ANC and transparency processing introduce very little hiss or noise floor in the better-performing tests.
Pros: Volume output, Audio-video sync accuracy
Cons: Replaceable pads/headband, Replaceable earpads
Best 2025 Over-Ear Headphones for ANC background noise level
Release year
Background hiss is a strength, with reviewers noting no hiss or a dead-silent ANC floor.
Pros: Instrument separation, Charging
Cons: Xbox compatibility, Water/sweat resistance rating
Noise-canceling background hiss was specifically praised in one review, which found the headphones almost silent with ANC active.
Pros: Immersive audio quality, ANC background noise level
Cons: Replaceable pads/headband, Replaceable earpads
Reviewers treated anc background noise level as a standout strength, with praise repeated across the supporting review evidence.
Pros: Volume output, Active noise cancellation
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, USB-C
ANC background noise is generally improved or very low, with reviewers praising quiet operation and reduced hiss, though not every review is flawless.
Pros: Award recognition, ANC sound impact on audio
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, LE Audio readiness
Background noise reduction is viewed as improved and effective, but not the quietest in the class according to comparison-focused reviewers.
Pros: Codec support, aptX
Cons: LDAC, Water/sweat resistance rating
ANC background-noise handling was praised for treadmill, commute, and low-frequency noise reduction.
Pros: Instrument separation, USB-C
Cons: Button control usability, Maximum volume clarity
ANC background-noise reduction was generally strong, especially for low-end noise, buses, chatter, and convention noise, but voices could still seep through.
Pros: Award recognition, Audio-video sync accuracy
Cons: ANC sound impact on audio, ANC effect on sound signature
ANC background noise control was mixed but leaned positive, with one review noting mode-dependent background noise and another praising ambient filtering.
Pros: Maximum volume clarity, Headband adjustability
Cons: Cable quality, Smart Pause performance
ANC background noise is a positive in the scored review because revised microphones are said to reduce unwanted hiss.
Pros: ANC effect on sound signature, Multi-platform compatibility
Cons: LE Audio readiness, Auracast support
Background-noise reduction was mixed: lab-style and street testing praised attenuation, while some reviewers noted weaker handling of voices or sudden sounds.
Pros: Smart Pause performance, App
Cons: Wear detection performance, Wear detection auto-pause
Low-frequency noise such as aircraft hum, fans, and gym machinery is reduced effectively in many tests. Other reviewers heard only a small improvement, and silicone pads can weaken the seal.
Pros: Volume output, Bluetooth
Cons: LDAC, Find My
A couple of reviewers report a mild pressurized or adjusting sensation with ANC, making the background behavior good but not perfectly invisible.
Pros: Frequency response accuracy, Multipoint connectivity reliability
Cons: LDAC, Wear detection performance
ANC background artifacts were mostly praised as quiet, but lab-focused reviewers noted low-frequency rumble or added noise in specific modes.
Pros: Button control usability, Design and Aesthetics
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, Included accessories
ANC background noise was present in one review, but it was not considered disturbing once music played.
Pros: Battery, ANC sound impact on audio
Cons: 3.5mm analog input availability, Treble clarity
Background noise reduction is inconsistent: low hums are handled better than chatter, traffic, or busy multi-voice environments.
Pros: Stability, Bluetooth
Cons: Smudge resistance, Smart Pause performance