The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Active noise cancellation has improved more in the last two years than in the previous ten. We tested 18 over-ear headphones in real-world conditions — airplanes, open offices, subway platforms — measuring actual dB reduction, not just spec sheets.

#1 Pick

The best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM6 by Sony

The WH-1000XM6 cancels low-frequency noise (airplane drone, HVAC hum) better than any headphone we've measured — 38 dB reduction at 200 Hz. Sound quality in LDAC mode rivals wired audiophile headphone

How we tested

We measured ANC performance across frequencies from 50 Hz to 4 kHz in controlled and real-world environments. Sound quality was evaluated with lossless reference tracks. Comfort was assessed over 10-hour wearing sessions.

Why it won

The WH-1000XM6 cancels low-frequency noise (airplane drone, HVAC hum) better than any headphone we've measured — 38 dB reduction at 200 Hz. Sound quality in LDAC mode rivals wired audiophile headphones at three times the price.

Specifications

The bottom line

The Sony WH-1000XM6 earns our top pick because it outperformed the competition in the metrics that matter most. At an overall score of 9.4 against a category average of 7.5, the gap speaks for itself. If you are looking for the best in this category, start here.