Noise-cancelling headphones
Over-ear wireless headphones, judged on noise cancelling, sound, comfort and battery.
The best pair of noise-cancelling headphones, according to professional reviewers, is the Sony WH-1000XM5: critic score 89 out of 100 from 12 reviews, 12 of them positive. Critics praise its sound quality and noise cancelling. The most common complaint is price.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Four years on, the XM5 is still among the most praised noise-cancelling headphones: all 12 reviewers who tested it recommend it for its noise cancelling, comfort and battery life. It doesn't fold flat and has no water resistance. Its successor, the XM6, scores about the same.
The catch: Doesn't fold, and no water resistance.
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Not the Sony WH-1000XM5? Pick by situation
How do they compare?
| Product | Score | Reviews | Agreement | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | 89 | 12 | Medium | Best overall |
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | 88 | 15 | Medium | Newest Sony |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 | 88 | 7 | Low | Longest battery |
| Apple AirPods Max 2 | 84 | 6 | Medium | For iPhone owners |
Not scored yet
We publish a score only once at least 5 professional reviews of the exact model exist.
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones · 4 of 5 reviews needed
Common questions
What is the best pair of noise-cancelling headphones?
The Sony WH-1000XM5, with a critic score of 89 from 12 professional reviews. Critics praise its sound quality and noise cancelling. The most common complaint is price.
Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Sony WH-1000XM6: which is better?
Critics score the Sony WH-1000XM5 89 and the Sony WH-1000XM6 88. We list the Sony WH-1000XM6 under “Newest Sony”. Its main drawback: costs more than the XM5 for modest gains.
Which pair of noise-cancelling headphoness do critics disagree on?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 (scores from 70 to 100).