10 Best Wireless Anc Headphones 2025 in the United States

Apple AirPods 4 are designed for users looking for wireless earbuds with strong active noise cancellation (ANC) and a comfortable fit. They feature an improved design that fits securely and feels comfortable for long periods, making them suitable for daily use and workouts thanks to their IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. The ANC works well to reduce outside noise, helping you focus on music or calls, and the Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. Sound quality is enhanced by Apple’s H2 chip, offering clear and immersive audio with Personalized Spatial Audio, which gives a surround-sound experience that changes as you move your head. Calls are easier to hear on both ends thanks to voice isolation technology.

Battery life is solid, providing up to 4 hours of playback with ANC on, and up to 30 hours total with the charging case, which supports USB-C and wireless charging. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, plus the pairing process is very simple for Apple device users. The controls are intuitive, using press gestures and voice commands with Siri, including new hands-free responses.

While the battery life per charge (around 4 hours) might be shorter compared to some competitors, especially with heavy ANC use, the very compact case is easy to carry. However, it may be prone to scratches due to its smooth finish, and the charging cable is sold separately, which is a minor inconvenience. AirPods 4 are an excellent choice if you want easy integration with Apple products, solid noise cancellation, and a comfortable all-day fit, though those prioritizing longer single-charge battery life or a more rugged case might find other options more suitable.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are designed for users seeking high-quality wireless earbuds with advanced noise cancellation and excellent sound. They use Apple’s H2 chip to deliver clear, rich audio with strong bass and crisp highs, enhancing music, calls, and media. The active noise cancellation is highly effective, blocking about twice as much background noise as before, while Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. The earbuds include a unique Conversation Awareness feature that lowers the volume when you speak to someone nearby. Comfort-wise, the AirPods Pro 2 offer four sizes of silicone tips to fit most ears securely and comfortably for all-day wear. They also have an IP54 rating, meaning they resist dust, sweat, and water, which is great for workouts and outdoor use.

Battery life is solid, providing up to 6 hours of listening on a single charge with noise cancellation on, and 30 hours total with the charging case. The case itself supports USB-C charging, MagSafe, and even Apple Watch chargers, plus it has a built-in speaker and a lanyard loop for easy tracking and carrying. Connectivity is seamless, especially within the Apple ecosystem, featuring Bluetooth 5.3 and quick pairing with Apple devices. Controls are intuitive, using touch gestures and voice commands via Siri, though some users may find the gesture controls take a moment to learn.

One limitation is that while these earbuds work best with Apple devices to unlock all features, users with non-Apple products may not get the full experience. Also, although the earbuds are water-resistant, they are not fully waterproof, so they should be kept away from heavy rain or swimming. The AirPods Pro 2 stand out for their superior noise cancellation, personalized spatial audio, and convenience features, making them a strong choice for Apple users who want premium sound and smart controls in a comfortable, durable design.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear wireless headphones designed to deliver a high-quality audio experience with strong active noise cancellation (ANC). They use Apple’s custom H1 chip and advanced computational audio, providing clear, rich sound that adapts to your ear shape with personalized spatial audio for immersive listening. The ANC is very effective, reducing background noise significantly, while Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. Battery life is solid, offering up to 20 hours of playback with ANC on, and a quick 5-minute charge gives about 1.5 hours of use.

The build quality feels luxurious, featuring memory foam ear cushions and a knit-mesh canopy that provide a comfortable and secure fit, although the headphones are a bit heavier than some competitors, which might affect comfort during very long sessions. Connectivity with Apple devices is seamless, thanks to the H1 chip and Bluetooth 5.0, including easy pairing and automatic device switching. Controls are intuitive, using a Digital Crown for volume and playback, plus a dedicated noise control button. Charging via USB-C is convenient and aligns with other Apple products.

These headphones are not water-resistant, so they're less ideal for sweaty workouts or outdoor use in wet conditions. Also, their premium price point may be a consideration for some buyers. The AirPods Max excel in sound quality, noise cancellation, and integration within the Apple ecosystem, making them a great choice for Apple users seeking top-tier wireless ANC headphones, especially for music, movies, and calls.