Noise-cancelling headphones used to cost a small fortune — the kind of gear only business travelers or audiophiles would splurge on. But according to Consumer Reports and CNET, budget-friendly models have caught up fast, and today you can find excellent noise-cancelling headphones under $100 that deliver performance close to premium brands.
If you’re tired of background chatter, noisy buses, or just want a more immersive music and movie experience without breaking the bank, this guide will walk you through the best affordable noise-cancelling headphones in 2025. We’ll also look at what features matter most — and which ones are just marketing fluff.
Why Noise-Cancelling Headphones Matter
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) works by using built-in microphones to detect outside sounds and cancel them with opposite sound waves. The result: your environment fades, and your music or podcasts sound clearer.
For under $100, you won’t get the same level of silence as $400 Bose or Sony cans — but you’ll be surprised at how much difference a good budget pair makes during commutes, flights, or study sessions.
What to Look for in Budget Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Before diving into the best picks, here’s what you should check:
- ANC quality: Does it actually block traffic, chatter, and hums?
- Battery life: At least 20–30 hours is ideal for travel.
- Comfort: Cushioned ear pads and adjustable headbands matter for long use.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for stable wireless performance.
- Extras: Some offer built-in mics for calls, quick charge features, or companion apps.
🏆 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $100
1. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
- Why it’s great: Industry favorite in the budget range, with impressive ANC modes (Transport, Indoor, Outdoor).
- Battery life: Up to 40 hours with ANC on.
- Comfort: Lightweight, plush earcups.
- Price: Around $79.
- Best for: Travelers and students who want balanced performance.
2. TOZO HT2
- Why it’s great: A newer brand but highly rated for value. Customizable sound EQ via app.
- Battery life: 35–40 hours.
- Comfort: Foldable, memory foam pads.
- Price: Around $69.
- Best for: Budget-conscious users who still want app control and strong ANC.
3. Sony WH-CH720N (often discounted under $100)
- Why it’s great: Sony’s trickle-down tech — not as powerful as WH-1000XM5, but ANC and comfort are excellent for the price.
- Battery life: 35 hours with ANC.
- Comfort: Lightweight design, premium feel.
- Price: Usually $99 on sale.
- Best for: Anyone wanting a “big brand” experience without the premium cost.
4. Tribit QuietPlus 72
- Why it’s great: Surprising sound quality, foldable design, and hybrid ANC that actually works well for office or commuting noise.
- Battery life: 30 hours.
- Comfort: Adjustable headband, soft cups.
- Price: Around $59.
- Best for: First-time ANC buyers looking for solid value.
5. Wyze Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Why it’s great: Wyze is known for budget-friendly smart tech, and their headphones follow the same pattern. Premium look, strong ANC, great call quality.
- Battery life: 20–30 hours.
- Comfort: Over-ear, soft cushioning.
- Price: Around $69.
- Best for: Work-from-home users who need great call clarity + ANC.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Battery Life | Price | Best Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | 40 hrs | $79 | 3 ANC modes | Travel & study |
| TOZO HT2 | 35–40 hrs | $69 | App EQ customization | Budget + flexibility |
| Sony WH-CH720N | 35 hrs | $99 | Big brand ANC quality | Premium on a budget |
| Tribit QuietPlus 72 | 30 hrs | $59 | Hybrid ANC | First-time ANC buyers |
| Wyze ANC Headphones | 20–30 hrs | $69 | Clear call quality | Remote work & calls |
🧳 Real-Life Uses
- For Travelers: Long flights feel less exhausting with ANC. Anker Q30 is a top pick here.
- For Students: ANC helps block noisy dorms or coffee shops — the TOZO HT2 is lightweight and affordable.
- For Remote Workers: Wyze headphones shine during Zoom calls while keeping distractions out.
❓ FAQs
Q: Are cheap noise-cancelling headphones worth it?
A: Yes. While they won’t silence everything like $400 models, today’s under-$100 headphones cancel low rumbles (engines, fans, chatter) effectively, which is enough for most users.
Q: Which budget headphones have the best ANC?
A: The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 consistently wins for best balance of price, ANC, and comfort.
Q: Do budget ANC headphones work for studying?
A: Absolutely. Even partial noise reduction can dramatically improve focus in noisy environments.
Q: Can I use them for phone calls?
A: Most under-$100 models include microphones, but Wyze and Sony WH-CH720N stand out for clearer calls.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend hundreds to escape the noise. In 2025, brands like Anker, TOZO, Sony, Tribit, and Wyze prove that noise-cancelling headphones under $100 can deliver real ANC, great sound, and long battery life.
If you’re a traveler, student, or remote worker, the right budget pair can transform your daily routine without draining your wallet.
👉 Ready to block out the noise? Start with the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 or Sony WH-CH720N — affordable, reliable, and proven by thousands of happy users.
