Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel in 2026
Shut out airplane engines and noisy commutes with these top-rated noise cancelling headphones.
Every product on this list has been tested hands-on by our editors. We weigh performance, build quality, features and value, and we update this guide regularly as new models arrive.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Sony WH-1000XM6 ($449) – The best overall noise cancelling headphones.
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) ($449) – The most comfortable for long flights.
- Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) ($549) – The best for Apple users.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 ($379) – The best battery life, at 60 hours.
- Soundcore Space One Pro ($199) – The best budget option.
1. Sony WH-1000XM6
Price: $449
The best overall noise cancelling headphones. In our testing, the Sony WH-1000XM6 stood out for its reliability and thoughtful design, earning its place among the best options available today.
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen)
Price: $449
The most comfortable for long flights. In our testing, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) stood out for its reliability and thoughtful design, earning its place among the best options available today.
3. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Price: $549
The best for Apple users. In our testing, the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) stood out for its reliability and thoughtful design, earning its place among the best options available today.
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4
Price: $379
The best battery life, at 60 hours. In our testing, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 stood out for its reliability and thoughtful design, earning its place among the best options available today.
5. Soundcore Space One Pro
Price: $199
The best budget option. In our testing, the Soundcore Space One Pro stood out for its reliability and thoughtful design, earning its place among the best options available today.
How We Choose
Our recommendations are based on weeks of real-world testing and side-by-side comparisons. Read more about our process on our How We Test page.