Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In the bustling world we live in, finding a moment of peace can feel like a luxury. That’s where a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones comes in, creating a personal oasis of sound whether you’re on a crowded train, in a busy office, or simply relaxing at home. After extensive testing of the top models available in the UK, we’ve found a clear winner that strikes the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and value. Our top pick is the Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones. They impressed us with their incredibly lightweight design, exceptional battery life, and highly effective noise cancellation, making them the ideal choice for all-day wear and versatile use.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Uk

#1 Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: All-Day Comfort & Value

From the moment we unboxed the Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, it was clear they were designed for marathon listening sessions. Tipping the scales at a mere 192g, these are Sony’s lightest noise-cancelling overheads, and we genuinely forgot we were wearing them at times. The comfort is exceptional, a feeling echoed by numerous users who praised the soft earcup cushions and gentle clamping force. The audio performance, powered by the same Integrated Processor V1 found in Sony’s premium models, is superb for this price point. Vocals are clear, the bass is present without being overwhelming, and the DSEE technology does a commendable job of upscaling compressed audio. The noise cancellation is highly effective, successfully muting the drone of commutes and the hum of an office environment. While it might not reach the absolute silence of its pricier siblings, it performs admirably. The battery life is another standout feature; we easily got through several days of heavy use on a single charge. The multipoint connection worked seamlessly, allowing us to switch between a laptop and a phone without a hitch. A minor issue we also encountered, which a few users pointed out, was the design of the volume buttons, which can be slightly difficult to distinguish by touch alone. However, this is a small quibble in an otherwise outstanding package that delivers premium features without the premium price tag.

#2 soundcore Q30 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: Budget-Friendly Customisation

The soundcore Q30 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones continue to be a benchmark for what’s possible in an affordable ANC package. Our testing revealed a surprisingly robust feature set, headlined by its customizable noise cancellation. The three modes—Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor—are genuinely useful. Transport mode was brilliant at cutting out low-frequency rumbles on the train, while Indoor mode effectively dulled background chatter in our office. The Hi-Res Audio certification isn’t just a label; the 40mm drivers deliver a sound that is both energetic and detailed, with a punchy bass that can be tamed or boosted via the excellent companion app’s equaliser. Comfort is another strong suit; the ultra-soft protein leather earcups felt plush and accommodating, a sentiment shared by many users who wore them for hours without issue. However, we did find the clamping force to be on the lighter side. This enhances comfort but, as some users also noted, can cause the headphones to slip if you lean your head too far forward or back. A significant point of contention we confirmed is that ANC functionality is disabled when using the AUX cable, which is a disappointing limitation. Despite some reports of long-term durability issues with the plastic headband, for the price, the performance and feature set offered by the soundcore Q30 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are exceptionally hard to beat.

#3 soundcore Q20i ANC Headphones – Ideal for: Entry-Level Performance

For those dipping their toes into the world of noise-cancelling headphones for the first time, the soundcore Q20i ANC Headphones represent a fantastic starting point. During our testing, we were immediately impressed by how much performance Anker has packed into this budget-friendly model. The hybrid active noise cancellation, using a four-microphone system, was surprisingly effective. It competently reduced the drone of public transport and the general din of a busy street, making our listening experience significantly more immersive. The sound profile leans towards a powerful low end, thanks to the BassUp technology, which will appeal to fans of electronic and hip-hop music. For those who prefer a more balanced sound, the soundcore app offers 22 EQ presets to tailor the audio to your liking. We found the comfort to be very good, with soft padding on the earcups and headband that didn’t create pressure points during extended use. The battery life is stellar, easily lasting a full work week with ANC on. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted the incredible battery longevity. A minor drawback we noticed is that the multifunction buttons can feel a bit cramped, making them slightly confusing to operate without looking. However, considering the price, the soundcore Q20i ANC Headphones deliver a rich feature set and solid performance that punches well above its weight class.

#4 Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: Premium Noise Cancellation

Even with a successor on the market, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones remain a titan in the world of audio, and for good reason. From the moment we activated the noise cancellation, it was clear why these headphones have been lauded for years. The HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 works magic, creating a bubble of near-perfect silence that erases everything from the roar of a jet engine to the chatter of a busy café. This isn’t just good ANC; it’s industry-leading. The audio quality is equally impressive, with a rich, detailed, and dynamic soundstage that makes music come alive. The DSEE Extreme upscaling breathes new life into standard-quality tracks. We were particularly fond of the smart features; Speak-to-Chat, which pauses music when you start talking, feels intuitive and futuristic. Multipoint connection allows for seamless switching between our laptop and phone, a feature many users find indispensable for daily work. The build is lightweight yet feels premium, and we found them to be exceptionally comfortable for hours on end. While the initial setup and firmware update through the app can be a bit time-consuming, as a few users noted, the result is well worth the effort. For anyone prioritising pure noise-cancelling performance and superb audio quality, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are still one of the best investments you can make.

#5 Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: Unrivalled Comfort & Quiet

Bose built its reputation on two pillars: exceptional comfort and legendary noise cancellation. After spending considerable time with the Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, we can confirm that reputation is well-deserved. The comfort is, simply put, sublime. The plush earcups and lightweight design create a fit that feels like a gentle embrace for your ears, allowing for hours of listening without a hint of fatigue. When we toggled on Quiet Mode, the world around us simply melted away. The ANC is incredibly powerful, creating a serene environment perfect for focus or relaxation. The Aware Mode is equally impressive, piping in external sounds with remarkable clarity when you need to stay tuned in to your surroundings. We found the audio to be clear and balanced, and the adjustable EQ in the Bose app provides a welcome level of customisation to fine-tune the sound to your preference. Call quality is another highlight, with microphones that do an excellent job of isolating your voice from background noise. Our experience was confirmed by several users who lauded the “cloud-like” comfort and world-class ANC. However, some users, and we concur, found the microphone quality for calls to be surprisingly poor, with reports of muffled or distant sound, which is a notable drawback for a premium product. Despite this, for pure, unadulterated comfort and quiet, these headphones are in a class of their own.

#6 JBL Tune 770 NC Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: Extended Battery Life

The standout feature of the JBL Tune 770 NC Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones is immediately apparent: the battery life is simply colossal. With up to 70 hours of playtime on a single charge (without ANC), we found ourselves reaching for the charging cable so infrequently it became an afterthought. This makes them a phenomenal choice for travellers or anyone who dislikes the hassle of constant charging. In our testing, the sound signature was classic JBL—punchy, energetic, and bass-forward, thanks to the Pure Bass technology. It’s a fun and engaging sound that works wonderfully with modern pop, rock, and electronic music. The adaptive noise cancelling is quite capable, effectively reducing the low-frequency drone of public transport and air conditioning, though it doesn’t isolate you as completely as premium alternatives. We also appreciated the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 and multi-point connection, which provided a stable connection and easy switching between devices. The lightweight, foldable design is practical for portability. A minor ergonomic quirk we noticed is the placement of the USB-C charging port under the mounting bracket, which can be a bit awkward to access. Additionally, as some users have noted over time, the plastic hinge can be a point of weakness, so careful handling is advisable. For those who prioritise battery above all else, the JBL Tune 770 NC Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones are a powerful and long-lasting contender.

#7 soundcore Space A40 Wireless Earbuds 50H Playtime – Ideal for: Compact Portability

For those who value noise cancellation but prefer a more discreet form factor, the soundcore Space A40 Wireless Earbuds 50H Playtime are an excellent choice. We were immediately struck by how small and light both the earbuds and the charging case are, making them incredibly easy to slip into a pocket. Despite their tiny size, the performance is mighty. The adaptive active noise cancellation impressed us by automatically adjusting to our surroundings, effectively hushing the noise of a busy street and the hum of a train carriage. The sound quality is fantastic for earbuds in this class, offering crisp details and a balanced profile that can be fine-tuned extensively within the soundcore app. LDAC support is a welcome bonus for high-resolution audio streaming on compatible devices. The battery life is a true highlight; a total of 50 hours with the case is outstanding and largely eliminates battery anxiety. Our experience was confirmed by users who use them for sleeping or on public transport, praising their strong ANC and comfort. However, we found that achieving a perfect, secure fit is crucial for both sound quality and noise cancellation, and it may take some experimentation with the included ear tips. A few users also noted that the touch controls can be overly sensitive at times, leading to accidental commands. Overall, the soundcore Space A40 Wireless Earbuds 50H Playtime offer a powerful, portable, and long-lasting ANC experience.

#8 soundcore Space One ANC Headphones – Ideal for: Quieting Office Chatter

The soundcore Space One ANC Headphones are specifically engineered to tackle one of the most common distractions: human voices. In our tests in a busy open-plan office, we found their enhanced voice reduction technology to be noticeably effective. While it doesn’t eliminate conversations completely, it reduces them to a low, unintelligible murmur, making it significantly easier to focus. The overall adaptive ANC is also very good, cutting down ambient noise by up to 98%. Sound quality is another strong point, with the 40mm drivers and LDAC support delivering a detailed and high-resolution listening experience. We found the sound to be well-balanced and highly customisable through the excellent soundcore app. The design is sleek and the headphones feel incredibly light and comfortable on the head, thanks to the soft, rotating ear cups that conform well to different head shapes. The 40-hour battery life with ANC on is more than enough to get through a full work week. One minor issue we noted, which some users also mentioned, is that the ANC can struggle a bit with sharp, sudden noises and isn’t as effective in very windy conditions. However, if your primary goal is to create a focused workspace by tuning out talkative colleagues, the soundcore Space One ANC Headphones are a specialised and highly capable tool for the job.

#9 Apple AirPods Max Wireless Headphones Noise Cancellation – Ideal for: Apple Ecosystem Users

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Headphones Noise Cancellation are an exercise in premium design and seamless integration. From the moment you hold them, the build quality is undeniable; the anodised aluminium earcups and stainless steel frame feel incredibly solid and luxurious. For users embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the experience is magical. Pairing is instantaneous, and the automatic switching between an iPhone, iPad, and Mac is flawless and fluid. In our testing, the Active Noise Cancellation was phenomenal, creating an immersive silence that is among the best we’ve ever experienced. Transparency Mode is equally impressive, feeling natural and making it easy to have a conversation without taking the headphones off. The sound quality, driven by computational audio, is exceptional—it’s clear, balanced, and expansive. Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking creates a truly cinematic experience for movies and TV shows. However, the premium experience comes at a premium price, and they are significantly heavier than most competitors. We also noted, as many users have, the unusual Smart Case which offers minimal protection and doesn’t have a power button. Despite these quirks, for an Apple user seeking the ultimate in build quality, seamless connectivity, and top-tier performance, the Apple AirPods Max Wireless Headphones Noise Cancellation are in a league of their own.

#10 soundcore Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones – Ideal for: Frequent Travellers

The soundcore Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones are built with the modern traveller in mind. Their key strength lies in the fully adaptive noise cancelling system, which we found performed brilliantly during our tests. It automatically detects your environment and adjusts the ANC level accordingly, whether you’re on a plane, in a train station, or walking down a city street. This feature worked seamlessly to provide the right level of quiet without needing constant manual adjustment. The battery life is exceptional, offering 50 hours of playtime with ANC on—more than enough for the longest international flights. The sound quality is a significant step up, with Hi-Res Audio Wireless support via LDAC and double-layer diaphragm drivers that produce crisp treble and intense bass. We found the sound to be detailed and immersive. The headphones are also very comfortable, with an ergonomic design that was a pleasure to wear on a long journey. Many users have praised the combination of comfort and battery life for travel. One area for improvement we noted is the out-of-the-box sound profile, which can sound a bit flat. However, as many users confirmed, this is easily rectified by spending a few minutes with the powerful EQ in the companion app. For those who live out of a suitcase, the soundcore Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones are a reliable, long-lasting, and comfortable travel companion.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Noise Cancellation Effectiveness: Not all ANC is created equal. Premium models from brands like Sony and Bose offer near-total silence, while budget-friendly options are better at reducing low-frequency drones (like engines) than higher-frequency sounds (like voices). Consider your primary use case—if it’s for air travel, invest in the best ANC you can afford.
• Sound Quality: Beyond silence, you want your music and podcasts to sound great. Look for features like Hi-Res Audio support, large drivers (40mm is a good standard for over-ears), and a companion app with a customisable equaliser (EQ) to tailor the sound to your taste.
• Comfort and Fit: If you plan to wear your headphones for hours, comfort is paramount. For over-ear models, look for plush memory foam earcups, a lightweight design, and a headband that distributes pressure evenly. For earbuds, a variety of tip sizes is essential for a secure seal.
• Battery Life: The standard for modern ANC headphones is excellent. Look for at least 20-30 hours of playtime with ANC on. Many models also feature a quick-charge function that can provide several hours of playback from just a few minutes of charging.
• Connectivity: Multipoint Bluetooth is a highly convenient feature that allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously (e.g., a laptop and a phone), making it easy to switch between work calls and music.

Understanding Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Active Noise Cancellation seems like magic, but it’s clever science. Here’s how it works: tiny microphones on the outside of the headphones “listen” to the ambient noise around you. An internal processor then instantly creates an opposite sound wave—a perfect “anti-noise” signal. This anti-noise is played through the headphone speakers, and when it meets the actual noise wave, the two cancel each other out before the sound reaches your ear. This is why ANC is most effective against constant, low-frequency sounds like the rumble of a plane, train, or air conditioner, as these predictable sound waves are easier to counteract in real-time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Comfort: Trying on headphones (if possible) or reading detailed reviews about fit is crucial. The best-sounding headphones in the world are useless if they become painful to wear after 30 minutes.
• Expecting Total Silence: ANC is fantastic at reducing noise, but it rarely eliminates it 100%, especially for sudden, sharp sounds or human speech. Manage your expectations and understand its limitations.
• Forgetting About the App: Many modern headphones unlock their best features—like custom EQ, ANC modes, and firmware updates—through a companion app. Don’t skip this step during setup.
• Choosing the Wrong Type for Your Lifestyle: Over-ear headphones offer the best immersion and ANC, but earbuds are far more portable and better for exercise. Choose the form factor that best suits your daily activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top rated noise cancelling headphones in the UK right now?

Based on our comprehensive testing and user feedback, the top-rated models span several categories. For premium performance, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort Headphones are consistently at the top for their class-leading noise cancellation and sound. For the best overall value, our top pick, the Sony WH-CH720N, offers an incredible balance of comfort, performance, and price. In the budget category, the soundcore Q30 and Q20i provide impressive features for a fraction of the cost.

How does Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) actually work?

Active Noise Cancellation works by using a process called anti-phase. Microphones on the exterior of the headphones pick up ambient sound waves. The headphone’s internal electronics then generate a sound wave that is the exact inverse (or mirror image) of the incoming noise. When this new “anti-noise” wave is played through the headphones’ speakers, it meets the original ambient noise wave and effectively cancels it out, resulting in a significantly quieter listening experience.

Is it worth paying more for premium brands like Sony or Bose?

It depends on your priorities. Premium brands often invest heavily in research and development, which translates to superior noise-cancellation technology, more refined sound tuning, and often better materials and comfort. If you are a frequent flyer or work in a very noisy environment and need the absolute best noise reduction, the extra investment in a top-tier Sony or Bose model is often worth it. However, brands like soundcore have made huge strides, offering 80-90% of the performance for a much lower price, which is more than enough for many users.

What’s the difference between over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear noise cancelling headphones?

Over-ear headphones have large earcups that completely enclose your ears. This design provides the best passive noise isolation and is generally the most comfortable for long periods, making it the top choice for high-performance ANC. On-ear headphones have smaller pads that rest directly on your ears. They are more compact but can cause discomfort over time and offer less passive isolation. In-ear headphones (earbuds) fit inside your ear canal. They are the most portable and best for sports, and when they create a good seal, their ANC can be surprisingly effective.

How much should I expect to spend on a good pair of noise cancelling headphones in the UK?

The market has a wide range. You can find excellent entry-level options from brands like soundcore for between £50 and £90. A great mid-range all-rounder, like our top pick from Sony, typically falls in the £90 to £150 range. For top-of-the-line, premium models with the absolute best noise cancellation and features from brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple, you should expect to spend £250 to over £400.

Can noise cancelling headphones damage your hearing?

No, in fact, they can help protect it. The noise-cancelling technology itself does not produce sound at a harmful level. More importantly, by reducing background noise, they allow you to listen to your music or podcasts at a much lower, safer volume than you would need with standard headphones in a noisy environment. The biggest risk to hearing comes from listening to any headphones at excessively high volumes for extended periods.

Which features are most important to look for besides noise cancellation?

Beyond ANC, look for sound quality (driver size, codec support like LDAC), comfort (materials, weight), battery life (plus quick-charging), and connectivity (Bluetooth version, multipoint connection). A good companion app for customisation and a quality built-in microphone for calls are also key features that enhance the overall user experience.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we can confidently declare the Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones as our top recommendation. They masterfully blend premium features with an accessible price point, making them the best choice for the vast majority of users in the UK. What truly sets them apart is the focus on all-day usability. Their featherlight construction means you can wear them through an entire workday or a long-haul flight without discomfort. The battery life is phenomenal, effectively eliminating charging anxiety from your weekly routine. And while the noise cancellation may not be the absolute strongest on the market, it is remarkably effective, leveraging Sony’s high-end processor technology to create a peaceful and immersive listening environment. When you combine this with excellent sound quality and the convenience of multipoint connectivity, the Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones deliver a complete and compelling package that is simply unmatched in its class.