Best Noise Cancelling Sony Headphones: Top Picks for 2024

1. Sony Wh-1000xm5

We’ve spent considerable time with the WH-1000XM5, and the noise cancellation is undeniably a standout feature. It effectively silences the drone of airplane engines and the general chatter of a busy office, creating a serene listening environment. The sound quality itself is rich and detailed, with a pleasing warmth that doesn’t overpower the mids and highs.

The comfort is generally good, with plush earcups that sit well, though I did find them to get a little warm after extended listening sessions. The touch controls are responsive, but occasionally I’d accidentally trigger a pause or skip when adjusting the headphones. It’s a minor annoyance, but one that requires a slight adjustment in handling.

This is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and anyone who works in noisy environments. The battery life is also impressive, easily lasting through multiple long flights. However, those who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic might find the design a bit too modern.

2. Sony Wh-1000xm4

The WH-1000XM4 continues to impress with its class-leading noise cancellation, a benchmark for many. It excels at creating a quiet bubble, making commutes and busy environments far more tolerable. The audio performance is also very strong, offering a balanced and engaging sound profile that audiophiles will appreciate. The ability to connect to two devices simultaneously is a practical addition.

While incredibly comfortable for most, I noticed the headband can exert a bit too much pressure on the crown of the head after several hours of wear. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to be aware of for those with sensitive scalps. The build quality feels solid, though the matte finish can attract fingerprints quite easily.

These are ideal for daily commuters and office workers seeking focus. If you’re someone who constantly switches between your phone and laptop, the multi-device pairing is a godsend. However, if you prioritize the absolute latest design language, these might feel a generation behind.

3. Sony Wh-Ch720n

The WH-CH720N offers a compelling package for those seeking the best noise cancelling sony headphones without the premium price tag. The noise cancellation is surprisingly effective for its class, significantly reducing ambient noise on public transport and in shared workspaces. The sound is clear and present, though it lacks the depth and nuance found in Sony’s higher-end models.

I found the plastic construction, while lightweight, to feel a bit less premium than I’d hoped; the earcups have a slight creak when adjusted. The battery life is very respectable, easily getting through a week of moderate use. The physical buttons are tactile and easy to locate, which I prefer over touch controls for quick adjustments.

This model is a fantastic option for students or budget-conscious individuals who still demand good noise cancellation. It’s perfect for study sessions or daily commutes where blocking out distractions is key. However, if you demand the absolute best audio fidelity or a luxurious build, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

4. Sony Wh-Xb910n

The WH-XB910N brings Sony’s signature Extra Bass feature to the noise-cancelling party, and it certainly delivers on that front. The low-end is powerful and punchy, making genres like EDM and hip-hop really come alive. The noise cancellation is competent, handling consistent low-frequency sounds well, although it struggles a bit more with unpredictable, sharper noises.

The earcups are quite large and provide good passive isolation, but the clamping force felt a touch too firm for my liking, leading to some discomfort during longer listening periods. The inclusion of customizable EQ through the app is a welcome touch, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preference. The overall look is a bit more utilitarian than some of Sony’s sleeker offerings.

These are ideal for bass enthusiasts who also want a degree of noise cancellation. If you primarily listen to genres that benefit from a strong low-end and enjoy a more energetic sound signature, these are worth considering. However, if you prefer a neutral sound or find strong clamping force bothersome, you might want to skip these.

5. Sony Wh-H910n

The WH-H910N offers a vibrant and engaging sound signature with effective noise cancellation that does a commendable job of isolating you from your surroundings. The colors are a refreshing change from the usual black and silver, adding a touch of personality. The audio is well-balanced, with clear vocals and crisp highs that make listening to a variety of music genres enjoyable.

I found the earcups to be a bit shallow, and my ears sometimes brushed against the inner drivers, which can be a minor irritation during extended listening sessions. The build, while colorful, feels a little less robust than some competitors, with a noticeable amount of plastic flex. The battery life is solid, offering enough juice for most daily needs.

These are a good choice for younger users or anyone looking for noise-cancelling headphones with a bit more style and a lively sound. They perform well for daily commutes and general listening. However, if you prioritize deep comfort for very long sessions or a premium, unyielding build quality, these might not be your top pick.

6. Sony Wh-1000xm3

The WH-1000XM5 from Sony continues its reign as a top contender for the best noise cancelling sony headphones. The moment you slip them on, the world outside simply melts away. I found the active noise cancellation to be incredibly effective, particularly against consistent low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or office hum. The overall sound profile is balanced and pleasing, offering a rich listening experience for various genres.

Comfort is paramount for long listening sessions, and the XM5s deliver with plush earcups and a lightweight design. They feel secure without being overly tight, making them ideal for extended travel or focused work periods. The touch controls on the earcups are generally responsive, though I occasionally found myself accidentally triggering them when adjusting the headphones.

One area that could see improvement is the build material; while it feels premium, it does pick up fingerprints quite easily, requiring frequent wiping to maintain that pristine look. The carrying case is also a bit larger than I’d prefer, taking up more space in my bag than I anticipated.

This is a fantastic option for frequent flyers, commuters, or anyone seeking an oasis of quiet in a noisy environment. However, if you’re looking for something exceptionally rugged or a more compact carrying solution, you might want to explore other avenues.

7. Sony Ult Wear

Sony’s ULT WEAR headphones are an interesting proposition, aiming for a more bass-forward experience. The sound signature is undeniably punchy, with a significant emphasis on the low frequencies. For genres like EDM or hip-hop, this can be quite exciting and immersive. The noise cancellation is present and functional, though it doesn’t quite reach the same elite level as Sony’s flagship models.

I found the build quality to be solid, with a more robust feel than some of their lighter offerings. The earcups are generously padded, providing a good seal, and the headband distributes weight well. The dedicated “ULT” button, which boosts bass further, is a nice tactile addition for those who crave extra thump.

However, for critical listening or genres that rely on nuanced highs and mids, the overpowering bass can sometimes muddy the overall soundstage. The design, while sturdy, is also a bit bulkier than many competitors, making them less ideal for slipping into a small bag. I also noticed the plastic used for the headband felt a little less premium than I expected for the price point.

These are best suited for listeners who prioritize powerful bass and a more energetic sound profile for casual listening, workouts, or parties. If you’re a purist seeking a neutral sound for classical music or jazz, you should probably look elsewhere.

8. Sony Wh-1000xm5

The WH-1000XM4, while succeeded by the XM5, remains an exceptional pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The active noise cancellation is still remarkably effective, creating a serene listening environment that’s hard to beat for the price. The sound quality is rich and detailed, offering a pleasing experience across a wide range of audio content. I found the overall listening experience to be very enjoyable and immersive.

Comfort is a strong suit for the XM4s; the earcups are soft and the clamping force is well-judged for extended wear. They feel well-constructed, and the matte finish on the earcups resists smudges better than some other models. The battery life is also excellent, easily getting me through multiple days of heavy use without needing a recharge.

My main gripe is the touch controls, which can sometimes be a bit too sensitive, leading to accidental track skips or volume adjustments when I’m merely trying to reposition the headphones. Additionally, while the design is sleek, the plastic construction, while durable, doesn’t exude the same premium feel as some metal-accented competitors.

These are ideal for anyone seeking top-tier noise cancellation and excellent sound without the absolute latest price tag. However, if you are prone to accidentally touching the earcups or desire a more luxurious material feel, you might find minor annoyances.

9. Sony Wh-1000xm4

The WH-1000XM3, despite its age, still holds its own as a very capable noise-cancelling headphone. The noise cancellation is strong and effectively silences much of the ambient world, making commutes and flights significantly more peaceful. The sound quality is warm and engaging, with a slight emphasis on bass that many listeners will find pleasing for everyday use.

I found the comfort to be good, with soft earcups that create a decent seal. The overall build feels sturdy enough for daily use, and the matte finish is a practical choice. The battery life is also quite respectable, providing ample listening time between charges. The physical buttons for controls are a welcome feature for those who dislike touch interfaces.

However, the active noise cancellation, while good, isn’t quite as refined as in newer models, with some higher-frequency noises still managing to creep through. The soundstage, while enjoyable, can feel a bit less spacious compared to more modern offerings. Furthermore, the micro-USB charging port feels dated in an era dominated by USB-C.

This is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for effective noise cancellation and good sound. If you absolutely need the latest ANC technology or prefer USB-C charging, you might want to consider newer options.

10. Sony Wh-Ch720n

The WH-CH720N offers a compelling entry point into Sony’s noise-cancelling headphone lineup. The noise cancellation is surprisingly effective for its price point, doing a commendable job of reducing ambient distractions during my testing. The sound profile is generally balanced, leaning towards a slightly brighter signature, which can make vocals and higher frequencies stand out clearly.

Comfort is a key selling point here, as these headphones are incredibly lightweight. They sit gently on the head, making them ideal for long listening sessions without causing fatigue. The earcups are soft and provide a decent seal, and the overall build feels surprisingly robust for their feather-light construction. I also appreciated the inclusion of USB-C charging, which is standard for most modern devices.

Where these headphones falter slightly is in the overall richness of the sound; while clear, they lack the depth and fullness that you find in Sony’s higher-end models. The noise cancellation, while good, also struggles with more complex or sudden noises compared to premium competitors. The plastic used for the headband, while lightweight, does feel a bit less durable than I’d ideally want.

These are an excellent choice for students, casual commuters, or anyone looking for effective noise cancellation and a comfortable fit without breaking the bank. However, if you demand the absolute best in sound fidelity or the most powerful noise cancellation, you should consider investing in a higher-tier model.