Are you looking for the crème de la crème headphones that provide reliable ANC, exceptional sound quality, and other premium features for under $300? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, you’ll learn exactly what you need to know when picking out ANC headphones under $300 so you can easily find one that suits your needs. Additionally, we’ve come up with a comprehensive list of the best premium ANC headphones you can buy within this exact price range. Let’s get started.
How to Pick the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $300?
This price range offers premium headphones with additional technological features. These pairs have improved overall quality in comparison to the more affordable headphone models. As such, it’s crucial for you to know the important factors to look out for when picking out ANC headphones to make sure you get your money’s worth. Be sure to ask yourself these key questions before moving forward:
What should I expect for ANC headphones under $300? What are its ANC features/capabilities? How is its build quality? Does it have good sound quality? What are its supported Bluetooth audio codecs? How long is the battery life? What other extra features do these ANC headphones have?
Here are our top picks for the best noise-cancelling headphones that you can buy under $300: Budget options provide you with reliable but simple binary On/Off ANC capabilities. As well as entry to intermediate level quality. But the best noise cancelling headphones under $300 usually have a more premium build, solid sound, and a wider variety of noise-cancellation options. All things considered, here are some of the things that you can expect for ANC headphones under $300:
Higher standard headphones – You can expect an apparent higher standard of headphones in this price range as compared to budget ANC headphones. Name brands are quite common and, most, if not all of these models have better sound quality, and style. Even more ANC options – Unlike lower priced ANC headphones, these headphones have more ANC options in the form of adaptive noise-cancellation technology with multiple/adjustable ANC levels. This lets you customize the amount of background noise you want to hear. However, if you wish for the best ANC control available today, a little budget adjustment can help you enjoy industry-leading noise cancelling headphones under $1000. Premium build quality – The higher costs of these headphones means manufacturers can use premium materials for added durability. Expect the use of memory foam, corrosion-resistant steel, and reinforced headbands. Plus, some flexible materials, sturdier hinges, and high quality synthetic leather covers. Additional features – In addition to improved build quality and more ANC options, these headphones typically have other additional features such as voice assistant integration, the use of companion apps, touch controls, NFC connectivity, and more.
Adaptive Noise Cancellation
Adaptive Noise Cancellation is also known as Artificial Intelligence Noise Cancellation (AINC). It uses AI to automatically adjust the ANC levels according to users’ environments. Allowing users to enjoy more reliable noise cancellation compared to other ANC types. Whether you’re walking down the halls of a quiet school library or on the bus on your way to work, worry no more! This Adaptive ANC will let you hear exactly what you want (and need) to hear. This means you don’t have to tweak your headphones with every change of your surroundings.
Adjustable ANC levels
Some noise-cancelling headphones under $200 already have Ambient mode. However, headphones within this price range offer more than that. These have more ANC levels which lets you choose exactly how much background noise you want to hear. One of the biggest concerns for ANC is safety, especially when worn outdoors. That’s why having adjustable ANC levels is more than just for the sake of preference. Being able to hear what you need to hear whenever and wherever adds more safety and security. The best noise canceling headphones under $300 usually have 3 levels of ANC (although some models have more). This allows for a more tailored noise-cancellation. If you’re the type that prefers to have full control of exactly how much you want to hear, then these headphones are for you. It’s great for users who don’t want to rely on the automatic adjustments made by the headphones themselves. To determine the build quality, you should take note of the following:
Materials used
The product description often lists the materials used, which helps you determine its durability. It’s important to look out for dense aluminum, synthetic leather covers, sturdier adjustable hinges, and more.
Warranty
In most cases, a good sign that headphones have an exceptionally good build quality and durability is by having a good warranty deal. Manufacturers who are confident with their products usually have a solid warranty that lasts upwards of a year or so. To get a better idea of a headphones’ sound quality, you should check the following:
Driver Units – Driver units are one of the most important parts of headphones. There are different types of drivers, each with different core mechanisms and unique ways of producing sound. The best headphone driver for you depends on your specific needs. Frequency Range – The headphones’ frequency range determines how “good” it will sound. It’s always better to opt for headphones with wider frequency ranges in order to get the full experience of the lows, mids, and highs of any audio output. User Reviews – Reading user reviews will give you an idea on their experience with the sound quality and soundstage of the headphones.
The most common types of Bluetooth audio codecs you can find within this price range are SBC, AAC, AptX, and AptX LL. But for less latency and better quality listening, try to go for headphones that support aptX or aptX LL. The best noise cancelling headphones under $300 have decent battery life for an extended playtime free of noise and distractions. Decent ANC headphones nowadays have a battery life of anywhere between 20 – 40 hours, so it’s best to pick out a pair within that range. It’s also important to look at the headphones’ charging time (amount of hours needed to get a full charge). And other fast charging options. Some headphones allow you to have 2 – 4 hours of playtime with just 5 – 10 minutes of charging.
Voice Assistant Integration
Having this feature allows you to access voice assistants like Google, Alexa, and Siri, through the headphones without ever having to pull up your mobile phone. This seamless integration enables a faster hands-free experience. And makes it a lot easier to access more information and functionalities.
Companion App
Companion apps that help in optimizing specific headphone models. These allow users to control, personalize, and update the headphones through their mobile devices. Unlike regular headphones with fixed sound profiles, users can modify these headphones to fit their needs.
Touch Controls and Smart Sensors
One of the more noticeable additional features that you’ll find for headphones within this price range are the touch control sensors. These allow you to adjust the volume, use the microphone, answer calls, navigate tracks, and more with just a few taps and swipes on the headphone ear cups. Additionally, some headphones also have smart sensors. These automatically pause or shut off the device when the headphones are either folded or removed from the user’s head. And turns on or answers calls when unfolded and worn.
Multiple Microphones for Voice Pick-up
Headphone manufacturers utilize multiple microphones (anywhere from 2 – 6 mics) for headphones in this price range. They placed these mics strategically to isolate the user’s voice from background noise for better call quality. This is great for making calls in noisy environments since the person on the other side won’t hear the ambient sounds. So no matter how noisy your surroundings are, these microphone systems only pick up your voice.
NFC Connectivity
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless technology just like Bluetooth or WiFi. It’s commonly used for close-distance wireless transfers like e-wallets and wireless keys. But when it comes to headphones, it’s mainly used for easy pairing. In ANC headphones, this feature allows you to establish connections between your headphones and devices almost instantaneously without having to go through the hassling process of scanning and pairing your devices together as well as fiddling with the device’s interface. All you really have to do is tap the two devices together or hover them close to each in order to establish a reliable connection.
1. Jabra Elite 85h
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 20 – 35 dB Battery Life: 36 hours with Bluetooth and ANC on Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: Jabra Sound+ Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Jabra Elite 85h is our best overall headphones in this list. All because of its great build quality and listening experience thanks to SmartSound. These headphones automatically adjust the audio experience based on your preferences and environment.
Comfortable even for people with glasses
These headphones are bound to give you that comfortable and premium feel even if you’re wearing glasses. This is thanks to its plush, breathable ear cups, and synthetic leather lining. These headphones will surely give you top-of-the-line quality for ANC headphones under $300 Additionally, you can expect high durability due to the nano-coating of Jabra Elite 85h’s internal components. This makes these headphones great even outdoors, for its dust and water resistance.
Easier calls with clear quality
Regardless of your sound environment, the Jabra Elite 85h promises to give you crystal clear sounds during calls. It has advanced call technology that makes use of 6 of the headphones’ 8 microphones. It dedicates these to enhancing call quality and blocking out background distractions. Making and receiving calls have been made so much easier too. It has on-ear detection that allows the headphones to recognize when you remove them from your ears. Doing so automatically answers/mutes calls. Lastly, the voice assistant integration lets you have an entirely hands-free experience. Not only can you answer calls with just your voice, but you can also set appointments, set alarms, have your messages read to you, and so much more – all without having to pull out your smartphone.
Personalize your listening experience
Expect a better listening experience with the integrated SmartSound and Adaptive ANC technology. This auto-adapts the sound based on your personal preferences and background noise levels. The Jabra Elite 85h also allows you to choose what you want to hear via its HearThrough settings.. You can customize just about everything so your listening experience fits exactly what you need using the Jabra Sound+ app. You can personalize your sound for your music and calls, freely configure your settings, access quick widgets, select your preferred voice assistant, and more.
Drawbacks
The main drawback of the Jabra Sound+ app is that it is not designed to be used with computers. Many people have had trouble connecting these headphones to their laptops or computers. However, the fact of the matter is, Jabra themselves stated that these headphones were optimized for other Bluetooth devices such as smartphones and tablets; NOT computers. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
2. Beats Solo Pro
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 20 – 35 dB Battery Life: 40 hours with ANC off, 22 hours with ANC on Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: Beats Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Beats Solo Pro headphones are equipped with a Class 1 Bluetooth Apple H1 chip. This provides enhanced connections and fewer dropouts to other Apple devices. Its advanced acoustic platform, high-quality audio output, and ANC technology also let you easily immerse yourself in the world of music.
Control your sound with ease
With the two available listening modes, you can easily choose how you want to hear your sounds. The Noise-Cancelling mode will actively block out ambient sounds and make use of real-time audio corrections. All to give you the peace needed to focus on work or play. On the other hand, Transparency mode naturally filters in some environmental and ambient noises. This helps you stay more aware of your surroundings.
Go the distance
With the integration of the Apple H1 headphone chip and Class 1 Bluetooth technology you can go the distance and enjoy extended connection range and fewer dropouts. Even though these headphones are Apple optimized, it still has Android compatibility as well.
Great if you’re on the go
These headphones are a great option for travel or commute thanks to a lot of useful features that make your listening experience much more easier and enjoyable. The Beats Solo Pro has a long battery life of up to 40 hours. It also has Fast Fuel charging capabilities. This gives you 3 hours of playtime with just a quick 10-minute charge. Also, these headphones feature easy and hands-free controls with voice assistant integration. Simply say “Hey Siri” for iOS devices and it will automatically alert your voice assistant. It also has Android compatibility, different noise cancelling modes, and convenient carrying case. Additionally, its anodized aluminum side arms and thick padding make these headphones durable enough for everyday travel while still keeping its smooth and sleek style aesthetically pleasing.
Drawbacks
You may find these headphones to be quite uncomfortable and even painful to wear for extended hours especially for users with larger heads, mainly due to the headband clamping force being too tight. Additionally, these also do not connect via wired connection. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
3. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 23 – 37 dB Battery Life: Up to 20 hours Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC, AptX Companion App: Surface Audio Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes (13 levels) Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
If you’re looking for headphones with the best and most reliable noise-cancellation capabilities in this list, then the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 is a great choice. Easily experience your music and shows with the best sound quality.
Choose what you hear
With these headphones, you can perfectly customize the active noise-cancelling levels to your liking. Whether you want to hear a little bit more of your surroundings or listen to your music in complete silence, you can get that and everything in between with the adjustable ANC levels.
Easy switching between devices
With its exceptional multipoint connectivity, you can seamlessly switch between devices without having to go through the hassle of fiddling with the settings. These work best when you like to move around without having your music/podcast interrupted. If you’re playing music on the computer and need to get up to go to the other room but don’t want to stop what you’re listening to, all you have to do is pause the audio and play it on the phone – this transition is seamless thanks to the multipoint connectivity.
Comfortable and convenient for all-day use
The headphones feature a soft-touch plastic with a sturdy aluminum headband and breathable foam earpads that are lightweight and comfortable for all-day, everyday usage. Also, you can use touch, tap, or voice controls to navigate tracks and make calls in addition to having access to information with the help of the integrated voice assistant. With voice integration, you can do things such as type on word documents by dictating it through voice or checking up on your emails through the Play My Emails option in Outlook.
Drawbacks
Unlike other headphones models, these do not fold, which makes them less compact in general and less travel-friendly. Additionally, the sound quality of these headphones have room for improvement as the omnisonic sound may tend to be ‘too controlling’. It leads the mids and highs to lack the sound detail some users may crave for. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
4. Bose QC35ii
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 27 dB Battery Life: 40 hours of battery life Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: Bose Connect Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Bose QC35ii headphones possess the best build quality in this list in addition to other useful features such as built-in voice assistant integration, volume-optimized drivers, noise-rejecting microphones, and the use of a companion app. It shouldn’t be surprising that the QC35ii are also our Best Premium pick on our list of the best noise cancelling headphones for studying.
Add your stylistic flair to these durable headphones
You can expect resiliency and durability with these headphones as they are made from impact-resistant materials such as glass-filled nylon, corrosion-resistant stainless steel and synthetic protein leather earcups. Additionally, the headband is wrapped with a material called Alcantara. You can also pick out a color that best suits your aesthetic needs. Choose between black, silver, rose gold, or triple midnight. However, if you want to have a more personal color profile, you can head over to the official product page on the Bose website and customize the headphone colors for an additional $50.
Complete control – hands or not
Simply click on the action button on the headphones to access the Alexa anywhere and have her play music, podcasts, and more without having to pull out your phone. Not an Alexa user? You can always use the multi-function button to access your phone’s default voice assistant instead, like Siri or Google Assistant. Additionally, with the Bose Connect app, you can easily adjust the level of noise cancellation of your headphones, turn on music sharing, manage your Bluetooth connections, and more. Whether you want to have a hands-free listening experience or not, these headphones give you many options.
Enjoy clear sounds no matter the volume
These headphones promise to provide you with fullness and clarity in your music no matter what volume you play it on. With its specialized volume-optimized EQ drivers for enhanced performance and reliable ANC that tunes out unwanted background noise when needed, you can expect a more enjoyable listening experience. Whether you’re listening to your favorite podcast in a quiet room, or turning up the volume of your music in a busy street, you can always get the same, consistently quality without fear of any audio distortions.
Drawbacks
You may experience some Bluetooth connection problems with the headphones. These problems range anywhere from the connection randomly disconnecting and reconnecting, inability to properly use the headphones on two devices simultaneously, difficulty in establishing Bluetooth connection in the first place, etc. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
5. Sennheiser PXC 550-II
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: ≥22 dB Battery Life: Up to 30 hours Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC, AptX and AptX LL Companion App: Sennheiser Smart Control Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
If you’re looking for ANC headphones with the best call quality for your video conferences or online classes, then the Sennheiser PXC 550-II is a great choice for you. The classic Sennheiser quality in addition to the reliable noise-cancellation technology allows you to adjust your listening experience to your preferences.
Hear and be heard clearly
You can expect first class call quality thanks to the triple microphone array technology that makes it easy to detect your voice while cancelling out ambient noises. The ANC technology provides clarity of speech so that calls and voice commands never get drowned out by surrounding noises. The adjustable ANC levels can easily adapt to any situation and suppress all the unnecessary background noise for your ever-changing environments.
Easily access your controls
You can adjust your audio volume, play/pause music, navigate between tracks, and take incoming calls through the intuitive and easy touchpad controls which are found on the side of the right ear cup. Also, these headphones have one-touch access to your voice assistant which adds to the accessibility and ease of your listening experience.
Great for smart travelers
Whether you’re on a quick bus ride to work or on a long flight, these headphones have a battery life of up to 30 hours which means it can last for your entire journey without ever needing to charge. Plus, the foldable ergonomic design, rotating ear cups, and carrying pouch add to the overall portability of the headphones. Additionally, the Sennheiser Smart Control app allows you to perfectly tailor your sound experience to your preferences by customizing your sound modes and other important features all at your fingertips. Also, the Smart Pause Autopilot features lets you seamlessly move around without missing a beat of what you were listening to. The headset practically turns itself on when being folded and worn so that you can listen to exactly where you left off.
Drawbacks
The headphones may have some sound issues that mainly separate it from other Sennheiser models. The maximum volume may be too low as well as the audio quality itself being lackluster, with there being some occurrences of mild treble sibilance and lesser quality mids. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
6. Parrot Zik
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 25 dB Battery Life: 6 hours (ANC + Bluetooth), 18 hours (ANC only) Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: Parrot Zik Adjustable ANC Levels: No Voice Assistant Integration: No
The Parrot Zik headphones feature up to 98% noise reduction capabilities by isolating almost all external sounds so that you can enjoy your music in peace and quiet. Additionally, it also comes with intuitive touch sensitive controls that make your listening experience so much easier.
Experience a more natural sound
These headphones boast the unique quality of being able to reproduce the “Parrot Concert Hall” effect that basically mimics the sound of a live concert. What this means is that the music sounds like it’s originating in front of you rather than at the sides, which is what more common headphones sound like. With this feature, you can enjoy sound in a more natural and organic way.
Freedom from wires for added comfort and control
Whether you want to have control of the headphones through the companion app, headphone touch panel, voice recognition, or the audio player device itself, these headphones give you the options you want. Also, the Parrot Zik headphones have NFC-compatibility which means you can pair and connect these to other NFC-compatible devices with just a simple tap. Also, the intuitive touch-sensitive panel lets you navigate tracks, adjust music volume, answer calls, and so much more with just simple swiping motions on the panel.
Clearer audio for frustration-free calls
If you’re looking for versatility, the Parrot Zik can actually be a decent pair of ANC headphones for gaming. Aside from the spatial sound, its call quality makes it great for team communication. With two directional microphones and a jawbone conductor, these headphones are specifically designed to give you clear and crisp calls. The conductor detects and captures the vibration of your jawbone and merges it with the sound of your voice to produce clearer audio for higher-quality calls. If you’re looking for convenience, you can connect this with your phone, tablet, or Nintendo Switch, and enjoy gaming on-the-go These headphones also have good passive noise isolation because of the padding and seal. Adding to its Active Noise Cancellation, you can expect a better call experience on either side of the call.
Drawbacks
The battery life is quite lackluster and incredibly short in comparison with other ANC headphones within this list. Additionally, the headphones may feel uncomfortable with them being too heavy, more specifically with the earcups. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
7. AKG N700NC M2
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Adaptive ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 20 – 30 dB Battery Life: Up to 23 hours of playback time Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC Companion App: AKG Headphones Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
You can expect that classic AKG signature sound and so much more with the AKG N700NC M2 headphones. These drivers deliver smooth and detailed sound balancing. It can dish out multidimensional tones without that overpowering bass. And, with the reliable ANC technology, you can tune out outside distractions so you can focus on what really matters.
Sounds are within your control
The AKG N700NC M2 doesn’t just offer amazing sound detail and layering. This pair also lets you control how much noise you want to get mixed with your music. All with just a push of a button. Ambient aware technology helps balance out the ANC so you can be more aware of your surroundings.
Enjoy comfort at it’s finest
These headphones feature a durable and premium design thanks to the dual memory soft foam ear pad cushioning leatherette as well as the comfortably padded. And, While these can’t conform to people with significantly smaller heads as well as the ANC headphones for kids can, its adjustable headband isn’t something to take for granted either. Also, the integration of a convenient companion app and multi-point connectivity just further amplifies these headphones’ premium design and capabilities.
Have the power to customize your listening experience
With the AKG Headphones app, you have full control of your headphones from the convenience of your mobile phone. Some of the things you can do on the app are: customize the ambient awareness levels, adjust the sound profile settings, optimize the EQ settings, control the auto on/off feature, update firmware, and more.
Drawbacks
The main drawback of these headphones is that the call quality you get from the microphone of this model may not be up to par with other headphones within this list. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
8. Beyerdynamics Lagoon
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Hybrid ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 20 dB Battery Life: 46 hours with ANC off, 25 hours with ANC on Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC, AptX, AptX LL, mSBC Companion App: MIY Beyerdynamic Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
The Beyerdynamics Lagoon headphones promise to open up a new world of sound where high-quality audio and artificial intelligence can coexist to provide the best listening experience available.
Comfortable listening experience
The comfortable design of these headphones makes it a great choice for travel, commute, or general leisure usage. It features ear cups made from high-quality memory foam and artificial leather which makes them soft to the touch. The circumaural cushioning creates an effective over-ear seal that reduces outside noises from leaking inside the ear. Additionally, the spring steel headband sits securely in place on top of your head, without being too tight or uncomfortable.
Personalize your music to the next level
With our hearing changing overtime, these headphones try to compensate for that by allowing us to have full customization using the unique MOSAYC sound personalization by Mimi Defined. This technology works by precisely adjusting the volume according to your own hearing ability. The individual sound personalization lets you enjoy the full audio profile of any music track you listen to.
Forget about latency and audio drop outs
You can expect better sound quality in general thanks to the latest audio codec compatibility with aptX, aptX LL, and AAC. In addition, regardless if the headphones are plugged in or have the ANC function turned on/off, the overall audio output is of high quality.
Drawbacks
The main problem with these headphones has to be the unintuitive design of the Light Guide system. The only way for you to make use of this feature is to take off the headset and take a look at the dim light on the inside of the headphones to check the headphones’ status. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
9. Sony WHXB900N
Key features:
Noise Cancellation Type: Feedforward ANC Noise Reduction Depth: 20 dB Battery Life: Up to 30 hours Audio Codec Support: SBC, AAC, AptX, AptX HD, LDAC Companion App: Beats Adjustable ANC Levels: Yes Voice Assistant Integration: Yes
If extra bass is your thing, then the Sony WHXB900N may be a great choice for you. These headphones feature the ability to deliver powerful bass while also keeping powerful silence when needed thanks to the integrated ANC technology and other useful features.
Make everything easier
Additionally, you can seamlessly control your sound settings via the Sony Headphones Connect app. You can choose your headphones’ ANC levels, volume, and equalize the sound. Lastly, connecting these headphones to any device doesn’t need much thought. All thanks to the NFC-enabled capabilities. This allows this headset to pair up with a device almost instantaneously.
A key companion for travel
Whether you’re on a quick bus ride to school or on a several hour flights, these headphones can last all day long. Listen to your songs for up to 30 hours on just a single charge. If you’re in a pinch, then its quick charging capability should give you an extra hour of extended playback time with just 10 minutes of charging. This pair also features a convenient foldable design for easy storage. Plus, it comes with a soft carrying bag for added portability.
For bass lovers
As mentioned earlier, if you love bass then these headphones are exactly what you’re looking for. It features acoustic bass boosted drivers. These bring a deep, punchy sound without applying any distortions to the audio. You can feel the wave of every beat to any song with just a push of a button.
Drawbacks
The extra bass may be too much for some, as it ends up overbearing and overpowering. But you can easily solve this problem by making some EQ adjustments through the companion app. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Conclusion
To get the most out of your hard-earned money, doing a little bit of research can go a long way. We hope this article helps you find the right pair of ANC headphones for under $300. Make sure to take the factors we mentioned into consideration. But if you don’t know where to look, then the options we provided in the list are also great starting points that you should definitely check out. What were your favorite headphones on the list? Do you have another recommendation for ANC headphones that can fit within this budget? Let us know in the comments down below!
