The best noise-cancelling headphones for when you're working in the office

There’s a reason why Sony’s flagship headphones are one of the most well-loved options in the market: they’re stylish and comfortable, offer superb sound quality, and provide excellent noise cancellation. Released just last year, Sony’s WH-1000XM5, the fifth generation of the 1000X series headphones, has taken what was already good and improved it even further.

The sound quality is more detailed and balanced, and an extra processor helps them deliver even stronger active noise-cancellation. The headphones also offer crisp voice call performance, and the larger ear cups of the redesign makes them lightweight and comfortable to wear, even after extended periods of time.



 

60 hours – that’s how long the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones can last on a single charge. Besides having one of the longest battery lives for a wireless ANC headphone, the Momentum 4 also boasts a lightweight design streamlined for comfort to minimise fatigue and pressure on your ears.

Audiophiles and discerning music enthusiasts will probably delight in the rich and immersive listening experience, with sound reproduction that brings out the nuances of your favourite music tracks. The headphones also support fast charging, allowing you to quickly gain several hours of playtime with just a short charging session.

One of the most expensive options currently in the market, Apple’s first pair of over-ear headphones are rather luxe. The premium build quality, with a sturdy stainless steel frame and a breathable mesh headband that holds soft, cushioned ear cups, looks sleek whilst ensuring comfort during extended listening sessions.

The sound quality of the AirPods Max is excellent as well, with the headphones utilising Apple’s custom-designed dynamic drivers to deliver deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. In terms of ANC, the headphones employ multiple microphones to continuously monitor and adapt to the surrounding sound environment, providing effective noise cancellation. Transparency mode is also available, which allows users to selectively let in external sounds for awareness of their surroundings.

While Bose’s QuietComfort 45 (QC45) headphones might look very similar design-wise to its predecessor, the QC35II, the noise cancellation technology in the new headphones have been significantly improved. According to Bose, the better noise reduction is due to a new electronics package that powers the ANC system, which reduces “unwanted sounds in the midrange frequencies” (aka voices or clacky keyboards).

Besides improved noise cancellation capabilities, the QC45 also boasts new-age features like USB-C charging, which allows for a faster charge, and a longer battery life.

For a high-performance wireless headphone that delivers an exceptional listening experience, turn to the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2. The flagship over-ear headphones from the renowned British audio brand offers outstanding sound quality with deep, controlled bass and clear highs. In terms of ANC, the headphones feature advanced sensors that continuously monitor the environment and adjust the level of noise cancellation accordingly – great for moments where you’d like to be more aware of your surroundings, such as crossing the road.