Are you looking for a pair of noise-cancelling headphones to enhance your music listening experience? With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one to buy. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 noise-cancelling headphones of 2023 to help you find the perfect pair.

What are noise-cancelling headphones?

Noise-cancelling headphones are a type of headphones that use active noise cancellation (ANC) technology to cancel out external noise. This technology uses microphones to pick up external noise and then creates an opposite sound wave that cancels out the external noise, leaving you with only the sound from your headphones.

How do noise-cancelling headphones work?

Noise-cancelling headphones work by using ANC technology to cancel out external noise. The headphones have microphones that pick up external noise and then create an opposite sound wave that cancels out the external noise. This technology works best with low-frequency sounds, such as airplane engine noise or traffic noise.

Advantages of noise-cancelling headphones

There are several advantages of using noise-cancelling headphones, including:

  • Improved sound quality: With external noise cancelled out, you can hear your music more clearly.
  • Reduced stress: By blocking out external noise, noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Increased productivity: With fewer distractions, you can focus more on your work or studies.
  • Improved sleep: Noise-cancelling headphones can help you sleep better by blocking out external noise.

Things to consider when purchasing noise-cancelling headphones

When purchasing noise-cancelling headphones, there are several things to consider, including:

  • Battery life: Make sure the headphones have a long enough battery life to last for your intended use.
  • Comfort: The headphones should be comfortable to wear for extended periods.
  • Sound quality: Look for headphones with good sound quality, especially in the mid and high ranges.
  • Price: Noise-cancelling headphones can be expensive, so consider your budget before making a purchase.

Top 10 noise-cancelling headphones of 2023

Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 are the latest addition to Sony’s popular line of noise cancelling headphones. These headphones are known for their excellent sound quality and noise cancellation technology, which adapts to your environment to provide the best listening experience. They also have a long battery life of up to 30 hours.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are a great choice for those looking for wireless earbuds with noise-cancelling technology. They have a comfortable and secure fit and offer excellent sound quality. They also have a battery life of up to 6 hours, with an additional 12 hours of charge from the case.

Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones offer a premium listening experience with excellent sound quality and noise cancellation technology. They also have a sleek and stylish design and a long battery life of up to 17 hours.

Apple AirPods Max

The Apple AirPods Max are the company's first over-ear headphones with noise-cancelling technology. They offer excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, with a unique design and intuitive controls. They also have a long battery life of up to 20 hours.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are known for their excellent sound quality and noise cancellation technology. They have a sleek and stylish design and a long battery life of up to 30 hours. They also offer a comfortable fit and intuitive controls.

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offer excellent sound quality and noise cancellation technology, with a comfortable and adjustable fit. They also have touch controls and a long battery life of up to 20 hours.

Jabra Elite 85h

The Jabra Elite 85h headphones are a great choice for those looking for wireless headphones with noise-cancelling technology. They offer excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, with a long battery life of up to 36 hours. They also have a comfortable and adjustable fit.

AKG N700NC M2

The AKG N700NC M2 headphones offer excellent sound quality and noise-cancelling technology, with a comfortable and stylish design. They also have a long battery life of up to 23 hours and offer touch controls for easy operation.

Shure AONIC 50

The Shure AONIC 50 headphones offer excellent sound quality and noise-cancelling technology, with a comfortable and adjustable fit. They also have a long battery life of up to 20 hours and offer intuitive touch controls for easy operation.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT headphones offer excellent sound quality and noise isolation, with a comfortable and durable design. They also have a long battery life of up to 40 hours and offer touch controls for easy operation.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best noise-cancelling headphones of 2023, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for over-ear headphones, wireless earbuds, or something in between, the top 10 options on this list offer excellent sound quality, noise cancellation technology, and a comfortable fit. Consider your budget, intended use, and personal preferences when making your selection.

FAQs

What is the difference between noise-cancelling and noise-isolating headphones?
Noise-cancelling headphones use technology to actively cancel out external noise, while noise-isolating headphones use physical barriers to block out noise. Noise-cancelling headphones are typically more effective at reducing background noise, especially low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or traffic. However, noise-isolating headphones can also provide a high level of noise reduction, particularly for high-frequency sounds.

Do noise-cancelling headphones work for all types of external noise?
Noise-cancelling headphones are most effective at reducing continuous, low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or traffic noise. They may not be as effective at blocking out sudden or high-pitched noises like a door slamming or a dog barking. However, many noise-cancelling headphones offer different levels of noise cancellation that can be adjusted to suit different environments.

Can noise-cancelling headphones damage your hearing?
No, noise-cancelling headphones are designed to reduce external noise, not to increase the volume of music or other audio. In fact, because noise-cancelling headphones can reduce the need for high volume levels to overcome external noise, they may actually be better for your hearing than traditional headphones.

How important is battery life when choosing noise-cancelling headphones?
Battery life is an important consideration when choosing noise-cancelling headphones, especially if you plan to use them for long periods of time or while traveling. Look for headphones with a battery life of at least 10-15 hours, or longer if possible. Some models also offer quick charging capabilities, which can be helpful if you need to top up your battery in a hurry.

Can I still use noise-cancelling headphones without music playing?
Yes, you can use noise-cancelling headphones without music playing to reduce external noise and provide a quieter environment for work, study, or relaxation. Many noise-cancelling headphones also have a "transparency mode" that allows you to hear your surroundings without having to take off your headphones.