Best noise-cancelling headphones under $200

Top pick: Anker Soundcore Space Q45. It's the best balance of real noise cancelling and stamina here — two ANC modes (a maximum-blocking one for transit, a lighter one for offices), around 50 hours with ANC on, and a quick top-up that buys hours in minutes. Comfortable for long stretches and easy to live with daily.

Who the others suit:

• JBL Live 770NC — if battery life is everything: adaptive ANC and a huge runtime, with a slightly more lively sound.
• Edifier WH950NB — for long-haul travel and big, warm sound from titanium-coated drivers, plus very long playtime.
• Sony WH-CH720N — the light, simple choice for commutes and calls; ANC is decent rather than class-leading.
• JLab JBuds Lux — budget-first buyers who still want ANC and marathon battery.
• Skullcandy Hesh 540 ANC — if you want spatial audio for films and games.
• E7 / COWIN — very cheap entry points; expect basic ANC and less refined sound.

Skip the Marshall Major V here: it's on-ear and has no active noise cancelling.