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Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $200 

 February 17, 2021

By  Tariq Taylor

When buying a pair of headphones, there are many features you could prioritize according to your needs. If you prefer to be immersed in pure sound and melody while blocking out all the environmental noise that normally disrupts your focus, noise-cancelling headphones are the choice for you.

Finding the right headphones to cancel out all the noise while delivering exceptional sound quality can be tricky. That's why we've gone through hundreds of products to bring you the best noise-canceling headphones under $200. Also, in this post are the considerations you'll need to make to make a suitable selection.

1. Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC

Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active...
  • Bluetooth 4.0 and aptX technologies to deliver exceptional wireless sound...
  • NoiseGard active noise cancellation to reduce ambient noise levels improving the...
  • Intuitive ear cup mounted controls for changing tracks and for making calls via the...
  • Up to 19 hour battery life with Bluetooth and NoiseGard activated and is supplied...
  • 2 year warranty when purchased from an authorized Sennheiser dealer

The Sennheiser HD 4.50 is the overall best noise-cancelling headphones under $200 on the market. This is an excellent option for you if you are a bass lover since it features exceptional Hi-Fi sound. The detailed acoustic output plus the noise cancellation provides an out-of-this-world listening experience.

The HD 4.50 headphones also feature an in-built Extra Bass System Deep (XBS DEEP) technology, enabling it to play bass powerfully and yet clearly. It is especially suitable for individuals who love listening to music alongside an active lifestyle. With an elegant closed-back design, these around-ear headphones offer excellent wearing comfort so that you can have them on all day without discomfort.

Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0, the wireless HD 4.5 BTNC provides wireless freedom since you won't need to wire anything to use these headphones. The aptX codex compatibility ensures that the audio quality is without compromise.

The NoiseGard technology enables Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to eliminate ambient noise so that you can relax and focus on the music rather than the noisy street, train, or plane. As you wear these noise cancellation headphones, you can tune out the outside world and enjoy a premium quality audio performance.

The intuitive controls are mounted on the ear-cup to make it easy to adjust the volume, manage incoming phone calls, and change the soundtracks. Plus, you'll be glad to know that these ANC headphones can last as long as 19 hours with the noise cancellation engaged and 25 hours with the ANC feature switched off.

  •   Pros
  • Bluetooth 4.0 wireless connection technology
  • NoiseGard Active Noise Cancellation
  • Easy to use controls on the ear-cups
  • 19 hours of playtime with ANC on
  • 25 hours of battery life with the ANC off
  • XBS DEEP technology for deep bass and high sound quality
  •   Cons
  • It could be uncomfortable for users with big ears.
  • The cushion on the headband is thin.

2. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT QuietPoint Bluetooth Wireless...
  • QuietPoint active noise-cancelling technology powered by a proprietary...
  • Bluetooth wireless technology with touch and swipe controls built into the earcup for...
  • 40 mm drivers deliver high-fidelity audio reproduction
  • Included 1.2 m (3.9') cable with 3.5 mm (1/8") stereo mini-plug provides a wired...
  • Foldable design makes headphones ideal for travel

The Audio-Technica over-ear headphones are wireless and feature active noise-canceling technology making them ideal for reducing noise and improving sound. The QuietPoint active noise-canceling function is powered by a four-microphone multi-feedback system, which effectively minimizes ambient noise to offer you a clear listening experience.

The touch and swipe controls are built into the earcups to let you manage calls, control your playlist and adjust the volume easily. This makes it convenient and easy to use the Audio-Technica headphones to manage your music and phone calls. The high fidelity (Hi-Fi) audio featuring in these noise-canceling headphones is from the 40mm drivers capable of delivering excellent sound reproduction.

These wireless headphones come with a 1.2 m cable with a mini-plug to provide a wired connection that allows you to continue using them even when the battery power is running low. You could also use this feature when in places where wireless operation is forbidden to enjoy a high-resolution audio output. As such, these are some of the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy today.

The fold-flat design makes it easy to pack and carry these headphones with you wherever you go. So, you can take this travel-friendly product along to make your journey more enjoyable. The high-quality battery allows you to continually use this Bluetooth device for 25 hours while the noise-canceling technology is active.

  •   Pros
  • It has a noise-canceling feature
  • Well-balanced audio profile
  • Touch and swipe controls on the earcup for easy use
  • Travel-friendly folding design
  • It comes with a carrying pouch
  • 25 hours of battery life
  •   Cons
  • Could produce static noise after months of use
  • The microphone's sound quality is low.

3. Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Poly (Plantronics + Polycom) Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2...
  • Rich Immersive Audio: From music to movies - let Backbeat Pro 2 pull you into the...
  • Use and Battery Time: Enjoy your listening time taking you through the longest...
  • On Demand Active Noise Cancelling: Switch on active noise cancelling with one touch...
  • Stream Audio: Up to 10 meters/30 feet from your Class 1 Bluetooth device
  • Compatibility: Talk/Stand by Time - Up to 24 hours talk and listen time; 6 months...

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 noise-canceling headphones are an excellent choice if you are looking for an immersive and calming experience while listening to music. The Plantronics signature sound profile is characterized by a rich bass, highly defined high notes, and natural-sounding mid-tones at an affordable price.

The reason many believe the BackBeat Pro 2 to be the best headphones is the active noise canceling technology that silences the world around you for an overwhelming sound experience. If you need to direct your attention to your surroundings, you don't have to remove these ANC headphones since it features an open listening mode that allows you to hear ambient sounds while still wearing them.

The Class 1 Bluetooth connection allows you to use this pair of headphones 100 meters away from your device with no sound buffering. Additionally, you can connect two devices to the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 simultaneously while switching seamlessly between them. The smart sensors automatically pause your music when you take the headset off and resume playback as soon as you put them back on.

A single charge of the Pro 2 noise-canceling headphones allows you to enjoy 24 hours of listening to music and making phone calls.

  •   Pros
  • Immersive sound quality
  • Noise reduction technology
  • 24 hours of rechargeable battery life on a single charge
  • Wireless freedom
  • Flat-fold design for easy transport
  • Protective travel sleeve included.
  •   Cons
  • It has a tight fit around the ears.

4. Bose QuietComfort Acoustic Noise Canceling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones for...
  • Apple compatible devices Applies to: QC 25 noise cancelling headphones Apple devices...
  • Deep, powerful sound for the music you love
  • Lightweight, comfortable around ear fit you can wear all day long
  • Control your music and calls on Apple devices with inline mic/remote

The Bose QuietComfort 25 headphones will give you the best audio performance you can get from noise cancellation headphones. These around-ear headphones can provide a crisp and powerful output while quieting the noise that could distract you from the music.

The Bose Active EQ and TriPort technology work together to give the music you hear a deep and clear sound so that you can hear every tone better. Additionally, the noise isolation feature cancels out the ambient noise and makes you forget about your environment.

With their distinct style and color, these ANC headphones look as great as they sound. They have a comfortable and quality build that is durable and a foldable design that lets you fit them in a carrying case. The lightweight design allows you to wear them all day without any soreness in your ears.

  •   Pros
  • Apple compatible
  • Long battery life
  • Noise isolation feature
  • Deep and clear sound quality
  • Lightweight and comfy design
  • Inline mic/remote for control
  • It comes with a carry case.
  •   Cons
  • Fragile build quality
  • The AAA battery needed burns through quickly.

5. COWIN E9 Noise Cancelling Headphones

The COWIN E9 are among the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy because of their ability to isolate and quell ambient sound. As you use them, you can enjoy the clear sound with no distraction from your surroundings, whether you're on a plane, in the city, or the office.

The AAC audio codec support promotes a deep and strong sound that will leave you immersed in your music for a relaxing experience. The COWIN E9 offers CVC HD phone calls, which allows you to make business calls even in noisy or windy surroundings. The Bluetooth 5.0 connection ensures that you can enjoy a stable connection with your device while listening to music or making calls.

With at least 30 hours of battery life, you can have a full day of listening to your favorite songs without worrying about running out of power. These Bluetooth headphones are designed to make your life experience more enjoyable, whether working, traveling, or exercising.

  •   Pros
  • Lightweight and soft design
  • ANC technology with noise reduction capabilities
  • Realistic sound output
  • 30 hours of playtime
  • High-quality sound
  • Strong, reliable connection
  •   Cons
  • Some users don't prefer a micro-USB
  • It picks up fingerprints quickly.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones - Buying Guide

There are several factors to keep in mind in your search for the best noise-canceling headphones. These considerations will ensure you choose the headphones that will best meet your needs.

1. Over-Ear vs. On-Ear Design

One of the first things you should think about is whether you want an over-ear or on-ear design. Over-ear headphones have a cup that surrounds your ear and places some slight pressure to hold on to your head. These headphones are the iconic design that most people associate with headsets.

Over-ear headphones leave a small space between the ears and speakers to provide an envelope of sound that makes you feel like you're in a concert hall. Unfortunately, the over-ear ANC noise-canceling headphones can feel bulky and heavy on your ears because of their size. Nevertheless, some of the best noise-canceling headphones have an over-ear design.

On the other hand, on-ear types are smaller and lighter on the ear and sit on your head like ear muffs. This makes them feel more comfortable for some people; however, the direct pressure on the ears can make you sore after a while.

2. Closed-Back vs. Open Back Headphones

The next thing to check when looking for noise cancellation headphones is the back design.

If you look at the outer casing of closed-back ANC headphones, you'll notice that only the inner side has holes or vents for sound release. The backside is entirely closed to seal in the sound from the speakers and keep out the noise of the outside world.

This is why closed-back headphones are the ideal noise-canceling options for you. The drivers inside the headsets are positioned to direct all the sound to your ears. Additionally, people in your immediate environment can't hear the sound coming from your ANC closed-back headphones.

The open-back design headphone has vents on every side of the cups, and the drivers face the outside. The design allows both air and sound to flow through to your ears. It results in a more spacious sound and brings the illusion of a stereo. It's similar to listening to an orchestra while sitting in the conductor's seat on the stage. This type of headphone is not the best for an ANC experience.

3. Wired vs. Wireless ANC Headphones

Wired ANC headphones use a cord to connect to your device using a jack for transmission, while wireless types use a wireless connection like Bluetooth technology. The wireless types offer much freedom since there is no physical tether to your device and no risk of wires getting tangled.

Plus, there isn't a significant difference between the sound profile of wired and wireless noise reduction headphones. Most wireless headphones will include a wire to let you enjoy the music when they run out of power. So, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

4. Battery Life

For you to use the noise cancellation function, your headphones will need power. So, you'll need to charge them since most batteries in noise-canceling headphones are rechargeable. Moreover, you'll need to know how many hours of playback you can get with a full charge.

Ideally, the best noise-canceling headphones under $200 can provide at least 24 hours of use on a full charge with the noise cancellation function on. Most models will allow you to switch off the noise-canceling to lengthen the battery life according to your listening needs.

5. Touch Controls

Another essential consideration in the search for a pair of noise-canceling headphones is the touch control function. These controls make it easy to use the noise cancellation headphones since it only takes a tap or a touch to adjust the volume, manage phone calls, or your music playlist.

So, you'll want to make sure that you buy noise-canceling headphones under $200 with this function to facilitate your use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best noise Cancelling headphones under 200?

The overall best noise-canceling headphone in this review is the Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC, which features noise reduction, a strong Bluetooth connection, and long battery life.

2. Are there any headphones that cancel all noise?

 The over-ear ANC headphones can cancel out noise in multiple ways. Firstly by fully covering your ears and secondly by filtering out the noise using the noise reduction technology.

3. What is the difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation?

While they might sound similar, noise isolation refers to the physical blocking ability of the headphones to keep out sound from entering the ear. On the other hand, noise cancellation produces interference to cancel out the noise. 

Tariq Taylor


Price is the ultimate factor when deciding to purchase noise-canceling headphones, and while the above sentiments might be true Tariq Taylor is of the opinion that the merits of the soundproofing headphones are to be considered first. And that is the reason why he decided to come up with the comprehensive excerpts on soundproofing headphones. Tariq is a tech enthusiast and has been advocating for the production and use of quality tech gadgets, which includes the headphones. Tariq is married with one kid and has a massive collection of headphones that he reviews occasionally and also runs a forum where other tech experts converge to share ideas and discuss the challenges facing the tech industry.

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