The Best Earbud Deals This Week*
- Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen With MagSafe USB-C Charging Case — $189.99(List Price $249)
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds — $249.00(List Price $299)
- Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds — $199.95(List Price $249.95)
- Google Pixel Buds Pro Wireless Earbuds — $149.99(List Price $199.99)
- Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Noise Canceling Earbuds — $148.00(List Price $199.99)
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
Apple popularized the true wireless earbud category when it launched the original AirPods back in 2016, so it's no surprise that interest in true wireless earphones with noise cancellation has ballooned since the release of the AirPods Pro. Noise cancellation helps to block out sound around you, both passively by sealing off your ear canal and actively through specialized circuitry; the latter method is called active noise cancellation (ANC).
The good news is that you now have many excellent options across a wide range of prices. The unsurprising news is that, just as with over-ear headphones that offer noise cancellation, there are definitely some earbuds to avoid. Below, we list our current favorites for pure noise cancellation power. And, further down, we explain what you need to know before you make a buying decision.
Our Experts Have Tested 77 Products in the Headphones Category in the Past Year
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions.See how we test.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C)
Best for iPhone Users
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
The refreshed AirPods Pro remain the best value within Apple's in-ear audio lineup because they offer the most effective noise cancellation and the most pleasing sound. They also have spatial audio with head tracking (which can make non-musical content more immersive) and excellent Adaptive Audio transparency modes. A USB-C port on the case makes charging more convenient than with previous models.
Who It’s For
If you want the best earphones that work seamlessly across Apple's ecosystem, these are what you should get.
PROS
- Rich, well-balanced audio performance
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Conversation Aware feature adjusts your music volume when you speak
- Charging case has a built-in speaker, USB-C port
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
CONS
- No hi-res codec support
- EQ presets aren't adjustable
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C) Review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best Noise Cancellation Overall
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
Although Sony's WF-1000XM5 earphones produce superior sound, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer the most effective noise cancellation overall: They are extremely adept at suppressing both low and high frequencies. We also like their secure fit and the intuitive Bose Music companion app. In addition, they support the higher-quality AptX Adaptive codec for Android users.
Who It’s For
Because of their ability to block out the outside world, these are ideal for travelers and anyone who works in noisy environments. Slightly stronger options exist for audiophiles and hi-res streaming, but these earphones still deliver a top-tier audio experience.
PROS
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Crisp, full-bodied audio
- Active Aware feature blends noise cancellation and transparency modes
- Spatial audio support with head tracking
- Good Bluetooth codec support
CONS
- Case doesn’t support wireless charging
- No multipoint connectivity
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best for Audiophiles
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
Sony's WF-1000XM5 earphones don't quite overtake the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in the noise cancellation department, but they are still especially good at blocking out higher frequencies thanks to their hybrid eartips. They also produce superb sound, support the LC3 and LDAC codecs, and offer excellent mic quality.
Who It’s For
The WF-1000XM5 earphones should appeal to audiophiles more than the AirPods Pro or the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds because of their customizable EQ and high-end codec support.
PROS
- Rich bass response and crisp, detailed highs
- Adjustable in-app EQ
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Top-tier mic clarity
- Case supports wireless charging
- Hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
CONS
- Expensive
- Some bloat in companion app
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Sony WF-1000XM5 Review
Jabra Elite 10
Best for Runners
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The Jabra Elite 10 Pro earphones have an IP57 rating, so they are fantastic for high-intensity exercises. We're particularly fans of their great companion app and solid ANC. An additional HearThrough ambient listening mode helps you stay aware of your surroundings.
Who It’s For
The bass-forward sound and effective HearThrough mode make them ideal for runners. Faders for the transparency and ANC modes give you an excellent level of control, too.
PROS
- Powerful bass and bright highs
- Competitive noise cancellation
- Support for Dolby Atmos with head tracking, adjustable EQ
- High-quality build
- Case supports wireless charging
CONS
- Easy to accidentally activate on-ear buttons
- Slight masking hiss in noise cancellation mode
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Jabra Elite 10 Review
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Best Noise Cancellation Under $100
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
For their price, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds effectively dial back low-frequency rumble and do a commendable job against the mids and highs. Otherwise, they deliver a detailed audio signature, support the high-end LDAC codec on compatible Android phones, and offer good battery life. We also like that the Soundcore app has adjustable EQ and a section for customizing controls.
Who It’s For
If you have a strict budget of $100, want above-average ANC, and seek quality sound, these Anker earbuds should top your short list.
PROS
- Potent bass depth with bright highs
- Commendable noise cancellation for the price
- LDAC support for Android users
- Capable companion app includes EQ
CONS
- Default sound signature has noticeable sculpting
- Average water-resistance rating
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC Review
EarFun Air Pro 3
Best for Big Bass on a Budget
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The Earfun Air Pro 3 earbuds deliver serious bass depth and are among the most successful sub-$100 pairs at canceling distracting noise. They offer excellent connectivity options too, with support for the low-latency AptX Adaptive and LC3 codecs. Their companion app looks slightly outdated, but it has all the important features, including a six-band EQ and an area for downloading firmware updates.
Who It’s For
If you only want to spend around $100, the Air Pro 3 earphones are a natural pick for bass lovers. If ANC performance is your biggest priority, however, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds still have a slight edge.
PROS
- Deep bass response
- Quality noise cancellation for the price
- App has custom EQ
- Case supports wireless charging
CONS
- Sound signature is far from accurate
- App’s design could use more polish
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
EarFun Air Pro 3 Review
Nothing Ear (2)
Most Stylish
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The Nothing Ear (2) earphones stand out for their see-through exterior shell and support for hi-res playback via the LHDC codec. They also cancel background noise surprisingly well for the price and benefit from an effective Transparency mode. We like their highly stylized companion app, too. Just be aware that how you position them in your ears can affect how well the noise cancellation works.
Who's It For
If you value style just as much as sound quality and have a phone that supports the LHDC codec, such as the Nothing Phone (1), these earbuds are a worthy investment. They truly look like nothing else on the market.
PROS
- Excellent audio performance with robust lows and detailed highs
- Solid noise cancellation for the price
- App offers customizable EQ
- Dust- and water-resistant build
- Case supports wireless charging
- Cool see-through design
CONS
- Below-average battery life
- Case seems prone to scratches
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Nothing Ear (2) Review
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Best for Samsung Galaxy Users
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro back up quality ANC with excellent audio chops. Additionally, their Samsung Seamless Bluetooth codec for hi-res streaming (on some, but not all Galaxy devices) helps the dual drivers in each earpiece shine. And the ANC experience is above average for the price.
Who It’s For
We wish we could say all Android users, but to get the full capabilities here (including 24-bit hi-res streaming), you need a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 and One UI 4.0 or higher with 1.5GB RAM. If your device meets those base specifications, these earbuds are an obvious choice.
PROS
- Dual drivers produce fantastic bass depth and clarity
- 24-bit streaming for (some) Galaxy phone users
- Competent active noise cancellation
- Case charges wirelessly
- Waterproof design
CONS
- In-app EQ isn’t customizable
- So-so battery life
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Review
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Best for Accurate Sound
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The latest noise-cancelling earbuds from Sennheiser pick up where their predecessors left off, with excellent audio and a high-quality ANC mode. The earphones fit securely and the internal 7mm dynamic drivers deliver a frequency range of 5Hz to 21kHz. They are compatible with Bluetooth 5.2, plus support an inclusive array of Bluetooth codecs, including AAC, AptX, AptX Adaptive, and SBC.
Who It’s For
Although they don't work with LDAC or LHDC, this Sennheiser pair still offers excellent connectivity and its drivers sing. The app offers a customizable (but basic) EQ, too, though you probably don't even need to adjust the audio signature because the earphones sound superb without any tweaks.
PROS
- Excellent audio performance with rich bass and detailed highs
- Solid active noise cancellation
- App features adjustable EQ and control customizations
- Case supports wireless charging
CONS
- Sculpted default sound signature
- Limited EQ settings
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | In-Canal |
| Wireless | |
| True Wireless | |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | |
| Active Noise Cancellation |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 Review
Buying Guide: The Best Noise-Cancelling True Wireless Earbuds for 2024
Do Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Block All Sound?
Active noise cancellation debuted in over-ear and on-ear headphones first but is now prevalent in wireless earphones. As the first word of the term suggests, active noise cancellation requires power, as opposed to passive noise reduction. Battery power feeds ANC circuitry that creates a live, inverse signal of the surrounding noise using microphones. Just like how adding a negative number to its positive equivalent nets zero, the goal here is to offset the ambient noise with inverse sound waves.
Does it work? That depends on the manufacturer and the character of the surrounding noise. Even good ANC is typically far more effective against low to mid frequencies,especially unchanging, drone-like sounds such as from an engine or an appliance. The very best ANC does the same for some higher-frequency sounds, like office chatter and keyboard clicks. But a tight in-ear seal is what helps most against these sounds.
Speaking of an in-ear seal, passive noise cancellation (or passive noise isolation or passive noise reduction) uses the physical sealing-off of the ear canal to block out surrounding sound. There are no mics or batteries involved in this method, but it is, in many ways, more effective than active noise cancellation because it helps cut back frequencies across the board. Earplugs still exist for a reason—they work.
How to Buy Wireless Headphones
Bad Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: What to Avoid
Lower-quality ANC circuitry often produces an audible high-frequency hiss—like white noise or tape hiss—that masks some of the higher frequencies it can’t eliminate. The easiest way to tell if this is happening is to activate the ANC in a totally quiet environment—if your headphones seem to make the noise floor louder, they are adding a hiss. Most earbuds we test add some degree of hiss, but the quality of the ANC dictates its prevalence.
Another aspect of low-quality ANC, especially in wireless headphones and earphones, is the difference in how music (or any audio) sounds when it is active. The ANC shouldn’t change how music sounds at all, but some models we test produce wildly different sound signatures when the ANC is on, such as more bass, more treble, and higher volumes. The effect (in most cases) isn't too disruptive, but quality ANC should have no impact on audio performance.
What Is the Ambient (or Transparency) Mode?
Plenty of true wireless models include a feature that allows you to monitor your surroundings without removing the earpieces. This is useful in offices and airports, as well as for runners who need to be aware of traffic and car horns. Not all true wireless earbuds with an ambient monitoring mode also include noise cancellation, but most of the ones we’ve tested do.
Many offer on-ear controls that allow you to cycle through ANC and ambient/transparency modes. We note whether earphones include this feature—along with how well it works—in each of our reviews.
Recommended by Our Editors
How Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work (and How We Test Them)
What Are Bluetooth Codecs? A Guide to Everything From AAC to SBC
EQ 101: What Is an Equalizer and How Can It Improve Sound Quality?
Are Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Worth It?
The best true wireless earphones that deliver audiophile-pleasing audio and excellent ANC can easily cost over $300, but those aren't your only options. We're starting to see some good, budget-friendly alternatives that deliver solid noise cancellation and sound quality for under $100.
Our recommendations here cover as many different budgets as possible, so you can choose the one that works best for you. Consult our in-depth reviews to find the perfect pair and then head over to our stories onfive easy tips to extend the life of your headphonesandeight ways you're using your headphones wrong.
