Product Review: Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2021

4 min readMar 7, 2024

In today’s fast-paced and noisy world, having a reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference in your listening experience. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or just someone who values peace and quiet, investing in a high-quality set of noise-canceling headphones is a game-changer. In this review, we will explore some of the best noise-canceling headphones available in 2021, taking into account factors such as sound quality, comfort, battery life, and overall value for money.

1. Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely regarded as one of the best noise-canceling headphones on the market, and for good reason. With industry-leading noise-canceling technology, these headphones can block out a wide range of ambient sounds, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your music or audio content. The sound quality is exceptional, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The ear cups are plush and comfortable, making them ideal for long listening sessions. The battery life is also impressive, offering up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge.

Read More: Sony WH-1000XM4 Review

2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Another top contender in the noise-canceling headphone market is the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. Bose is known for its superior sound quality and noise-canceling technology, and these headphones deliver on both fronts. The 700 series offers excellent noise cancellation, allowing you to block out distractions and focus on your music or calls. The design is sleek and modern, with touch controls for easy operation. The sound profile is well-balanced, suitable for a wide range of music genres. Battery life is around 20 hours, which is respectable for this type of headphone.

3. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

For audiophiles looking for top-notch sound quality in their noise-canceling headphones, the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless is a fantastic choice. These headphones offer rich, detailed sound with a focus on clarity and accuracy. The noise cancellation is effective in blocking out external noise, creating a serene listening environment. The build quality is premium, with a combination of leather and stainless steel for a luxurious feel. The ear cups are comfortable and provide a good seal for optimal sound performance. Battery life is around 17 hours, which is slightly lower compared to other models but still sufficient for most users.

4. Apple AirPods Max

Apple entered the noise-canceling headphone market with a bang with the Apple AirPods Max. These over-ear headphones combine Apple’s signature design aesthetic with premium sound quality and active noise cancellation. The sound signature is balanced and detailed, suitable for a wide range of music genres. The AirPods Max feature a unique digital crown for volume control and playback, adding a touch of innovation to the user experience. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 20 hours of listening time on a single charge. The AirPods Max are a solid choice for Apple enthusiasts looking for a seamless integration with their Apple ecosystem.

Read More: Apple AirPods Max Review

5. Jabra Elite 85h

The Jabra Elite 85h is a versatile and feature-packed option for those in search of noise-canceling headphones. These headphones offer excellent noise cancellation, adaptive to your surroundings for optimal performance. The sound quality is dynamic, with customizable EQ settings to tailor the sound to your preferences. The Elite 85h is equipped with smart features such as voice assistant integration and motion sensors for automatic pause/play functionality. The battery life is exceptional, providing up to 36 hours of playback with noise cancellation activated.

Read More: Jabra Elite 85h Review

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best noise-canceling headphones of 2021, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, battery life, or advanced features, there is a wide range of options available to suit your needs. The models mentioned in this review represent some of the top contenders in the noise-canceling headphone market, each offering a unique blend of performance and features. Whichever model you choose, investing in a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones can elevate your listening experience to new heights.

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Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the perfect noise-canceling headphones for your lifestyle. Happy listening!