Let’s be real—2025 is louder than ever. Whether you’re on a packed subway, working in a café with blaring music, or just trying to catch some peace during a flight, the right pair of noise cancelling earbuds can be a lifesaver. I’ve personally tested more than 15 models this year, and I’ve rounded up the best noise cancelling earbuds of 2025 just for you. From budget-friendly picks to premium beasts with crystal-clear audio, I’ve got something for every ear and every wallet.
What Makes Noise Cancelling Earbuds a Must-Have in 2025?
Noise cancelling technology has come a long way. Today’s earbuds don’t just block noise—they adapt to your environment, fine-tune sound, and keep you connected without wires getting in the way. For many, especially those working remotely or living in cities, these earbuds become part of the daily survival kit.
But with so many options flooding the market, how do you choose? That’s where this review comes in. I’ve handpicked five earbuds that stood out in my tests, balancing price, features, and overall experience.
1.Sony WF-1000XM5
Alright, let me spill the beans about the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds—I’ve been rocking these for about a month now, and honestly, it’s been quite the ride. From their fit to the sound and noise cancelling, here’s the real deal from someone who’s actually used them day in, day out.Ever slipped on earbuds that just feel right em the second you put them in? That’s exactly how these felt for me. No fussing, no fiddling—just pure, snug comfort. Sony really nailed it with the design here. They made them smaller and lighter, so they don’t feel like little plastic chunks fighting your ears. I actually wore them through a grueling three-hour Zoom meeting (yeah, those torture sessions we all dread), and by the end, I completely forgot they were even there. That’s comfort done right.
here’s where I might get a bit gushy, but the sound? It’s a total chef’s kiss. The bass hits deep but stays clean—none of that muddy mess you sometimes get. Mids and highs are crisp and clear, so you start noticing details you never caught before, like background vocals or guitar slides. One random afternoon, I threw on some Fleetwood Mac (don’t judge me), and the track “Dreams” felt totally immersive—like I was wrapped in a cozy sonic bubble. I literally sat back, closed my eyes, and just let the music wash over me. Total meditation vibes.Living in Brooklyn means noise is part of the daily soundtrack—sirens, jackhammers, car horns—you name it. But these earbuds? They wiped out a huge chunk of that chaos. I walked past a guy using a jackhammer and barely even flinched. That’s not normal. On a recent flight, I played ambient rain sounds with ANC on, and I seriously forgot I was 30,000 feet in the air with a crying baby two rows back. That baby? Sony pretty much Thanos-snapped it out of existence.
Battery Life & Controls: Mostly Wins
The battery lasts solidly around 7-8 hours on a full charge, which easily covers a whole day of heavy use. Plus, the quick charge is a lifesaver—just five minutes plugged in gets you an hour of playback. (I’ve tested this multiple times because I’m constantly forgetting to charge my gear.) As for touch controls, they work well, but there’s a learning curve. One time, I tried adjusting them with gloves on—bad idea—and the music kept pausing like it was scolding me. Just a heads up, it’s not always perfect.
Key Specs & Features:
- Battery Life: 8 hours (30 with case)
- Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC support
- Adaptive ANC with Ambient Sound Mode
- IPX4 water resistance
- Speak-to-Chat feature
Performance & Testing:
Using these earbuds at my noisy local café, I found the noise cancelling so good that even loud conversations became distant murmurs. Music retained clarity without distortion, which is no small feat.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top-tier noise cancellation | Touch controls can be finicky |
| Excellent sound quality | Relatively expensive |
| Comfortable for long wear | No wireless charging case |
| Long battery life | Bulky charging case |
2. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
So, here’s the scoop—Bose has been my trusty sidekick for years, and their QuietComfort Earbuds II definitely lived up to the hype. If you’re super picky about comfort and noise cancelling (like me, always hunting for that perfect fit), these might just be the earbuds you didn’t know you needed.I swear, slipping these earbuds in feels like your ears got a gentle, personalized hug. Thanks to Bose’s nifty CustomTune technology, they actually mold to the shape of your ear canal, which does wonders—not just for the noise cancelling but also for making them feel like you’re barely wearing anything. I remember one time on the subway, completely lost in my music, and it hit me—I’d totally forgotten these were even there. That kind of comfort? Rare as a unicorn, honestly.
The sound signature is cozy without being dull. Vocals pop like they’re front row at a concert, bass hits just right—nice and tight but never booming to the point of drowning everything else out—and the highs are silky smooth. Whether I’m deep into podcasts or just zoning out to my favorite playlists, these earbuds create a soundscape that feels really natural and inviting. One lazy Sunday afternoon, I got so wrapped up in a story that I didn’t even notice the time flying by.The noise cancelling here is where Bose really flexes its muscles. Their personalized ANC cuts out a crazy range of noises—from that constant urban street hum to unexpected dog barks that usually make me jump. I’ll never forget chilling in a bustling park once; with these buds on, it was like stepping into a peaceful bubble, almost surreal how quiet everything got. It’s like having your own little calm zone, wherever you go.
Battery Life & Controls: Solid, But Not Perfect
Battery-wise, you’re looking at about 6 hours per charge, with the case throwing in another 18 hours—so they keep up even on my busiest days. The touch controls feel intuitive most of the time, but I’ve caught them being a bit too sensitive on occasion, which can lead to some accidental pauses or skips. Nothing deal-breaking, but worth knowing if you’re a bit clumsy like me.
Key Specs & Features:
- Battery Life: 6 hours (24 with case)
- Bluetooth 5.3
- CustomTune personalized ANC
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance
- Touch controls with customizable gestures
Performance & Testing:
I tested these buds during a hectic workday filled with interruptions and noisy distractions. They carved out a sonic bubble that let me focus. Phone calls were crystal clear, even on busy streets.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent personalized ANC | Shorter battery life per charge |
| Very comfortable fit | Bulky design might not suit all |
| Rich, balanced sound | Touch controls can be overly sensitive |
| Good sweat resistance | Premium price tag |
Buy Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II on Amazon
3. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Alright, let me just say—Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) really shook things up for me. As an Apple fan who’s all-in on their ecosystem, these earbuds fit right in like they were made just for me, which is a big deal. It’s like they just “get” how I use my devices every day.These earbuds are super sleek and surprisingly light. With several ear tip sizes included, finding the right fit is usually a breeze. I’ve taken them on my morning jogs multiple times, and they actually stay put—no constant adjusting or worrying they’ll fall out, which is a huge plus when you’re moving around.
Sound-wise, the AirPods Pro deliver a sharp, clear audio experience. They really shine with vocals and podcasts—every word feels crisp and easy to follow. Plus, the spatial audio feature adds this cool immersive vibe, especially noticeable when watching movies or playing games. It’s like you’re right there in the middle of the action.The upgraded Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) is pretty impressive—it does a solid job at drowning out background chatter, traffic sounds, and other annoying distractions. One feature I love is Transparency mode; it’s perfect for when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, like catching announcements at the airport, without having to take your earbuds off.
Battery Life & Controls: Reliable, With a Tiny Learning Curve
Battery life is decent—around 6 hours of playtime per charge, and the charging case gives you multiple top-ups throughout the day. The force sensor controls on the stems are precise but took me a little while to get used to; at first, I kept accidentally triggering functions, but now it feels natural.
Key Specs & Features:
- Battery Life: 6 hours (30 with case)
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Improved ANC and Transparency mode
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance
Performance & Testing:
I often rely on these buds during travel. On a recent flight, they made the noisy cabin bearable. I also appreciate how switching between my iPhone and MacBook is seamless—no lag, no fuss.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Seamless Apple ecosystem integration | Battery life could be better |
| Great ANC and Transparency modes | Sound may lack bass for some |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Expensive |
| Spatial audio adds immersive experience | Limited customization outside Apple devices |
Buy Apple AirPods Pro2 on Amazon
4. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Okay, if you really care about sound quality—like, the kind that makes you wanna close your eyes and just *feel* the music—the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 should definitely be on your radar. Honestly, I’m pretty picky when it comes to audio gear, but these earbuds managed to surprise me with their punchy, detailed sound.Right off the bat, these earbuds sit snug in your ears but don’t wear you down, even after several hours. I will admit, their slightly bigger size took me a minute to get used to—kind of like wearing a pair of shoes that are just a bit chunkier than you’re used to. But hey, that’s the price you pay for housing those powerful sound drivers inside.
Now, the sound itself? It’s rich and detailed, with a noticeable warmth in the lower mids and bass that really adds body without overpowering. The soundstage feels wide and open, which makes them perfect for everything from intricate jazz pieces to driving rock anthems. It’s the kind of clarity that makes you wanna rewind your favorite track just to catch the nuances.The ANC here is good—not the absolute beast mode of Sony or Bose—but it gets the job done. Whether you’re grinding through a noisy office or stuck on a noisy commute, these earbuds block out enough background noise to keep you focused and in the zone.
Battery Life & Controls: Old-School Buttons with Modern Reliability
You get a respectable 7 hours per charge, plus another 21 hours from the charging case, which is pretty solid for day-to-day use. The physical buttons might feel a little retro, especially if you’re used to touch controls, but honestly, they’re super reliable. No accidental pauses or skips here—just straightforward, no-nonsense control.
Key Specs & Features:
- Battery Life: 7 hours (28 with case)
- Bluetooth 5.2, aptX Adaptive support
- Adjustable ANC with Transparency mode
- IPX4 splash resistance
- Physical button controls
Performance & Testing:
Using these earbuds during a crowded train ride, I noticed how well they kept ambient noise at bay without sacrificing sound clarity. On calls, voices were natural and free of robotic artifacts.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional sound quality | ANC not the strongest |
| Long battery life | Physical buttons might be less convenient |
| Comfortable for long sessions | Larger earbuds may not suit all |
| Good build quality | Pricey |
Buy Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 on Amazon
5. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Alright, saving one of the best for last — the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. If you’re deep into the Android world, especially rocking Samsung devices, these earbuds are like the perfect sidekick. They just click with the ecosystem and offer a killer combo of features and ease of use.These buds are tiny and super lightweight, almost forget-you’re-wearing-them kind of vibe. Plus, Samsung’s smart move including multiple silicone tip sizes means you can find that sweet spot for a tight seal — no annoying slipping or pressure points. Honestly, I wore them on a few long walks and they stayed put without making me want to yank them out.
The sound is crisp, clear, and nicely balanced, with bass that hits just right — not overpowering but definitely punchy. What I really liked is how you can customize the audio through Samsung’s app equalizer, so whether you’re into booming bass or crystal-clear mids, you can dial it in exactly how you want. For someone like me who tweaks every little sound detail, that’s a big win.The active noise cancelling here works impressively well, especially for blocking out those mid to high-frequency sounds — think chatter, city traffic, even that random honk that always surprises you. I took these for a spin on a bustling street, and it was like flipping a switch to peace and quiet. Not quite the total silence of some premium models, but definitely enough to keep distractions at bay.
Battery Life & Controls: Easy and Efficient
You get around 5 hours of listening per charge, plus an extra 18 hours from the charging case. The touch controls are intuitive — tap, swipe, done — and switching between devices is seamless, which is a godsend if you’re juggling a phone, tablet, or laptop throughout the day.
Key Specs & Features:
- Battery Life: 5 hours (23 with case)
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Advanced ANC with voice detect
- 360 Audio with head tracking
- IPX7 water resistance
Performance & Testing:
Using the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro at the gym, the snug fit kept them in place through intense workouts. Music sounded immersive, and the ANC blocked out gym noise surprisingly well.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great fit for small ears | Battery life on the shorter side |
| Excellent sound customization | Best features locked in Samsung ecosystem |
| Strong ANC for the price | Touch controls can be sensitive |
| Water resistant up to IPX7 | Somewhat expensive |
Buy Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro on Amazon
Final Verdict
Choosing the best noise cancelling earbuds depends on your priorities—whether that’s sound quality, comfort, battery life, or ecosystem integration. For pure ANC power and sound, Sony’s WF-1000XM5 leads the pack. If you want comfort and personalized noise cancelling, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are superb. Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are unbeatable for Apple users, while audiophiles will appreciate Sennheiser Momentum’s sound fidelity. Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer great value and features for Android fans.
Whatever you choose, investing in a quality pair of noise cancelling earbuds can transform how you experience daily life. If you want my honest opinion, I’d pick Sony for versatility or Bose for comfort. But hey, your ears, your rules.
Happy listening!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Are noise cancelling earbuds safe to use while driving?
A:Generally, it’s safer to avoid full noise cancelling when driving because you need to hear ambient sounds for safety. Many earbuds include “Transparency Mode” or “Ambient Sound Mode” to let outside sounds in, which is recommended while driving.
Q:How long do noise cancelling earbuds last?
A:On average, noise cancelling earbuds last around 2-3 years with regular use. Battery degradation is usually the first sign it’s time for a replacement.
Q:Can noise cancelling earbuds damage my hearing?
A:When used responsibly at moderate volume levels, ANC earbuds do not harm your hearing. They may actually protect your ears by reducing the need to increase volume in noisy environments.
Q:Is wireless charging worth it for earbuds?
A:Wireless charging adds convenience but is not essential. If you prefer a clutter-free setup or already own Qi wireless chargers, it’s a nice bonus feature.
Best Budget Wireless Earbuds Under $50 In 2025
Our Testing Methodology
All earbuds featured in this guide were tested over a 3-week period in different environments such as flights, subways, gyms, and quiet rooms. We evaluated performance based on comfort, battery, sound clarity, noise cancelling strength, and compatibility with devices. No sponsorships influenced our ratings.
