Almost Perfect Noise Canceling Headphones for Travel 2024

The only perfect in the world is nature. We believe that one of the best ways to enjoy your favorite songs or just silence when you are traveling is through the premium quality active noise-canceling headphones.

In 2024, the best ANC headphones deliver not only premium sound quality but also advanced features that adapt to your surroundings, ensuring a peaceful, immersive listening experience.

Below, we explore the top 7 noise-cancelling headphones that will take your 2024 travels to the next level, catering to every type of traveller—from luxury lovers to budget-conscious adventurers. Here is a comparison of the top 7 ANC headphones for 2024, highlighting their best features, price, battery life, and noise-cancelling performance to help you find the perfect match for your next journey.

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Best for comfort & noise cancellation
2. Sony WH-1000XM5 – Best for smart features & versatility
3. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 – Best for luxury feel & sound quality
4. Apple AirPods Max – Best for Apple users & spatial audio
5. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT – Best for travel value & portability
6. Jabra Elite 85h – Best for battery life & durability, also best priced
7. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 – Best for compact design & audiophile earbuds

The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones to Elevate Your 2024 Travels

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Bose continues to dominate the noise-cancelling space with the QuietComfort Ultra model. These headphones offer 11 levels of noise control, making them very adaptable to whatever you use them for. The comfort is unmatched, with plush ear cushions designed for long-term use. With 24 hours of battery life and crystal-clear sound quality, they are ideal for frequent travelers who need reliable performance.
Price: Around $429 USD
Battery Life: 24 hours
Why We Like It: The detailed noise-cancelling options and luxurious comfort make these a go-to choice for long-haul flights​

2. Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 remains a top contender in 2024 for its industry-leading ANC and versatile sound. Equipped with eight microphones and dual processors, they excel at blocking out environmental noise, making them ideal for travel or working in noisy environments. The 30-hour battery life and seamless smart features like Speak-to-Chat and ambient modes make these headphones a smart investment for daily commuters.
Price: $399.99 USD
Battery Life: 30 hours
Why We Like It: Superior noise cancellation combined with long battery life and smart features makes them a favorite among tech-savvy users​.

3. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95

For those seeking luxury and exceptional sound, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 remains the gold standard in 2024. These headphones are crafted with premium materials like lambskin earcups and a cowhide headband, making them one of the most comfortable options available. With 40mm titanium drivers, they deliver a rich, expansive soundstage while offering adjustable ANC via the Bang & Olufsen app. Up to 38 hours of battery life makes them perfect for long trips.
Price: $999 USD
Battery Life: 38 hours
Why We Like It: The premium materials, excellent noise cancellation, and long battery life justify the higher price, especially for those who value luxury and top-tier sound quality​

4. Apple AirPods Max

Apple’s AirPods Max deliver premium over-ear performance with adaptive noise cancellation that rivals other top-tier models. The spatial audio feature creates an immersive listening experience, and the intuitive controls integrated into the sleek design make them a great choice for Apple enthusiasts. With 20 hours of battery life, they offer solid performance for long listening sessions, though they are slightly heavier than some competitors.
Price: $549 USD
Battery Life: 20 hours
Why We Like It: The AirPods Max offers a seamless user experience for those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, with stellar sound quality and sleek design​.

5. Dyson OnTrac™ Headphones

The Dyson OnTrac™ headphones are Dyson’s first entry into high-fidelity audio, offering best-in-class noise cancellation. With 8 microphones, these headphones sample external sounds 384,000 times per second to cancel up to 40dB of unwanted noise. The 55-hour battery life (with ANC) makes them perfect for extended use, and their premium materials—like CNC aluminium and customizable caps—ensure both comfort and durability. These headphones are a great choice for those looking for luxury, customization, and superior sound quality for long listening sessions.

Price: 500 USD
Battery Life: Up to 55 hours
Why We Like It: The Dyson OnTrac™ combines top-tier ANC, luxurious design, and long battery life, making them perfect for users who want performance and style in one package.

6. Jabra Elite 85h

The Jabra Elite 85h offers impressive noise cancellation at a more affordable price, making it one of the best value options for travelers. It features SmartSound technology that adjusts the noise-cancelling levels based on your environment. The 36-hour battery life is exceptional, and its rain-resistant design adds durability for outdoor use.
Price: $249 USD
Battery Life: 36 hours
Why We Like It: Excellent battery life and SmartSound technology make these headphones a great choice for outdoor adventurers and long-distance travelers.

7. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT stands out as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones from Audio-Technica in 2024. They feature hybrid digital noise-cancelling technology and 40mm drivers, delivering excellent sound quality and noise reduction. They are also foldable and come with a carrying case, making them perfect for travel.
Price: $299 USD
Battery Life: 35 hours
Why We Like It: Great balance between performance and portability, with high-quality ANC for travel

ANC Headphones Comparison 2024

Comparison of Noice Cancelling Headphones

• Best Overall Comfort and Noise Cancellation: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is the leader in comfort and detailed control over noise levels, perfect for long-term use in various environments.
• Most Advanced Features: The Sony WH-1000XM5 shines in terms of smart features, with adaptive sound controls, Speak-to-Chat, and versatile ANC, making it a great all-around option for tech-savvy users.
• Ultimate Luxury and Sound Quality: Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 stands out for luxury seekers with its premium build and audiophile-grade sound. Its higher price reflects the superior materials and long battery life.
• Best for Battery and Calls: The Dyson OnTrac Headphones are perfect for travellers who prefer not to think about battery and with great noise reduction for call in busy areas.
• Best for Apple Users: The Apple AirPods Max integrates perfectly into the Apple ecosystem, providing a seamless user experience and impressive spatial audio features for those deeply tied into Apple products.
• Best for Travel Value: The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT offers a great balance between price and performance, with long battery life and hybrid ANC, making it an ideal choice for travelers on a budget.
• Longest Battery Life: If you need long battery life and durability, the Jabra Elite 85h is a solid pick, especially for outdoor use with its weather resistance and 36-hour battery life.