The Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds for Every Budget in 2024

Noise-canceling earbuds are essential for work, travel, and workouts, providing immersive sound by blocking out distractions. Here’s a review of the best noise-canceling earbuds for every price point in 2024, whether you’re looking to splurge or stick to a budget.

1. Premium Pick: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($299)

If you want the best noise cancellation available, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are an unbeatable choice. Known for their stellar Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), these earbuds create near-total silence, ideal for flights or busy offices. The CustomTune feature optimizes the ANC and audio to your ears for a personalized experience. While their battery life maxes out at six hours with ANC on, the immersive sound quality and comfort make them worth the investment.

2. Best Apple Option: AirPods Pro 2 ($249)

Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are a fantastic option for iOS users who want solid noise cancellation combined with convenience. The earbuds feature upgraded ANC, spatial audio, and a comfortable design for extended wear. With a battery life of up to six hours with ANC enabled, these are ideal for users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Plus, features like seamless switching between Apple devices and “Find My” compatibility make them highly user-friendly.

3. Best Newcomer: AirPods 4 ($199)

The AirPods 4 bring significant improvements over their predecessors, offering solid ANC at a mid-range price. These earbuds feature better noise isolation, improved sound quality, and a sleek, lightweight design. They are a great option for those who want to experience Apple’s ecosystem without splurging on the Pro models. With their adaptive EQ and long battery life, the AirPods 4 offer excellent value for users seeking high-quality noise cancellation without the premium price tag.

4. Best Mid-Range: Sony WF-1000XM5 ($299)

The Sony WF-1000XM5 is a close competitor to Bose and offers excellent ANC with remarkable sound quality. Sony’s signature DSEE Extreme technology ensures high-resolution sound, while customizable ANC settings allow for a personalized experience. With up to eight hours of battery life and a comfortable design, they are a great choice for daily commuters or frequent travelers who prioritize audio quality and noise isolation.

5. Best Budget: EarFun Air Pro 3 ($79)

For those on a tighter budget, the EarFun Air Pro 3 offers surprisingly good ANC for its price. These earbuds provide effective noise reduction, making them perfect for cutting out background noise on your daily commute or during workouts. With a battery life of up to nine hours and solid sound performance, the EarFun Air Pro 3 offers incredible value without sacrificing too much in quality.

6. Best Battery Life: Anker Soundcore Space A40 ($99)

The Anker Soundcore Space A40 stands out with its impressive battery life, offering up to 10 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled. Their adaptive noise cancellation adjusts to your environment, making them perfect for travelers and commuters. For their price, they deliver excellent ANC performance and a solid, well-rounded sound profile, making them an excellent budget-friendly choice.

7. Best for Sports: Jabra Elite 10 ($249)

For fitness enthusiasts, the Jabra Elite 10 delivers the right balance of durability, comfort, and noise cancellation. Designed to stay secure during workouts, they block out noise effectively in even the loudest environments. With a neutral sound profile and support for Dolby Spatial Sound, these earbuds offer a premium listening experience whether you’re in the gym or commuting.

Whether you’re looking for premium performance or sticking to a budget, there’s a pair of noise-canceling earbuds for everyone in 2024. From the high-end Bose QuietComfort Ultra to the budget-friendly EarFun Air Pro 3, these earbuds will enhance your audio experience no matter your environment. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 are great picks, while the Sony WF-1000XM5 offers a strong alternative for audiophiles. Choose based on your needs, and enjoy distraction-free sound all day long.