We found them: the five best noise-cancelling headphones

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Noise-cancelling headphones are key when it comes to drowning out the chattering seatmates behind you and the crying baby across the aisle. But, this year, we’ve learned they’re just as required for the challenges of working from home — where you can’t leave the crying baby or boisterous roommates behind at the gate. So we’ve rounded up five noise-cancelling headphones that will make your future trips — and your current reality — much more peaceful.

The High-Performance Option

There are noise-cancelling headphones, and then there’s the Apple AirPods Max. These sharp-looking devices boast such high-quality sound that they’ll impress even the snobbiest of audiophiles: the active noise cancelling uses four microphones in each ear cup to fully block out any background noise, leaving you alone with only your thoughts and your go-to playlist.

Apple AirPods Max, $779, apple.com

The Budget Option

Do you want the luxurious silence provided by noise-cancelling headphones without breaking your budget? Audio brand Soundcore’s comfortable and reliable Life Q20 over-ear headphones offer up to 40 hours of non-stop use on one charge and hybrid active noise-cancelling tech that will let you enjoy some stress-free quiet — sans sticker shock.

Soundcore Life Q20, $80, ca.soundcore.com

The Multi-Tasking Option

The ultra-sleek Bose 700s deliver everything you want from high-end headphones: immersive sound, a fast-charging battery, easy-to-use touch control and a jaw-dropping 11 noise-cancelling settings. But the real selling point? The smart microphone system that ensures crystal-clear phone calls no matter where you are, meaning the device can take you from WFH Zoom calls to (one day) wandering around bustling city streets.

Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones 700, $480, bestbuy.ca

The Discreet Option

If you don’t want to devote precious luggage space to a pair of hefty headphones, the new Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro earbuds are for you. The stylish in-ear buds are so lightweight and compact (the portable charging case fits in the palm of your hand) that you’ll barely notice you’re wearing them. Plus, they’re water-resistant, so you won’t ever have to worry about getting caught in the rain.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro, $265, samsung.com

The Under-the-Radar Option

New York-based Status Audio is often overlooked in conversations about headphones — but they shouldn’t be. The brand’s minimalist Flagship noise-cancelling headphones are designed with an oblong shape meant to match the natural curve of your ear, while promising to block out moderate ambient noise. And although they’re wireless, they also come with a spare cable for those upsetting moments when you realize your battery is about to die.

Status Audio Flagship ANC, $254, staus.co

The Star understands the restrictions on travel during the coronavirus pandemic. But like you, we dream of travelling again, and we’re publishing this story with future trips in mind.