In today’s chaotic world, where noise is everywhere — from traffic to crowded cafes — a good pair of noise cancelling headphones isn’t a luxury anymore. It’s a necessity. Whether you’re a student trying to focus, a frequent flyer looking for peace, or just someone who enjoys immersive music without distractions, ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) can truly transform your experience.
But with dozens of brands and price points, which ones are actually worth your money? I’ve handpicked 5 noise cancelling headphones available on Amazon India in 2025 — based on actual reviews, performance, durability, and value for money.
🎧 1. Sony WH-1000XM6 – King of ANC Headphones (Premium Pick)
Sony has consistently set the bar high in the world of noise-cancelling headphones, and their latest flagship, the WH-1000XM6, proves why they remain at the top. This model delivers an immersive audio experience with a rich soundstage. Whether you love thumping bass, smooth vocals, or sparkling highs, the WH-1000XM6 handles every genre beautifully — from classical symphonies to EDM drops. It’s also equipped with the Integrated Processor V2, which intelligently manages audio and noise cancellation in real-time, adapting automatically to your surroundings — be it the roar of an airplane engine, chatty coworkers, or street traffic.
But that’s not all. Sony has engineered these headphones to offer up to 30 hours of uninterrupted playback on a single charge. Plus, with quick charging, just 3 minutes of plug-in gives you a stunning 3 hours of listening — ideal for when you’re rushing out the door. The design is sleek yet premium, with plush earcups and intuitive touch controls that make usage effortless. If you’re someone who takes sound seriously — whether for music, editing, or travel — the WH-1000XM6 is arguably the most powerful and refined ANC headset available today.
🎧 2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Comfort Meets Immersion
Bose has long been a household name for audiophiles, and with the QuietComfort Ultra, they’ve perfected their legacy of clarity and comfort. These headphones are engineered for listeners who prioritize detail and softness in their music. Thanks to CustomTune technology, every time you wear them, the sound adapts to the unique shape of your ears, offering a truly tailored audio experience. This makes your favorite tracks sound just as the artist intended — detailed, emotional, and powerful.
In terms of design, the earcups are luxuriously soft and wrap around your ears like a pillow. This, paired with superior active noise cancellation, creates a world where you’re cocooned in pure sound and silence. With up to 24 hours of battery life, you can easily get through long flights, intense work sessions, or marathon movie nights without reaching for the charger. For minimalists, its clean, modern look also complements professional or casual wear. If you’re someone who listens for the details and values all-day comfort, the QuietComfort Ultra is a solid long-term investment.
🎧 3. Sony WH-CH720N – Mid-Range Marvel with Flagship Features
If you love the sound of premium Sony features but want something more wallet-friendly, the WH-CH720N is your perfect match. Positioned comfortably in the mid-range segment, this model borrows many features from its premium cousins, including excellent noise cancellation powered by the same V1 processor found in higher-end models. This means you’re still getting top-tier performance in managing ambient noise, whether you’re working in a café or commuting in a noisy metro.
It’s lightweight and super comfortable, designed for all-day wear without pressure on your ears or head. What truly sets it apart is the Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically detects your activity — walking, sitting, or travelling — and adjusts the ANC levels accordingly. With a whopping 35 hours of battery life, it outperforms many pricier models. Plus, multipoint Bluetooth pairing allows you to connect with two devices at once — your laptop and phone, for example — making switching between work and calls effortless. For professionals, students, or content creators, this is a feature-packed gem at a reasonable price.
🎧 4. Soundcore Life Q20i – Budget ANC That Actually Works
Looking for effective ANC without blowing your budget? The Soundcore Life Q20i from Anker is a true underdog. Priced affordably, it delivers surprisingly good noise cancellation — great for reducing low-frequency sounds like engine rumbles, background AC hum, or household noise. While it may not match the precision of Sony or Bose, it more than holds its ground for casual usage.
What makes the Q20i shine is its robust 40-hour battery life, which means you can go days without a recharge. The custom-tuned 40mm dynamic drivers offer punchy bass and decent vocal clarity, making it perfect for listening to music, podcasts, or YouTube videos. The build is lightweight and the cushions are soft, making it suitable even for kids or long-term Zoom users. Whether you’re working from home, attending classes, or just want to zone out from background chaos, this pair delivers serious value at a fraction of the cost.
If you’re looking for a powerful yet affordable pair of noise-cancelling headphones, the Soundcore by Anker Q20i (White) is a solid choice. These over-ear Bluetooth headphones come equipped with hybrid active noise cancellation, which effectively blocks out ambient noise — whether you’re on a flight, in a café, or just working from home.
With up to 40 hours of ANC playtime, you can go several days without reaching for the charger. The sound quality is impressive too — thanks to Hi-Res Audio certification and enhanced big bass, music sounds rich, deep, and immersive. What makes these even better is the Soundcore app, which lets you personalize your sound with custom EQ settings and switch to Transparency Mode when you need to stay aware of your surroundings. Lightweight, comfortable, and stylish in white, the Q20i is a fantastic option for anyone who wants premium features without paying a premium price.
🧠 What to Look for in Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Before you buy, keep these tips in mind:
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ANC vs. Passive Noise Isolation – Not all headphones block noise the same way. Active cancellation is tech-based, while passive is just physical isolation.
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Comfort & Fit – Over-ear models are great for long sessions. Look for adjustable headbands and plush earcups.
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Battery Life – Minimum 20+ hours is ideal for ANC headphones.
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App Support – Useful for firmware updates, sound customization, and ANC control.
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Multipoint Connectivity – Lets you switch between devices effortlessly.
🤔 FAQs – You Might Be Wondering…
Q1. Are expensive noise cancelling headphones really worth it?
Absolutely. Premium models offer not just better ANC but also superior sound quality, comfort, battery life, and build. However, budget models have come a long way too!
Q2. Can I use ANC headphones for calls?
Yes! In fact, most premium ANC headphones come with multiple microphones for clear voice calls, even in noisy environments.
Q3. Do noise cancelling headphones block all noise?
No, they reduce ambient noise — especially low-frequency sounds. They don’t eliminate everything, but they make a big difference.
Q4. Are ANC headphones safe for ears?
Yes. In fact, they reduce the need to increase volume in noisy environments, which can actually protect your hearing.
ALSO READ: This Wooden Headphone Stand Will Change How You Organize Your Desk!
🛒 Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Pick?
If you want absolute silence, comfort, and audio perfection, go for the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra. For mid-range balance, the Sony WH-CH720N is perfect. But if you’re on a tight budget, the Soundcore Q20i will still surprise you.
No matter your choice, each of these headphones delivers real, tested noise cancelling performance — helping you stay focused, relaxed, or immersed in what matters most.
