Commuting can be a noisy and chaotic experience, making it difficult to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts. That’s where noise-canceling headphones come in. These headphones use advanced technology to block out unwanted sounds, creating a peaceful and immersive listening experience. Whether you’re battling the roar of the subway or the chatter of a crowded bus, the right pair of noise-canceling headphones can make your commute a lot more enjoyable.
But with so many options on the market, choosing the best pair can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best over-ear headphones for noise-canceling, specifically designed for commuting. We’ve considered factors like noise cancellation performance, sound quality, comfort, and portability.
From budget-friendly options to premium models with cutting-edge features, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will drown out the hustle and bustle of the city or help you focus on your work, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re ready to take your commute to the next level, read on to discover the best over-ear noise-canceling headphones for you.
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| Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 |  |
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| Apple AirPods Max |  |
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| Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless |  |
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Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Bose's flagship noise-canceling headphones offer excellent sound quality, a comfortable fit, and best-in-class noise cancellation.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional noise cancellation: Bose is known for its noise cancellation technology, and these headphones deliver on that promise. They effectively block out a wide range of sounds, from the rumble of a train to the chatter of nearby passengers.
- Comfortable fit: The soft earcups and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Clear and balanced sound: The 700s deliver a well-balanced sound signature with clear highs, rich mids, and powerful lows.
- Easy to use controls: The touch controls on the earcups are responsive and intuitive.
Reasons to avoid :
- Pricey: The Bose 700s are among the most expensive noise-canceling headphones on the market.
- Bulky design: These headphones are larger and bulkier than some other options, which may not be ideal for everyone.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for the best possible noise cancellation.
- You value comfort and a comfortable fit.
- You're willing to pay a premium for top-tier headphones.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You prefer a more compact and lightweight design.
- You don't need the absolute best noise cancellation.
Bottom Line:
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are a top choice for those who prioritize noise cancellation and sound quality above all else. Their exceptional ANC effectively blocks out unwanted noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or podcasts. The comfortable fit ensures a pleasant listening experience, even during long commutes. However, their hefty price tag and bulky design may be drawbacks for some. If you're looking for the best noise-canceling headphones on the market and are willing to pay a premium, the Bose 700s are a great option. But if you're on a budget or prefer a more compact design, there are other excellent options available.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony's latest noise-canceling headphones offer excellent noise cancellation, impressive sound quality, and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 8.9 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation: The WH-1000XM5 deliver excellent noise cancellation, effectively blocking out a wide range of ambient sounds.
- Superb sound quality: These headphones offer a well-balanced sound signature with clear highs, rich mids, and powerful lows.
- Comfortable fit: The soft earcups and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Long battery life: The WH-1000XM5 boast an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC on, making them ideal for long commutes and trips.
Reasons to avoid :
- Slightly bulky: The WH-1000XM5 are slightly bulkier than some other options, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- Pricey: Like the Bose 700s, the WH-1000XM5 are a premium choice.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize noise cancellation and sound quality.
- You need long battery life.
- You're comfortable with a slightly bulky design.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need the absolute smallest and lightest headphones.
Bottom Line:
The Sony WH-1000XM5 are a fantastic choice for commuters and frequent travelers seeking top-notch noise cancellation and sound quality. They effectively block out distracting noises, deliver a rich and balanced audio experience, and provide comfortable wear. Their long battery life ensures you can enjoy your music or podcasts without worrying about running out of juice. However, their relatively high price point and slightly bulky design may be drawbacks for some. If you're willing to invest in a premium noise-canceling experience, the WH-1000XM5 are a great option. But if you're on a budget or prefer a more compact design, other alternatives are available.
Find more on 18 Best Over-Ear Headphones with Mic
Apple AirPods Max
Apple's high-end noise-canceling headphones offer a premium listening experience with excellent sound quality, impressive noise cancellation, and a unique design.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, Lightning connector
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional sound quality: The AirPods Max deliver a rich and detailed sound signature with excellent clarity across the frequency spectrum.
- Impressive noise cancellation: Apple's ANC technology effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music.
- Premium design and build: The AirPods Max boast a unique and stylish design with high-quality materials.
- Seamless integration with Apple devices: The AirPods Max seamlessly integrate with Apple devices, offering features like automatic device switching and spatial audio.
Reasons to avoid :
- Extremely pricey: The AirPods Max are among the most expensive noise-canceling headphones on the market.
- Bulky and heavy: The AirPods Max are significantly larger and heavier than other headphones, making them less portable.
- Limited compatibility: The AirPods Max are primarily designed for Apple users and may not be as convenient for Android users.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're an Apple user seeking a premium listening experience.
- You value sound quality and noise cancellation above all else.
- You're not concerned about the price or weight.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need compact and lightweight headphones.
- You're not an Apple user.
Bottom Line:
The Apple AirPods Max are a luxurious and high-quality choice for Apple users who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation. Their exceptional audio performance and impressive ANC effectively block out distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music. The AirPods Max also boast a premium design and build, further enhancing their appeal. However, their extremely high price point, bulky size, and limited compatibility may be dealbreakers for some. If you're willing to pay a premium for a top-tier listening experience and are a dedicated Apple user, the AirPods Max are a compelling option. But if you're on a budget, prioritize portability, or aren't an Apple user, other noise-canceling headphones might be better suited to your needs.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Sennheiser's Momentum 4 Wireless headphones offer a balanced blend of noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 60 hours with ANC off, 20 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality: The Momentum 4 Wireless deliver a rich and detailed sound signature with a well-balanced frequency response.
- Effective noise cancellation: The ANC effectively blocks out a range of ambient noises.
- Comfortable fit: The soft earcups and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Long battery life: The headphones offer an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours with ANC off and 20 hours with ANC on.
Reasons to avoid :
- Pricey: The Momentum 4 Wireless are a premium choice.
- Not the best noise cancellation: While effective, the ANC performance is not as good as some competitors like the Bose 700s or Sony WH-1000XM5.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a well-rounded noise-canceling headphone with excellent sound quality and comfort.
- You need long battery life.
- You're willing to pay a premium for quality.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You prioritize the absolute best noise cancellation.
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones offer a balanced listening experience that excels in sound quality, comfort, and battery life. Their excellent audio performance and effective noise cancellation make them an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded experience. However, their high price point and slightly less effective noise cancellation compared to competitors like the Bose 700s and Sony WH-1000XM5 may be a consideration. If you're willing to pay for quality and value a balanced blend of features, the Momentum 4 Wireless are a great option. But if you're on a budget or prioritize the absolute best noise cancellation, other alternatives are available.
Jabra Elite 85h
The Jabra Elite 85h headphones provide excellent noise cancellation, long battery life, and a comfortable fit at a more affordable price point.
Find more on 20 Best Over-Ear Headphones Bluetooth
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 9.9 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation: The Elite 85h deliver impressive noise cancellation that effectively blocks out a wide range of ambient sounds.
- Comfortable fit: The soft earcups and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Long battery life: The Elite 85h boast a long battery life of up to 36 hours with ANC on, making them suitable for long trips and commutes.
- Affordable price: The Elite 85h are a more affordable option compared to some other premium noise-canceling headphones.
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality is not as good as some competitors: The sound quality is good but not as refined as the Bose 700s or Sony WH-1000XM5.
- Slightly bulky: The Elite 85h are slightly bulky, which may be a drawback for some.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need excellent noise cancellation and long battery life at a more affordable price.
- You prioritize comfort.
- You're not overly concerned about the absolute best sound quality.
Don't buy it if:
- You need the absolute best sound quality.
- You prefer a compact and lightweight design.
Bottom Line:
The Jabra Elite 85h are a compelling choice for those seeking a balance of features and value. Their excellent noise cancellation, long battery life, and comfortable fit make them a great option for commuters and frequent travelers. While their sound quality may not match the refinement of some premium competitors like the Bose 700s or Sony WH-1000XM5, they still deliver a pleasant listening experience. The Elite 85h offer a great combination of features at a more affordable price point, making them a strong contender in the crowded noise-canceling headphone market. If you're looking for effective noise cancellation, long battery life, and comfort without breaking the bank, the Jabra Elite 85h are an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize top-tier sound quality or prefer a more compact design, other alternatives are available.
Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro headphones combine active noise cancellation, a secure fit, and a powerful sound signature.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 6.3 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Secure fit: The ear hooks ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during intense workouts.
- Powerful sound: The Beats Fit Pro deliver a powerful and bass-heavy sound signature that's ideal for those who enjoy a punchy listening experience.
- Good noise cancellation: The ANC effectively blocks out ambient noise.
Reasons to avoid :
- Short battery life: The battery life is relatively short compared to some competitors.
- Not ideal for passive listening: The bass-heavy sound signature may not be ideal for all genres of music or for passive listening.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a secure fit for workouts and active lifestyles.
- You enjoy a bass-heavy sound signature.
- You prioritize portability and a compact design.
Don't buy it if:
- You need long battery life.
- You prefer a neutral sound signature.
Bottom Line:
The Beats Fit Pro headphones are a solid choice for active individuals who prioritize a secure fit and a powerful sound signature. Their ear hooks ensure a comfortable and stable fit, making them suitable for workouts and other active pursuits. The Beats Fit Pro also deliver a punchy and bass-heavy sound that's ideal for those who enjoy a dynamic listening experience. However, their relatively short battery life and bass-heavy sound signature may not be ideal for everyone. If you're seeking a secure fit, a powerful sound, and portability, the Beats Fit Pro are a great option. But if you need long battery life, prefer a neutral sound signature, or prioritize passive listening, other alternatives may be better suited to your needs.
JBL Tour One
JBL's Tour One headphones deliver impressive sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Battery Life: Up to 50 hours with ANC off, 25 hours with ANC on
- Weight: 9.9 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Impressive sound quality: The Tour One headphones deliver a rich and well-balanced sound signature with clear highs, detailed mids, and powerful lows.
- Effective noise cancellation: The ANC effectively blocks out a wide range of ambient noises.
- Comfortable fit: The soft earcups and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Long battery life: The Tour One headphones offer an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours with ANC off and 25 hours with ANC on.
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the best noise cancellation: The ANC performance is not as good as some competitors like the Bose 700s or Sony WH-1000XM5.
- Slightly bulky: The Tour One headphones are slightly bulky, which may be a drawback for some.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a well-rounded noise-canceling headphone with good sound quality, comfort, and long battery life.
- You're not overly concerned about the absolute best noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize the absolute best noise cancellation.
- You need the smallest and lightest headphones.
Bottom Line:
The JBL Tour One headphones are a solid choice for those seeking a well-balanced listening experience with good sound quality, comfort, and long battery life. Their impressive audio performance and effective noise cancellation make them suitable for both music and podcasts. While their noise cancellation may not be as effective as some competitors, the Tour One still deliver a pleasant and immersive listening experience. Their long battery life and comfortable fit further enhance their appeal. If you're looking for a well-rounded noise-canceling headphone with good sound quality and features, the JBL Tour One is a great option. However, if you prioritize the absolute best noise cancellation or need the smallest and lightest headphones, other alternatives are available.
Learn more about 15 Best Over-Ear Headphones for Outdoor Use
Choosing the right over-ear headphones for your commute can make all the difference in your daily journey. Whether you're seeking to drown out the cacophony of public transport or simply enjoy your music in peace, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can transform your experience. The headphones we've reviewed offer a range of features, from exceptional noise cancellation to premium audio quality, ensuring there's a perfect match for your needs and budget.
Learn more about 20 Best Over-Ear Headphones Wireless
Ultimately, the best headphones for you will depend on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider factors like noise cancellation effectiveness, sound quality, comfort, and budget when making your decision.
Investing in a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones can elevate your commute, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks in a serene soundscape. By blocking out distractions and providing a clear and immersive listening experience, these headphones can make your daily journey more enjoyable and productive.
Remember, finding the perfect pair of headphones is a personal journey. We encourage you to explore the options we've presented and experiment to discover the headphones that best suit your needs. Happy listening!
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