Finding the perfect noise-cancelling headphones for work can be a game-changer, especially if you’re in a noisy office or need to focus in a shared space. I tested some of the top models designed to help you stay focused and productive, and these five headphones truly stood out. With a combination of excellent noise cancellation, comfort for long hours, and superior sound quality, these headphones are ideal for work environments.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, priced at $398, are arguably the best noise-cancelling headphones for work on the market. Sony’s flagship model continues to lead with its superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, powered by the new Integrated Processor V1 and HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. These dual processors enhance the ability to block out a wide range of frequencies, making them perfect for a noisy office environment or during conference calls.
Aside from noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM5 offers exceptional comfort for prolonged use. The lightweight design and plush ear pads allow for all-day wear without discomfort. The headphones also feature a battery life of up to 30 hours with noise cancellation activated, ensuring they last through even the longest workdays.
Plus, with quick-charging capabilities, just 10 minutes of charge gives you up to 5 hours of playback. Their sound quality is top-notch, with deep bass, crisp mids, and clear highs, making them suitable for both calls and listening to music while working.
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are another excellent choice for work, priced at $379. Known for their outstanding noise-cancelling capabilities, these headphones come with 11 levels of noise cancellation. This allows you to adjust the amount of ambient sound you hear, making them versatile for different work environments—whether you need total isolation or just a bit of quiet.
The Headphones 700 are also designed with comfort in mind. They feature a sleek, modern design with a comfortable fit that can be worn all day without fatigue. The battery life is around 20 hours with noise cancellation on, which is sufficient for most workdays. The intuitive touch controls on the ear cups make it easy to manage calls and media without interrupting your workflow.
Additionally, the headphones provide crystal-clear call quality with a four-microphone system that isolates your voice while cancelling out background noise, making them ideal for virtual meetings.
3. Jabra Evolve2 85
For those who prioritize call quality and comfort, the Jabra Evolve2 85, priced at $449, is a fantastic option. These headphones are specifically designed for office use, featuring powerful ANC to block out background noise and 10 built-in microphones for crystal-clear call quality.
The Evolve2 85 headphones come with a unique “busy light” feature, which automatically lights up when you’re on a call or manually when you need to focus, signaling to your coworkers that you’re not to be disturbed.
Comfort is a key feature of the Evolve2 85, with large, cushioned ear cups that provide a secure yet comfortable fit for all-day wear. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 37 hours of use on a single charge with noise cancellation active.
These headphones also include an optional USB-C charging stand for convenient charging between meetings or at your desk. With integrated controls and compatibility with popular unified communication platforms like Microsoft Teams, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is perfect for a seamless work-from-home or office experience.
4. Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless
The Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless headphones, priced at $199, provide an excellent balance of affordability, performance, and comfort, making them a great choice for those on a budget. These headphones feature adaptive noise cancellation, which automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment. This makes them highly versatile for various work settings, whether in a busy office or a quieter home workspace.
The PXC 550-II offers high-quality sound with a balanced audio profile that is suitable for both calls and music. The headphones are also incredibly comfortable, with a lightweight design and soft, cushioned ear pads that are ideal for extended use. With a battery life of up to 30 hours, these headphones can easily last through multiple workdays without needing a recharge. They also come with intuitive touch controls and voice assistant support, allowing for hands-free operation and seamless multitasking.
5. Apple AirPods Max
If you’re an Apple user, the Apple AirPods Max, priced at $549, offer seamless integration with your Apple ecosystem and exceptional noise cancellation. While they are more expensive, the AirPods Max delivers premium build quality and superb ANC performance that effectively blocks out unwanted noise, making them perfect for focused work or important calls.
The AirPods Max stand out for their spatial audio capabilities, providing a theater-like experience for video calls and virtual meetings. The headphones are also equipped with a computational audio feature, which adjusts the sound profile in real-time for optimal performance.
The ear cushions are made from memory foam, providing comfort and a snug fit for all-day wear. Battery life is around 20 hours with active noise cancellation and spatial audio enabled, and the headphones come with a Smart Case that puts them in an ultra-low-power state to preserve battery life. If you’re looking for a high-end option that integrates perfectly with Apple devices, the AirPods Max are an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best noise-cancelling headphones for work, these five models excel in different areas, from superior noise cancellation and sound quality to comfort and call clarity.
Depending on your specific needs—whether you prioritize call quality, long battery life, or seamless integration with your devices—one of these options is sure to enhance your productivity and focus in any work environment. Investing in a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones can make a significant difference in maintaining concentration and improving your overall work experience.
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