7 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones in UK for 2018

Best Selling Right Now

Let’s have a deeper look …

1. Beyerdynamic T1 Generation 2: High-End (and expensive) Headphones

In a glance

• Colour: Silver
• 5 Years warranty
• High-quality Tesla technology drivers
• Transparent, spacious, powerful sound
• Delux hard carry case
• Handcrafted in Germany

Introduction

These Beyerdynamic headphones are for true audiophiles.  The T1 plays crystal clear with top quality sound.  The frequency range is harmonically tuned, and the reproduction is spatially transparent to offer the very best listening with unrivalled accuracy, sensitivity, and power efficiency.

Tesla technology has completely redesigned transducers with adamant magnetic drive and transparent sound with over 1.0 Tesla.  Therefore these headphones allow twice the volume of conventional models.  Also, due to the enhanced efficiency, the electrical signal is converted into sound vibrations with no loss of performance.

The second generation of this high-end model is impressive with further enhanced tuning with more warmth and musicality which will delight the most dedicated audiophile (for you, audiophile, we’ve reviewed soundbars and Bluetooth speakers).  The carefully intensified bass gives the ideal low-frequency foundation for contemporary music.

Description

These noise-cancelling headphones use highly efficient Tesla technology drivers.  They have spacious, transparent and powerful sound as well as extraordinary impulse fidelity with high impedance of 600 Ohms.  Included is a three metre double sided cable, OC 7N copper conductors, textile braided.

Breathable, super-soft ear cushions have memory foam with high-grade protein coated leatherette headband.  A luxury grade hard carry case is also included.

Specifications

• Weight: 358 g
• Dimensions: 2 x 21.6 x 29.2 cm
• Colour: Silver
• Made in: Germany
• Colour screen: No

Review

Once they stabilise, these headphones are excellent with extra resolution, transparency and low-end weight.  They retain a firm grasp of rhythmic information and the kind of fluid dynamics which are rarely found even in the top-class models.  The Beyerdynamic T1 Generation 2 headphones have an impressive, articulate way with vocals.

2. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 – Budget Headphones yet They do the Job

In a glance

• Colour: Black or Argilla Grey
• Wireless headphones with B&O sound & enhanced active noise cancellation
• Lightweight, durable, over-ear
• Intuitive aluminium touch interface for better control
• Rechargeable & replaceable battery with up to 14 hours playback capacity

Introduction

Beoplay H9 Wireless noise cancelling over-ear headphones enable you to enjoy music and move around freely without the background noise.  Features sound intuitive touch interface, replaceable & rechargeable battery and superb materials such as anodised aluminium and natural leather for strength and comfort.  The battery life is up to 14 hours playback time when ANC and Bluetooth are enabled or 18-35 hours when they are unplugged.

Although they are light and portable, these wireless headphones guarantee high audio performance.

Description

Large, cushioned ear pads cover your ears for comfortable extended wear while you enjoy your listening experience with full noise-cancellation.  Intuitive TouchTone technology, select from preset ToneTouch to adapt your sound to your activity whether you are working out, commuting or listening at home.  Save your favourite presets on your iPhone and access them easily on your Apple watch.

Specifications

• Headphone type: Wireless over-ear
• Colour: Black or Argilla Grey
• Dimensions: 19.8 x 22.6 x 4 cm
• Weight: 283.5 g
• Materials: Anodised aluminium, lambskin, memory foam, Cowhide leather
• Connectivity: Wireless – Bluetooth 4.2, supports aptX & AAC Codecs; Corded via included audio cable with 3.5 mm mini-jack
• Battery: Up to 14 hours with Bluetooth and ANC.
• Charging time of approximately 2.5 hours
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 22,000 Hz
• On-Device Controls: Bluetooth pairing slide button, touch interface, On right ear-cup for play/pause/take call, Volume, track selection, ANC
• Microphone: One electrets type, omnidirectional

Box Contains

• H9 Noise cancelling headphones
• 1 Audio cable with 35 mm mini-jack
• 1 USB to USB cable for charging
• 1 Flight adaptor
• 1 Carrying pouch
• 1 Start Guide

Review

These headphones are not built for studio use, but they colour the music extremely well.  The bass is strong but not overpowering.  The midrange is a bit more cut back but sounds great.  There is a good amount of low-mid frequencies while the high-mids are tame and true.  There are plenty of the upper high frequencies which are great for vocals but slightly more lower-highs would have been perhaps a little better.

The noise cancellation is excellent. Υou can’t hear much outside the headphones at all.

The Bluetooth performance is standard the H9 model has Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX Low Latency which makes it perform a little better than other Bluetooth headphones around right now.

3. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H8 ANC On-Ear Headphones

In a glance

• Colours: Black, Deep Red, Gold & Beige, Grey & Brown, Natural Leather
• Super lightweight wireless, on-ear active noise cancelling headphones
• Aluminum touch interface on the right ear cut for control
• Up to 14 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation and Bluetooth turned on

Introduction

These Beoplay H8 wireless on-ear headphones with active noise cancelling are ideal for music lovers.  The Bluetooth stylish headphones have an intuitive touch interface to control both music and calls.  You can adapt your tunes to your activities through the Beoplay App and enjoy mobile music and calls with up to 14 hours of battery life.

These headphones are comfortable and come in a variety of colours. They are one of the lightest on the market at only 255 g in weight.

Description

These chic headphones feature clean lines and premium materials.  Anodised aluminium, adaptive memory foam, soft lambskin and the genuine cowhide leather will age with a unique and beautiful patina as time goes by.

The right ear-cup has an aluminium touch interface for complete control.  All you have to do is tap or swipe to manage calls, play or pause, change tracks, etc.

The Lithium-Ion battery is rechargeable and lasts up to 14 hours with ANC and Bluetooth enabled.  With AN only, it will last 35 hours on a single charge.  The charging time is 2.5 hours; an audio cable is included.

Specifications

• Headphone type: Wireless, on-ear
• Dimensions: 18.3 x 18.7 x 3.8 cm
• Weight: 255 g
• Materials: Anodised aluminium, genuine cowhide, lambskin, Adaptive memory foam
• Colours: Black, Deep Red, Gold/Beige, Grey/Brown or Natural Leather
• Connectivity: Wireless – Bluetooth 4.0, supports aptX & AAC Codecs; Corded – via included audio cable with 3.5 mm mini-jack
• Battery: Up to 14 hours with Bluetooth & ANC; Charging Time of 2.5 hours

Box Contains

• Beoplay H8 headphones
• 1 Audio cord with 3.5 mm mini-jack
• 1 Micro USB to USB cable for charging
• 1 Flight adaptor
• 1 Carrying pouch
• 1 Quick Start Guide

Review

The headphones use Bluetooth 4.0, and your phone should remember the headphones after pairing but on occasion (if there are a lot of Bluetooth devices around), this is not automatic.

There are many basses, fairly warm midrange, and good clarity but a bit hyped in the treble when you are using the headphones wired, this is eliminated when you turn on the noise cancelling though.

There are some Bluetooth issues when walking with your phone in your left pocket.  It helps to put it in your right-hand pocket as the BeoPlay H8’s Bluetooth receiver is in the right ear-cup.

However, these headphones are impressive, deliver good sound for Bluetooth with noise canceling for those that need to block out ambient noise.

4. Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Around-Ear Wireless Headphones

In a glance

• Colour: Black or Ivory
• Closed circumpolar design featuring Bluetooth technology
• 2 Year warranty
• Stereo sound across the audible due to 18-ohm transducers
• NoiseGard hybrid active noise cancellation for isolation & high audio performance
• Immediate pairing to smart devices using NFC connectivity
• Attachable audio cable, in case of BT connectivity, is not permitted

Introduction

Bluetooth technology gives you freedom from wires, and NoiseGard hybrid active noise cancellation eliminates unwanted ambient sound which increases the enjoyment of your audio listening.  The ear-cups are slightly larger with ergonomically designed leather covered memory foam cushions which ensure greater comfort for lengthy listening.  The folding headband features hidden hinges gives improved portability.

Momentum wireless incorporates apt-X codec, which delivers CD-quality audio when connected to a Bluetooth apt-X-enabled device.  It also offers crystal clear momentum sound without being attached to a cable.  It is compatible with all Bluetooth enabled mobile smartphone devices, tablets, and computers.

Description

The Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 around the ear headphones give you wireless freedom with Bluetooth 4.0, NFC (near field communication), touch control, voice prompts, three way calling and multi-connectivity.  NFC provides easy ‘at a touch’ Bluetooth pairing with any NFC-enabled device.

NoiseGard Hybrid active noise cancellation virtually eliminates the unwanted sound.  VoiceMax Technology – dual built-in microphones cancel out external noise for better speech intelligibility.

Multi-Device Connectivity can connect up to two devices at the same time (phones & computers) and up to eight devices in the pairing list.

The foldable headband is of a compact design, easy to collapse, store and take with you in the included soft case.

The battery has 22 hours of life with Bluetooth and NoiseRad activated.

Specifications

• Colour: Black or Ivory
• Headphone type: Wireless, on-ear
• Transducer Principle: Dynamic closed in
• Volume Control: Ear-cup control with BT connected
• Microphone Type: Dual Omnidirectional (2 beams forming array)
• Cable Connection: 1.4 (detachable) 3.5 mm angled
• Dimensions: 18.8 x 10.2 x 25.1
• Weight: 260 g

Box Contains

• M2 AEBT on-ear wireless headphones
• 1 1.4 m audio cable
• 1 headphone output/3.5mm low-profile angled plug
• 1 USB Charging cable
• 1 In-flight adaptor
• 1 Carrying case
• 1 Manual

Review

The noise cancellation which isn’t too heavy is always on, there is no ‘off’ switch, but battery life is still good at 22 hours.

These headphones are exciting with a touch more bass and treble push.  They are excellent value for money, well-designed and perform even better when wired.

5. Bose QuietComfort 35 – A Value-for-Money Pick

In a glance

• Colour: Black or Silver
• Comfortable & lightweight
• World-class noise cancellation
• Volume optimised EQ for balanced audio performance at any volume
• Wireless with easy Bluetooth and NFC pairing aided by voice prompts

• 20 Hours battery life per charge & up to 40 hours in wired mode

Introduction

QuietComfort 35 headphones allow you to listen without any outside noise getting in the way and no wires to impair movement.  They offer balanced audio performance and crystal clear calls even in windy conditions.  They are comfortable to wear and have 20 hours of battery life.  For easy management of your devices use the free Bose Connect app.  These headphones are top-notch at cancelling out the engine sounds of a plane or people chatter on public buses and trains.

Description

QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones are in a class of their own about noise cancellation.  There is an ideal balance which makes quiet sound quieter and music sound much richer.  Fabricated with premium materials, these headphones are light and comfortable.  You can take advantage of the Bose Connect app to personalise your listening.  Connect easily to Bluetooth and NFC pairing and enjoy a balanced audio performance at any volume with optimised EQ.  Noise-rejecting dual microphone system ensures clear calls in any circumstances.  Voice prompts, and intuitive controls make communicating and managing your music easier than ever.  The lithium-ion battery gives up to 20 hours wireless play time per charge and up to 40 hours in wired mode.

Specifications

• Headphone type: QuietComfort 35 around ear wireless
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion AAA
• Pairing: NFC
• Volume: Volume optimised EQ
• Dimensions: 7.9 x 17 x 18 cm
• Weight: 680 g
• Colour: Black or Silver

Box Contains

• QuietComfort 35 wireless around ear headphones
• 1 USB charging cable
• 1 Backup audio cable
• 1 Airline adaptor
• 1 Carrying case
• 1 Manual

Review

The Bose QT35 combines all the features that good headphones require with the best noise canceling technology on the planet.  They are called Quiet Comfort for a good reason – they are top notch with large plush memory foam earpads, headband covered with Alcantara and slanted drivers.  The ear-cups rotate 90 degrees, and with the headband adjustment, they will fit any size of the head with comfort.

The Bluetooth 4.1 is the best new feature.  You can connect with either iOS or Android devices with just a click of a button.

The microphones are pretty sensitive and will pick up louder noise around you, even if you cannot hear it due to ANC, but in most cases, they work perfectly.

The sound is vibrant, dynamic and fun.  You can enjoy all genres on these headphones.  Sound separation is better than ever; you will hear the different instruments and where the sounds originate.

If you want the best noise canceling headphones money can buy right now, Bose QuietComfort 35 is your best bet.

6. Sony MDR-1000X 

In a glance

• Colour: Black or Silver
• Noise-cancelling with reduced ambient noise for perfect silence
• Comfortable around-ear fitting
• 20 Hour battery life
• Smart technologies: Ambient sound mode, Touch Sensor operation, and Quick Attention mode
• First ever DSEE HX headphones up-scaling your music to near high-resolution audio quality

Introduction

The Sony MDR-1000X Wireless Bluetooth Noise-cancelling ambient sound touch sensor high-resolution audio headphones have updated features to enable them to provide high-quality noise cancellation.  Low-frequency vehicle noise and mid to high-frequency sound, including voice, have been reduced with the MDR-1000X compared to the previous Sony model.

Description

The Sony MDR-1000X headphones high sensitivity drivers efficiently filter out unwanted noise.  Dual noise sensor technology employs internal and external microphones to detect and offset ambient sound.  Close-fitting urethane foam earpads surround your ear and seal out distractions.  Sense Engine gives you the freedom to tune in and out of your music at a touch.  You can still listen to your music and also receive important messages and announcements.

Specifications

• Headphone type: Closed, dynamic circum-aural
• Colour: Black or Silver
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, NFC
• Noise cancellation: Advanced digital noise cancelling technology with personal noise cancelling optimiser
• Sense Engine: Personal NC Optimiser, ambient sound mode, Quick attention mode, Touch Sensor
• Sound/Tuning: All-rounder, Hi-resolution audio compatible
• Cable: Headphone cable with 3.5 mm jack (approx. 1.5 silver coated OFC strands, gold-plated, Stereo mini plug
• Battery: Lithium-ion, Max. 20 hours (NC & BT on) 22 hours (BT on NC off), 4 hours charging time
• Weight: 275 g

Box Contains

• MDR 1000X Headphones
• 1 Carrying Case
• 1 Plug adaptor for in-flight use
• 1 Connection cable
• 1 USB cable
• Warranty card
• Operating instructions

Review

These headphones outshine on the market and come close to surpassing even the Bose QC 35, which is saying a lot.  There are several ANC modes to choose from and an Ambient Sound mode so that you can fine-tune your acoustic awareness.  Placing your hand over the right ear-cup automatically engages the Quick Attention mode so that you can hear what is going on around you.

The earcups swivel and pivot and the headband are trimmed with very soft padding for extra comfort.

Provided with Bluetooth NFC v4.1 and support for aptX and AAC codecs, the Sony MDR-1000X is easy to pair and delivers high-quality wireless audio playback.

It may take a little time to get used to the touch sensitive controls, but once you do, they are convenient.

The general frequency curve is a reasonable V-shape with a bit of lively coloration in the high-frequency ranges.  Bass frequencies are strong and tight, but there is a bit of over-extension in the sub-bass range when on high volume.  Greater overall volume is achieved when in wired mode.

7. Beats Studio Wireless – Most Popular Noise Cancelling Headphones

In a glance

• Colours: Black, Blue, White, Gloss Black, Gloss White, Gold, Grey, Matte Black, Metallic or Red
• Built-in microphone with controls on ear-cup for calls & music
• Pair & play with Bluetooth with 30-foot range
• Dual mode adaptive noise cancelling
• 12-hour rechargeable battery with fuel gauge
• Answer hands-free calls with built-in microphone

Description

Beats Studio Wireless headphones let you feel the music and not the wires.  It has adaptive noise cancellation, rechargeable battery and re-engineered sound.

You can take calls, skip songs and change the volume from the headphone.  The Bluetooth connection allows you to enjoy your music for up to 12 hours wirelessly, or up to 20 hours when wired.  There is also an automatic on/off feature which turns off when you unplug from a wired connection, as well as a battery gauge indicator.

These studio headphones have all the energy and dynamics you would expect from Beats.  The design has really nice curves, smooth surfaces, and no visible screws.  The soft ear cups have an ergonomic bellow which creates a flexible custom fit.

Specifications

• Headphone type: Wireless over-ear
• Colours: Black, Blue, White, Gloss Black, Gloss White, Gold, Grey, Matte Black, Metallic or Red
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Frequency (low): 20Hz
• Frequency (high): 20 kHz
• Body Material: Foam, leather & plastic
• Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 cm
• Weight: 200 g

Box Contains

• Beats by Dr Dre Wireless over-ear headphones
• 1 Remote Talk Cable
• 1 Hard Carrying Shell Case
• 1 Cleaning Cloth

Review

Noise cancellation is good, not the best, although you will greatly lower the background noise with ANC on.  The battery gives up to 12 hours on one charge with ANC and Bluetooth on, up to 20 hours with only ANC. The battery is charged via USB to Micro USB cable so that any laptop or USB adaptor will charge it.

The design is top class, and durability is good.  You can certainly make a fashion statement with these chic headphones.  They are also very comfortable and lightweight, with large plush earpads.  You can control the standard, volume, songs and play/pause with controls on each ear-cup.

The sound is much improved with bass more controlled, although still strong, it does not overpower other ranges.

These are not for pure audiophiles but are fun to sound with an emphasis on highs and bass, as you would hear in a concert.

Benefits of Using Noise Cancelling Headphones

• The advantages are obvious: you can fully enjoy whatever you are listening to – even if it is just the silence, to the fullest degree. All distracting background noises such as sirens, traffic, and external chatter are blocked out.  If you find noise difficult to cope with while meditating, then these headphones are a perfect solution.
• Since you will no longer have to compete with outside noise, you can play your music at a much lower volume, which is far better for your ears. Thanks to padding and microphones planted in the ear wells of the headphones, outside noise is entirely cancelled out, leaving nothing but the music or whatever you are listening.
• They are comfortable to wear.
• Freedom of movement with wireless models

Some Tips on buying your headphones

Noise cancelling headphones need batteries to work, so you will need to keep them fully charged to keep outside noise at bay.  You should, therefore, consider the battery life of the headphones.  Some come with a built-in rechargeable unit while others operate with replaceable batteries.

You should decide which style of headphones is the best for you, as they come in various forms and sizes.  They all function in the same way, but their build and style allow for versatile use in different ways, for example:

• The in-ear headphones are worn in the opening or canal of the ear. They are flexible and have superior sound quality.
• The Circumaural headphones are worn around the ear, creating a seal and block out more sound.
• The Super-aural headphones sit over the ear and have soft padding.

The ones that are most used are the in-ear, which come with ear buds that fit inside the ear.  These headphones are lightweight and easily portable.  The over-ear or super-aural comes with a full-sized build that fits over the ears.  These offer better noise-blocking properties but are not as portable.

You should be sure to check the audio quality to make sure they have good sound.  Although noise cancelling technology limits surrounding sound, it does not affect the quality of the headphones.  To get the very best sound, you need to search for the correct brand.  The average noise cancelling headphones often suffice to block out background sounds, but for a rich listening experience, you may wish to buy headphones with more premium builds.

You must have realistic expectations, as while noise-canceling headphones lower ambient sound, they do not block out everything.  A key factor which may affect the headphones is the actual intensity of a sound.  They cannot for example, completely block out loud, sharp sounds such as the engine of a jet or a plane.  They will, however, soften these noises, which will make them manageable.

You should consider all these points before purchasing to ensure complete satisfaction.