Noise-cancelling headphones have quickly become a must-have for travelers, students, commuters, and anyone who wants to block out distractions. But if you think you need to spend hundreds to enjoy great active noise cancellation (ANC), think again. In 2025, budget-friendly ANC headphones deliver incredible value—offering impressive sound quality, strong noise reduction, long battery life, and modern features at a fraction of the price of premium models.
Whether you’re looking for affordable ANC headphones for work, the gym, travel, or studying, this guide will walk you through the best budget noise-cancelling headphones of 2025, the essential features to look for, and the top models worth your money.
Why Choose Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones?
High-end headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra are amazing—but not everyone wants to spend €300–€400+. Thankfully, the budget category has improved dramatically.
Here’s why budget ANC headphones are a smart buy in 2025:
- Affordable quality: Many offer ANC performance once seen only in premium models.
- Great for everyday use: Perfect for commuting, studying, office work, and travel.
- Modern features: Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint pairing, fast charging, and app customization.
- Lightweight and comfortable: Many brands now prioritize ergonomics and portability.
You get fantastic performance without overstretching your budget.
What to Look for in Budget ANC Headphones
Not all noise-cancelling headphones are equal. Before choosing a pair, keep these features in mind:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Quality
Look for headphones that block low-frequency sounds like engine rumble and background chatter. Even budget models now offer surprisingly effective ANC.
- Sound Quality
Balanced audio with clear mids and punchy bass provides a better listening experience across genres.
- Comfort & Build Quality
Choose lightweight designs with soft ear cushions for long listening sessions.
- Battery Life
Aim for 30–60 hours with ANC off and 20–40 hours with ANC on.
- Features & Connectivity
Useful features include:
- Transparency/Ambient mode
- Bluetooth multipoint
- App EQ controls
- USB-C charging
- Foldable design for travel
- Price-to-Performance Ratio
The best budget headphones provide premium-like features without premium pricing.
Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones 2025
Here are the top-performing and best-value ANC headphones worth buying this year.
- Soundcore by Anker Life Q35 (2025 Edition)
Soundcore has been dominating the value ANC category, and the 2025 version of the Q35 continues to deliver exceptional performance for the price.
Key Highlights:
- Hybrid ANC with excellent low-frequency reduction
- Hi-Res Audio Wireless support
- Up to 60 hours of playtime (40 hours with ANC)
- Feather-light comfort for all-day wear
- Multipoint connectivity
For under €100, the Q35 is still a powerhouse and one of the best all-around choices.
- Sony WH-CH720N
Sony continues to squeeze premium ANC tech into affordable models, and the WH-CH720N is one of its most impressive budget releases.
Key Highlights:
- Strong ANC for the price
- Natural, balanced sound profile
- 35 hours battery life with ANC
- Lightweight design similar to premium Sony models
- Includes Sony’s customizable app for EQ and controls
For everyday use, these headphones are a comfortable and capable option.
- JBL Tune 770NC
JBL remains a favorite budget-friendly brand, and the Tune 770NC excels in both audio performance and noise cancellation.
Key Highlights:
- Powerful JBL Pure Bass sound
- Adaptive ANC
- Up to 70 hours battery life (50 with ANC)
- Fast charging (5 minutes = 3 hours playtime)
- Multipoint support for switching devices
These headphones are ideal for students and commuters who want long battery life above all.
- Sennheiser HD 450BT (2025 Refresh)
Sennheiser’s budget lineup strikes a great balance between sound quality and comfort.
Key Highlights:
- Excellent Sennheiser tuning with rich, detailed sound
- Reliable ANC for travel
- 30 hours of battery life
- Solid, durable build
- App EQ adjustments
A fantastic choice for audio enthusiasts who don’t want to overspend.
- Edifier W820NB Plus
Edifier continues to rise in popularity thanks to high-value products, and the W820NB Plus offers impressive ANC performance at a very low price.
Key Highlights:
- Surprisingly effective noise cancellation
- LDAC and Hi-Res Audio support
- Soft, comfortable ear cups
- 49 hours battery life
- Great value under €70
If you’re looking for maximum value, Edifier is a strong contender.
- 1MORE SonoFlow
One of the most underrated options, the 1MORE SonoFlow provides premium-like audio at a budget price.
Key Highlights:
- QuietMax ANC technology
- Beautiful, warm sound tuning
- Up to 70 hours battery life
- Very comfortable and lightweight
- App-based EQ presets
Perfect for long-haul travel or all-day music listening.
Honorable Mentions
These models offer excellent value and are worth considering:
- Baseus Bowie H1 – Very affordable ANC with modern design
- Tribit QuietPlus 72 – Cheap but surprisingly effective
- TOZO HT2 – App EQ, solid ANC, and extremely budget-friendly
- Wyze Noise-Cancelling Headphones – Great performance for a low cost
If you’re on a strict budget, these picks still deliver enjoyable ANC performance.
Which Budget ANC Headphones Should You Buy?
Here’s a quick guide based on your needs:
Best Overall Value:
Soundcore Life Q35
Best for ANC Performance Under €150:
Sony WH-CH720N
Best Battery Life:
JBL Tune 770NC
Best Sound Quality:
Sennheiser HD 450BT
Best Under €70:
Edifier W820NB Plus
Most Underrated Pick:
1MORE SonoFlow
No matter your budget or listening preferences, there’s a perfect pair of ANC headphones waiting to enhance your daily routine.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, budget noise-cancelling headphones deliver better performance than ever before. With improved ANC technology, long-lasting battery life, and features once exclusive to high-end models, it’s now easier to enjoy distraction-free listening without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re studying, commuting, working from home, or traveling, these budget ANC headphones offer excellent value and quality. Choose the pair that best fits your lifestyle, and enjoy a quieter, more immersive audio experience—without spending a premium.
Your ears (and your wallet) will thank you.
