If you buy one piece of tech this year, make it a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Whether you're working from home, commuting, or on long flights, ANC headphones deliver a focused, quiet environment on demand. We tested the top three contenders so you don't have to.
Why Noise Cancellation Matters in 2025
Open-plan offices and hybrid work have made ambient noise a daily problem. The best ANC headphones in 2025 can reduce environmental noise by up to 40 dB — equivalent to moving from a busy café to a quiet library.
Sony WH-1000XM5 — Best Overall
Sony's flagship WH-1000XM5 remains the benchmark for ANC headphones. With 8 microphones and a dedicated QN2 processor, it delivers class-leading noise cancellation that actually adapts to your environment. Battery life hits 30 hours, and Multipoint lets you connect two devices simultaneously.
**Best for:** Power users who switch between laptop and phone frequently.
Bose QuietComfort 45 — Best Comfort
Bose invented the ANC headphone category and still makes the most comfortable pair on the market. The QuietComfort 45 is lighter than the Sony and has a more neutral sound signature — ideal if you listen to podcasts or take long calls.
**Best for:** Travelers who wear headphones for 6+ hour stretches.
Apple AirPods Max — Best for Apple Ecosystem
At $549, AirPods Max is the most expensive option here. But if you're deep in the Apple ecosystem, nothing beats the seamless switching, Spatial Audio, and Conversation Awareness features. Build quality is exceptional — the aluminum ear cups feel like jewelry.
**Best for:** iPhone + Mac users who want zero-friction device switching.
Our Verdict
For most people, the **Sony WH-1000XM5** is the clear winner. It outperforms in ANC, battery, and features at a price that's $150 less than AirPods Max. If comfort is your top priority, the Bose QC45 is a worthy alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I use ANC headphones on flights?**
Yes. All three models ship with a 3.5mm adapter for in-flight entertainment systems.
**Does ANC affect audio quality?**
Modern ANC is transparent — you won't hear artifacts or degraded audio. The Sony XM5 and Bose QC45 both support aptX/AAC for high-quality Bluetooth audio.
**Are these good for calls?**
All three have dedicated call microphones. Sony's Precise Voice Pickup technology isolates your voice exceptionally well in noisy environments.