Many people are aware of noise cancelling headphones, but currently do not own a pair. Some of us at wtg were included in that group, but we were determined to change that. We set out to test numerous headphones and keep the set(s) that we believed worked the best. Cost was not the priority, our primary goal was the reduction and elimination of unwanted noise to increase our focus and subsequent productivity.

Over the course of approx. 6 months we purchased a considerable number of headphones. We narrowed down a selection of “stand outs” with varying attributes. We would suggest that you as the reader take your time and go over the results and determine for yourself what headphones would work for you.

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2019

Type: Over-ear

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

Enclosure: Closed-back

Virtually a “tie” with the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. You could argue that the Sony WH-1000XM3 is specifically better at noise cancellation and should garner the title of “best noise cancelling headphones”. It ekes ahead of it’s closest competitor the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones.

They’re not quite as comfortable as the QuietComfort 35 II, but they have much better leakage performance. They’re a better choice for use in situations when you want to be sure you won’t disrupt others with the sound of your music leaking out of your headphones.

The Sony WH-1000XM3 have an impressive companion app with tons of customization options like a parametric EQ, media player, room effects, ANC control, and more. They have a great 27-hour battery life, and if you ever forget to charge them before a trip, just 10 to 15 minutes of charging will give you up to 5 hours of playback. You can then use the app to set the auto-off timer to help prolong the battery life further.

Overall this headset competes exceedingly well in the noise cancelling headphones space. If you want the best, the price shouldn’t be an issue.

Take a Look: Sony WH-1000XM3

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2019

Type: Over-ear

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

Enclosure: Closed-back

The most comfortable noise cancelling headphones overall that I’ve tested are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II). They encapsulate your ears (and head) in premium materials, deliver the sound quality that Bose is known for, and are a top-tier choice for numerous environments and situations that may involve unwanted noise.

The QC35 II are great at blocking out distracting office chatter and effectively cancel out the low rumbles of bus and plane engines. They have a great rechargeable battery life that lasts for 20 hours, so you don’t have to worry about running out of battery during a road trip or long flight.

All things considered, the Bose QC35 II are exceptional noise cancelling headphones, and are well worth the price.

Take a Look: Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2019

Type: Over-ear

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

Enclosure: Closed-back

If you’re looking for noise cancelling headphones with battery life that exceeds the Sony WH-1000XM3 but don’t want to stretch your budget too much, the Sony WH-CH700N may be exactly what you’re looking for. They’re solid, comfortable, and quality headphones for office use and commuting.

The WH-CH700N have an incredible 35-hour battery life that will provide you multiple days of extended audio playback. They take only a couple hours to charge. The WH-CH700N handles the treble with clarity and pureness, and produces a decent amount of bass as well.

The WH-CH700N does feature a compatible EQ like the Sony WH-1000XM3 to customize your sound. Additionally, this headset was very comparable to the Plantronics Backbeat Pro in overall quality, comfort, price, and noise cancellation. The WH-CH700N aren’t as comfortable nor as isolating as the Sony WH-1000XM3 or the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, but they cost considerably less.

Overall if you want great battery life, comfort, sound quality, and noise cancellation all at a reduced priced, you should take a look at the WH-CH700N.

Take a Look: Sony WH-CH700N

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2019

Type: Earbuds

Wireless: Yes

Enclosure: Closed-back

If you prefer the fit and portability of earbud-type headphones but still want great isolation, get the Bose QuietControl 30. These earbuds have very good noise isolation and even more remarkable leakage performance, so you’ll never have to worry about the sound of your music bothering those around you.

The Bose QuietControl 30 are surprisingly comfortable for earbud-type headphones that isolate so well. They have a very stable fit that makes them a good choice if you find yourself frequently running to the bus stop. They have decent sound that is balanced enough for most music genres and a good battery life of over 11 hours to keep the music going all day.

Take a Look: Bose QuietControl 30

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2019

Type: Over-ear

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

Enclosure: Closed-back

The Anker SoundCore Space NC isolate noise incredibly well and can cancel out the rumble of plane and bus engines to a good degree without leaking too much sound. Their battery is decent and fairly long lasting, providing 21 hours of continuous playtime, but does take nearly 3 hours to fully charge. They also have a deep, bass-heavy sound that is sure to please fans of music with intense bass.

They have the best isolation performance in this price range and are definitely worth taking a look at if you want bass-heavy headphones with competent ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).

Take a Look: Anker SoundCore Space NC