The right noise-cancelling headphones with microphone lets you do more than cancel the noise—you can control it. With the latest devices in this buying guide, you have the power to personalize audio and noise-cancelling settings.
This gives you the leisure of listening and speaking without unwanted sounds.
When the external environment is too loud, we tend to turn up the volume, which can be earsplitting.
But with noise-cancelling headphones, you can remove or isolate unwelcome sounds, all while maintaining a tolerable volume.
Before buying a pair, you must first understand the features that produce quality audio and noise blocking performances.
Note that some models will be better at noise cancellation, while others will shine in the audio quality. So, you must find the perfect balance between the two.
In this product review, we are going to introduce 9 of the best noise-cancelling headphones to help you gain a better listening experience.
Quick Suggestions and Comparison: Best Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones with mic
They all can block noise, but each model has strengths and some drawbacks.
The Sony WH1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphone is the editor’s pick because of its customizable ANC that delivers great sound isolation.
While COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphone with Microphone is the most budget-friendly in this list, the Jabra Elite 65e Wireless Noise Cancellation balances price and quality features.
Product | Type | Weight | Noise Cancellation | Connectivity and Controls | Battery Life (Hours) | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sony WH1000XM4 | In-headband Over-ear | 1 pounds | Active Noise Cancellation | NFC pairing and Bluetooth | 30 | |
COWIN E7 | Over-ear | 1.5 pounds | Active Noise Cancellation | NFC pairing and Bluetooth | 30 | |
Jabra Elite 65e | Around-the-neck | 1 pound | Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth | 8 | |
Sony WF-1000XM3 | In-ear | 1.5 pounds | HD Noise Cancelling Processor | Bluetooth | 24 | |
Sony WI1000X/B | Behind-neck in-earbuds | 1.2 pounds | Digital Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth and USB | 10 | |
Bose Quietcontrol 30 | In-ear | 1.28 pounds | Active Noise Reduction and Volume-Optimized EQ | NFC pairing and Bluetooth | 10 | |
Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Over-ear | 1.41 pounds | Active Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth | 20 | |
Bowers & Wilkins PX | Over-ear | 2.65 pounds | Adaptive Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth aptX | 22 | |
Bose QuietComfort 20 | In-ear | 2.69 pounds | Acoustic Noise Cancelling | Wired connection | 16 |
How We Selected Products
We first picked 15 products that can cancel out the noise. Then, we narrowed the selection to nine items that have good price-to-performance ratio and bonus features.
9 Best noise cancelling headphones with microphone in 2021
Whether it’s over-ear, in-ear, around-the-neck—this list has it all! Here you will see every important detail, especially about noise cancellation, audio, and connectivity.1. Best Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Mic: Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Stereo Headset
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones combines good bass depth, high-frequency clarity, superb noise blocking, control, and comfort into only a 1-pound pair of earcups.
Noise Cancellation
A couple of design tweaks have resulted in a more powerful chip that provides more grunt in cancelling out more noise.
The newly developed model also uses industry-leading ANC that permits personalized, virtually soundproof experience.
What’s amazing is that the Smart Listening has Adaptive Sound Control. This feature automatically detects your activity.
It will balance the noise-cancelling levels whether you are walking on a crowded airport or sitting in a quiet office space.
Likewise, it has a unique personal optimizer wherein it will modify sounds depending on your sonic characteristics such as head size, hair, and eyewear.
Audio Quality
The headphones use a signal-to-noise ratio and a 32-bit audio signal processing to improve the sound quality.
When paired with the Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing feature, you get to enjoy good-sounding music or movie even when flying on a plane.
Regardless of the environment, you can hear every tune and word with clarity. Hence, there’s excellent instrumental separation and powerful bass response.
Microphone
The microphone helps isolate sound while you talk, causing an improved phone call quality.
This model also comes with extra microphones to detect various kinds of external noise.
Consequently, the microphone dedicates a voice input to make phone conversations clearer.
Connectivity
NFC pairing and Bluetooth make phone calls and streaming hassle-free.
Power And Battery Life
Normally, the model should run for up to 30 hours. However, performance and longevity may depend on settings, usage, and environmental conditions.
Design And Ergonomics
Sony has redesigned this unit’s earcups and headband for a slimmer, more comfortable usage. This new design lessens the weight and pressure on the ears.
Likewise, it enables you to swivel and fold the ultra-soft leatherette earcups neatly into the case for portability and easy storage.
There’s also a quick attention mode where you cover the right ear cup to turn down the music for instant, easy conversation.
Bonus Features
If you are a fan of fine-tuning and personalization, then this headphone is for you.
You can use Alexa to enable hands-free voice access to music, movies, information, and more. With a button press, you can also command Google Assistant.
Furthermore, you can manage audio depending on atmospheric pressure, which is very helpful for travelers. You also have the freedom to make adjustments for ambient sound reduction.
Note that you have to download the Sony | Headphones Connect app from Google Play or the App Store.
Setbacks
- Expensive
- Cable lacks inline remote.
- Google Assistant may not work all the time.
Should You Buy It?
Totally, especially if you want to block ambient noises without sacrificing good sound quality.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones boasts excellent audio performance, as well as exceptional noise cancellation.
This is worth the splurge if you want great comfort, unique pressure equalization feature, and personalization settings.
2. Budget Pick : COWIN E7 Pro Bluetooth Active Noise Cancelling Headphone with Microphone
The COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone optimizes advanced active noise reduction technology that subdues noise in city traffic, busy office, and airplane cabin.
Noise Cancellation
The Active Noise Cancelling provides crisp, powerful sound and quiet to help you enjoy music, audiobooks, and movies.
The brand’s ANC cancels out lower frequency sounds like traffic noise, vehicle noise, engines, and aviation environment.
As a result, outside noises won’t disturb you when taking in calls. However, ANC won’t cancel out sounds like talking or snoring.
Audio Quality
For starters, there are 40mm big speaker drivers for deep, powerful sound.
The speakers produce clear vocals, precise guitars, crisp percussion, and clean bass. You’ll even discover subtle details in the quality.
Microphone
The model comes with high-quality built-in microphone for hands-free calls.
Connectivity
The NFC pairing assists in voice prompts, making a quick and stable connection with your Bluetooth enabled devices.
Power And Battery Life
A built-in 600 Ah battery lets you enjoy more than 30 hours of playtime at Bluetooth mode.
You don’t have to worry about charging, especially when you are on a long trip.
Design And Ergonomics
At 1.5 pounds, this lightweight and skin texture device provides a comfortable around-ear fit you can wear all day long.
It comes with Professional Protein Earpad and 90-degree swiveling earcups. With this kind of quality and durability, you’ll get to experience long-listen comfort.
Bonus Features
The tuning control can turn the ANC on and off, manage the volume, and answer calls.
Setbacks
- Stronger bass than expected.
- Affordability comes with some design quality drawbacks.
Should You Buy It?
If you are a frequent flyer or daily commuter, then the COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone is for you.
The Professional Active Noise Cancelling Technology significantly lessens noise for travel, work, and sleep.
Whether you are using wire and wireless modes, the noise cancellation lets you focus whatever you want to hear.
3. Price-To-Performance: Jabra Elite 65e Alexa Enabled in-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone With Mic
The Jabra Elite 65e Wireless Noise Cancellation has strong noise cancellation and powerful, bass-forward audio—all at an affordable price tag. The four microphones further reduce noise to create a business-quality background.
Noise Cancellation
This device cancels out background sounds using professional-grade Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation.
The ANC is powerful enough to make a bustling mall sound as quiet as a library.
Audio Quality
There’s a customizable equalizer that lets you personalize sounds to the way you want to hear it. It also makes use of EQ bands to fine-tune audio.
Microphone
This model’s three-microphone call technology delivers superior conversation quality. Likewise, it has a noise-blocking zone that ensures your voice is crystal-clear.
Connectivity
Uses Bluetooth 5.0 for operation.
Power And Battery Life
When the ANC off, you can take advantage of the device’s 13-hour lifespan.
However, you can only use the battery for up to eight hours when ANC is on.
Design And Ergonomics
It utilizes oval-shaped and snug-fitting Jabra EarGels, so the ANC with Passive Noise Cancellation will work properly.
Bonus Features
What’s cool about this around-the-neck noise-cancelling headphones is its simple and direct voice command.
As a result, you gain one-touch access to Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri, and Amazon. This means accessing these functions and features is hands-free.
Furthermore, you can personalize your music profile, as well as modify how much nearby noise you want to hear.
Setbacks
- The auto-call feature and play button use the same control, which means you may make calls by accident while controlling music.
4. Best Noise cancelling earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM3 Wireless Earbuds
The Sony WF-1000XM3 Noise Canceling Wireless Earbuds has an all-day capacity to block out external noise while ensuring you get the best quality audio. Its functionality, quick charging, smart features, and customization make the device a great investment.
Noise Cancellation
Sony is an expert in terms of noise-cancelling in-ear headphones, so it’s no wonder they were able to produce quality wireless in-ear devices as well.
It uses industry-leading noise canceling with HD Noise Cancelling Processor to make word, tune, and note very clear, regardless of the outside environment.
Because of these, you can effectively block out the general noise of daily life, even machine and equipment noises.
Audio Quality
It has 24-bit audio signal processing and signal-to-noise ratio that improve sound quality.
These wireless in-ears produce a well-balanced sound that's neither too bright nor too bassy.
Thanks to the DSEE HX engine, every sound becomes much better.
Power And Battery Life
One lithium polymer battery is enough to last all day. In general, a single charge stores up six hours of usage. The charging case supplies another three full charges.
If you are low on battery, charge the device for 10 minutes, then you’ll get at least 90 minutes of playback.
Design And Ergonomics
The SENSE ENGINE™ gives you the leeway to tune in and out of your music at a touch.
As for aesthetics, it comes with a copper-colored flip-lid case.
Bonus Features
The Smart Listening uses Adaptive Sound Control to automatically switch to ambient sound mode based on your activity.
More than that, the Quick Attention Mode and Wearing Detection make conversations effortless. Turn the volume down and deactivate noise canceling for instant conversation.
Remember that you need the Sony | Headphones Connect app, so you could use the Smart Listening technology to manage your ambient sound settings.
Setbacks
- Short battery life, unless you use the case as a back-up charger.
- Not sweat resistant.
- You have to use your phone to control volume levels.
5. Best Noise Cancelling Neck Band: Sony WI1000X/B Wireless Behind-Neck in Ear Headphones
The Sony WI1000X/B Premium Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones exhibits a digital noise cancellation feature to deliver a solid audio quality. This is recommendable for those who want both wired and cordless operation.
Noise Cancellation
The headphones will first detect your activity. Then, it will balance the noise-cancelling levels accordingly.
Aside from that, digital noise-cancelling uses atmospheric pressure optimizing, which is perfect for flying.
Audio Quality
This model uses smart listening to automatically adjust settings and ambient sound to your activity.
You can also use the ambient sound mode to hear important sounds without the need to take headphones off.
When you play songs or shows, the audio stays true to the original recording because of the S-Master HX. This feature lessens distortion, which then enables you to enjoy good quality audio.
Microphone
The outer panels house the ambient microphones, which are connected to the neckband via cabling. The mic provides exceptional intelligibility for phone calls and voice recording.
Connectivity
It uses an excellent Bluetooth range, but the device’s cable connects to a micro USB charging port.
Power And Battery Life
When you use the wireless noise-cancelling, the battery can last for up to 10 hours.
Design And Ergonomics
The LDAC transfers three times more data than conventional Bluetooth wireless audio. This produces High-Resolution Audio content in exceptional sound quality.
You can also enjoy hands-free calling with vibration notification.
Bonus Features
Want to have a personal Google? This is your chance! The headphones let you access Google Assistant for updates, questions, and tasks.
Use the Sony | Headphones Connect app, which has a great EQ, to manage ambient sound settings. You can also adjust the bass to improve audio.
Setbacks
- The sound signature is not recommendable for purist listeners.
- Has a bit of latency.
6. Best Best Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones with Microphone: Bose QuietControl 30
The Bose QuietControl 30 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones rolls wireless connectivity and noise blocking into one convenient unit. Rich bass and crisp highs create a solid audio performance. Meanwhile, ambient mics monitor your external environment.
Noise Cancellation
Using a companion app, you can fine-tune the adjustable noise-cancelling feature.
With active noise cancellation, you can listen to music even if you are near a construction site.
If you turn the feature off, the ambient noise pass-through lets you block noise on the streets. Yet, you will remain aware of important sounds nearby.
Audio Quality
With years of research under its belt, Bose has developed breakthrough technology that allows users to control the sounds they hear.
The volume-optimized EQ provides balanced audio performance at any volume.
Microphone
Similar to the other Bose items in this list, this model uses noise rejecting dual microphone system to lessen outside noise while delivering clearer audio.
Connectivity
The unit’s Bluetooth has a range of 10 meters. There’s also an NFC pairing, so you can connect the headphones to other devices even without a cord.
Power And Battery Life
A lithium-ion battery helps the headphones last for up to 10 hours.
Design And Ergonomics
For wearability and comfort, it comes with a lightweight neckband design, which conforms to your body.
Additionally, there are three sizes of hear+QC tips that will let you listen all day.
Bonus Features
To control the noise functionality, you can use either the playback control module or Bose’s IOS and Android app.
Setbacks
- A bit costly.
- The neckband design, which houses the controls, is not for everyone.
7. Best Active Noise Cancelling headphone: Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones produces powerful audio performance with a deep bass response and sculpted highs. Its world-class noise cancellation feature allows you to concentrate on whatever you want to. You can improve this using new on-ear controls to adjust settings.
Noise Cancellation
Did you know that Bose has led the way and commercialized noise-cancelling headphones? That alone is a testament to credibility.
This model has three levels of world-class noise cancellation for better listening experience regardless of the environment.
Audio Quality
There’s a volume-optimized EQ that gives a balanced audio performance at any volume.
Audiophiles will go crazy over the boosted-bass signature, which is favored by most die-hard audio nerds.
Design And Ergonomics
The Bose Connect app manages access to updates and personalized settings.
As for the package inclusion, you will get a carrying case, charging cable, and audio cable for enjoying music without battery power. At 1.41 pounds, the unit has a slim profile and a jet-black appearance.
Bonus Features
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones is Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more.
This second-generation unit comes with a new button that allows you to launch Google Assistant or Siri. You can use this to ask questions or command Google Home.
Moreover, the Bose AR offers an innovative, audio-only version of augmented reality.
Finally, this has a built-in multi-directional motion sensor. The Bose AR will use one to deliver contextual audio based on your surroundings.
Setbacks
- There’s no inline remote for the cable.
- The DSP affects audio at maximum volumes.
The most expensive item on this list.
Should You Buy It?
If you have to regularly listen to something in noisy environments such as workplaces and public transit,
then the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones is a sensible investment.
With a light built and wireless noise cancellation, you can concentrate on listening without looking at your phone.
8. Premium Design Choice Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones: Bowers & Wilkins PX
The Bowers & Wilkins PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones raises the bar for wireless audio performance. For a unique listening experience, the intuitive controls boost the sound and adaptive noise cancellation to respond naturally to your behavior.
Noise Cancellation
A five-decade knowledge of acoustic and engineering knowledge has led to in-house development of adaptive noise cancellation. This technology provides perfect sound anywhere by customizing the features to your preference.
This enables you to limit background sounds in an office while being able to hear nearby discussions.
Similarly, you can reduce city noise, but stay aware of what’s happening around you.
Finally, you’ll be able to minimize cabin sounds and block out engine noise during flights.
Audio Quality
Aside from world-class Bowers & Wilkins acoustics, this model has drive units that optimize listening performance.
The manufacturer has subtly angled the drivers to deliver a more natural stereo perspective.
Its crystal-clear wireless audio reproduction enables you to experience the joy of listening to films, music, and audiobooks.Microphone
It makes use of integrated microphones that produce a negative frequency to isolate ambient sounds.
Connectivity
This model has a Bluetooth range of 33 feet.
Power And Battery Life
The rechargeable lithium polymer battery can power up the noise cancellation for up to 22 hours.
You can prolong this up to 29 hours if there’s no ANC.
On the other hand, the device can manage 50 hours of wired performance if there’s no ANC. It will get down to 33 hours if you need to use ANC.
Design And Ergonomics
This unit is motion-sensitive, which means you only need to lift an earcup to pause whatever you are listening to.
When you put the device down, it will go to sleep. Lastly, pick it up to continue playing.
Additionally, the package provides leather ear pads with ballistic nylon.
Bonus Features
Download the Bowers & Wilkins Headphones app for free from the Google Play Store or App Store. Using this companion app, you can manage the three customizable environment settings.
Setbacks
- A bit heavy.
- The motion sense may not be helpful at times.
Should You Buy It?
This is the first pair of wireless active noise cancellation headphones from Bowers and Wilkins,
but you won’t be disappointed with its ability to let users have total control over ambient sounds.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones boasts sensors and quality built that can outshine similar items.
9. Advisable For Apple Users Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphone: Bose QuietComfort 20
The Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones lets you focus on listening experience by reducing sound distractions. A good fit for most Apple and Android devices, you can conveniently use this model for all your needs.
Noise Cancellation
The noise-cancelling feature can reduce surrounding distractions, letting the music stand out.
Moreover, the non-intrusive earbuds help block out noise. Having said that, your audio remains isolated from background engine noise and voices.
Audio Quality
An inline microphone comes with a one touch answer/end button to enable seamless switching between listening to music and answering calls.
Microphone
The unit has a noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for voice pick-up and clear sound.
Connectivity
This model uses wired connectivity technology. Fortunately, the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones is compatible with iPad, iPod, and iPhone.
Power And Battery Life
You can enjoy noise cancellation for up to 16 hours on a full charge. It only need two hours to fully charge the built-in lithium-ion battery.
Design And Ergonomics
Use only your fingertips to control all functions: on/off on the slim control module, calling, Aware mode, and music functions on the inline remote.
More than that, the unit comes with Stayhear+ tips for a secure and comfortable fit for hours of use.
The cone shape forms a gentle seal that causes full-spectrum noise reduction. In this way, the tips spread contact evenly for maximum comfort.
Bonus Features
At the touch of a button, you can set the aware mode to let you hear what’s around your surroundings. This is especially helpful when you are listening to transport announcements or crossing crowded streets.
Setbacks
- Designed to work with selected Android and Samsung devices.
- Bulky in-line mic.
- The most expensive item on this list.
Checklist: What to Look for in Noise Blocking Headphones?
Noise Cancellation
Aside from the capacity to block external sounds, the latest models can even use the surroundings to modify noise cancellation.
Active Noise Cancellation – Reduces unwarranted sounds by adding a second sound designed to cancel the first.
Digital Noise Cancellation – Notes the frequency of the first wave of sounds then creates a new wave that removes the waves associated with the noise.
Acoustic Noise Cancellation – Eases unsolicited sounds by using Active Noise Reduction.
Audio Quality
Of course, we don’t want to sacrifice sound quality. While noise cancellation is on, a good headphone should still be able to produce audible and clear sounds at any volume.
Microphone
The microphone isn’t just an accessory that lets you return a call, it can also listen and analyze outside noise.
Thus, the microphone will send a counter-signal to help your headphones or earbuds block out noise.
In addition, a built-in circuitry produces an out-of-phase soundwave to battle exterior noise.
Connectivity: Wired vs Wireless
Some users prefer corded models because of price and safety. Meanwhile, some people hate when tangling cords when in storage.
The most popular items are those that use Blutetooth to play music or take calls wirelessly.
Like some people, I find it more convenient to move around when there are no cords in the way.
Power and Battery Life
Regardless of whether you have a wireless or corded unit, you still have to recharge them to maximize the noise-cancelling feature.
Most models offer at least 15 hours of noise cancellation on a full charge. You can prolong this if you are not using the feature.
Design and Ergonomics
Remember when wireless units first came out? Some people expressed concerns about misplacing the headphones easily or losing the earbuds when you are on the move?
This is why you must also consider the design and ergonomics of a product.
For this list, we have included in-ear and over-ear products. However, some people don’t like having another bulky thing inside their bags.
This is why earbuds, which are way smaller than headphones, are ideal for those commuting daily.
A couple of brands use a foam eartip or a good-fitting silicone to properly block noise.
Bonus Features
The most common feature is the ability to access apps such as Spotify, Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa.
Yet, it is better if the device will let you modify certain audio settings such as bass and frequency.
Earplugs vs Headphones
In reality, both earphones and headphones can block out noise while producing good quality audio. The deciding factor is whether the convenience will suit your needs.
The first models of noise-cancelling headphones had big, over-ear muffs to efficiently block out sounds.
But with manufacturers’ continuous effort in research and innovation, they were able to shrink the technology into in-canal headphones.
This resulted in lightweight and compact models, but with more advanced features.
Few Reminders
- Remove the headphone every two to three hours to relax your ears and head.
- The noise-cancelling setting takes up more battery life.
- If the bulky build of a pair of headphones troubles you, you could always choose in-ear models.
- The earcups of headphones improve sound isolation.
- Clean your device using a dry cloth to remove any dirt or earwax.
Be the Next Level Audiophile
Farewell, blaring traffic, noisy conversations, screaming kids, drowning take off sounds, and barking dogs! Hello, much better calls, music, movies, audiobooks, and podcasts.
Loud environments always surround us, but we can combat those with the best noise-cancelling headphones.Jessica is a Acoustical Engineer, currently based in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. After graduating from her degree in Master of Engineering degree in Acoustics from Solent University in 2014, Jessica worked for a few companies before She will be blogging about her past and current experiences in the studio and sharing her journey as she pursues her career goals. She enjoy the balance of work inside and out of the office, solving practical problems on a daily basis as every project is different and requires a different solution, the variety of work (sound insulation testing, background noise survey, mechanical plant commissioning, external plant assessment, plant room breakout assessments) and the mix of independent and team work.