Best Noise Cancelling Headphones UK 2025: From Everyday to Audiophile

In this roundup, we’re reviewing some of the best noise cancelling headphones you can buy in the UK right now — all from trusted brands, all tested for features, comfort, and sound quality.

Looking for peace and quiet without blowing your budget? Whether you’re commuting, working from home, or just want to enjoy your playlists in peace, a good pair of noise cancelling headphones can be a game-changer. The best part? You no longer need to spend hundreds to get quality active noise cancellation (ANC), long battery life, and great sound. Let’s jump in.

JBL Tune 760NC – Big Sound, Quiet Ride

RRP: £39.06 – View on Amazon.co.uk

If you’re after affordable noise-cancelling headphones that actually cancel noise, the JBL Tune 760NC are a solid place to start. With a lightweight frame, up to 35 hours of battery, and a punchy sound signature, they tick all the right boxes for commuters and casual listeners alike.

Why we like it:

• Strong ANC performance for the price
• Impressive battery life
• Lightweight and foldable — great for travel

Key Features:

• Active Noise Cancelling
• 35-hour battery life (USB-C charging)
• Bluetooth + 1.3m wired cable included
• Foldable over-ear design

Verdict: A fantastic all-rounder with balanced performance and portability — especially appealing under £50.

RRP: £39.06 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Sony WH-CH520 – Lightweight with Marathon Battery

RRP: £45.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Sony’s WH-CH520 are the perfect entry point into wireless headphones with premium audio touches. While they don’t offer ANC, the sound quality, insane battery life, and app customisation make them a serious budget contender.

Why we like it:

• Best-in-class 50-hour battery life
• Ultra-light at 147g for all-day comfort
• Sony Headphones Connect app with EQ control

Key Features:

• DSEE upscaling for better sound
• 50-hour battery + 3-min quick charge for 90 mins playback
• Multipoint Bluetooth connection
• Adjustable EQ via Sony app

Verdict: No ANC, but if battery life and lightweight comfort matter most, this is the top pick for under £50.

RRP: £45.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 – Feel the Bass (Literally)

RRP: £199.99 – View on Amazon.co.uk

The Crusher ANC 2 are Skullcandy’s boldest headphones yet. You get booming sensory bass you can feel, adjustable ANC, and loads of smart features packed into a sleek build.

Why we like it:

• Immersive sensory bass tech — totally unique
• Adjustable ANC with 4-mic system
• 50-hour battery life with fast charge

Key Features:

• Skull-iQ voice control
• Skullcandy app customisation
• Rapid charge: 4 hrs play in 10 minutes
• Bluetooth + included charging cable

Verdict: Built for bass lovers who want smart features and custom control — a powerhouse under £200.

RRP: £199.99 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Sennheiser HD 560S – Audiophile Sound on a Budget

RRP: £169.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

While only passive noise-cancelling, the HD 560S are designed for serious listeners who want high-fidelity audio without spending a fortune. Perfect for home setups, they deliver open-back clarity with professional-grade detail.

Why we like it:

• Open-back design offers natural, spacious sound
• Incredible frequency range: 6Hz–38kHz
• E.A.R. technology for ideal sound staging

Key Features:

• 1.8m detachable cable
• Open-back reference style
• Lightweight build, angled drivers

Verdict: Not for commuting or noisy spaces, but unbeatable sound detail for under £200 if you’re after studio-style listening.

RRP: £169.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Bose QuietComfort – Premium Comfort, Legendary ANC

RRP: £249.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

If budget allows, the Bose QuietComfort are the gold standard for ANC headphones. Plush, premium, and packed with smart features, these are engineered for distraction-free listening and top-tier comfort.

Why we like it:

• World-class ANC performance
• Adjustable EQ and aware mode
• Bose build quality and comfort

Key Features:

• Quiet & Aware modes
• 24-hour battery life + 2.5 hrs from 15-min charge
• Multipoint connection
• In-line mic cable for wired use

Verdict: The most refined pair in this lineup — perfect for travellers or remote workers who want the best.

RRP: £249.00 – View on Amazon.co.uk

Headphone Comparison Table

Final Verdict – Which is the best noise cancelling headphones?

If you want the best noise cancelling experience and don’t mind paying for it, the Bose QuietComfort are hands-down the top pick. But for most buyers looking to stay under £100, the JBL Tune 760NC hit the sweet spot with strong ANC, excellent battery life, and travel-friendly design.

Need bass? Go for the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2. Want top-tier audio for home use? The Sennheiser HD 560S are unbeatable in their class. And for battery life champs, the Sony WH-CH520 prove you don’t need ANC to enjoy premium features.

Whichever you choose, there’s a brilliant pair of headphones here for every budget and listening style.