Why noise cancelling headphones?
ANC headphones block distractions, making them ideal for commuting, flights, office work, and immersive music. The best models combine strong ANC with superb sound, comfort, clear microphones, and reliable battery life.
Key features to compare
- ANC quality: Sony WH‑1000XM5 and Bose QC Ultra lead the market.
- Battery life: Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers up to 60 hours; Beats Studio Pro reaches 40 hours.
- Comfort: Apple AirPods Max and Bose QC Ultra excel in fit and materials.
- Call quality: Beamforming microphones ensure clear communication.
- Smart features: Spatial audio, app EQ, touch controls, and seamless pairing.
Quick comparison
| Model | ANC strength | Battery | Special features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH‑1000XM5 | Excellent | 30h | Auto NC Optimiser, LDAC | Travel, all‑rounder |
| Bose QC Ultra | Excellent | 24h | Immersive Audio, CustomTune | Calls, office |
| Apple AirPods Max | Strong | Varies | Spatial Audio, seamless Apple pairing | Apple ecosystem |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 | Strong | 60h | aptX Adaptive, Smart Control app | Battery endurance |
| B&W PX7 S2e | Strong | 30h | 24‑bit DSP, aptX Adaptive | Sound quality |
| Beats Studio Pro | Good | 40h | USB‑C lossless, spatial audio | Apple & Android users |
Seasonal savings
UK shoppers can expect genuine discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, often 20–40% off premium models. Prices fluctuate daily — use Sweet Deal to confirm real drops and avoid fake “RRP” anchors.
See the handpicked UK deals
We’ve curated six top headphones available in the UK. View our handpicked headphone deals →