5 best noise cancelling headphones with mic

In today’s fast-paced, noisy world, a good pair of headphones is no longer just for listening to music it’s an essential tool for focus and communication.

Whether you’re a remote worker battling a noisy home, a digital nomad in a bustling coffee shop, a gamer needing crystal-clear callouts, or a frequent traveler seeking peace on a long flight, noise cancelling headphones with a high-quality microphone have become non-negotiable.

I’ve personally tested these headphones in real-world scenarios to see how they perform under pressure. My goal is to help you find the perfect pair that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget.

3.1 Beats Studio Pro – Best for Music Lovers and Professionals

 

From the moment I put these on, I knew they were more than just a fashion statement. As someone who splits their time between editing music tracks and taking client calls, I was looking for a headphone that could handle both worlds seamlessly. The Beats Studio Pro does exactly that. The plush ear cushions and adjustable headband made them comfortable for hours on end, and the sleek, minimalist design felt right at home whether I was at my desk or out and about. It’s a headphone that truly lives up to its promise of premium quality.

Specs: These headphones feature a custom 40mm driver and are powered by an integrated digital processor for a balanced sound profile. They offer up to 40 hours of battery life with ANC off, or 24 hours with it on, and support Class 1 Bluetooth® connectivity. For the audiophiles, there’s also a USB-C port for lossless audio and a 3.5mm analog input. The microphones use voice-targeting beamforming technology for clear calls.

Strengths: The standout feature is the sound. Beats has moved away from its reputation for overly heavy bass, striking a perfect balance that’s great for all genres. The three distinct sound profiles—Beats Signature, Entertainment, and Conversation—are a game-changer, allowing you to optimize the audio for whatever you’re doing. The Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking creates a truly immersive listening experience, and with fast charging, a 10-minute charge gives you four hours of playback.

Weaknesses: The biggest drawback is the lack of any official water or sweat resistance, which means you have to be careful with them around liquids. While the ANC is generally very good, it can struggle to completely block out high-frequency sounds like wind noise or sharp conversations. Some users may also find the clamping force a bit tight at first, though it does loosen over time.

Verdict: The Beats Studio Pro is an ideal choice for the hybrid professional who demands top-tier audio for both work and play. Its versatility in sound, seamless connectivity across devices, and premium feel make it an excellent investment for anyone who values a single, high-performance solution.

3.2 Logitech H390 – Best Wired Budget Option

 

In the world of work-from-home, sometimes the simplest solution is the best. The Logitech H390 is my go-to for no-fuss reliability, especially for those days packed with back-to-back office calls. I remember a time when my wireless headset died mid-meeting, and I had to frantically scramble for a replacement. Since then, I’ve kept the H390 as my trusty backup. It’s a solid, dependable headset that plugs in and just works, which is exactly what you need in a professional setting where interruptions are unacceptable.

Specs: This headset is a straightforward wired device with a USB-A connection, ensuring plug-and-play simplicity without the need for software. It features “laser-tuned drivers” designed to provide crisp audio for voice calls and music. The noise-canceling microphone is on a flexible boom arm, and the in-line controls on the cord allow you to easily adjust volume and mute the mic.

Pros: The primary advantage of the H390 is its simplicity. There’s no charging, no pairing, and no connectivity issues. Just plug it into your computer’s USB-A port and you’re ready to go. The microphone quality is surprisingly good for a headset in this price range, effectively isolating your voice and minimizing background noise, which is crucial for clear communication. The in-line controls are a simple, reliable touch.

Cons: As a budget option, it has its limitations. The audio quality is basic, lacking the rich bass or detailed soundstage you’d find in more expensive headphones, making it less than ideal for critical music listening. The on-ear design is also not the most comfortable for long periods, and the earpads can get a bit warm. The build quality feels a bit cheap, but that’s to be expected for the price.

Verdict: The Logitech H390 is the perfect solution for the office professional who values reliability and ease of use over advanced features. It’s an excellent, affordable choice for a home office, and it will ensure you’re heard clearly on every call, without the headache of dead batteries or Bluetooth dropouts.

3.3 Jabra Evolve2 75 – Best for Remote Work Calls

 

I’ve been on countless remote calls from a noisy cafe, a busy household, and even an airport lounge. The constant challenge has always been getting my voice to sound clear without picking up all the surrounding chaos. The Jabra Evolve2 75 is a lifesaver in these scenarios. The first time I used it, a coworker commented on how clear my voice was, even though I was in a bustling public space. It gave me the confidence to take calls from anywhere, and it truly changed how I approach my work day.

Specs: The Jabra Evolve2 75 is a wireless headset with Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and a dedicated USB-A or USB-C dongle for a stable connection. It features an advanced 8-microphone array and a revolutionary chipset for AI mic cancellation that meets Microsoft’s “Open Office” standard. The headset boasts a long-lasting battery of up to 36 hours and supports fast charging, giving you six hours of talk time from just 15 minutes of charging.

Pros: The call clarity is unmatched. The advanced mic technology effectively filters out background noise, ensuring your voice is the only thing heard. The inclusion of a USB dongle guarantees a strong, reliable connection to your computer, and the multi-device support allows you to seamlessly switch between your laptop and smartphone. The headset is also lightweight and the dual-foam earcup design makes it surprisingly comfortable for long-duration use.

Cons: While the dongle provides an excellent connection, the wireless range can occasionally drop in crowded environments with lots of competing signals. Also, while the dual-foam earcups are comfortable, they can make your ears feel a bit warm during extended wear. These are minor trade-offs for the incredible call quality and battery life.

Verdict: For call center staff and professionals who frequently work from home or other noisy environments, the Jabra Evolve2 75 is the ultimate tool. Its superior mic performance and robust connectivity make it perfect for anyone who relies on clear, consistent communication, no matter their surroundings.

3.4 Sony WH-CH720N – Best Lightweight Everyday Choice

 

For me, the Sony WH-CH720N is the ultimate companion for long workdays and commutes. I need a headset that can block out the distracting office chatter but also be so light that I forget I’m wearing it. The WH-CH720N fits the bill perfectly. I’ve worn these for eight-hour workdays, a full flight, and a few bus commutes without any discomfort. The feeling of being able to immerse myself in music or focus on work without the strain of a heavy headset is invaluable.

Specs: This model is exceptionally lightweight, weighing in at just 192g. It features Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 and Dual Noise Sensor technology for effective noise cancellation. It provides up to 35 hours of battery life with ANC on and supports fast charging, with a 3-minute charge providing an hour of playback. The headset connects via Bluetooth 5.2 and can be used with a 3.5mm cable.

Pros: The comfort of the WH-CH720N is its biggest strength. The light build and soft earpads make it ideal for long-duration wear, perfect for marathon study sessions or a full day at the office. The noise-canceling is effective enough to handle typical ambient noise, such as office sounds or the rumble of a bus. The battery life is also exceptional, easily getting you through a full week of casual use on a single charge.

Cons: Out of the box, the sound profile can feel a bit bass-heavy for some listeners, so a little tweaking with the equalizer in the Sony Headphones Connect app is needed to get the ideal sound. Additionally, I’ve experienced occasional minor connectivity issues when switching between multiple devices. It’s not a frequent problem, but something to be aware of. The build quality, while sturdy enough, does feel a bit plasticky.

Verdict: As a strong mid-range contender, the Sony WH-CH720N is a fantastic choice for commuters and students. It offers an excellent balance of comfort, reliable noise cancellation, and a long-lasting battery, making it a dependable all-day headphone for any budget-conscious user.

3.5 JBL Tune 510BT – Best Budget Music and Calls Combo

 

I’ve always been on the lookout for a reliable, no-frills headphone for my daily commutes and casual listening. The JBL Tune 510BT is an affordable powerhouse that punches well above its weight. It’s the kind of headphone you can throw in your backpack without worrying about it, and it consistently delivers. Whether I’m listening to a podcast on the bus or a playlist at the gym, the Tune 510BT has been a consistent performer. The foldable design is a huge plus for portability.

Specs: The JBL Tune 510BT offers up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge and features JBL’s signature Pure Bass sound. It connects via Bluetooth 5.0 and includes a fast charging feature that gives you two hours of playback after a quick five-minute charge. The headphones are also foldable, making them easy to store and carry. The controls are located on the right ear-cup for easy access.

Pros: The biggest appeal of the Tune 510BT is its incredible value. For a very low price, you get a balanced sound profile with surprisingly punchy bass, which is perfect for popular music genres. The battery life is phenomenal, easily lasting a full week or more of daily commuting. Its lightweight, foldable build makes it an ideal travel companion. It also features a multi-point connection, allowing you to seamlessly switch between two devices.

Cons: The on-ear design means the earpads rest directly on your ears, which can become uncomfortable during long listening sessions. This design also provides very little passive noise isolation, and a significant amount of sound leaks out, which can be an issue in quiet public spaces. The controls are very basic, without any advanced features like touch gestures.

Verdict: The JBL Tune 510BT is the affordable all-rounder for everyday use. Its combination of great battery life, balanced sound, and lightweight design makes it the perfect choice for commuters and casual listeners who want a reliable and budget-friendly headphone for both music and calls. It’s a smart pick for anyone who doesn’t need all the bells and whistles of more expensive models.

Key Takeaways

This guide will show you the best noise-cancelling headphones with microphones, broken down by their ideal use case and key features. You will discover that the top models excel in a delicate balance of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) quality, microphone clarity for professional calls, comfort for all-day wear, and long-lasting battery life. While premium brands like Sony and Bose offer industry-leading performance, there are also excellent value options that deliver a significant portion of the premium experience for a fraction of the price. The final choice will come down to what you prioritize most: an aggressive noise-cancelling profile, a studio-quality mic, or an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Noise-Cancelling Headphones With a Mic

Selecting the perfect pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be a complex decision with a lot of technical jargon to sift through. This guide is designed to simplify that process, helping you understand the key features and how they apply to your specific needs.

Noise Cancelling Technology: ANC vs. Passive Isolation

Headphones use two main methods to block out sound. Passive Noise Isolation (PNI) is the physical component of noise cancellation. It’s the simple act of the headphone’s design—the earcups, the materials, and the fit—creating a physical barrier to block external sound from reaching your ears. This is most effective against high-frequency sounds, such as people talking or the clatter of a keyboard

In contrast, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is an electronic process. Built-in microphones listen to the ambient noise around you and generate an “anti-noise” sound wave that is exactly opposite to the incoming sound wave. When the two waves meet, they cancel each other out. This technology is incredibly effective at eliminating low-frequency sounds like the rumble of an airplane engine, the hum of a server room, or the drone of an air conditioner. For the best performance, look for headphones that combine both strong passive isolation and advanced ANC.

Microphone Quality: AI/Beamforming vs. Standard

A standard microphone picks up all sounds around you, meaning a loud cafe or a windy street will make your voice hard to hear. AI/beamforming microphones, on the other hand, use a smart, multi-mic array and advanced algorithms to focus specifically on your voice. They create a targeted “acoustic fence” or zone around you, filtering out background noise. This ensures that the person on the other end hears you, and only you, with a professional-grade clarity, making these a game-changer for hybrid work and remote meetings.

Comfort and Fit: Over-ear vs. On-ear vs. In-ear

The right fit is crucial for both comfort and sound quality, especially for long-term use.

• Over-ear (or circum-aural) headphones fully enclose your ears. They are generally the most comfortable for long periods and offer the best sound quality and passive noise isolation due to the physical seal they create. They tend to be bulkier and less portable.
• On-ear (or supra-aural) headphones rest directly on your ears. They are more compact and portable than over-ear models but offer less passive noise isolation and can become uncomfortable after a few hours of use due to the pressure on your ears.
• In-ear headphones fit inside your ear canal. They are the most portable and often provide excellent passive noise isolation when a good seal is achieved. However, some people find them uncomfortable, and they are generally not the top choice for professional-grade microphones.
  Battery Life: 20–65 Hours, Quick Charge Importance

A headphone’s battery life is a key indicator of its practicality. For all-day use, aim for a model with at least 20-30 hours of battery life with ANC enabled. Premium models now offer up to 65 hours, which is ideal for multi-day trips or for users who hate frequent charging. Equally important is a quick-charge feature. A feature that provides several hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge can be a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry.

Connectivity Options: Wired USB, Bluetooth 5.0+, USB Dongle

The way your headphones connect impacts reliability and latency.

• Wired USB is the most reliable and latency-free option. Simply plug it in and it works. This is perfect for desktop-based work where you need guaranteed, uninterrupted audio.
• Bluetooth 5.0+ provides a stable wireless connection with good range and efficiency. While most Bluetooth headsets are reliable, some can experience latency issues, especially on older devices or with non-optimized drivers.
• A USB dongle provides a dedicated, low-latency wireless connection that bypasses potential Bluetooth driver issues on your computer. This is often the superior choice for professional calls and gaming, as it guarantees a stable, high-quality audio stream.
  

  Price vs. Features: When to Spend More

In today’s market, you don’t have to spend a fortune for good headphones. Budget-friendly models offer great performance for the average user. However, spending more gets you:

• Superior ANC: Higher-end models have more powerful chipsets that can handle a wider range of frequencies.
• Better Call Clarity: Premium mics with advanced noise-cancellation algorithms are found on more expensive models.
• Premium Materials: Better build quality, more durable materials, and more comfortable padding for all-day wear.
• Extra Features: Lossless audio, multipoint connectivity, and custom sound profiles. If your primary need is casual listening, a budget-friendly option is more than enough. If you’re a professional who relies on clear communication or an audiophile who demands the best sound quality, the extra investment is worth it.

5. FAQs

• Can ANC headphones cause headaches or ear pressure? Yes, some people may feel a sensation of pressure in their ears, similar to what you feel on an airplane. This is caused by the low-frequency sound waves generated by the ANC. For most, this sensation fades with use, but if it persists, you may want to look for a model with less aggressive ANC or use it only when absolutely necessary.

 

• Do they block voices and snoring completely? No, ANC is most effective on low-frequency, consistent sounds. High-frequency and sudden, irregular sounds like voices, snoring, or a dog barking can still slip through. While they will be significantly muffled, they won’t be completely eliminated. For blocking voices and snoring, a combination of strong passive isolation and ANC is your best bet, or pairing them with white noise.
• How often should ear cushions be replaced? Ear cushions are a consumable part of the headphone and should be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on use. Sweat and skin oils cause them to flatten and degrade over time, which can compromise both comfort and the passive noise isolation seal, ultimately affecting sound quality.
• Is ANC safe for air travel? Yes, ANC headphones are a fantastic tool for air travel. They are perfectly safe and can make a long flight much more comfortable by significantly reducing the constant, low-frequency hum of the airplane engine, which can cause listening fatigue.
• Does ANC drain battery faster? Yes, because ANC uses a dedicated chipset and microphones that are always active, it consumes more power. The battery life with ANC on is always lower than with ANC off.

Final Verdict & Comparison

Choosing the right headphones is a personal decision, but by now you should have a clear idea of what to look for based on your unique needs. Here’s a quick recap of the models we reviewed and where they excel.

We hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect headphones. What do you use to block out the world and stay connected? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below, or let us know if you need a recommendation for a specific scenario!