Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $200: Affordable Silence

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One day, while I was editing a series of photos for a big project, my neighbors decided to throw a party. Being annoyed by loud music and chatter, I realized I needed noise cancelling headphones that would allow me to concentrate on the task at hand without losing detail in music or other sounds.

From that moment on, I decided to search for the best noise cancelling headphones under $200. This is the sum that many creative professionals, including photographers and editors, are willing to spend on quality gear.

I tested several models to determine which ones were really worth considering. I also decided to share my findings with my readers. I believe this information can be useful for those who work in noisy environments, travel on a regular basis, or simply appreciate silence while working.

Top 7 Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $200 We Tested

Sony WH-CH720N
sony wh ch720n noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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JBL Live Pro 2
jbl live pro 2 noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
beyerdynamic dt 770 pro 250 noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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Audio-Technica
audio technica ath m50xlab noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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Shure SRH840A
shure srh840a noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus
sennheiser accentum plus noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars
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1. Sony WH-CH720N

Best noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars overall
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sony wh ch720n noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Terrific active noise cancellation (ANC)
  • ✚ Comfy compact design
  • ✚ Long battery life (30+ hours with ANC)
  • ✚ Balanced sound profile
  • ✚ Multipoint connectivity for different devices
  • Limited advanced EQ customization
  • Plastic build may seem cheap

I was pleasantly surprised by how well the Sony WH-CH720N headphones suppressed noise. My colleague Tanya and I tested them in different noisy environments. Active noise canceling (ANC) consistently blocked out distractions, namely, conversations and low-frequency sounds. I could fully concentrate on image editing in a noisy cafe without any interruptions. The ANC on these headphones is very efficient.

These headphones for ear heath are really versatile. For instance, you can use them for remote work sessions, while studying, and even to make business calls. The microphones are top-notch, so you'll sound clear as a bell. Moreover, they're very comfortable and lightweight, so you can wear them for hours without any discomfort.

Considering that they cost less than 200 bucks, the sound quality is impressive. The highs are clear, the mids are well-defined, and the bass is just right – not too overpowering. The battery life is also excellent. You can use them for 30 hours with ANC on. If you're looking for a pair of noise cancelling headphones under $200, these are definitely worth considering.

2. JBL Live Pro 2

Compact
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jbl live pro 2 noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Adaptive noise cancellation
  • ✚ Great call quality
  • ✚ Battery life is over 40 hours with case
  • ✚ Comfortable and secure fit
  • ✚ Customizable ear tips
  • Low-frequency sounds may not appeal to audiophiles
  • Touch controls are too sensitive

Tanya and I tested this model in different places. We used them when watching video streaming services, commuting, and having lunch in a bustling café. We agree that they block out noise very efficiently. The adaptive noise cancellation is top-notch. Generally, the JBL Live Pro 2 is perfect for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy their music in peace.

Just like any other JBL headphones, these have a really rich and dynamic sound. The bass is great, and the highs and mids are well-balanced. Whether you're listening to your favorite tunes, a podcast, or chatting on a video call, the audio quality is satisfying. I also want to highlight the microphones. They make your voice sound very clear, no matter how loud it is around you.

The JBL Live Pro 2 are packed with features. The touch controls are responsive. Besides, there is a voice assistant for quick customization. Plus, they're water-resistant, so I don't have to worry about sweating or getting caught in the rain.

3. Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250

Premium quality
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beyerdynamic dt 770 pro 250 noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Awesome sound clarity and depth
  • ✚ High-end passive noise isolation
  • ✚ Comfortable, plush ear pads
  • ✚ Durable design for regular use
  • ✚ Well-controlled bass and clear highs
  • No active noise cancellation
  • May feel cumbersome
  • Requires an amplifier for some devices

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 are generally known as headphones for music production. However, they also offer good passive noise isolation. Thanks to the closed-back design, you can receive a quiet listening environment. Tetiana tried them out and confirmed that they're perfect for quiet spaces but may not completely block out noise in busy places.

If you're looking for the best noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars with excellent sound, the DT 770 PRO can fit the bill. They offer a balanced sound signature with deep, punchy bass, clear mids, and well-defined highs. It's no wonder they're a favorite among audio engineers.

This model doesn't have ANC. Still, you can use them for tasks that require good sound quality, like making music or playing games. The comfy ear pads make them a joy to wear for hours in a row. At under $200, they offer excellent value for money.

4. Audio-Technica ATH-M50XLAB

Foldable design for portability
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audio technica ath m50xlab noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Studio-grade, detailed sound
  • ✚ Efficient passive noise isolation
  • ✚ Long-lasting design
  • ✚ Comfortable
  • ✚ Suitable for different music genres
  • Lack active noise cancellation
  • Can feel tight after long use
  • Audio output with a subtle emphasis on bass frequencies

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50XLAB can impress even experts. The audio is incredibly clear and detailed. While they lack active noise canceling, passive isolation is very effective. Thanks to the closed-back design, this model is more than enough for everyday use. I've worn them in busy coffee shops and on the commute, and they perfectly kept the outside world at bay.

Tetiana noted the sound profile of these headphones. The bass is rich, the midrange is balanced, and the treble is clear. She thinks they are ideal for music production, online meetings, and any other task. The sound accuracy is terrific.

If you're looking for a pair of headphones under $300 with decent sound quality, these are worth considering. They're a good option for students, teachers, and professionals who need headphones for online classes or meetings. While the comfort could be better, the build quality is good. In addition, they're easy to pack away.

5. Shure SRH840A

Comfortable headband
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shure srh840a noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Amazing audio detail and neutrality
  • ✚ Designed to last
  • ✚ Detachable cable
  • ✚ Accurate mids and clean highs
  • ✚ Great for long studio sessions
  • Lack active noise cancellation
  • Not very portable
  • Not the best option for noisy places

While testing the Shure SRH840A headphones, Tanya and I agreed that they offer a great listening experience, but they had some limitations. The sound quality is top-notch, and the passive noise cancellation is decent for everyday use. However, if you're looking for headphones to block out loud noises like a busy street, you’d better purchase a model with active noise cancellation.

These close back headphones amaze with the level of detail in the sound. The neutral sound profile makes it easy to hear every nuance of the music. The bass is well-defined, the mids are smooth, and the highs are extended. Whether you are producing music or just listening for pleasure, the Shure SRH840A can be the best noise canceling headphones under 200 bucks.

The SRH840A headphones offer a comfortable and secure fit. The headband is padded and adjustable, and the ear cups are well-cushioned. Despite the lack of ANC, they are robust and can be a great option for those who need reliable headphones for everyday use.

6. Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus

Long battery life
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  • ✚ Terrific noise cancellation for the price
  • ✚ Sennheiser’s signature audio quality
  • ✚ Plush ear pads guarantee comfort
  • ✚ Durable and premium build
  • ✚ Balanced sound for various audio genres
  • Large weight
  • App customization isn’t the best

The noise cancelling system on the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus is very impressive. Me and Tanya tested them in a noisy coworking space. They blocked out almost all of the background noise.

These headphones are a real all-rounder. You can use them for work calls, studying, or listening to your favorite music. The sound is great. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, the mids are smooth, and the highs are crisp.

I adore how comfortable these headphones are. Thanks to the soft cushions and adjustable headband, you can wear them for hours without feeling discomfort. The battery lasts for ages, even with noise cancellation turned on. If you want advanced features without spending a fortune, the ACCENTUM Plus is definitely worth considering, especially if you need headphones for large heads.

7. Soundcore Life Q30 by Anker

Impressive hybrid noise cancellation
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soundcore life q30 by anker noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars lifestyle
  • ✚ Battery lasts for 40 hours with ANC
  • ✚ Premium features for a reasonable cost
  • ✚ Comfortable memory foam ear cups
  • ✚ Multipoint connectivity
  • ✚ Rich sound profile with strong bass
  • Higher-pitched sounds are still audible
  • Build doesn’t feel 100% premium
  • Limited EQ depth in default settings

When testing the capabilities of Soundcore Life Q30, both Tetiana and I were surprised by how well they worked for the price. The noise canceling was really helpful in loud places, like when we were on the bus or at home with the TV on. The model didn't completely block out everything, but it coped with most sounds.

These headphones are versatile and suitable for a wide range of people, from students to gamers. The built-in microphone ensures clear audio during calls and conferences. Thus, you can rely on them if you need headphones for remote work or online learning.

These headphones are reasonably priced. The sound quality is rich and immersive, and the noise cancellation is effective in blocking out distractions. Considering their comfortable design and long battery life (40 hours with ANC on), they are great for listening to music or working from home. If you're looking for affordable headphones with good sound and features, the Soundcore Life Q30 is definitely a solid option.

How We Tested

top 3 noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars

Tanya and I wanted to give you the inside scoop on these headphones, so we tested them out in everyday situations. We paid close attention to noise-cancelling abilities, the quality of the sound, comfort, battery life, call quality, and overall usability. Our testing process consisted of such parts:

Noise cancellation capabilities. To test how good the active noise cancellation was, we tried out each pair of headphones in specific controlled areas:

  • Café test: We wanted to discern if they could block out the noise from talking people, coffee machines, and the general hustle and bustle of the place.
  • Urban test: To test how well the headphones handled city noise, we walked along a busy street with lots of traffic and construction going on. Thus, we were able to understand how effective they were in real-world conditions.
  • Office test: We tested them in a coworking space with air conditioning and background noise to see how well they could block out low-frequency sounds.

To get accurate results, we tested different noise-canceling features on each pair of headphones. We used a white noise machine set to 50% volume to measure how well they isolated sound.

Sound quality. One of the main things we looked at was how good the sound was. We tested the headphones with a wide range of music, including classical, electronic, pop, and rock, and also listened to podcasts and audiobooks. We wanted to see if the sound was clear and balanced, especially for voice calls and listening to spoken word content.

While picking the best over each noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars, we also listened to orchestral music. Thus, we figured out how they handled big shifts in volume and intricate sounds. Tanya listened closely to how clear the mid-range frequencies were and how warm the vocals sounded. I paid attention to the bass, the high-end frequencies, and the overall balance. We compared them to a neutral studio monitor to understand how accurate they were.

Comfort and fit. To understand how comfortable these headphones were, we wore each pair for several hours at a time. Generally, Tanya and I used them for up to 4 hours while working. Thus, we grasped whether they are comfy enough for editing photos, listening to music, or taking video calls.

We made sure the headphones fit securely by testing them while walking. We also checked the quality of the materials used for the ear pads and headbands. Our task was to select headphones that were comfortable for extended use.

Battery life and charging. We tested batteries with real-life usage scenarios:

  1. To verify the advertised battery life, we tested how long the headphones lasted with ANC both on and off.
  2. To see if the fast charging worked as claimed, we timed how long we could listen after charging for just 10 minutes.
  3. We mimicked everyday use by switching between different music, calls, and noise cancellation modes.

Call quality and microphone testing. We tried them out in a variety of settings. We wanted to see how well the microphone picked up my voice in noisy places.

  • Quiet settings: Home office to test voice clarity.
  • Noisy settings: Outdoor calls on a windy day to evaluate noise suppression by the mics.

I asked Tetiana to confirm that my voice sounded clear, and I also checked the sound from her microphone during our simultaneous call.

Build quality and portability. The longevity of noise cancelling headphones under 200 dollars is very important, as people want products that can withstand the rigors of everyday use. We've bent and flexed the parts that see the most wear and tear, like the hinges and headband, to make sure they can hold up.

Portability was another thing we checked. We tested how well the headphones folded or fit into their cases. We wanted to make sure they were small enough to pack easily for travel.

Special features and app integration. Tanya and I considered the special functions of each pair of headphones. We tested the apps to see how easy it was to customize the sound. We also checked how well they could connect to more than one device at the same time. Finally, we evaluated the touch controls to make sure they were intuitive and easy to use.

Top Manufacturers of Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for the best noise cancelling earbuds under 200 bucks, you should consider the following well-known brands. These companies produce high-quality headphones with advanced technology and excellent noise reduction.

Sony. Sony is known for making some of the best noise canceling headphones. Their high-end models, like the WH-1000XM5 and WH-CH720N, block out noise really well and deliver clear sound. Besides, their headphones are equipped with Adaptive Sound Control that can automatically adjust the noise canceling to fit your situation. If you're always on the go or need to focus on work, Sony headphones are a great choice.

JBL. JBL is a popular choice for people who want headphones with strong bass and a good price. Their noise cancelling models, such as the JBL Live 670NC and JBL Live Pro 2, offer powerful sound and effective noise cancellation. Besides, headphones from this brand are comfortable and have a long battery life. If you're looking for a reliable pair of headphones without spending a lot of money, JBL is a good brand to consider.

Anker. Anker is a brand that offers high-quality headphones at a lower price. Their Soundcore Life Q30 series is a good example of this. They also make a lot of headphones under $20. Their noise-cancelling headphones do a great job of blocking out noise, have a long battery life, and are very affordable. They may not be as fancy as Sony or Bose headphones, but Anker headphones are a great choice for people who want good noise cancellation without spending a lot.

Sennheiser. Sennheiser is one of the most reputable brands in the world of audio equipment. Their noise-canceling headphones, like the Momentum 3 and ACCENTUM Plus, are feted for their amazing sound quality. Using Sennheiser headphones, you receive accurate and detailed sound, no matter whether you are listening to classical music or rock. In addition to great sound, Sennheiser's active noise cancellation is really good at blocking out unwanted noise.

FAQ

  • • What are noise-сancelling headphones?

Noise-cancelling headphones are designed with a special technology that blocks out unwanted sounds. They can do this in two ways - active noise cancellation and passive noise isolation. Active noise cancellation uses electronics to create opposite sound waves to cancel out noise. Passive noise isolation uses the headphones' design to physically block sound.

  • • What should I look for when buying the best noise-cancelling headphones?

First of all, think about where you'll be using them. For noisy places like airplanes or offices, opt for headphones with powerful active noise cancellation and long battery life. If you just want to enjoy music at home, a good balance of sound quality and noise reduction is ideal. Other important features are comfort, portability, and call quality.

  • • Are noise-cancelling headphones effective in all situations?

It depends on the environment and the specific headphones. Premium models from brands like Sony and Sennheiser offer excellent noise reduction in cafes or on busy streets. Cheaper options from JBL and Anker are sufficient for everyday use, but they may not be suitable for louder environments.

  • • How long can I use noise-canceling headphones before they need to be charged?

Noise-canceling headphones usually have a battery that lasts between 20 and 40 hours. The exact time depends on the brand and features. For example, expensive brands like Sony and Sennheiser often have batteries that last longer, especially when you're using the noise-canceling feature. More affordable options like JBL and Anker have slightly shorter battery life.

  • • Can I pair my noise-canceling headphones with multiple gadgets?

Yes, you can! Many noise-canceling headphones have a feature that lets you connect them to more than one device at once. Sony, JBL, and Anker offer headphones with this feature.

  • • Can I use noise-canceling headphones to sleep?

If you have trouble sleeping because of noise, noise-canceling headphones may help. Just make sure they're comfortable and won't hurt your ears. Check out products from JBL and Sony.

  • • Are noise-canceling headphones good for exercise?

Noise-canceling headphones are really useful for blocking out noise when you're exercising. They can help you focus on the workout. Opt for ones that are comfortable and lightweight. Brands like JBL and Sony make some great options. If you don't want to be tangled up in wires, choose noise-cancelling Bluetooth headsets.

Robin Owens

Senior Tech Writer

Robin Owens is FixThePhoto’s first person for all things tech and hardware our team of managers and retouchers use. After earning her Journalism degree from the University of Kansas, Robin began her career writing tech reviews and guides for local publications, eventually joining FixThePhoto in 2018. Although she writes articles about tech, she understands how complex the specifications can be, so she always creates short clips to demonstrate how specific features work.

Read Robin's full bio

Vadym Antypenko

Tech Gear Specialist

Vadym has been with FixThePhoto since 2017, where he works closely with the team to try out different trends, apps, and tools, providing honest reviews and practical insights. Whether he checks TikTok editing apps or explores the trendy effect, Vadym helps creators understand what works best and how to get spectacular results. He is about crafting diy lighting setups, props, backgrounds from scratch showing amateurs that you don’t have to be rich to start this career.

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