Test: 23 headphones with active noise cancellation


In the past you only bought headphones to enjoy music without disturbing others, but nowadays the roles have been reversed: with active noise canceling headphones, others no longer disturb you. We take a closer look at 23 headphones with active noise cancellation and find out which one you should have.

Active noise cancellation, also known as active noise canceling (ANC), is a technique that ensures that the sound from the environment does not reach your ears. Ideal if you want to take a nap on the plane, you have to concentrate in a busy office or you want to completely isolate yourself from the rest of the household. The technique can be found in headphones from a few tens to hundreds of euros, with large differences in quality. The things to look for when purchasing ANC headphones go beyond design and sound quality. In addition, all headphones with active noise cancellation are wireless, a feature that is not worked out equally well in all models. In general, you can say that more expensive headphones are better, but that rule does not apply to all models. In addition, there are few headphones that do well in all areas. So you will have to make a choice which properties are most important to you. All 23 tested copies cannot be described due to space. We have made a selection in this article. Not only the best headphones have been selected, but also headphones that excel in certain features. The rest of the tested models can be found in the table.

In this article you will find the best headphones of the moment.

Cheap ANC headphones are missing

Headphones with active noise cancellation start at a few tens, but you won’t find those cheaper models in our test. The main reason is the poor quality of the noise reduction in that price range. A useful ANC costs a lot of time and money to develop, and budget models often lack that. As a result, in many cases the technique has the opposite effect and you are better off with wireless headphones without active noise cancellation. If you have a limited budget and still want as much silence as possible, look for closed headphones whose earcups fit tightly to your head. You can go a long way with such passive noise reduction.

Active coise canceling

Noise reduction comes in two forms: active and passive. We all know the passive method from the hearing protectors that you put on when using, for example, heavy machines, while the active method has only recently become more widely known. Still, active noise cancellation has been around for a long time. For example, the first headphones with ANC were launched by Bose in 1989: the Bose Aviation headset. It was specially developed for pilots who had to deal with very noisy working conditions, but who had to be able to talk to each other. The basis behind the technique is relatively simple: with a microphone (or several) the sound waves from the environment are measured, this signal is turned over and played through a speaker. The result is two sound waves that are exactly opposite each other and cancel each other out. But in practice it proves difficult to get this done well. For example, imperfections in the microphones and speaker make it very difficult to generate an exact copy of the ambient noise. In addition, the technique works best if the source of the sound, the microphone, the speaker and the listener are exactly in line, a situation that rarely occurs in practice. In our test, we therefore see large differences in the quality of the noise reduction, whereby a more expensive model does not always have to be better. In particular in the low to medium high frequencies – which includes voice sounds – large differences can be observed.

Adaptability

In many headphones, it is not only possible to enable or disable active noise cancellation, but the intensity of the cancellation can also be adjusted. This is an important feature if the headphones are often used on public roads. With the best headphones it is possible that you can no longer hear a large truck or even an ambulance arriving, which can cause very dangerous situations. Also in the office, where you don’t want to hear the air conditioning, but perhaps your colleagues, adjustable noise reduction is a big advantage. A number of headphones, including the latest models from Bose and Sony, can also adjust the noise reduction fully automatically. The headphones detect whether you are sitting, walking or cycling and adjust the intensity based on your activity.

In most cases, ANC headphones feature not only active noise cancellation, but also the passive shape. After all, a combination of both works best. With ANC switched off, most headphones therefore still keep a lot of noise. Some of the headphones are therefore equipped with a so-called “ambient mode”. The microphones on the outside of the headphones are not used to suppress sound, but to amplify it. With that mode turned on, you can hear other people clearly without taking off the headphones.

Usually you can set the level of noise reduction via an associated app.

Audio via bluetooth

All models in our test are wireless and use Bluetooth to communicate with your playback device. Although it is not possible to stream in lossless quality via Bluetooth, there are ways to make the difference inaudibly small. Unfortunately, not all models use it, so there is a quality difference. Via bluetooth, there are several codecs that headphones can use for music transfer. The SBC codec is the foundation that all headphones support. For higher sound quality, many headphones support AAC (Apple) or aptX (Android). However, to get close to lossless quality you need aptX HD or even LDAC. The latter codec was developed by Sony and offers the highest quality audio over bluetooth, but requires a strong connection and is still relatively rare.

To avoid the results being affected by the source quality, we used lossless FLAC files to test the sound quality. If you mainly use the headphones with a lower source quality such as Spotify, the effect of a lower quality Bluetooth codec can be even greater.

If you watch a lot of movies or videos on your smartphone or tablet, keep in mind that Bluetooth can cause a small delay. As a result, the sound is just out of sync with the video images. In extreme cases this can be very disturbing. For Android users, there is a solution in the form of aptX LL. With this codec, the connection is faster, but at the expense of a slightly lower sound quality.

Noise in ANC headphones

In addition to the potentially lower sound quality, the use of Bluetooth comes with another drawback: noise. Depending on the connection and the number of Bluetooth devices in the area, noise or other interference sounds may be heard. The presence of this differs drastically between the different copies. While most models are able to filter this out very well, there are also a few that are doing very badly in this area. In addition, the ANC microphone and associated electronics can cause noise. After all, a microphone itself also produces a bit of noise and not all brands have been able to filter that noise away properly. The most annoying thing is noise caused by the amplifier. This form of noise is even present when the Bluetooth connection and ANC are switched off. Although all these types of noise are usually no longer audible when you play music, it can be disturbing at very low volumes or during the pause between two songs.

The Dali IO-6 is an example of headphones with annoying background noise.

In-, on- or over-ear

All tested units can be divided into three categories: in-ear, on-ear and over-ear. Which type of headphones is best for you depends entirely on your own preferences. We can already say that you will find the best sound quality and ANC experience with the over-ear units. These close your ears best and offer the most space for quality microphones and other electronics. Because the over-ear headphones close so well, they warm up faster. Therefore, it is better to let many models air for a few seconds now and then. Over-ear headphones are also not ideal during exercise, because sweat has no chance to evaporate. Athletes and eyeglass wearers are therefore best off looking at on-ear or in-ear headphones, even though their ANC features are often of lesser quality. Due to the large differences in size, the design aspect can of course also play a role.

In-ear headphones are useful for people who wear glasses, for example.

Pay attention to in-ear headphones

While comfort is important for all headphones, with the in-ear headphones it is extra important to pay close attention. Especially with ANC headphones it is extremely important that the silicone cap closes properly. Without a good seal, the active noise reduction is not very effective, but the sound quality also suffers. All in-ear headphones in this test therefore come with multiple silicone “inserts”, but the variation varies widely between different models. Bose and Apple offer few options with only S, M and L, while Sony and 1MORE give you a whole collection to choose from. Also pay attention to where you buy the headphones: some (web) shops consider in-ear headphones as a hygiene product and therefore only take back unopened packaging.

In our test collection we find two types of in-ear headphones: wireless and completely wireless. In the first category, the earphones are attached to a band resting on your neck with a cable. This type often has a larger battery and can be more comfortable because not all the weight hangs from your ear canal. The disadvantage is of course that you still have headphones with cables and that neckband does not work equally well with all clothing. In most cases, the fully wireless in-ear headphones consist of three parts: a charging box and two separate in-ear headphones. The earphones often have a limited battery life, but can be charged in the box.

With the in-ear models you get different sizes of caps so that they fit well in your ears.

Sony WH-1000XM3 (Best tested)

The Sony WH-1000XM3 has been on the market for over a year, but is still a leader when it comes to active noise reduction. Across the entire spectrum from low to high, Sony knows how to dampen the ambient noise well. So much so that you are sometimes amazed at how much noise a train actually makes when you take off the headphones. As the author has noticed, it is therefore advisable in the office to lower the ANC a notch. Then your colleagues don’t have to throw objects to get your attention. Due to the use of extremely soft cushions and a relatively light weight, the headphones are also extremely comfortable. The light clamping force of the headband also helps, although the headphones are therefore just too loose for running. The WH-1000XM3 is one of the few headphones in this test that support the LDAC codec. So if you have a relatively modern Android phone, you can enjoy very high quality audio streaming. That high quality is underlined by the excellent sound reproduction. Especially the bass reproduction is deep and powerful without losing detail. Highs are clear, but not painfully sharp. The latter is a problem that many closed headphones face. The headphones do amplify the bass as standard, but that can be adjusted in the smartphone app. Build quality is the only point Sony doesn’t excel at. Due to the excessive use of plastic, the headphones clearly feel less solid than its competitors.

Sony WH-1000XM3

price

€ 279, –
Website
www.sony.com
10 Score 100 Score: 100

  • Pros
  • Sound quality
  • The best ANC
  • Comfortable
  • Neutral design
  • Negatives
  • Lots of plastic

Denon AH-GC30 (Best comfort)

If you are looking for headphones that can last for hours on end, the Denon AH-GC30 is the best choice. This model has wonderfully soft ear cushions that fit your head perfectly. After a few minutes you will no longer realize that you have put on headphones, a feature that we hardly find anywhere else. That excellent connection to your head also ensures that these headphones have the best passive noise cancellation. It is only a pity that the active noise reduction does not add much to that. The Denon AH-GC30 is also one of the toughest models in this test with a construction that usually consists of thick pieces of metal or sturdy soft-touch plastic. The sound quality is another strong point of these headphones. It produces a pleasantly warm sound with excellent bass reproduction and detailed mid-tones. Due to the excellent closure, high tones can sometimes be just a bit too sharp and sometimes lacks clarity.

Denon AH-GC30

price

€ 229, –
Website
www.denon.co.uk
8 Score 80 Score: 80

  • Pros
  • Very comfortable
  • Value for money
  • Build quality
  • Passive noise reduction
  • Negatives
  • Treble reproduction
  • Addition ANC

Jabra Elite 85h (Best deal)

Jabra shows with the Elite 85h that good ANC headphones do not have to cost 400 euros. Both the sound quality and the active noise reduction are remarkably good at this price point. The noise reduction not only knows how to properly suppress the sounds of a train or airplane, but also vocal sounds have trouble penetrating. This is actually the only model under 250 euros that can handle it well. The same goes for the sound quality. Low tones are powerful without fading, and mid tones are well detailed. Even the high tones are clear without sharp edges. It soon becomes clear that the headphones are limited by the SBC codec. While Jabra may have been able to keep the price low by omitting support for aptX HD, it does lose a bit of detail. The headphones are available in four colors and are largely covered in fabric. Although that gives the headphones a special appearance, we can hardly predict how long that will remain beautiful. Dander and dandruff can quickly make the headphones ugly, but unfortunately this will only become apparent from an endurance test. The headband presses the very comfortable ear pads a little too hard on the head, which does not benefit the comfort during long listening sessions. The headband may relax over time and thus become more comfortable.

Jabra Elite 85h

price

€ 180, –
Website
www.jabra.nl
8 Score 80 Score: 80

  • Pros
  • Value for money
  • Sound quality
  • Negatives
  • ANC quality

Sennheiser Momentum 3 (Best sound quality)

The fact that Sennheiser has a lot of experience in developing headphones is immediately reflected in the Momentum 3 Wireless. The headphones not only look stylish, they are also made of high-quality materials. For example, these are the only headphones that use genuine sheep leather. That makes it slightly less sweaty than the other over-ear models, but also makes the headphones unsuitable for people who want to avoid animal products. The sound quality is also among the best in our test with crystal clear and powerful reproduction across the entire spectrum. The headphones put a slight emphasis on low tones, which makes for a very pleasant listening experience. In addition, frequencies around 4 kHz are attenuated: with other closed headphones, they can cause painful resonances. It was therefore a good contender for the best headphones, were it not that the ANC is very disappointing. The cushions are also comfortable, but the headband clamps them a bit too hard on the head.

Sennheiser Momentum 3

price

€ 360, –
Website
www.sennheiser.com
9 Score 90 Score: 90

  • Pros
  • Sound quality
  • Materials
  • Build quality
  • Pricey
  • Negatives
  • ANC quality

Dali IO-6 (Most Striking Design)

Anyone who sees their headphones as a fashion item might take a look at the shelves of Dali. The Dali IO-6 is also available in black, but the caramel-white model we tested exudes pure luxury. A color scheme of creamy white and brown is usually associated with corny and boring, but Dali has managed to give it a modern twist. In combination with the excellent finish and aluminum ear cups, that really gives the impression that you are dealing with a high-quality product. This also applies to the sound quality. The transfer is neutral and very detailed, making the headphones suitable for almost all genres. Unfortunately, it does suffer from static noise. Dali has told us to work on this, but cannot predict when it will come up with a solution. The active noise reduction also disappoints and is only effective for higher frequencies such as wind noise.

Dali IO-6

price

€ 400, –
Website
www.dali-speakers.com
8 Score 80 Score: 80

  • Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Sound quality
  • Build quality
  • Negatives
  • Noise
  • ANC for treble only

Bowers & Wilkins PX5 (Best on-ear)

Those looking for stylish on-ear ANC headphones can turn to Bowers & Wilkins. This model is provided with aluminum and fabric on the outside, with a spectacular result. The headphones are notable for the quality and materials used, but do not scream for attention with bright colors or striking logos. Bowers & Wilkins indicates in the product properties that the fabric is provided with a dirt-resistant coating, but we still question the durability of this. In the two months that we were able to use the review sample, the fabric remained clean and undamaged, but we cannot confirm that this will still be the case after a year of intensive use. The excellent build quality translates to a pleasant comfort with soft cushions and a modest clamping force. This modest clamping force will also appeal to people who wear glasses, because the legs of the glasses are not pressed against the skull. In addition, the sound quality is also very good, although it may not quite compete with the best over-ear headphones. The sound has a nice balance between low and high, making the PX5 suitable for almost all genres. We are particularly pleased with the very deep bass response. Those who want to exercise with the headphones at rest will also be very happy with the high quality ANC, although it does suffer from the poor passive noise reduction of on-ear headphones.

Bowers & Wilkins PX5

price

€ 300, –
Website
www.bowerswilkins.com
9 Score 90 Score: 90

  • Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Sound quality
  • ANC quality
  • Negatives
  • Passive noise reduction

Apple Airpods Pro (Best in-ear)

The Apple Airpods Pro are the third generation Airpods from Apple and come with a lot of improvements. For example, Apple has significantly modified the design, so that the headphones no longer resemble an Oral-B brush head. By shrinking the leg considerably, the ears are barely bigger than a wired in-ear headset and there is also less weight hanging on your ear. The Airpods Pro are therefore even more comfortable than their predecessors, although that comfort is very dependent on the three silicone caps that Apple supplies. That number is quite meager at a price of 280 euros and not everyone will be able to find a suitable variant between them. The main change is the addition of active noise cancellation and a significantly improved sound quality. The ANC knows how to filter out sounds across the entire spectrum, but still has a bit of trouble with vocals. Compared to the previous generation, the bass reproduction has made a big leap forward with a deeper and more powerful sound, but the mid and high tones also provide more detail.

Apple Airpods Pro

price

€ 280, –
Website
www.apple.com
9 Score 90 Score: 90

  • Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Comfortable
  • Call quality
  • Integration with iOS
  • Negatives
  • Clumsy operation

Sony WF-1000XM3 (Best in-ear)

You don’t often see a tie with Techzle. Yet that is the only conclusion we can draw here. The Apple Airpods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM3 have a number of significant differences, but in our opinion the choice mainly depends on the device you use. The Airpods Pro match best with Apple products, while the WF-1000XM3s match best with Android and Windows devices. The in-ear headphones from Apple have a more compact design and better comfort, while the Sony WF-1000XM3 wins in terms of sound and ANC quality. When it comes to the price, Sony is the big winner, because the WF-1000XM3 is a whopping 90 euros cheaper. The Airpods Pro do work on an Android device and the WF-1000XM3 functions in combination with iPhones, but in both cases the functionality decreases, the ease of use is less and there may even be an effect on the sound quality.

Sony WF-1000XM3

price

€ 190, –
Website
www.sony.nl
9 Score 90 Score: 90

  • Pros
  • Sound quality
  • ANC quality
  • Touch operation
  • Negatives
  • Big format

1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC (In-ear budget topper)

The Chinese brand 1MORE is still relatively unknown in the Netherlands, but knows how to distinguish itself with an excellent price-quality ratio. This is also the case with the in-ear Dual Driver BT ANC. The build quality of these headphones is good thanks to the slim metal in-ear caps. In addition, you get a large selection of different silicone inserts, so that there is a suitable size for almost every ear. The sound quality is remarkably good with a fantastic reproduction of vocals and clear highs. Just don’t turn up the volume too high: in addition to risking hearing damage, the sound will also start to distort. At this price, the active noise reduction is also noticeable. Because although it is not as good as the much more expensive Bose QC30, the difference is smaller than the price suggests.

1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC

price

€ 100, –
Website
www.1more.com
8 Score 80 Score: 80

  • Pros
  • Value for money
  • Sound quality
  • Comfortable
  • Negatives
  • Not completely wireless

Conclusion

Those looking for active noise-canceling headphones in 2020 have a huge choice. The technology is not only available in the most expensive models, but is also slowly making its way into the middle and budget segment. Although the cheaper headphones also increasingly offer ANC, we would advise against buying such a copy. The concessions you have to make with ANC headphones under 150 euros are too big, so you are better off with a model without ANC. We did find one exception to that rule: the Chinese 1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC. These in-ear headphones offer a lot of value for the money and receive our Editorial Tip quality mark. We award the same quality mark to the Jabra Elite 85h – an over-ear headphone with pleasant comfort and active noise cancellation that much more expensive models cannot compete with. The third and last Editorial Tip quality mark is for the Bowers & Wilkins PX5: it convinced us not only with a beautiful design, but also with good comfort and excellent sound quality.

Click on the table for a larger version.
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