How to Pick the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones Under $200?
Noise-canceling headphones can come in pretty handy in today’s loud, fast-paced world. They block out unwanted noise to help you focus on work and improve your music listening experience. In other cases, they can help you sleep better and even reduce noise-induced stress and its negative effects. More often than not, many people think they need to break the bank to get a decent pair of noise-canceling headphones. But in reality, a $200 budget is often more than enough for a decent pair of headphones with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). But before you go out and buy a pair of noise-canceling headphones, naturally, you’ll want headphones that will give you the best value for money, which means you’ll want to go for something that sounds good and has a sturdy yet comfortable build. You’ll also want to make sure they come with efficient active noise cancellation that gets the job done. To help you make those difficult decisions, we’ve compiled and discussed the most important buying factors to consider when choosing effective noise-canceling headphones within the $100-$200 price range. So, let’s get into it! Here are our top picks for the best active noise-canceling headphones you can buy under $200:
Mainstream name brands: Familiar, premium brand names like Bose, Sennheiser, Sony, and AKG often offer ANC headphones for under $200. Even though they are mostly still considered entry-level headphones, you can still expect to find signature higher-end drivers and a more professional-grade selection in this price range. Sound quality: These headphones generally provide wider frequency ranges, deeper bass, and overall better sound quality in comparison to cheaper ANC models. These also support a greater variety of audio codecs aside from the typical SBC and AAC. Improved build quality: Headphones in this price range tend to be made from materials such as leather and metal. This makes them more durable than ANC headphones under $100, which are mostly made of plastic materials. But the overall comfort and build still can’t be compared to higher-end ANC headphones. Additional technologies: Compared to those with only passive noise cancellation, which users can make on their own, these headphones integrated more advanced technology aside from the typical noise-canceling features. Some headphones in this price range also have voice assistant integration, ambient mode, quick attention mode, easy touch controls, and even artificial intelligence in ANC. These are great features that you can also find in ANC headphones for under $1000.
Headphones under $200 usually have an average noise reduction of about 25dB – 30 dB. Look out for additional features such as AI noise cancellation technology and ambient modes to have more control over your listening environment. Let’s talk about more of them below:
Artificial Intelligence in Noise Cancellation
Artificial Intelligence Noise Cancellation (AINC), sometimes called Adaptive Noise Cancellation (Adaptive NC), is a new type of active noise cancellation technology that combines the power of at least four dedicated ANC microphones and artificial intelligence to provide more reliable ANC depending on the user’s environment. Adaptive NC is one of the latest advancements in the evolution of noise-canceling headphones. With this technology, users can expect a more seamless listening experience thanks to the AI’s ability to adjust to all types of environmental conditions. Whether you’re in a quiet room or a busy street, Adaptive NC’s automatic adjustments make for a promising asset to have on any ANC headphones.
Ambient Mode
Ambient mode allows users to actively hear ambient/background noise/sound whenever needed. This solves certain safety concerns over noise-canceling headphones, especially when worn outdoors. With Ambient mode switched on, you can still listen out for important noises in the background such as announcements on the PA system or warning sounds like car horns, etc. To have a general idea about the sound quality, check out the following features:
Headphone drivers – Serves as an indicator of how wide the soundstage can be and the varying technologies capable of fitting within the drivers. Dynamic drivers are typically more prevalent among ANC headphones under $200. This is because they’re more affordable, power-efficient, and produce a more powerful bassy sound. Beyond the type of drive, the driver size and tuning can also affect overall sound quality.
Bluetooth Audio Codecs – An audio codec is a piece of software that enables your Bluetooth device to compress the data signal (in this case, the music) for your headphones to decode. The most common audio codec is SBC and AAC, but if you value sound quality for wireless playback, you should go for headphones that support the AptX, Aptx HD, Aptx LL, and LDAC/FastStream (for Sony).
Frequency Range – Represents the headphones’ sound pressure level across the frequency spectrum. It determines the headphones’ capability of producing lows, mids, and highs, giving us an idea of how they’ll sound. If you value bass, it’s best to go for headphones with a lower frequency range. User Reviews – Reading other people’s reviews can give you a good perspective of what to expect on any given ANC headphone model.
Additionally, a decent battery life means you can listen to music for longer without having to worry about having to charge it constantly. Most noise-canceling headphones can last anywhere between 15 – 40 hours. Do take note of how long it’ll take to fully charge the batteries as well as fast charging options, though. Some headphones can give 2 – 4 hours of playback time with just a quick 5 – 10 minute charge, which can be a pretty nifty feature for people on the go.
Voice Assistants Integration
Through this, you can access voice assistants like Google, Alexa, and Siri with one click. This integration provides faster hands-free access to information and other functions.
Companion App
ANC headphones with companion apps let users personalize, and optimize the sound profile, ANC levels, and overall functions of their headphones. This feature makes these headphones more versatile, up-to-date, and fit to users’ specific needs.
NFC
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless technology, like Bluetooth or WiFi. This allows you to establish connections with your devices almost instantaneously without the hassle of scanning and pairing your devices together. All you have to do is tap the two devices together to establish a reliable connection.
Sony WH-CH710N
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 30 dB Battery Life: 35 hours Audio Codec Support: AAC, SBC Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Sony WHCH710N is our best overall pick because they provide a reliable and distraction-free listening experience no matter where you go. Their portability, noise cancellation technology, and ambient mode make these headphones a great choice for any environment. The Sony WHCH710Ns have a portable, sleek, and well-rounded design that looks and feels great. The adjustable metal slider and soft oval-shaped ear pads let you listen to music all day in comfort while the 30mm drivers provide quality sound while keeping the headphones lightweight. The adaptive ANC with integrated artificial intelligence lets these headphones automatically collect noise information in your environment to improve their ability to provide reliable noise cancellation. Additionally, the Dual Noise Sensor technology and Ambient Mode let you take full control of the important sounds that you want to hear. However, compared to the other headphones on the list, the sound quality of the Sony WHCH710N may not be up to par with some users reporting that the music sounded muffled or muddy, and generally lacks highs. However, it’s important to note that sound quality is mostly subjective and depends on the preferences of the user. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Soundcore Q35
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 22 dB Battery Life: 40 hours (ANC on), 60 hours (ANC off) Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC, LDAC Companion App: Soundcore App Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: No
The Soundcore Q35 is an excellent pair of all-around headphones. They are comfortable, offer customizable ANC, and support Hi-Res audio, making them our runner-up pick for best noise-canceling headphones under $200. These headphones have hybrid ANC that uses 4 mics to filter out unwanted sounds. This helps drown out annoying traffic or engine sounds while traveling, giving you a better listening experience. A Multi-Mode ANC function also allows you to further customize your noise cancellation settings with modes like Transport, Indoor, and Outdoor. If you want to momentarily turn off the ANC, you can do so with a single tap on the ear cup. This activates the Transparency Mode and lets external sounds filter through. It’s helpful when you need to quickly check your surroundings, listen out for boarding calls, or talk to someone. You can expect superb audio quality, thanks to two 40mm custom silk-diaphragm drivers that have a wide frequency range of 16Hz – 40kHz. They’re Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified, ensuring that you always get accurate, rich, and distortion-free sound quality. The headphones even support LDAC audio codec, along with SBC and AAC. The battery on these headphones is quite robust. You get 40 hours of listening with ANC, and 60 hours without ANC. A 5-minute charge also gets you as much as 4 hours of playback, which is super helpful when you’re on the go and running low on juice. Additionally, the Soundcore Q35 also comes with a host of extra features such as AI-enhanced calls for clearer conversations, wearing detection, and multipoint connectivity, which lets you connect to more than 2 audio sources. Lastly, you have the Soundcore App that allows you to customize your sound even further. Aside from choosing ANC modes, you can also pick from 22 different EQ settings to give your favorite music a boost. The app can be downloaded through Google Play and the App Store. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
AKG N60NC
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 30 dB Battery Life: 30 hours (ANC only), 15 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) Audio Codec Support: AAC, SBC, aptX Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: No Voice Assistant Integration: No
If you’re looking for the best budget ANC headphones on this list, then the AKG N60NC are a great choice. They boast the signature AKG audio that promises to deliver multi-dimensional tones and detailed sound while also providing other useful features. With the AKG N600NC being one of the lighter headphones on this list (weighing at only 0.43 lbs) plus the compact and foldable design, you can easily bring these headphones anywhere and everywhere you go. They also come with a free carrying case so you can easily slip them in your bag or purse without worrying about scratches. The AKG N600NC’s hybrid ANC feature can easily reduce up to 30dB of ambient noise, creating the best immersive environment where you can enjoy your music in peace. Whether you’re reading a book in a busy cafe or taking a nap during your commute, you can easily cancel out the outside world. The AKG signature sound balancing on these headphones gives you smooth tones that can reach a wide range of frequencies. Each layer of sound, from the highs to the lows, offers a great amount of detail that can satisfy your audiophilic needs. Additionally, the AKG N600NCs support AAC, SBC, and AptX audio codecs which maintain the best audio quality. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Philips PH805
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 27dB Battery Life: 30 hours with ANC off, 25 hours with ANC on Audio Codec Support: SBC Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
If you’re looking for a great pair of travel headphones, then the Philips PH805 headphones are the perfect choice for you. They have important features needed for travel headphones such as good battery life with quick charging capabilities, lightweight design, and quality sound output. With up to 30 hours of playtime, easy touch controls, compact design, and powerful ANC, the Philips PH805 are the perfect travel companion. Whether you’re on an 8-hour flight or a quick bus ride, you can rest easy knowing that you can get uninterrupted listening throughout your whole day. The accessible touch controls make it easy to navigate tracks, activate the active noise cancellation technology, or turn on Ambient Mode. Additionally, the Philips PH805s also features the ability to have Voice Assistant Integration that makes your life so much simpler. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Bose QC25
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: Around 25dB Battery Life: Up to 35 hours with ANC Audio Codec Support: N/A Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: No Voice Assistant Integration: No
The Bose QC25 headphones provide you with the longest playtime and best battery life in comparison with other headphones in this list. These headphones were also engineered to give you better sound and comfort while also providing significant noise reduction for travel and work. Because these headphones use a single AAA battery, you can virtually enjoy little to no downtime in playtime as long as you have a replaceable battery available. Additionally, the carrying case comes with an extra slot for a spare battery as well. The Bose QC25s provide the signature crisp, deep, and powerful sound that is clearer and more dynamic than previous iterations of the QC line. The significant sound isolation and noise cancellation technology helps create a clearer sound while also blocking out the distracting noises around you. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Panasonic RB-M700B
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Feedforward ANC Noise Reduction Depth: around 20dB Battery Life: 20 hours of playtime Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: No Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Panasonic RB-M700B headphones let you hear the music but feel the bass. With an ultra-low bass response and reliable noise cancellation technology, you can revel in the high-quality audio in your music while blocking out any other external noises. These headphones feature the XBS DEEP (Extra Bass System Deep) technology that provides you with deep bass playback without ruining the depth and balancing of your music. Expect clear and dynamic sounds with well-defined bass that’ll bring your listening experience to the next level. The well-cushioned headband and over-ear earpads fit gently over the ears allow you to wear these headphones for much longer without having to worry about fatigue or discomfort. With the adjustable headband, you can easily customize and adjust the pressure on your head and around your ears for a firm, yet personalized fit. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Razer Opus
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 27dB – 35dB Battery Life: Up to 25 hours of wireless playtime with ANC on Audio Codec Support: AAC, aptX, SBC Companion App: Opus App Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: No
Razer is the #1 best-selling gaming peripherals manufacturer in the US for a reason, and it’s definitely apparent in the Razer Opus. Not only are they specifically engineered for long hours of wear, but they also provide Hi-Fi optimized sound while shutting out all ambient noises through their integrated ANC. With these headphones being THX certified, you can expect a wide frequency response, low distortion, and reliable noise cancellation. The Razer Opus boasts a rich and detailed sound profile with a balanced sound stage for all different types of media. The Razer Opus companion app (available on both Android and iOS) lets you fully control your sound to suit your audio preferences. Whether you want to select from different EQ presets or customize it yourself, you can do this and more on your mobile device. The plush leatherette memory foam on the ear cups paired together with the balanced weight and adequate clamping force of the headband provide premium comfort for prolonged use. You can easily wear these for the whole day without feeling fatigued or any ear pains. The Razer Opus headphones are actually an older version of the Razer Opus X. Despite that, they still have features that make them a better option. For instance, the Opus headphones have 3 additional mics, which allows them to provide more advanced active noise cancellation. It also comes with longer battery life and a lighter build. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
JBL Quantum 800
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Feedforward ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 32 dB Battery Life: 14 hours Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: JBL QuantumSURROUND™ Ambient Sound Mode: No Voice Assistant Integration: No
If gaming is your main thing, the JBL Quantum 800 headphones are set up to give you an awesome audio experience. They’re equipped with JBL QuantumSURROUND™ and their signature JBL QuantumSOUND for truly realistic audio and immersive gaming. This puts them at the forefront of noise-canceling gaming headphones for under $200. These headphones come with Hi-Res certified 50mm drivers with JBL QuantumSOUND Signature that makes the subtlest of sounds come alive while gaming. With the JBL QuantumSURROUND™ software, you can boost your audio further by adding overhead audio channels for a 360-degree soundscape. You can also change your mic settings and audio presets through this software. The built-in ANC feature improves your audio even more by blocking out low-frequency sounds and other unwanted background noise. This helps you stay fully focused and alert to in-game audio cues. With the JBL Quantum 800, you can experience speedy wireless connections on multiple platforms. Connect easily to a PC or PlayStation through a lossless 2.4 GHz connection. Or hook them up to any Bluetooth device with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Other consoles such as the Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices can be used via a 3.5mm jack. Long hours of gaming isn’t going to be an issue with these headphones. They’re outfitted with a ventilated headband and memory foam ear pads with soft leather covers. This not only gives you a premium look and feel but also provides hours of comfort. The long-lasting battery can run up to 14 hours, ensuring that you can keep gaming for as long as possible. The JBL Quantum 800 showcases a lot of improvements over its predecessor, the Quantum 600. The 800s have a higher frequency range of 40kHz, versus the 20kHz of the 600s. They provide better passive noise reduction and have active noise cancellation. The microphone of the 800s also has an added noise-canceling function. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Skullcandy Hesh ANC
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Feedforward ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 18 dB Battery Life: 22 hours Audio Codec Support: SBC Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Skullcandy Hesh ANC headphones feature excellent active noise cancellation, decent battery life, and a sleek, lightweight design that’s perfect for long listening sessions. For these reasons, they’re our top pick for most comfortable noise-canceling headphones. These cans are pretty lightweight at only 0.5 lbs and have a matte finish that feels premium. The padded headband and ear pads are memory foam and leather, offering good grip and stability. They also distribute pressure well and are super comfortable with prolonged use, even for people who wear glasses or have large ears. Speaking of prolonged use, you won’t need to worry about running out of juice with these headphones. They have a 22-hour battery that can last all day, and then some. And its Rapid Charge feature makes sure you can keep going by providing you with an additional 3 hours of playback on a 10-minute charge. The Hesh ANC has 4 built-in mics that filter out noise and deliver active noise cancellation that rivals that of many high-end headphones. This, combined with 40mm dynamic drivers, gives you richer and clearer sound quality that you can enjoy for hours. And with Ambient Mode, you can automatically tune back into your surroundings with two presses of a button. These headphones come with a host of other intuitive features. Physical buttons on the side of the ear cup allow you to answer calls, adjust volume, switch tracks, and activate your voice assistant without needing to open an app on your phone. There’s also a built-in Tile™ finding technology, which makes sure you never misplace your headphones. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
PuroPro
Key features
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: up to 15-32 dB Battery Life: 32 hours Audio Codec Support: N/A Companion App: N/A Ambient Sound Mode: No Voice Assistant Integration: No
The PuroPro headphones are engineered with both active noise cancellation and hearing protection features that’ll keep your ears safe from possible noise-induced damage. They’re Certified Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity, making them our favorite hearing safety headphones for older kids and adults alike. Thanks to a built-in volume limiter, you can customize your audio output with two volume levels to help prevent hearing loss. Level 1 keeps your audio at 85dB, which is the recommended level of OSHA. This allows you to keep listening safely for up to 8 hours a day. Level 2 allows you to listen to music up to 95dB, which is safe for up to 50 minutes a day. The headphones have 40mm dynamic drivers that provide studio-quality audio. They’re also tuned with Puro Balanced Response®, which delivers perfectly balanced and natural-sounding audio. Active noise cancellation boosts music listening even further with two levels of ANC that allow you to choose how much ambient noise to block out. Level 1 ANC reduces noise by 32 dB, and Level 2 reduces it by 15 dB. This gives you clearer sound quality no matter where you are. The PuroPro headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.0 for steady wireless connections up to 30 feet. A long-lasting battery also provides up to 32 hours of playback and 300 standby hours. Lastly, these cans come with a premium design featuring soft cushioned ear cups and headband that are both fully adjustable. This ensures you can keep them on for prolonged hours without any discomfort. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Notable Mentions
The following headphones didn’t make our top 10 list, but they come with a host of features that definitely make them worth considering as a backup option.
Conclusion
The great thing about ANC headphones in this price range is that you have a lot of options to work with. Whether you’re looking for a pair with added features or just want a decent quality headset with reliable ANC, there’s definitely a pair out there for you.
Express yourself in style
These headphones come in different colors that are bound to suit your lifestyle. The color tones go well with a whole spectrum of hues, so it’s easy for you to pick one that suits your stylistic needs. You can choose between gray, red, white, green, and black.
Choose exactly what you hear
Thanks to its active noise-cancellation capabilities, ambient sound mode, and quick attention feature, these headphones give you complete power over what you want to hear. Whether you need to have a quick chat with friends, be aware of your surroundings, or block out the outside world, these headphones let you do all that and more without taking them off. Additionally, Sony WH-H900N headphones have the ability to support a wide array of audio codecs. They support even the higher quality ones such as aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC. This ensures superb sound quality no matter which device you connect them to.
Easily navigate controls
The touch controls and Sony | Headphones Connect app (Available on Android and iOS) allows you to sync up your headphones. This also lets you adjust them accordingly with no effort at all. You can answer calls, navigate music tracks, and even activate Google Assistant or Siri whenever needed, with just a quick touch. The Sony | Headphones Connect app also lets you customize your sound output to your liking. You can adjust the equalizer settings, choose from surround sound presets, and more.
Drawbacks
Some users may find the touch controls and gestures to be too difficult to get used to. Additionally, some even report that they accidentally input commands when holding/adjusting the headband because of the sensitivity of the touch controls. Another drawback on Sony WH-H900N would be that some people may find the charging time to be too long (5 – 5.5 hours for a single charge). CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Enjoy your sounds in silence
You can go to any environment without worrying about distracting sounds or ambient noises thanks to the QuietPoint™ active noise-cancellation technology that can turn any space into the ideal place to enjoy your music. Whether you want to focus on work, study, or just enjoy your music, the multi-feedback system records and cancels out the outside noise so you can enjoy your sounds in relative silence.
Good for traveling
The foldable design, its quick and easy touch/swipe controls that lets you navigate tracks and answer calls, reliable ANC, 25 hours of playback time, and the included accessories with the protective pouch makes these headphones a good choice for travel or commutes.
Drawbacks
Some users experienced a hissing/crackling/static noise emanating from one or both sides of the headphones. It isn’t necessarily triggered when ANC is on or off, but mostly when the headphones have been used for a couple of months. Since this may be a factory defect, it’s easy to make use of the 1-year warranty provided and get a replacement pair. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Easy on the ears
Not only are these headphones lightweight and have a compact foldable design that lets you take them anywhere you go, it also features an over-ear design that maximizes your overall comfort and sound quality. With it being one of the lighter headphones on this list, you can expect that it’ll be easy on the ears.
Keeps your hands free
You can control your music and manage your calls using the easily accessible button controls on the side of the ear cup. Additionally, voice assistant integration lets you access information and other features without having to pull out your phone.
Drawbacks
The drawback of these headphones is that some users may have experienced problems with their Bluetooth connections, with the connections intermittently going on and off or cutting out completely. This may be due to the headphones supporting Bluetooth 4.2 instead of the updated Bluetooth 5.0. As such, you can expect some connection/compatibility issues with some devices. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Immerse yourself in the sound and bass
These headphones feature built-in XBS DEEP (Extra Bass System Deep) technology that gives it the ability to play bass with authority and clarity, without it coming off as overbearing and causing any other sound distortions. You’ll also be getting that signature Sennheiser sound that delivers well-balanced and dynamic audio thanks to its 32mm proprietary dynamic drivers.
Cancel out the world around you
You can virtually get rid of all unwanted surrounding and ambient noise thanks to the integrated NoiseGard™ technology. Whether you find yourself in a bustling city street or in a short bus ride home, you can count on NoiseGard™ to cancel out the world around you so you can relax and focus on the music.
Drawbacks
If you have a big head shape or big ears, then these headphones may be uncomfortable to wear, especially for extended periods of time. You may find that the ear cups don’t go all the way around the ears and the head clamp may be too tight for comfort. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON We’ve even given you a great starting point. The list we provided has some of the better ANC headphones you can find just under $200. Yet, if you want to try and look for other models, then our quick buying guide should point you in the right direction. If it’s not enough, you can also check out our overall list of the best noise cancelling headphones in 2022. There, you can see other recommended ANC headphones for specific purposes. This could be extremely helpful if you’re looking for ANC headphones for the whole family. You can pick the best ANC headphones for kids as well as young teens, which can aid in their studies. Got any recommendations for headphones? What were your favorite headphones on the list? Feel free to let us know in the comments below!
