if you need to hear the outside world, you can activate this feature without taking off the headphones. While their price point is on the higher side, the combination of luxury, sound quality, and integration with Apple products makes the AirPods Max a top choice for Apple fans. Battery life clocks in at about 20 hours, which is decent for a premium set of headphones.
Ups:
- Superb sound quality with spatial audio and dynamic head tracking.
- Seamless integration with Apple devices.
- Effective noise cancellation and Transparency mode.
- Premium build quality with high-end materials.
Downs:
- Extremely expensive, making them a tough sell for those on a budget.
- Heavier than most over-ear headphones, which could be uncomfortable for long wear.
- Battery life could be better, especially considering the price.
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Best for Audiophiles Who Want More

Sennheiser has long been a go-to brand for audiophiles, and the Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a perfect example of their commitment to delivering high-quality sound. These headphones shine when it comes to audio performance, offering a detailed, well-balanced sound signature that will satisfy even the pickiest listeners.
The noise cancellation is solid, though it may not be quite as effective as some of the top-tier models from Sony or Bose, it’s still more than adequate to block out general background noise. The Momentum 4 Wireless offers excellent sound customization via the Sennheiser Smart Control app, allowing you to tailor the audio to your preferences.
With up to 60 hours of battery life, the Momentum 4 Wireless is great for long listening sessions or travel. The large ear cups and plush padding ensure comfort, even during extended wear. If you’re an audiophile looking for a pair of headphones that prioritize sound quality without sacrificing noise cancellation or comfort, these are a fantastic choice.
Ups:
- Amazing sound quality with a rich, well-balanced profile.
- Exceptional 60-hour battery life—perfect for long flights or workdays.
- Customizable sound settings via the Sennheiser Smart Control app.
- Very comfortable for long listening sessions.
Downs:
- Noise cancellation is good but not as strong as Sony or Bose.
- Slightly bulky design may not appeal to everyone.
- High price for those looking for more budget-friendly options.
5. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Best for Style and Build Quality

For those who value both style and substance, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a standout. Known for their high-end audio equipment, Bowers & Wilkins delivers a truly premium product with the PX7 S2. These headphones are beautifully crafted, with carbon fiber and high-grade metal accents, giving them a sophisticated and luxurious look.
The sound quality is excellent, with a balanced and natural profile that highlights clarity in the midrange and crisp, detailed highs. The noise cancellation is effective, though slightly less aggressive than Sony or Bose, but still adequate for most environments. The PX7 S2’s comfort is also top-tier, with memory foam ear cups that provide a snug fit without feeling tight.
With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging, these headphones are ready for both long-haul flights and everyday use. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a solid option for those who want a blend of superior sound, striking design, and quality construction.
Ups:
- Exceptional sound quality with a natural, balanced profile.
- Stunning design with premium materials (carbon fiber, metal).
- Comfortable fit with memory foam ear cups.
- 30-hour battery life with fast charging.
Downs:
- Noise cancellation isn’t as strong as some competitors like Sony or Bose.
- High price tag, particularly when compared to similarly priced models.
- Bulky design may not be ideal for all users.
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Key Features to Consider When Shopping for Noise-Canceling Headphones
When looking for your next pair of noise-canceling headphones, here are a few key features to keep in mind:
- Noise Cancellation: Make sure the headphones can block out the sounds you want to escape from. Some models allow you to adjust the level of cancellation to fit different environments.
- Sound Quality: Look for headphones that offer clear, well-rounded sound. If you’re a music lover, you’ll want headphones that handle bass, midrange, and treble equally well.
- Comfort: If you wear headphones for long periods, comfort is essential. Look for padded ear cups and lightweight designs that won’t hurt your ears after a few hours.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life means less hassle when traveling or using your headphones throughout the day. Aim for at least 20 hours of playback.
- Additional Features: Features like touch controls, voice assistant integration, and customizable sound profiles can make your headphones even more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
The best noise-canceling headphones of 2024 combine innovation, sound quality, and comfort to provide an unbeatable listening experience. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking perfect sound, a frequent traveler looking for peace and quiet, or someone who just wants to escape the world for a while, there’s a pair of headphones that will meet your needs.
Sony, Bose, Apple, Sennheiser, and Bowers & Wilkins all offer fantastic options, each with their own unique strengths. By considering what matters most to you—be it sound quality, comfort, battery life, or design—you can confidently choose the best headphones to elevate your listening experience and block out the noise of the world.