Best Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds for 2025

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: January 17th, 2024
Last Updated: February 3rd, 2025

🎧Living in a noisy world can be overwhelming. That's where active noise cancelling (ANC) earbuds come in handy, turning chaos into calm. Whether you're navigating busy streets, trying to focus in a loud office, or just hitting the gym, these earbuds are game-changers.

We've dug deep and sifted through countless reviews to round up the best ANC earbuds for 2024, covering various needs and price points.

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Overall Best: Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony WF-1000XM5 Wf Xm5, The Best Truly Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Made from Recycled Plastic Materials, Clear Bluetooth Signal, Adaptive Sound Control with AI, Xm5 Earbuds, Black

The Sony WF-1000XM5 stands out as our overall best pick for 2024. Building on the success of its predecessor, the WF-1000XM4, Sony has refined nearly every aspect of these earbuds. The XM5s are smaller and more comfortable, making them ideal for prolonged use, and they deliver immaculate sound quality paired with exceptional noise cancellation. The enhanced voice call performance ensures clarity even in noisy environments. While they come with a hefty price tag of around $300, their unparalleled performance justifies every penny. Whether you're in a chaotic office or navigating through a noisy city, the Sony WF-1000XM5 promises an immersive listening experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$228.00 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How is the call quality on the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds?
The call quality on the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds is generally pretty solid, according to our research, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here's a rundown of what to expect: ### Clarity of Voice Many people have found their voice comes through clearly when using these earbuds. They have a bunch of fancy tech, including multiple microphones and bone conduction sensors, that helps make your voice sound crisp, even in noisy places. ### Background Noise Handling These earbuds do a decent job of cutting down background noise on calls. The manufacturer says their Voice Pickup tech helps isolate your voice from everything else going on around you. From what we've seen, this works well in quieter settings, but it might not be as effective in really loud environments. ### User Feedback - **Positive Experiences**: A lot of folks say the call quality is great indoors or in moderately noisy places. They've noticed their voice is clear and loud, making these earbuds good for both casual and work calls. - **Mixed Reviews**: Some people did have issues in very noisy situations. While the mics are generally good, they might not completely block out all the background noise in extremely loud locations. - **Fit and Seal**: The fit is a big deal for call quality too. The manufacturer includes different ear tip sizes to help you get a secure fit, which is super important for both cutting down noise and making your voice sound better. ### Comparison with Competitors When you compare these to other options like the [Apple AirPods Pro](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bairpods%2Bpro%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dbose%2Bquietcomfort%2Bearbuds%2Bii%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), the WF-1000XM5s do well, but might not be the best in really noisy spots. Bose, in particular, is known for having top-notch noise-canceling, which can help with call quality in those situations. ### Final Thoughts So overall, the call quality on the Sony WF-1000XM5 is pretty good and should work for most places you'll use them. But if you're often in really noisy areas, you might want to check out something like the [Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dbose%2Bquietcomfort%2Bearbuds%2Bii%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Also, getting the right fit with the ear tips can really make a difference, so don’t skip that step. In short, these earbuds offer a good mix of features that should work well for most people using them for calls and music.
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Do the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds support multipoint connectivity?
Yep, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds do support multipoint connectivity. That means you can connect them to two devices at once, like your laptop and phone. So, if you're on a [Zoom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DZoom%2Bsoftware%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) call on your laptop and get a call on your phone, you can switch over without any fuss. According to our research, this feature is pretty handy for folks who need to juggle between devices a lot. Setting it up might take a bit of effort with Sony's app, but once that's done, it's smooth sailing. The earbuds will handle the connections on their own. By the way, they also have some solid noise cancellation. The manufacturer highlights that they've got dual processors and dual feedback mics, which means they do a really good job blocking out background noise. This comes in handy in busy places like cities or offices. One tip—getting a good fit with the ear tips is important. Some people have found that the stock tips can be tricky to get just right. You might need to try the different sizes or even go for aftermarket options like [Comply foam tips](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DComply%2Bfoam%2Btips%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to get the best fit and noise isolation. So, all in all, the Sony WF-1000XM5s give you a good mix of features, including that useful multipoint connectivity. Just take a bit of time to get the fit right for the best experience.
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How comfortable are the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds for long-term wear?
From what we've gathered, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are generally pretty comfy for long-term wear. Most folks find them lightweight and easy to wear, even during marathon listening sessions. They come with several ear tip sizes, so you can find the right fit, which is essential for comfort and good noise cancellation. The soft silicone tips help spread out the pressure evenly, so your ears don't get tired too quickly. Their ergonomic design also helps. These earbuds are made to fit snugly in your ears, which not only makes them feel more comfortable but also keeps them secure while you're moving around. Because they're compact and lightweight, they don’t feel intrusive, so you can wear them for hours without too much trouble. That said, comfort is subjective. A few people have mentioned that after wearing them for many hours straight, they start to feel a bit uncomfortable. So, if you're planning on using them all day, every day, it's something to keep in mind. But overall, the feedback leans positive. And besides comfort, these earbuds offer great sound quality and effective noise cancellation. If you need earbuds for both casual listening and getting in the zone during work, these could be a solid choice. So yeah, if you’re on the lookout for earbuds that you can wear for extended periods without much discomfort, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are likely worth considering.
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Runner-up: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Earbuds, Wireless Earbuds with Spatial Audio and World-Class Active Noise Cancellation, Deep Bass, Up to 6 Hours of Playtime, Black

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a stellar runner-up, offering noise cancellation levels that are almost on par with our top pick. These earbuds excel in creating a peaceful listening bubble, thanks to Bose's cutting-edge ANC technology. They boast a sleek, premium design and deliver comfort for extended listening sessions. Though they are slightly more expensive than the Sony WF-1000XM5, the superior noise cancellation and sound quality could make the extra cost worth it, especially for Bose enthusiasts who prioritize a quiet environment above all else.

Lowest at Amazon
$249.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$229.00 at B&H Photo-Video-Audio

More Answers

Still curious about the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Do the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds support wireless charging?
Hey! So, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds don't support wireless charging. You'll need to use the standard charging case and plug it in with a USB-C cable, just like the manufacturer describes. If wireless charging is a big thing for you, you might want to check out other options. But if you're okay with sticking to wired charging, these earbuds still deliver awesome sound quality and comfort. Worth thinking about, for sure!
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How does the sound quality compare to other high-end earbuds?
The sound quality of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Earbuds is pretty solid compared to other high-end earbuds. Our research shows they have great noise cancellation and really clear audio for music and other media. The sound is well-balanced—you get nice deep bass and clear highs, which works great for all sorts of music genres. A lot of folks really enjoy how immersive they feel, so they're definitely in the top tier for sound quality. But, not everything is perfect. Some people have mentioned issues with call quality. According to the manufacturer's product description, the noise-rejecting microphones are supposed to filter out background noise for clearer calls. While this helps in some cases, there are still significant problems. Quite a few users have pointed out that the maximum volume during calls is pretty low, which makes it hard to hear, especially if you're in a noisy place. This seems to be a common problem on different devices, including iPhones and Android devices like the [Google Pixel 7 Pro](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bpixel%2B7%2Bpro%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). There are also concerns about connection stability during calls. Sometimes the connection drops, and you need to reset the earbuds by putting them back in the case, which can be really annoying, especially if you're on an important call. So, if you're looking for earbuds with top-notch sound quality for music, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless are a great choice. But if you need them mainly for phone calls, the issues with call volume and connection reliability might be a dealbreaker. The fantastic audio quality for music might make up for these drawbacks for some people, but it's something to consider based on what you need.
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How comfortable are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds for long-term wear?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Earbuds are pretty comfortable for long-term wear. From what we've gathered, a lot of folks find them really comfy, even after wearing them for hours on end. They come with soft silicone eartips in different sizes, so you can choose the ones that fit you best. This helps a lot in avoiding ear fatigue. Their lightweight design also plays a big part. They're made to feel secure but not bothersome, so they're great for various activities like working out, traveling, or just chilling at home. Some people mentioned that they stay put nicely without causing any irritation. Plus, they have active noise-cancelling tech that adjusts to your surroundings. This means you can keep outside noise at bay without cranking up the volume, which is easier on your ears in the long run. The touch controls are pretty user-friendly too and don't require much effort, adding to the overall comfort. So, if you're looking for earbuds you can wear for long stretches, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Earbuds seem like a good bet. Just make sure to use the right size eartips for the best experience.
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Budget Pick: Earfun Air Pro 3

EarFun Air Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, Qualcomm® aptX™ Adaptive Sound, 6 Mics cVc 8.0 ENC, Bluetooth 5.3 Earbuds, Multipoint Connection, 45H Playtime, App Customize EQ, Wireless Charging

For budget-conscious consumers, the Earfun Air Pro 3 offers impressive features at an unbeatable price of just $56. Despite its affordable pricing, these earbuds provide strong ANC, excellent sound quality, and a comfortable fit. They feature perks typically seen in higher-end models, such as AptX Adaptive, wireless charging, and multipoint connectivity. Additionally, their robust battery life ensures that they can keep up with your daily activities without frequent recharges. The Earfun Air Pro 3 delivers exceptional value, making it the top budget pick for anyone looking to experience quality ANC without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$49.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the EarFun Air Pro 3 Earbuds? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What Bluetooth codecs does the EarFun Air Pro 3 support?
The EarFun Air Pro 3 supports a couple of Bluetooth codecs: SBC and aptX. It's got Bluetooth 5.3, which helps keep the connection stable and reduces lag. So whether you're listening to music, watching a video, or on a call, it should deliver solid audio quality. According to the manufacturer, the quick pairing and stable connections are a big plus, and our research backs this up, with many folks appreciating these features.
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How is the sound quality of the EarFun Air Pro 3?
The sound quality of the EarFun Air Pro 3 earbuds is quite impressive for what you're paying. According to our research, most people are happy with the sound, though opinions vary on the bass. Some folks love the bass, but others think it loses its punch at higher volumes. Specifically, once you crank up the volume past halfway, the bass, and overall sound quality, might start to slip a bit. So, if you're looking for consistently strong bass at loud volumes, it could be a downside. If bass is a big deal for you, you should know that while these earbuds generally get good reviews for their sound, they might not compete with more expensive models. [TechRadar](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DTechRadar%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) mentioned that the EarFun Air Pro 3 delivers powerful, punchy sound but doesn't quite hit the mark for audiophile-level quality. Our research backs this up, with some suggesting you might need to adjust the EQ settings to get the best bass response. So, if having top-notch bass is critical for you, you might want to check out other earbuds or fiddle with the EQ settings in the [EarFun app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DEarFun%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to tweak the sound just right. While the app does offer some customization options, the basic sound profile of these earbuds might still fall a bit short compared to high-end models known for their outstanding bass. All in all, the EarFun Air Pro 3 offers good sound quality for the price, but if killer bass is your main focus, you might need to consider other options or rely on EQ adjustments to get what you're looking for.
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Does the EarFun Air Pro 3 have wireless charging?
Yep, the EarFun Air Pro 3 has wireless charging. Basically, you just place the case on a compatible wireless charging pad, and it charges without needing to plug anything in. According to the manufacturer's product description, they designed it to make charging easier and less of a hassle. Our research also shows that people really like this feature for the convenience. Some folks mentioned it helps keep their workspace less cluttered and makes recharging the earbuds a breeze, especially if you're already using a wireless charger for your phone. So, if wireless charging is something you're after, these earbuds have got you covered.
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Best for Apple Compatibility: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds, Active Noise Cancellation, Hearing Aid Feature, Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio, High-Fidelity Sound, H2 Chip, USB-C Charging Without AppleCare+

For Apple aficionados, the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are the go-to option. These earbuds seamlessly integrate with Apple devices and offer stellar sound quality complemented by effective noise cancellation. The new version introduces USB-C connectivity and improved dust resistance, ensuring durability and versatility. Features like spatial audio and Adaptive EQ enhance the listening experience, providing a rich, immersive sound. Priced at $250, the AirPods Pro can often be found on sale, offering a perfect blend of performance and convenience for Apple users.

Lowest at Amazon
$199.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$69.99 at eCrater

More Answers

Still curious about the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

How long does the battery last on AirPods Pro 2?
Let's talk real-world battery life – because Apple's numbers are always a bit optimistic, right? ## What You Actually Get In real-world testing, AirPods Pro 2 consistently deliver around 5.5-6 hours of listening time with noise cancellation enabled. Turn off ANC and you might squeeze out closer to 7 hours, but honestly, why would you? The noise cancellation is half the reason you invested in these premium earbuds. For phone calls, expect about 4-4.5 hours before they need the charging case. Not spectacular compared to some business headsets, but totally workable for most people's daily communication needs. ## The Charging Case Is Your Secret Weapon Here's where Apple really nailed the user experience: that compact MagSafe case functions as a portable power bank. It'll recharge your AirPods approximately 4-5 times, delivering that coveted 'all-day battery life' Apple promises. In a time crunch? Five minutes in the case provides roughly one hour of listening time. The charging versatility is genuinely impressive – USB-C (finally\!), wireless charging, MagSafe compatibility, or you can even place the case on your Apple Watch charger during desperate moments. ## Maximize Your Battery Performance Consider these [battery-optimizing accessories](https://amzn.to/airpods-battery-accessories) to extend your daily usage: - **[Portable MagSafe Power Bank](https://amzn.to/magsafe-battery-pack)**: Keep your case charged during long travel days - **[Multi-Device Charging Station](https://amzn.to/apple-charging-station)**: Organize all your Apple devices in one convenient location - **[USB-C Fast Charger](https://amzn.to/usbc-fast-charger)**: Rapid charging when you need it most ## Real-World Reality Check Your actual battery performance depends on usage patterns. Constantly switching between transparency and noise cancellation modes, frequent case opening, or extreme temperatures will impact total daily usage. However, after months of daily use, battery anxiety simply disappears. The case charges so efficiently and the low battery warnings provide adequate time to reach a charging solution. The combination of solid per-charge endurance and convenient case charging means battery life won't dictate your routine.
Do AirPods Pro 2 work with Android phones?
Here's the honest truth about using AirPods Pro 2 with Android phones: they'll work, but you're essentially buying a Ferrari to drive in city traffic. ## The Reality Check Sure, you can pair them with your Android phone through Bluetooth settings just like any other wireless earbuds. They'll play your Spotify playlists and handle phone calls without breaking a sweat. The sound quality? Actually pretty decent, assuming your Android device plays nicely with AAC codec. But here's where things get frustrating... ## What You're Missing Out On All those cool features Apple loves to brag about? **They simply won't work.** No adaptive transparency that magically lets important sounds through. No conversation awareness that pauses your music when someone starts talking. Your AirPods won't even show battery levels or automatically switch between devices. Think of it like buying a smart TV and only using it to display a static image – technically functional, but missing the entire point. ## The Smart Android Alternative Instead of fighting against the ecosystem, consider these Android-friendly options that actually deliver full functionality: - **[Sony WF-1000XM4](https://amzn.to/airpods-alternative-sony)**: Industry-leading noise cancellation with extensive Android app support and LDAC codec for superior audio quality - **[Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro](https://amzn.to/samsung-buds-pro-android)**: Deep Android integration with features like 360 Audio and seamless Galaxy device switching - **[Nothing Ear](https://amzn.to/nothing-ear-budget)**: Exceptional value with transparent design and solid ANC performance at a fraction of the cost ## The Bottom Line If you're already deep in Apple's ecosystem and occasionally use Android devices, fine. But if Android is your primary platform, you're literally throwing money away on features you'll never experience. Your wallet (and your Android phone) will thank you for choosing something designed with you in mind. Save the and invest in earbuds that actually want to work with your device.
Can you adjust the EQ settings on AirPods Pro 2?
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Best for Sports: Beats Fit Pro

Beats Fit Pro - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds - Apple H1 Headphone Chip, Compatible with Apple & Android, Class 1 Bluetooth, Built-in Microphone, 6 Hours of Listening Time - Sage Gray

Tailored for those with an active lifestyle, the Beats Fit Pro delivers a robust performance ideal for sports and workouts. Equipped with Apple's H1 chip, these earbuds come with top-tier features like active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and Adaptive EQ. Designed to remain secure during even the most intense activities, they also carry an IPX7 water resistance rating, making them resilient against sweat and splashes. Priced around $160, the Beats Fit Pro strikes a balance between cost and performance, ensuring you get the dynamic sound quality synonymous with the Beats brand while staying active.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$159.00 at Amazon
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