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What is the sound quality like on the Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones?

January 25th 2024

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What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5?

September 9th 2024

Best Adaptive Noise Cancelling Headphones 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: June 17th, 2024

🎧Tired of constant noise while you’re trying to focus, commute, or just jam to your favorite tunes? Adaptive noise cancelling (ANC) headphones might be exactly what you need to find some peace and quiet in the chaos.

We’ve dug through countless expert reviews and put some serious time into testing to bring you the best ANC headphones of 2024. Whether you’re looking for all-round champs or something that won't break the bank, we’ve got some great recommendations for you.

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Overall Best: Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones, Made Of Soft Fit Synthetic Leather, Integrated Processor V1, With 4 Beamforming Microphones, Up To 30-Hour Battery Life, Midnight Blue

The Sony WH-1000XM5 takes the crown for the overall best adaptive noise cancelling headphones of 2024. This fifth-generation model of Sony's acclaimed 1000X series offers substantial improvements in voice calling and noise cancellation. Lightweight and comfortable, they are perfect for extended listening sessions. The headphones boast superb sound quality, an array of smart features, and excellent build quality. While they might be pricier than their predecessors, the Sony WH-1000XM5's enhanced performance and feature set justify the investment, making them the quintessential all-rounder according to our research.

Lowest at Amazon

$398.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$314.99 at Sweetwater

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

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How is the sound quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5?

So, if you're curious about the sound quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5, here's the lowdown. From what we've gathered, these headphones really impress in terms of performance. You'll find the mids are clear, the highs are crisp, and the bass is deep, which makes them great for pretty much any type of music or audio you like. Everything sounds really well-balanced, so you won't get hit with overpowering bass or sharp high notes—just a nice, immersive listening experience. There's also a good sense of depth and detail, letting you catch all those little elements in your favorite tracks that you might miss with other headphones. What's also cool about the WH-1000XM5 is its noise-cancelling ability. The manufacturer says they use top-notch noise-cancelling tech, and based on what we've found, that's definitely true. They do a great job of blocking out ambient noise, whether you're on a plane or at a busy café, making the listening experience far more peaceful. Another thing to mention is the support for high-resolution audio formats. The manufacturer claims these headphones are compatible with LDAC, which means if you've got a device that supports it, you can stream high-quality audio that really stands out—perfect if you're an audiophile or just love high-quality sound. Comfort-wise, the WH-1000XM5s don't disappoint either. The ear cushions are super plush and the design is lightweight, so you can wear them for long periods without discomfort. This comfy fit also helps with the noise cancellation and overall sound quality, creating a good seal around your ears. So, if you're after headphones that deliver on sound quality and noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a fantastic option. They're great for both casual listening and more serious audiophile moments.

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How comfortable are the Sony WH-1000XM5 for long listening sessions?

The **Sony WH-1000XM5** headphones are pretty comfortable, especially for long listening sessions. Our research indicates they’re designed with comfort in mind. They’ve got these really soft, pressure-relieving earpads made from synthetic leather that sits nicely around your ears. This definitely helps if you’re wearing them for long workdays or while traveling. The manufacturer's product description mentions that they’re lightweight too, which helps reduce strain on your head and neck over time. Plus, they have an adjustable headband and swiveling earcups so you can get a snug fit. This is useful for finding that perfect fit without pressure spots—something heavier headphones often miss. According to our research, lots of people find these features great for extended listening. The weight is well-distributed, so there shouldn't be any pressure points, and the active noise-canceling really enhances the overall listening experience. It’s also worth noting that they’re quite breathable, which keeps your ears cool even during longer sessions. So yeah, if you plan to use them for hours on end, the Sony WH-1000XM5 seems like a solid choice with their soft materials, lightweight design, and adjustable features.

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What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones have a pretty solid battery life. According to the manufacturer's description, you can get up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, even with noise-canceling switched on. Basically, you can listen to your tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks all day without worrying about charging. From what we've found, a lot of people even say the battery lasts that long or sometimes a bit longer, depending on usage. And if you’re in a rush and need a quick boost, a 10-minute charge can give you up to 5 hours of playtime. That quick-charge feature is super useful for those times when you're on the go and need a quick top-up.

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Runner-up: Master & Dynamic MW75

MASTER & DYNAMIC MG20 Wireless Gaming Headphones - Galactic White

Our runner-up pick, the Master & Dynamic MW75, is a premium choice for those who value high-end build quality and superior sound. Priced at $599, these headphones support the aptX Adaptive codec, making them particularly attractive to Android users seeking top-notch wireless audio performance. They also offer reliable noise cancelling and exceptional voice-calling capabilities, with AAC codec support for seamless use with iPhones. Though they come with a hefty price tag, their durability and sound quality assure that you get what you pay for.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$449.00 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless

Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones, 60H Playtime, Hi-Res Audio, Deep Bass, Memory Foam Ear Cups, for Travel, Home Office

The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless headphones are our top budget pick, offering decent ANC performance and quality sound at a wallet-friendly price. These headphones effectively reduce ambient noise and deliver over 30 hours of continuous playtime, making them a solid choice for those not wanting to splurge. While they may lack some of the high-end features found in premium models, their overall performance and affordability make them an excellent pick for budget-conscious buyers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$39.90 at Amazon

Best for Apple Fans: Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone – Sky Blue

For Apple enthusiasts, the Apple AirPods Max stand out as the optimal choice. These headphones offer seamless integration with iOS devices, superior sound quality, and exceptional noise cancellation. Even though they don't include a 3.5mm audio port and lack some features when used with non-Apple devices, their premium build and iOS-specific functionalities make them a must-have for anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$459.00 at Amazon

Best for Audiophiles: Focal Bathys

Focal Bathys Over-Ear Hi-Fi Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancelation Black/Gray Large

The Focal Bathys headphones are perfect for audiophiles demanding high-fidelity sound coupled with effective ANC capabilities. These headphones deliver exceptional hi-res audio support and a comfortable fit for prolonged listening sessions. While their noise isolation might not match some other models, their remarkable sound quality and craftsmanship make them a superior choice for those who prioritize audio excellence.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$699.00 at Amazon

Best for Movies: Sonos Ace

Sonos Ace - Black - Wireless Over Ear Headphones with Noise Cancellation

The Sonos Ace headphones are a cinephile's dream, designed to offer powerful sound and impeccable noise cancellation for movie watching. These headphones excel in providing clear dialogue and enthralling audio environments, making them perfect for binge-watching your favorite films. Although they experience a significant drop in battery life when used with the Sonos Arc and might not be as impressive for music playback, they remain unbeatable for cinematic experiences.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$431.82 at Amazon

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