In 2022, there are many wireless headphones with active noise reduction. The product has become essential to make the most of your playlists. Not sure which model to choose? Our guide, made up of references that we have tested, will guide you as best as possible.
The guide to active noise reduction headphones in a nutshell:
- Sony WH-1000XM4 (279 €): simply the best.
- Apple AirPods Max (475 €): an exceptional headset under iOS, but a very high price.
- Shure Aonic 40 (€230): for audiophiles.
- Beats Solo Pro (€160.49): perfect for athletes.
- Marshall Monitor II ANC (€299.99): style above all.
Still reserved for the very top of the range a few years ago, active noise reduction is today a flagship feature of headphones. It allows you to isolate yourself from noise during work sessions or to immerse yourself in a playlist. It is found on more and more references. It is therefore not necessary to pay hundreds of euros to take advantage of it (especially with the promotions that are offered throughout the year).
Active noise reduction has also improved a lot in recent years. To be convinced of this, just look at the catalog of manufacturers like Bose or Sony, which today offer increasingly sophisticated products – not to mention Apple and its AirPods Max. In 2022, the technology has reached maturity, offering the opportunity to more novice players to offer helmets that are already very efficient.
As the offer has greatly diversified, we have made a selection of the best references according to specific criteria. Note that we have only chosen wireless solutions, as this has become the market standard.
Sony WH-1000XM4: the best active noise reduction headphones
Sony had already set the bar very high with its WH-1000XM3 headphones, the only one capable of competing with Bose products. Its successor, soberly baptized WH-1000XM4, naturally takes over. The multinational has refined its audio accessory. Its noise reduction is of high quality and ultra-customizable. As we noted in our test of the Sony WH-1000XM4, the headphones offer great acoustic performance (there’s a full equalizer in the companion app).
The Bose Headphones 700 – which however does not lack arguments – must bow to the excellence of the Sony model which we will ultimately only blame for one thing: this somewhat wise design for headphones offered at this rate. Fortunately, the finishes and comfort are there. And the launch of the WH-1000XM5 has changed nothing: the new model is too expensive for so few changes.
Who is the Sony WH-1000XM4 for? For those looking for the most versatile headphones with the best noise reduction.
AirPods Max: premium audio from Apple
Yes, AirPods Max are expensive. Yes, the AirPods Max are much more at home within the Apple ecosystem. Yes, the AirPods Max come with a very strange case. Yes, AirPods Max might come with a USB-C port for charging. Despite everything, the very first headphones designed by the Cupertino company are a clear success on many points. To try it is to adopt it – especially since Apple Music offers songs in Dolby Atmos.
This helmet is an exceptional product (and it has the price). In our test of the AirPods Max, we were able to measure its many qualities: ideal assembly thanks to premium materials, impeccable comfort, exemplary finishes, stunning sound reproduction, incredible noise reduction and unbeatable Transparency mode. Added to this is great ease of use when they are connected to an iPhone, an iPad, a MacBook or even an Apple TV.
Who are the Apple AirPods Max intended for? To those who are not afraid to put several hundred euros in a helmet that will make them feel good.
Shure Aonic 40: everything for sound
The Shure Aonic 40 is the little brother of the Aonic 50. More affordable, it nevertheless retains the less mainstream approach – articulated around an industrial design with impeccable finishes, and more complex ergonomics than the average. Be careful, the noise reduction is not the best of the selection.
On the other hand, the sound quality may overwhelm you. The Shure Aonic 40 has undeniable audiophile approval. Basses never overflowing, chiselled mids and precise treble bear a very balanced signature. Also, you can change it in the app.
Who is the Shure Aonic 40 for? For people for whom sound is the number 1 criterion.
Beats Solo Pro: the ideal headphones for athletes
Beats has long been known for its headphones with a flashy design but very poor rendering (unless you like bass…). Since its takeover by Apple, the company has been moving in the right direction. With its latest products, including this model, the manufacturer is establishing itself as a very solid player in the audio accessories market.
As we noted in our review of the Beats Solo Pro, this model is an excellent headset for those who spend time in the gym. In addition to its sober design and durable finishes (the plastic is very sturdy), the device comes in a carrying pouch that slips easily into a bag. As for the noise reduction, which works like that of the AirPods Pro (it is activated or deactivated), it will bring you a little calm during your workout (the dumbbells banging, it makes noise).
Who is the Beats Solo Pro for? For those looking for an ideal ally for their sports sessions.
Marshall Monitor II ANC
For its second active noise canceling headphones — but its first with a closed circumaural design — Marshall got it right. It must be said that he relies on his know-how to convince: an iconic rock’n’roll look and an emphasis on sound reproduction. On this point, we can praise the qualities of the Monitor II ANC, which is based, by default, on a beautiful signature. You do not like him ? No problem, a full equalizer is available in the companion app.
During our test of the Marshall Monitor II ANC, we noticed that the active noise reduction was not yet at the level of those of the tenors. In particular, the model has difficulty properly covering external voices. But this defect is quickly forgotten once you start your favorite playlist, elegantly highlighted by these very attractive headphones.
Who is the Marshall Monitor II ANC for? For those looking for a model with an original look and good audio quality.
The criteria to take into account when choosing the right helmet
What is Active Noise Cancellation?
Active noise reduction has become an essential feature. It allows you to gain immersion by isolating yourself as much as possible from the outside world. It comes to reinforce the passive reduction, related to the structure of the helmet (it is normally good since a helmet includes the ear). How does active noise reduction work? Microphones pick up outside noise and the headphones then produce sounds designed to cancel them out as well as possible. Keep in mind that absolute silence does not exist.
Are all helmets comfortable?
Alas no. Some helmets are more suitable for small heads, while others are suitable for a maximum of morphology. We would be tempted to advise you to try a helmet before buying it. Remember, however, that the discomfort is often felt only after a long session. In general, it is necessary to favor light products and equipped with a headband that is both flexible and adjustable in height. A seemingly rigid helmet will be more likely to hurt.
Should we be demanding with the sound?
Yes. Otherwise, we could be satisfied with simple headphones, the format of which implies more concessions on this criterion (even if some do very, very well). In our opinion, the acoustic rendering is as important as comfort when buying headphones, the goal being to enjoy your favorite playlists for as long as possible and with the best possible audio quality.
What about autonomy?
Autonomy is a criterion that can be essential if you often leave for long journeys. But we can estimate that an autonomy of about 20 hours is more than enough for normal use (four to five hours a day). It allows you to only have to recharge the headphones once a week – a real convenience.
Some links in this article are affiliate. We’ll explaine everything here.