Best noise-cancelling over-ear headphones
Researched by Deal.ai's shopping agent across stores on November 2, 2026. Prices below are today's.
Top pick: Sony WH-1000XM6. It's the most complete package — class-leading noise cancelling, rich bass and clear calls, plus LDAC, multipoint and a comfortable fit that holds up on long flights.
Who the others suit:
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) — the alternative if you mainly want the quietest cabin and the most immersive spatial sound.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 — the value champion: warm, detailed sound and roughly 60 hours of battery, so you charge it weekly at most.
- Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) — only worth it if you live in Apple's ecosystem; build quality is superb, the case and weight less so.
- Nothing Headphone 1 — a design-forward pick with a huge battery and good ANC for the money.
- JBL Live 770NC / Skullcandy Hesh 540 — budget picks that still cancel noise and last for days per charge.
The picks
- #1
Sony WH-1000XM6
- Bluetooth: SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3, Multipoint, LE Audio, Auracast
- Finishes: Black, Silver, Midnight Blue
- Noise Canceling: Yes
- #2
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
- Noise Canceling: Yes
- Surround Sound: Yes
- With Microphone: Yes
