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Introduction
Working from home has plenty of perks—flexible hours, no commute, maybe even working in your pajamas. But it also comes with one big challenge: noise. Whether it’s neighbors, kids, or just everyday distractions, unwanted sound can break your focus fast. That’s where noise-cancelling headphones make all the difference.
The best noise-cancelling headphones for remote work don’t just block out distractions—they also deliver crystal-clear calls, long-lasting comfort, and great sound for music or podcasts between meetings. With so many options on the market, choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the 7 best noise-cancelling headphones for working from home in 2025, tested and reviewed for their performance, comfort, features, and value. Whether you want the ultimate premium pick, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look for in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Before diving into the list, here are the key features that were considered in creating this list.
- Noise-Cancellation Strength – How much background noise is blocked for improved focus
- Comfort – Lightweight and cushioned for long work sessions
- Microphone Quality – Clear voice pickup for calls and meetings
- Battery Life – Ideally 20+ hours for all-day use
- Price & Value – Balance between performance and budget
7 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 stands out as the gold standard for work-from-home professionals who need crystal-clear calls, powerful noise cancellation, and all-day comfort. Sony has refined the design from its predecessor, giving these headphones a slimmer, more lightweight build that’s easy to wear for hours. The real magic, though, lies in their class-leading noise cancellation and smart features that automatically adapt to your environment. Whether you’re blocking out household distractions or switching between video calls and music, the XM5 delivers premium sound and seamless performance.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation with dual processors and 8 microphones
- 30 hours of battery life (with quick charging: 3 minutes = 3 hours of play)
- Lightweight, ultra-comfortable design with soft fit leather
- Hi-Res Audio support with LDAC for top-tier sound quality
- Adaptive Sound Control that adjusts based on activity and location
- Exceptional call quality with AI-powered noise reductionol that adjusts based on activity and location
- Multipoint Bluetooth pairing (connect to two devices at once)
Pros:
- Best-in-class noise cancellation for work and travel
- Superb sound quality, customizable with the Sony Headphones Connect app
- Long battery life with fast charging
- Excellent microphone performance for calls
- Comfortable enough for extended wear
Cons:
- Higher price point than many competitors
- Non-foldable design (less portable than older XM4 model)
- Touch controls can take time to get used to
The Bose QuietComfort 45 keeps the legendary Bose noise-cancelling reputation alive with a comfortable, travel-friendly design and sound signature that’s easy to listen to all day. It’s not flashy or packed with gimmicks—just dependable, distraction-free performance that makes working from home smoother. If comfort and balanced sound matter more than extra frills, this is a strong choice.
Key Features:
- Acoustic Noise Cancelling with “Quiet” and “Aware” modes
- 24 hours of battery life (15-minute charge = 3 hours of use)
- Lightweight build with plush ear cushions
- Simple button controls (no finicky touch gestures)
- Clear voice pickup for calls with noise-rejecting microphones
- Foldable design with compact carrying case
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable for long sessions
- Dependable, effective noise cancellation
- Balanced, pleasant sound signature
- Lightweight and foldable for portability
- Strong battery life with quick charging
Cons:
- Lacks some modern extras (no EQ in app at launch, now partially fixed)
- Sound isn’t as dynamic as premium rivals
- No advanced codecs like LDAC or aptX Adaptive
Apple’s AirPods Max are the most luxurious—and arguably the most polarizing—noise-cancelling headphones out there. With stunning industrial design, excellent spatial audio integration, and seamless iOS ecosystem compatibility, they’re a dream for Apple users. Their weight and price tag, however, may give pause to anyone who just needs a simple WFH headset.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency Mode
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking (ideal for Apple devices)
- Custom Apple H1 chip in each earcup for seamless performance
- 20 hours of battery life (with 5-minute charge = 1.5 hours)
- Stainless steel frame with breathable knit mesh headband
- Intuitive digital crown for volume and playback control
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Superb sound quality with rich, detailed audio
- Best-in-class integration for iOS/Mac users
- Premium build materials and design
- Spatial Audio adds a theater-like experience
Cons:
- Heavy compared to competitors (can cause fatigue)
- Very expensive
- Limited features for non-Apple users
- Smart Case offers minimal protection
For those on a budget, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 delivers an unbeatable balance of price and performance. While it won’t compete with Sony or Bose at the high end, it offers strong noise cancellation, customizable sound, and marathon battery life—making it the best affordable option for remote workers who don’t want to break the bank.
Key Features:
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation with three modes (Transport, Outdoor, Indoor)
- Up to 40 hours of battery life (60 hours with ANC off)
- Custom EQ via the Soundcore app (22 presets available)
- Memory foam ear cups for comfort
- Multipoint connectivity for switching devices
- Includes carrying case
Pros:
- Outstanding value for the price
- Very long battery life
- Customizable sound profile through app
- Decent ANC performance for the cost
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
Cons:
- Noise cancellation weaker than premium competitors
- Build feels less premium (more plastic)
- Call quality is average
The Jabra Elite 85h is a versatile option that balances strong noise cancellation with excellent call quality and durability. It’s designed with work in mind, offering multiple microphones and water resistance—making it a great pick if you juggle calls, music, and even the occasional coffee spill.
Key Features:
- Smart Active Noise Cancellation that adapts to environment
- 36 hours of battery life with ANC on
- 8-microphone system for clear calls
- Water and rain-resistant (nano-coating)
- Jabra Sound+ app with customizable EQ
- Auto-pause when removing headphones
Pros:
- Excellent call quality with strong microphone performance
- Very long battery life
- Durable, water-resistant design
- Comfortable and well-built
- Competitive price point
Cons:
- Bulkier design than some rivals
- Noise cancellation not quite as strong as Sony/Bose
- No high-resolution codec support
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless combines sleek design with top-tier sound quality that audiophiles will love. Its noise cancellation is strong, but the real selling point is Sennheiser’s signature sound: detailed, spacious, and customizable via the app. Add a class-leading battery life, and you have one of the best all-around options for home and travel alike.
Key Features:
- Adaptive Noise Cancellation with Transparency Mode
- 60 hours of battery life (with fast charging: 5 minutes = 4 hours)
- Sennheiser Signature Sound with customizable EQ
- Lightweight design with plush earpads
- Multipoint connectivity for multiple devices
- Auto On/Off and Smart Pause sensors
Pros:
- Superb sound quality with wide soundstage
- Industry-leading battery life
- Strong, adaptive ANC
- Comfortable for long wear
- Sleek, modern design
Cons:
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Pricier than midrange competitors
- Lacks some premium materials found in older Momentum models
The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 is tailored for professionals who prioritize high-fidelity sound and customization. With support for a wide range of codecs and detailed EQ control, it’s one of the most flexible options for audiophiles working from home. Its ANC is solid, though not the strongest, but the sound customization makes it stand out from the pack.
Key Features:
- Adjustable Active Noise Cancellation and Environment Mode
- High-resolution wireless audio (support for LDAC, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive)
- 45 hours of battery life
- ShurePlus PLAY app with customizable EQ and presets
- Premium build with replaceable ear pads
- Wired and wireless connectivity options
Pros:
- Excellent audio quality with codec support for audiophiles
- Long battery life
- High degree of customization through app
- Premium, durable build
- Replaceable parts extend product lifespan
Cons:
- Noise cancellation not as powerful as Sony/Bose
- Bulkier design than some competitors
- More expensive than midrange options
Comparison Table
| Headphones | Battery Life | Noise Cancellation | Call Quality | Comfort | Standout Feature | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | 30 hrs | ★★★★★ Best-in-class | Excellent | Very high | Smart adaptive sound + superb ANC | Premium |
| Bose QuietComfort 45 | 24 hrs | ★★★★½ Classic Bose ANC | Good | Extremely high | Ultra-comfortable & foldable | Premium |
| Apple AirPods Max | 20 hrs | ★★★★★ Exceptional | Very good | Moderate (heavy) | Spatial Audio + seamless iOS integration | Luxury |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | 40–60 hrs | ★★★ Solid for price | Average | High | Best budget option with long battery life | Budget |
| Jabra Elite 85h | 36 hrs | ★★★★ Good | Excellent (8 mics) | High | Water-resistant + strong call clarity | Midrange |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless | 60 hrs | ★★★★½ Strong adaptive | Very good | High | Audiophile-grade sound + longest battery life | Premium |
| Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 | 45 hrs | ★★★★ Solid | Very good | High | Wide codec support + pro-level customization | Premium |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right noise-cancelling headphones depends on your priorities. Here’s a quick guide:
Best Overall (Most Balanced): Sony WH-1000XM5 – unmatched noise cancellation, excellent sound, and comfort for all-day work.
Most Comfortable: Bose QuietComfort 45 – feather-light and plush, perfect if you’re wearing headphones for long hours.
Best for Apple Users: Apple AirPods Max – seamless iOS integration, Spatial Audio, and superb sound if you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem.
Best Budget Option: Anker Soundcore Life Q30 – great noise cancellation and battery life at a fraction of the price.
Best for Calls & Durability: Jabra Elite 85h – excellent microphone system and water resistance make it ideal for heavy call users.
Best for Audiophiles: Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless – incredible sound and unbeatable 60-hour battery life.
Best for Customization & Codec Support: Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 – ideal for those who want pro-level audio control and wired/wireless flexibility.
Conclusion
Finding the right headphones for working from home is all about balance—between noise cancellation, call quality, comfort, and price. The good news is there’s a perfect option for every type of remote worker: from the premium Sony WH-1000XM5 to the budget-friendly Anker Soundcore Life Q30, and everything in between.
If you’re serious about productivity (and peace of mind), investing in a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your home office. With the options above, you can shut out distractions, sound professional on calls, and stay comfortable all day long.
👉 Which one would you pick? Let us know in the comments—or share this guide with a friend who’s still struggling to work over background noise.