Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Travel and Commutes in 2026

By Audio Gear Prices EditorialPublished June 5, 2026Updated June 5, 20261 min read

1. Sony WF-1000XM5 — Best ANC for Flights

Sony's earbuds cancel more airplane cabin noise than any competitor — the new foam tips add significant passive isolation. LDAC, 8-hour battery. $299. Check price

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds — Most Comfortable for Long Flights

Bose's stability bands make these the only earbuds you can wear for a 10-hour flight without ear fatigue. ANC matches Sony. Immersive Audio spatial sound. 6-hour battery is the weak point. $299. Check price

3. Apple AirPods Pro 2 — Best if You Use iPhone

Seamless ecosystem, best transparency mode (hear gate announcements clearly), Adaptive Audio mode. ANC is strong, not quite Sony/Bose level. $249. Check price

4. Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro — Best for Android

Improved ANC, 360 Audio, 24-bit audio. Samsung ecosystem integration. 6-hour battery. $249. Check price

5. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC — Best Budget Travel

ANC that punches well above its $99 price. 10-hour battery (50 with case), LDAC support, comfortable fit. The ANC cancels ~80% of what the XM5 does at a third of the price. The best travel value. Check price

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