The best noise-cancelling headphones in the UK 2023

The noise-cancelling headset suppresses ambient noise in crowded places: public transport, open space, street... Circum or supra-aural, this audio equipment offers a multipoint Bluetooth connection, a high autonomy and a quality sound. Find the right model for your needs in our guide to the best noise cancelling headphones for this year.

Jabra Elite 85h 1
8/10

Best value for money

Jabra Elite 85h

The best noise cancelling headphones in 2021

With its 41 hours of autonomy, this headset with active noise reduction offers an unparalleled sound experience. A voice assistance function adds to its multiple audio qualities.

144 £ on Amazon

The Jabra Elite 85h noise-canceling headphones have a simple yet imposing design, with a metal and black leather finish. The ear cups fit snugly around the ears, ensuring good acoustics. This foldable headset is practical and can be easily slipped into a bag. In addition, it is not afraid of rain or dust. And as for the sound, we will say that this headset sets the bar very high.

The Jabra Elite 85h has a battery life of 41 hours in noise reduction mode. It recharges using the USB cable provided. Easy to use, this Bluetooth headset has a fully customizable noise cancellation feature. Its built-in microphones guarantee excellent sound reproduction.

JBL Tune 600BTNC 2
7/10

Best value for money

JBL Tune 600BTNC

The best entry-level noise cancelling headphones

The JBL Tune 600BTNC foldable wireless headphones offer excellent sound quality with 32mm drivers. With a 12-hour battery life, you'll enjoy a great musical experience.

55,99 £ on Amazon

Foldable, discreet, stylish and inexpensive: the JBL Tune 600BTNC has all the qualities you'd expect from a noise-cancelling headset. Available in blue, these hands-free headphones feature powerful drivers. It keeps noise leakage under control so you can enjoy your music without disturbing others. This Bluetooth headset comes with a power cable, a detachable cable and a safety plug.

On the technical side, this noise-canceling headset reveals powerful bass. Make your calls in the best possible conditions, thanks to its balanced audio configuration. It can be used in wired or Bluetooth mode, and promises decent passive and active isolation. It has standard controls: power on/off, play and pause, pick up or hang up calls.

Bose Headphones 700 3
8/10

Best value for money

Bose Headphones 700

The best high-end noise cancelling headphones

Bose has revised its copy of the Headphones 700, criticized at its release. Even more efficient in terms of noise reduction and audio quality, it adds an autonomy of 20 hours and integrated voice assistants.

239 £ on Amazon

With its excellent sound reproduction, the Bose Headphones 700 noise cancelling headphones will not fail to seduce fans of the American brand. These headphones can now take over from the legendary Bose QC35 II. Its intuitive touch controls make it very easy to use. With a simple tap, switch to the function of your choice. Play, pause, take a call, the Bose 700 reacts with remarkable speed. The only drawback is that its format is not foldable.

In terms of functionality, the Bluetooth connectivity is excellent. The Headphones 700 can connect to 2 sources simultaneously, automatically managing the flow issue. Its autonomy of 20 h accompanies you a whole day. It has a fully adjustable noise reduction function, which you can adjust according to your preferences.

Sony WH1000XM4 4
7/10

A great choice

Sony WH1000XM4

Smart headphones, so you can stay connected

An autonomy of 30 hours, a foldable format, hyper neat finishes: the little last one of Sony seduces by a well thought ergonomics and incredible sound performances. The rival of the Bose Headphone 700.

279 £ on Amazon

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the must-have model and the main rival of the Bose Headphone 700. In fact, its predecessor, the WH-1000XM4, held its own against the Bose QC35 II. The Japanese headphone's strengths? Its excellent acoustic configuration and its adjustable noise reduction function. In terms of aesthetics, it must be admitted that it has many points in common with its predecessor. The intuitive controls, with 2 mechanical buttons and a tactile surface, are as exhaustive as ever.

On the manufacturing side, the WH1000XM4 is even more functional than its predecessor. The left earpiece has a proximity sensor, which automatically pauses the headset when you remove it. In addition, it goes into auto sleep after 5 min of inactivity. With its multipoint Bluetooth connection, the M4 can be connected to two different sources simultaneously. Intelligent, it automatically activates the sound transparency mode as soon as the user starts talking.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best noise-cancelling headphones

Any specific needs?

The best noise cancelling headphones in 2021

The best entry-level noise cancelling headphones

The best high-end noise cancelling headphones

Smart headphones, so you can stay connected

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best noise-cancelling headphones

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Jabra Elite 85h 5
8/10
JBL Tune 600BTNC 6
7/10
Bose Headphones 700 7
8/10
Sony WH1000XM4 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Jabra Elite 85h
JBL Tune 600BTNC
Bose Headphones 700
Sony WH1000XM4
With its 41 hours of autonomy, this headset with active noise reduction offers an unparalleled sound experience. A voice assistance function adds to its multiple audio qualities.
The JBL Tune 600BTNC foldable wireless headphones offer excellent sound quality with 32mm drivers. With a 12-hour battery life, you'll enjoy a great musical experience.
Bose has revised its copy of the Headphones 700, criticized at its release. Even more efficient in terms of noise reduction and audio quality, it adds an autonomy of 20 hours and integrated voice assistants.
An autonomy of 30 hours, a foldable format, hyper neat finishes: the little last one of Sony seduces by a well thought ergonomics and incredible sound performances. The rival of the Bose Headphone 700.
Headset Type
Circum-auricular
Supra-aural
Circum-auricular
Supra-auriculare
Foldable
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Autonomy
41 h
12 hrs
20 h
30 h
Bluetooth
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Weight
298 g
121 g
249 g
250 g

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Buying guide - noise-cancelling headphones

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How to choose your noise-cancelling headphones

#1 - Usage

A reduction headset will be chosen according to its functionality, but also according to the use for which it is intended. The on-ear headset is simply placed on the ear. They are generally intended for professional use, or for activities that do not require large movements. If you want to enjoy your playlist during sports and isolate yourself during your workout, choose an in-ear model. Lightweight and space-saving, they allow you to move, jump, or run, without impeding your movements.

#2 - Motion mobility

An argument for choosing in-ear headphones is the ability to engage in hectic activities in peace. Athletes often favor these headphones, which give them complete freedom of movement along the way. Most noise-canceling headsets on the market are wired, but wireless versions are becoming more common. Wireless in-ear and on-ear noise cancelling headphones are much more convenient for users on the go.

#3 - Bluetooth

The Bluetooth option is one of the decisive criteria in choosing a noise cancelling headphone. With this feature, the user can easily connect to their smartphone. The most advanced headsets have controls to make adjustments easier. Less expensive, button-less headsets are aimed at experienced users.

#4 - Sound quality

Noise cancelling headphones are designed to keep the user from the surrounding noise. The models found on the market differ in their technologies. The best models are effective at blocking out high frequencies as well as low ones. A good quality headset should be able to mask almost all external sounds. Music lovers look for this acoustic quality in noise-cancelling headphones to listen quietly to their favorite music.

#5 - Autonomy

If you want to stay quiet for long hours, it's a good idea to choose a device with long battery life. Some models have a battery life of over 35 hours. A music lover will base his choice on the average length of songs he likes to listen to without interruption. For long plane trips, the use of headphones allows you to take full advantage of the entertainment offered during the trip: watch a movie, enjoy a music concert, etc. However, if the noise-canceling headphones are intended to be worn for a limited time, the problem of battery life is practically non-existent.

How do I clean noise-canceling headphones?

Regular care of your headphones will make them last longer. In addition, cleaning the various components is essential to ensure good hygiene.

The headband

  • Plastic or imitation : use a cotton cloth soaked in dishwasher or glass cleaner,... dry with a cloth.
  • Metal: use soapy water, a cotton cloth, wipe carefully.
  • Leather: clean leather gently with a soft cloth and warm water. A colorless nourishing coating will complete the care, on dry leather.

The pads

  • Leatherette: remove the pads. Wash them in soapy water with a lint-free cloth, preferably cotton or microfiber.
  • Fabric: soak them in water with soap. Let them dry naturally away from the sun in a well-ventilated area.
  • Leather: wipe gently, in small strokes, with a soft, lint-free cloth that is slightly damp.

Interior of the earpieces

The inside of the earpieces is lined with a layer of foam or acoustic fabric. To remove dust and dirt from the inside of the earpieces, we do not recommend using a damp cloth. Get a can of dry compressed air. This will prevent moisture from being deposited on the electronics in the earpieces.

The shells

  • Plastic or imitation: liquid window soap will work fine.
  • Solid wood: a soft, dry cloth is ideal.
  • Metal or leather: a slightly damp cloth will do. After dusting, coat them with a special maintenance cream.

The cable

  • Smooth or braided sheath cable: a microfiber wipe lightly soaked in soapy water will do. Wipe with a dry natural cloth.

The protection grid

This element must be meticulously cleaned with hydrogen peroxide and a soft natural fiber cloth. If there is a hardened layer of earwax, put hydrogen peroxide on the deposit and let it soften for a few minutes.

The acoustic port

If you do not have a cleaning kit, use the free end of a paper clip or a cotton swab. If you need to moisten the cotton swab, turn the tube downward to remove the moisture.

Active noise cancelling headphones or audio headphones?

Active noise reduction headphones

Active Noise Cancelling headphones act as a noise canceller via an ANC or Active Noise Cancelling system. This process filters and attenuates annoying external noise. In addition, the sounds that the person needs to hear are amplified (conversations, voice announcements ...).

Advantages :

  • Stationary, repetitive and monotonous noises such as the rolling of cars, trains, aircraft noise, are eliminated by the active noise reduction, specially designed for this purpose.
  • With active noise reduction headphones, you don't have to turn up the volume to listen to your music. The ANC system therefore preserves the integrity and health of the hearing system.
  • You can enjoy the active noise cancelling effect even when you're not listening to music. The headphones help you surround yourself in a bubble of calm and silence.
  • Dangerous sound signals, sirens, sudden braking, are not stopped by the active noise reduction.

Disadvantages:

  • The active noise canceller can be quite heavy, making wearing the helmet for long distances quite difficult.
  • Once the power runs out, some headsets simply perform the services of a regular headset. Others, however, stop working. It is necessary to have spare batteries to recharge the battery.
  • Noise reduction is achieved by mixing noise and feedback. Some people perceive an unwanted murmur with this technique.

The headset

A headset is a portable device for listening to music. They can also be used to make phone calls if they have a microphone. With open headphones, the sounds reach the people around you. With a closed headset, only you can hear the sounds emitted through the earphones. Headphones can be worn as in-ear, around-the-neck, circumaural or supra-aural. They can be wired or wireless.

Advantages:

  • The quality of the sound obtained with the wired headphones is excellent with a frequency of approximately 20 000 Hz for the most powerful.
  • The headset can be equipped with active noise reduction. This is an important asset for people who work in a noisy environment, when they need to concentrate.
  • The headset with integrated microphone is the best option for good communication during a video conference or in a call center.
  • Wireless headsets offer ease of use when you're on the go. This is further enhanced by the addition of a remote control.

Disadvantages

  • The main drawback of wired headsets is the cable. These models are therefore generally used for indoor activities or those requiring limited movement.
  • The fragile connection between the wire and the headset can be a problem. Once this connection is damaged, the entire headset becomes unusable.
  • One of the disadvantages of wireless headsets is their lack of battery life. It is necessary to provide a power source (wall outlet, spare batteries) to recharge them.

Verdict

Noise-canceling headphones effectively protect the user from environmental noise. For this reason, they are very popular with open space workers. Popular with travelers, they make it possible to fully appreciate long train and plane journeys.

The audio headset is used more frequently to listen to music, make calls, play sports... Used during exercise in the gym, it can be easily integrated into the sports routine.

The best brands of noise-cancelling headphones

In our opinion, the best brands of noise-cancelling headphones in 2022 are :

Sony
Bose
Philips
Jabra
Sennheiser

Founded in 1946, the Japanese brand Sony offers high-tech consumer products, such as TVs, audio accessories, cameras... We highlight its commitment to quality and its willingness to always diversify its product lines.

Bose Corporation is an American brand specialized in the manufacture of noise-cancelling headphones. We highlight its high-tech development methods, which have earned it the title of leader for over 50 years.

Categorized as one of the world's largest technology companies, Philips was founded on May 15, 1891 by Gerard Philips, a mechanical engineer. We appreciate its innovative spirit, found through its diversified product lines.

The Jabra brand is recognized worldwide for its expertise in audio technologies. We highlight its wide range of high quality products, for use by professionals and the general public.

Sennheiser was founded in 1945 by electrical engineer, Dr. Fritz Sennheiser. Since its inception, the company has made it its mission to provide a premium hearing experience for its customers. A vision that we would like to emphasize.

What is the price noise-cancelling headphones

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
20 £ to 100 £
Mid-range
100 £ to 400 £
High-end
more than 400 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Turn off your headset when not in use.

Don't waste your battery unnecessarily. This will extend the life of your headset.

Take care of your headset.

To

clean the sides of the headphones, use a soft cloth dampened with alcohol or dishwashing detergent. Gently wipe down the earcup padding

Take your charger with you.

To

enjoy your noise-canceling headphones at all times, don't forget to take your charger with

you.

Use dedicated apps for better sound.

It's

very easy to quickly and dramatically change the sound signature of your headphones. It depends on your taste, of course, but we recommend opting for apps that make subtle but effective changes. Use an equalizer app to tone down over-amplified bass (a common feature in today's models), or to tame some of the overly sibilant highs.

Be aware of Bluetooth limitations.

Bluetooth is a clever technology, but it has its limitations. The strength of the connection between your Bluetooth devices varies depending on the distance between the connected devices. If you cross a certain threshold, you will be disconnected. Remember to take this into account when using your headset.

FAQ

What are the best noise-canceling headphones?

The best noise-canceling headphones depend on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.

What are the best eyeglass-compatible headphones?

Over-ear headphones are best if you wear glasses all the time, as they don't press on the temples.

For multi-hour use, which headphones are recommended?

Circum-aural headphones are ideal for use over long periods. It has a large ear cushion design. Its wrap-around shape ensures a comfortable fit.

What's the advantage of noise-canceling headphones?

Lighter than headphones, noise-canceling headphones offer good isolation. Some newer models even allow you to target the noise reduction to your left or right ear.

Why choose wireless headphones?

Wireless headphones offer complete freedom of movement. They connect to your phone in seconds, provided, of course, that the devices are close enough.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2020, consumerreports.org
  2. The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones, nytimes.com
  3. What are noise-canceling headphones for kids for?, audialy.com
  4. What are noise-canceling headphones?, bax-shop.fr
  5. How to choose noise-canceling headphones., group-digital.fr
  6. Sleep better with noise-canceling headphones., arpas.fr 
  7. Do noise-canceling headphones really work?, cotral.fr
  8. 5 ideas for using noise-canceling headphones., bloghoptoys.fr
  9. Advantages and disadvantages of using noise-canceling headphones., urgencegaza.com
  10. Advantages and disadvantages of active noise cancelling headphones, audiocasque.fr
  11. Passive noise isolation, lecasqueparfait.com
  12. Earphones and headphones : How to protect your ears?, futura-sciences.com
  13. Guide : What is the best noise cancelling headphone ..., lesnumeriques.com
  14. Noise cancelling headphones - Buy Audio Headphones | Black ..., fnac.com
  15. Top 5 noise cancelling headphones - Tips for ..., fnac.com
  16. Noise cancelling headphones comparison : what is the best noise cancelling headphone ..., tomsguide.fr
  17. Noise Reduction Headphones | Boulanger, boulanger.com
  18. Best Noise Reduction Headphones 2021 - Comparison, futura-sciences.com
  19. Best Active Noise Reduction Headphones: Which ..., papergeek.fr
  20. Noise Reduction Headphones and Earphones | Bose, bose.fr
  21. Noise Reduction Headphones Selection Black Friday 2021 ..., ma-reduc.com
  22. Noise cancelling headphones for the subway, plane, train, son-video.com
  23. Active noise cancelling headphones | Jabra Evolve 80, jabra.fr
  24. JBL Noise Cancelling Headphones - Official JBL Store, fr.jbl.com
  25. Active noise cancelling headphones | Marshall, marshallheadphones.com
  26. Best noise cancelling headphones 2021 - buyer's guide, bfmtv.com
  27. Noise cancelling headphones - free shipping - Deezer ...., darty.com
  28. Noise cancelling headphones - Buy Audio Headphones at ..., materiel.net
  29. Noise cancelling wireless headphones - Silentia Night ..., julienquaglierini.com
  30. Noise cancelling wireless headphones | WH ..., sony.fr
  31. Amazon.co.uk : active noise cancelling headphones, amazon.co.uk
  32. Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2021 [Comparison], selectos.eu
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Jabra Elite 85h 9
Jabra Elite 85h
JBL Tune 600BTNC 10
JBL Tune 600BTNC
Bose Headphones 700 11
Bose Headphones 700
Sony WH1000XM4 12
Sony WH1000XM4

Lecteurs

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