Electronics

The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Travel in 2024

Traveling can be exhausting, but the right pair of noise-cancelling headphones can transform a chaotic flight into a peaceful sanctuary. In 2024, the competition is fiercer than ever, with Sony, Bose, and Apple all vying for the top spot.

The Quick Verdict

For most travelers, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is the clear winner. It combines industry-leading noise cancellation with a lightweight design that remains comfortable for hours. If comfort is your absolute priority, the Bose QC Ultra is a close second.

Product Rating & Award Key Specs Best For Price
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WH-1000XM5 #1 Best Overall
★★★★★ 9.4
30h Battery Adaptive ANC

Frequent flyers seeking maximum silence

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Bose QC Ultra
Bose QC Ultra Runner Up
★★★★☆ 9.0
24h Battery Immersive Audio

Users who value physical comfort above all else

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AirPods Max
AirPods Max Premium Pick
★★★★☆ 8.3
20h Battery Aluminum Build

iPhone users who want luxury build quality

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1

Sony WH-1000XM5

Best Overall ★★★★★ (9.4/10)

The Verdict: The Sony WH-1000XM5 continues to set the standard for what travel headphones should be. It combines industry-leading noise cancellation with a lightweight design that remains comfortable for hours.

With an improved processor and eight microphones, the ANC on these headphones is nothing short of magical. It completely erases the low hum of airplane engines and significantly reduces brighter noises like voices.

What We Love
  • Class-leading active noise cancellation
  • 30-hour battery life with quick charging
  • Exceptional comfort for long listening sessions
The Downsides
  • Does not fold up as compactly as previous models
  • Design feels slightly less premium than metal competitors
Battery Life 30 Hours (Quick Charge: 3h in 3m)
Weight 250g
Drivers 30mm Carbon Fiber
2

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Best Comfort ★★★★☆ (9.0/10)

The Verdict: If comfort is your absolute priority, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra lives up to its name. These headphones disappear on your head and offer Bose's signature deep noise cancellation.

Bose has refined its design to be incredibly plush. The "Immersive Audio" feature also adds a spatial element to your music, making it feel more live and open, which is a delight during long trips.

What We Love
  • Legendary Bose comfort for all-day wear
  • Immersive Audio creates a spacious soundstage
  • Excellent transparency mode
The Downsides
  • Battery life (24 hours) is less than Sony
  • Slightly heavier than the XM5
Battery Life 24 Hours
Weight 253g
Special Feature Immersive Audio
3

Apple AirPods Max

Premium Pick ★★★★☆ (8.3/10)

The Verdict: For those deep in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Max offer an unmatched build quality and seamless integration. They feel substantial, premium, and sound incredible.

The transparency mode on the AirPods Max is the most natural we have ever heard, making it easy to order coffee or hear announcements without taking them off.

What We Love
  • Luxurious aluminum and mesh construction
  • Seamless switching between Apple devices
  • Natural transparency mode
The Downsides
  • Significantly heavier than competitors
  • Case offers zero protection
  • Expensive
Battery Life 20 Hours
Weight 384g (Heavy!)
Build Stainless Steel & Aluminum

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use these wired for in-flight entertainment?
Yes, both the Sony and Bose come with cables. The AirPods Max require a separate Lighting to 3.5mm adapter (sold separately) or USB-C cable depending on the version.
Do they work well for phone calls?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 has the best microphone system for calls, effectively isolating your voice even in noisy airports.