Best Over‑Ear ANC Headphones

TL;DR: The Apple AirPods Max Midnight deliver pro‑level ANC, 20 hours of playtime and dynamic Spatial Audio, but at a premium $449.99 price and a noticeable 0.85 lb weight.

Apple’s newest over‑ear model touts “pro‑level” active noise cancellation that Apple says reduces noise up to twice as much as the AirPods Pro, paired with a 20‑hour battery life even when ANC or Spatial Audio is active. The headphones also support a rapid‑charge boost: a five‑minute charge adds about 1.5 hours of playback.

At 0.85 lb, the AirPods Max are heavier than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (≈0.55 lb) and Beats Studio Pro (≈0.57 lb) but lighter than the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 (≈1.23 lb). Their 16 ohm impedance matches the lower‑end of the round‑up, similar to the JLab JBuds Lux (16 Ω) and Soundcore Q20i (16 Ω), while the higher‑impedance Skullcandy and Kvidio ANC models sit at 32 Ω. Battery life sits between the Bose’s 24 hours (ANC on) and many budget options that list 40 hours or more without ANC, and the wireless range of roughly 15.24 m (50 ft) exceeds the Bose’s 9 m range.

Professional reviewers highlight the immersive Spatial Audio with dynamic head‑tracking and praise the 20‑hour endurance for long trips.

Everyday owners love the ANC strength and the fast‑charge convenience, yet several note that the 0.85 lb build can lead to ear fatigue during marathon listening sessions. The lack of multi‑point Bluetooth pairing also appears in user feedback, making switching between devices harder.

Beyond the audio core, the AirPods Max pack nine microphones, an accelerometer, gyroscope and optical sensors for precise ANC and transparency control. The Smart Case puts the headphones into an ultra‑low‑power state, extending standby time to 18 days. With a case weight of 134.5 g and a depth of 83.4 mm, the accessories remain compact for travel.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $449.99

TL;DR: The JLab JBuds Lux ANC deliver hybrid noise cancellation up to 35 dB, a massive 70‑hour total battery life and a lightweight 0.52 lb design, all backed by a 4.6‑star rating from over 6 k reviewers.

What sets these headphones apart is the combination of hybrid active‑noise cancellation that cuts ambient sound by up to 35 dB and a 40 mm driver paired with a low 16 Ω impedance, making them easy to drive from most devices. The battery pack holds 600 mAh and fuels 40 hours of playback with ANC enabled, while the total playtime tops out at 70 hours. A 2.5‑hour charge restores full capacity, and a 10‑minute quick‑charge burst adds roughly 7.5 hours of listening.

In the context of the other eight entries, the JBuds Lux are lighter than the Million Sold Classic E7 (0.52 lb vs 0.77 lb) and also lighter than the Kvidio Hybrid ANC model (0.6 lb). Their 70‑hour total playtime exceeds the 60‑hour runtime listed for the Soundcore Q20i, and the 40‑hour ANC runtime matches that same competitor. However, the JLab unit only supports SBC and AAC codecs, which is fewer than the higher‑resolution options found on premium flagship headphones.

User feedback consistently praises the marathon battery and the Cloud Foam ear cushions that stay comfortable on long commutes. The companion JLab app’s three‑band EQ is frequently mentioned as a handy way to fine‑tune sound without leaving the phone. On the downside, reviewers note the lack of a traditional 3.5 mm jack and point out that music‑mode latency sits above 200 ms, a figure that can be noticeable when gaming or syncing to video.

Additional technical highlights include Bluetooth multipoint, wireless share mode and Google Fast Pair for quick device swaps, plus a wireless range of 30+ ft (over 9 m). The “Be Aware” button‑based control lets you lower the ANC volume without removing the headphones, and the quick‑charge capability means you’ll grab a coffee and still have several hours of playback left.

Best for: Long‑distance travelers, commuters and remote workers who value ultra‑long battery life and solid ANC in a lightweight package.

Avoid if: You need low‑latency audio for gaming or a traditional 3.5 mm wired connection.

TL;DR: The Soundcore Q20i delivers hybrid ANC, 40 mm drivers and up to 60 hours of playback (40 hours with ANC), all for $44.99, making it a solid budget over‑ear option.

What really sets the Q20i apart is its marathon battery life – 60 hours when ANC is off and 40 hours with ANC engaged – plus a 5‑minute quick‑charge that adds about 4 hours of listening. The headphones also pack hybrid active‑noise cancellation with two internal and two external mics, claiming up to 90 % reduction of ambient sound, and a 40 mm driver that supports Hi‑Res audio via the detachable AUX cable.

Compared with the other eight models, the Q20i is lighter than the Classic E7 (0.77 lb) and the Kvidio ANC (≈0.77 lb) but a touch heavier than the JLab JBuds Lux (≈0.52 lb). Its 40 mm drivers match most rivals except the Classic E7’s larger 45 mm unit. Battery‑wise, it outlasts the Classic E7’s 30‑hour claim and ties with the Kvidio Hybrid’s 40‑hour ANC runtime, while falling short of the Kvidio ANC’s 70‑hour ANC‑off figure. The 10 m Bluetooth range matches the Kvidio ANC but is shorter than the Skullcandy Crusher’s 30 m reach.

Reviewers consistently praise the long battery life and the effective ANC for commuting or office use. Users also note the punchy bass from the BassUp technology and the comfort of the memory‑foam ear cups, though a few mention the single call mic feels thin and the total weight of 0.57 lb can become noticeable on extended listening sessions. The 22‑preset EQ in the Soundcore app gives enough tweaking for most listeners, while Hi‑Res audio’s limited to wired use.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range

TL;DR: Beats Studio Pro delivers 40 mm drivers, fully adaptive ANC and up to 40 hours of playback, but its tight clamping and lack of water‑resistance may bother some users.

What really sets the Studio Pro apart is its fully adaptive active‑noise‑cancellation that runs at 48,000 updates per second, paired with 40 mm drivers and a distortion‑reduction claim of up to 80 % less versus the older Beats Studio 3. The headphones also pack a 40‑hour battery life with ANC off and 24 hours with ANC on, plus a fast‑charge feature that gives four hours of playback after just ten minutes on the charger.

At 0.57 lb (260 g), the Studio Pro is lighter than the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 (weighing 1.23 lb) and comparable to the Soundcore Q20i at 0.57 lb, while only a shade heavier than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (0.55 lb). Its 100‑ft wireless range outstrips the Soundcore’s 10‑m range and matches the Skullcandy’s 30‑meter claim, giving you more freedom to move around a room.

Reviewers love the immersive soundstage, noting the three USB‑C EQ modes—Beats Signature, Entertainment, and Conversation—plus personalized dynamic head‑tracking Spatial Audio that works with Dolby Atmos. The voice‑targeting beamforming microphone array also earns praise for clear call quality. On the downside, many users report that the clamping force feels tight on larger heads, and the lack of any water‑resistance rating makes the headphones unsuitable for sweaty workouts or rainy commutes.

The package comes with an ultra‑plush leather‑cushioned ear cup and a carrying case, and the adjustable headband lets you fine‑tune the fit. With Bluetooth Class 1 and version 5.3, you’ve got a solid connection, and the 3.5 mm input adds wired flexibility when you need it.

Best for: Audiophiles and enthusiasts seeking premium sound quality, advanced ANC and spatial audio features.

Avoid if: You have a larger head sensitive to clamping pressure, need water‑resistance for active use, or are looking for a low‑cost, basic headphone solution.

TL;DR: The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 packs a 40 mm driver, adjustable 4‑mic ANC and up to 60 hours of playback, but its 1.23 lb weight and premium price may give some buyers pause.

What really sets the Crusher ANC 2 apart is its 40 mm drivers that can reach 105 dB SPL at 1 kHz, paired with adjustable 4‑mic digital active‑noise‑cancellation. The headphones also feature the signature Crusher Bass technology, letting you feel low‑frequency impacts while the Mimi personal‑sound profile tailors the audio to your hearing.

At about 1.23 lb (558 g), the Crusher ANC 2 is heavier than the Beats Studio Pro (0.57 lb) and the Soundcore Q20i (0.57 lb) but lighter than the Apple AirPods Max (0.85 lb). Its battery life outpaces many peers: 60 hours with ANC off and 50 hours with ANC on, compared with Beats’ 40 h/24 h and Soundcore’s 60 h/40 h. Even the Kvidio ANC line, which offers up to 70 hours off, tops out at 40 hours with ANC on, so the Crusher gives the longest ANC‑on runtime among most competitors.

Reviewers love the “feel‑the‑bass” experience and praise the comfortable padded earcups for marathon listening sessions. Professional reviewers highlight the effective ANC and the rapid‑charge feature—just 10 minutes of charging yields about 4 hours of playback. On the flip side, users note that the advertised 60‑hour endurance can fall short in real‑world use, especially when ANC is active, and the 1.23 lb weight can lead to ear‑fatigue after several hours.

Technical details reinforce its value: a 32 Ω impedance makes the headphones easy to drive from most smartphones, while a 30‑meter Bluetooth range gives solid freedom of movement. The rapid‑charge system adds 4 hours of listening after a 10‑minute boost, and the built‑in microphone array supports up to 24 hours of talk time.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $149.99

TL;DR: The Movssou E7 offers 45 mm drivers, active noise cancellation and up to 30 hours of battery life in a lightweight 0.77‑lb over‑ear design, but its bass‑heavy sound and basic controls limit audiophile appeal.

The E7 packs a 45 mm driver – larger than the 40 mm units found in most of its rivals – and active noise cancellation that targets low‑mid frequencies such as airplane engine hum. The manufacturer lists a battery life of 30 hours, with a 4‑hour USB‑C charge, while it weighs 0.77 pounds.

Compared with the eight other headphones in this roundup, the E7 is heavier than the sub‑0.6 lb models like the Soundcore Q20i, yet considerably lighter than the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2, which tops 1.2 lb. Its 750 mAh battery sits between the 600 mAh of the JLab JBuds Lux and the 800 mAh of the Soundcore Q20i. The 30‑hour runtime is lower than the 40‑hour ANC‑on figures listed for several competitors, though the split between ANC‑on and ANC‑off is not listed in the available specs.

Users repeatedly praise the comfort of the super‑soft foam, ventilated ear pads and the foldable design, noting that the ANC makes cabin and traffic noise feel much quieter. Professional reviewers highlight the effective ANC for low‑mid noise and the impressive 30‑hour battery life as strong points for the price. On the downside, everyday buyers describe the sound as bass‑heavy with muddy mids and mildly harsh highs, and many find the touch/button control layout unintuitive. The build uses a basic plastic‑metal mix and lacks a water‑resistance rating.

Additional specs include a 3.5 mm audio jack, Bluetooth 5.0, built‑in microphone with signal‑processing for clear calls, and metal slider headband adjustment. The headset measures 2.17 in in height, 7.68 in in length and 7.2 in in width.

Best for: Budget‑conscious travelers, commuters and office workers who need reliable ANC for low‑mid noise.

Avoid if: You are an audiophile seeking a balanced high‑fidelity soundstage or a fitness enthusiast needing water‑resistant headphones.

TL;DR: The Kvidio Hybrid ANC Headphones deliver 40 mm drivers, up to 65 hours of Bluetooth playback, and hybrid noise cancellation for just $25.99, making them a solid budget pick for everyday listening.

What really stands out is the battery endurance: the headphones offer 65 hours of Bluetooth playback and 40 hours with active noise cancellation turned on, plus a 5‑minute quick‑charge boost that adds roughly 4 hours of listening. Coupled with a lightweight 0.6‑pound frame and memory‑protein foam ear cushions, they stay comfortable even during marathon study sessions.

Compared with the other eight models in this roundup, the Kvidio Hybrid sits in the middle of the weight range—lighter than the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 (over 1 pound) and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (about 0.55 pound), but a bit heavier than the Soundcore Q20i (0.57 pound). Its 40 mm drivers match the driver size of the Soundcore Q20i, Beats Studio Pro, and Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2, while the Million Sold Classic E7 uses a larger 45 mm driver. Battery life in standard mode (70 hours) exceeds the 60 hours the Soundcore Q20i lists and the 40 hours ANC‑on time of the Kvidio ANC model, making it one of the longest‑lasting options.

Reviewers consistently praise the ultra‑long battery and the plush memory‑foam padding, noting that the headphones can sit on a desk for weeks without a recharge. Professional reviewers highlight the stable Bluetooth 5.3 connection and the convenience of multipoint pairing, which lets you switch between two devices without re‑pairing. Some users note a plastic construction that feels cheap compared with premium rivals, and the built‑in microphone only works in wireless mode, limiting wired call options. There’s also no companion EQ app, so sound tweaking is limited to the preset Hi‑Fi stereo profile.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option

Avoid if: You need a premium build, advanced sound customization, or a microphone that works wired

TL;DR: The Kvidio ANC Headphones deliver up to 70 hours of playback, active noise reduction of up to 95 %, and a 40 mm driver for a budget‑friendly over‑ear experience.

What really sets these headphones apart is the marathon‑length battery. You get up to 70 hours of listening when ANC is off and still enjoy 40 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. A quick 5‑minute charge adds roughly 4 hours of playback, so you can grab them for a short commute and keep the music going.

When you line them up against the other eight contenders, the Kvidio’s 70‑hour standby beats the Soundcore Q20i’s 60 hours and matches the Kvidio Hybrid’s 70‑hour claim. However, the Hybrid model is lighter at 272 g, while the Kvidio weighs 349 g. It’s heavier than the Soundcore’s 259 g but comparable to the Million Sold Classic’s 0.77 lb. The 40 mm driver matches most peers, and the 32 Ohm impedance provides a solid middle ground for most devices.

Reviewers love the sheer endurance and note that the sound feels “fuller” with balanced mids, making it great for podcasts and calls. Professional reviewers highlight the adjustable ANC levels—weak, medium, strong—and the transparency mode that lets you hear surroundings without taking off the headphones. The ANC is described as “basic”; it doesn’t reach the hybrid or adaptive performance of higher‑priced models, and a few users mention audible sound leakage at maximum volume.

Other technical details round out the package: Bluetooth 5.3 provides a stable wireless link up to 10 meters, and the included 3.5 mm cable lets you go wired if you prefer. The ear pads feel soft, and the total dimensions (120 mm × 140 mm × 70 mm) keep the headset comfortable for long sessions.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers industry‑leading ANC, up to 24 hours of playtime with ANC on, and a lightweight 250 g design, but its premium $299.99 price and bulkier build may not suit tight‑budget or high‑movement use.

What sets the QuietComfort Ultra apart is Bose’s CustomTune system, which automatically adjusts both sound profile and active‑noise‑cancellation to your individual hearing and fit. Coupled with Immersive Audio that adds head‑tracking spatial sound, the headphones aim to keep you enveloped in music even on a noisy commute. Battery life is solid, offering up to 24 hours with ANC enabled and up to 18 hours when Immersive Audio is active, while a 15‑minute quick‑charge adds roughly two hours of playback.

At 0.551155655 pounds (250 g), the Ultra weighs less than every competitor in this roundup, from Beats Studio Pro’s 0.5732018812 pounds to Apple’s AirPods Max at 0.85 pounds. Its 9 m (30 ft) Bluetooth range sits just shy of Skullcandy’s 30 m reach but matches the typical range of many mid‑tier models. Battery endurance of 24 hours with ANC matches Beats’ ANC‑on time but falls short of Skullcandy’s 50 hour ANC claim. The price tag of $299.99 positions the Ultra in the premium tier, noticeably higher than the sub‑$200 options such as Beats Studio Pro or JLab JBuds Lux.

User sentiment consistently highlights the comfort of the protein‑leather ear cushions and the effectiveness of the ANC in blocking low‑frequency rumble on trains and planes. Professional reviewers also commend the quick‑charge feature and the smooth multipoint connection to two devices. However, several users note that the over‑ear design can slip during moderate movement, and the lack of an IP water‑resistance rating limits use in sweaty or rainy conditions.

Additional technical details include a USB‑C charging port, support for SBC and AAC codecs, and a 61 mm × 211 mm × 157 mm carrying case that weighs 200 g. The headphones feature an adjustable aluminum‑plastic headband, a programmable button for easy control, and SimpleSync for automatic pairing with Bose soundbars.

Best for: Those prioritizing top‑tier ANC, long battery life, and premium comfort, especially commuters and travelers who value a personalized sound profile.

Avoid if: You need a budget‑friendly option, plan to use them for intense sports, or require water‑resistance for sweaty workouts.