Joybuy Insights

Which Noise-Cancelling Headphones Should You Choose?

By our audio expert, July 14, 2026

Open-plan offices, public transport, travel… Noise is everywhere, all the time. To reclaim your bubble of peace, a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones has become essential.

But with an overwhelming number of options and often complex spec sheets, how do you find your way? This guide is here to give you the key insights and help you track down the perfect ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) headphones for your needs and budget.

How to Choose the Right Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Before diving into our top picks, let's review the essential criteria that will guide your choice.

1. Understanding Active Noise-Cancelling (ANC) Technology

Active noise cancellation is more than just a gimmick. Using microphones, the headphones analyse surrounding sounds and generate an opposing sound signal (an "anti-wave") to neutralise them before they reach your ears. Effectiveness varies between models, especially for low, constant frequencies like the drone of a plane or train engine. A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones must provide impressive isolation without ever compromising audio quality.

2. Evaluating Battery Life and Connectivity for On-the-Go Use

Whether you're jumping between meetings while working from home or embarking on a long journey, battery life is a key factor. Most current models offer between 20 and 40?hours of listening time with ANC enabled. Also consider a fast-charging feature, which can be a lifesaver by providing several hours of playback after just a few minutes of charging.

Connectivity is just as important. A pair of noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones with multipoint connection allows you to pair them with two devices simultaneously (like your computer and smartphone) and switch between them effortlessly.

3. Prioritising Comfort for Extended Use

Wireless over-ear headphones, whose earcups completely enclose the ears, are often the most comfortable for long listening sessions. Pay attention to the device's weight, the quality of the materials (leatherette, memory foam), and the clamping force of the headband. Lightweight and well-fitting headphones will feel almost unnoticeable, whether during a full workday or a long-haul flight.

Top Noise-Cancelling Headphone Picks

We've selected three models that stand out from the crowd, each with its own unique strengths.


Sony WH-CH720N

Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Why we love it?: The WH-CH720N packs technologies usually reserved for Sony's high-end models, like the renowned V1 processor, while remaining featherlight. An excellent balance of performance, comfort, and price.

Key features?:

  • Audio Quality?: Integrated V1 processor and DSEE technology to restore sound details.
  • Lightweight?: Weighs only 192g, making it very comfortable for extended wear.
  • Battery Life?: Up to 35 hours of listening with noise cancelling activated.
  • Connectivity?:Multipoint Bluetooth connection to pair two devices simultaneously.

Who is it for? Ideal for students, mobile professionals, and anyone who wants to experience Sony quality without breaking the bank.

Discover the Sony WH-CH720N


Soundcore by Anker Space One

Soundcore by Anker Space One Adaptive Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Why we love it?: The Space One focuses on adaptive noise cancellation that is particularly skilled at filtering out voices, making it a valuable tool for concentration. It also stands out with its support for the LDAC codec, a must-have for high-resolution wireless audio.

Key features?:

  • Targeted Noise Cancellation?: Structure optimised to reduce conversational frequencies.
  • High-Resolution Audio?: Supports the LDAC codec for superior quality wireless audio transmission.
  • Remarkable Battery Life?: Up to 40 hours of battery life with ANC, and 55 hours without.
  • Comfort?: 8° rotating earcups and a soft headband for an ergonomic fit.

Who is it for? The smart choice for remote workers in open-plan offices or at home, and for budget-conscious audiophiles who refuse to compromise on wireless audio quality.

Discover the Soundcore Space One


Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Why we love it?: Bose's QuietComfort line is the gold standard in the market. This model continues the tradition with world-class sound isolation, a balanced signature sound, and legendary comfort, designed for listening marathons.

Key features?:

  • Legendary Noise Cancellation?: Incredibly effective Quiet (full isolation) and Aware (to stay tuned to your surroundings) modes.
  • High-Fidelity Sound?:TriPort acoustic architecture and an active EQ for clear, rich sound at any volume.
  • Superior Comfort?: Premium materials and low clamping force for comfortable all-day wear.
  • Battery Life?: Up to 24 hours of listening and a 15-minute fast charge for 3?hours of use.

Who is it for? For frequent flyers and professionals who demand the absolute best in noise cancellation and comfort, with no compromises.

Discover the Bose QuietComfort


Looking for Other Options?

This selection is just a taste. Your needs are unique, and the perfect headphones for you might be waiting in our full collection.

Explore our entire collection of wireless noise-cancelling headphones

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What's the difference between active (ANC) and passive noise cancellation? Passive cancellation is the natural sound isolation provided by the headphones' design (the earcups physically blocking sound). ANC, or active cancellation, is an electronic technology: microphones pick up ambient noise, and a processor creates an inverse sound wave to cancel it out. The best headphones brilliantly combine both.

2. Are noise-cancelling headphones effective for working from home? Yes, and it's one of their best use cases. A pair of headphones for remote work with ANC cuts you off from household distractions (children, TV, neighbours…) for optimal focus. If they have high-quality microphones, they will also ensure your calls are perfectly clear during video conferences.

3. Can you use noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones on a plane? Absolutely. Most airlines allow Bluetooth devices during the entire flight (except for takeoff and landing). Additionally, most ANC headphones, like the Bose QuietComfort, come with an audio cable. This allows you to plug into the in-flight entertainment system, even if the battery is dead.