Top-Notch Affordable Noise-Cancelling Headphones in 2025: Authentic Suggestions Judiciously Approved by Experts
In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, finding budget-friendly headphones that deliver on active noise cancellation (ANC) and sound quality is no small feat. However, in 2025, several options have emerged as standout choices for those seeking a balance between features and affordability. This article will explore three of the most recommended models under £150.
First on our list is the Sony WH-CH720N, a wireless over-ear headphone that offers strong ANC for the price. Priced around £130-140, these headphones boast a robust, exciting sound with good bass, Bluetooth multipoint, voice calls, and a battery life of up to 35 hours. While the bass can sometimes be overly strong, and the app features are limited, the Sony WH-CH720N's balance of features and audio performance has earned it numerous accolades, making it an ideal choice for commuters and travellers [1][2].
For those looking to make a step up from a cheap pair of earbuds without breaking the £150 barrier, the JBL Live Pro 2 TWS are an affordable option. These earbuds feature ANC, IPX4 water resistance, touch controls, a thorough control app with customization options, a comfortable design, and a total battery life of 30 hours, including 8 hours from the buds and an additional 22 hours from the portable charging case. The sound quality is lively and entertaining, with nicely judged bass weight and good extension [4].
If you're a fitness enthusiast on a budget, the Sony LinkBuds Fit could be your perfect match. These budget-friendly earbuds are designed for exercise, featuring soft, wing-like 'fitting supporters' that hold them in place during more vigorous activity. The LinkBuds Fit also boast an Ambient Sound mode that automatically adjusts to your surroundings if you want to let a little bit of it in [5].
For those prioritizing gaming with noise isolation but less concerned about wireless or ANC, the HyperX Cloud Alpha is a standout budget pick. These wired over-ear headphones feature dual chamber drivers for clear sound and very comfortable memory foam cushions. The headphones also offer an excellent detachable boom mic for gaming and calls, although they lack wireless connectivity and surround sound without additional equipment [2].
In conclusion, if your focus is noise cancelling capability plus sound quality under £150 in 2025, the Sony WH-CH720N is the best balanced option. If you want cheaper but still good ANC, consider the 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51. For gaming or wired use, the HyperX Cloud Alpha is a standout budget pick. Each of these models offers a comfy fit, a full suite of features, excellent sound quality, and noise cancellation, making them worthy additions to any audiophile's collection.
References: [1] TechRadar, "Sony WH-CH720N review: A budget noise-cancelling headphone that punches above its weight," [Online]. Available: https://www.techradar.com/reviews/sony-wh-ch720n
[2] Wired, "The Best Headphones You Can Buy in 2021," [Online]. Available: https://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2021/03/best-headphones/
[3] Tom's Guide, "1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 review: A budget noise-cancelling headset with a long battery life," [Online]. Available: https://www.tomsguide.com/uk/reviews/1more-sonoflow-pro-hq51-review,review-6327.html
[4] CNET, "JBL Live Pro 2 TWS review: These earbuds offer great battery life for noise-cancelling earbuds at their price," [Online]. Available: https://www.cnet.com/reviews/jbl-live-pro-2-tws-review/
[5] Android Central, "Sony LinkBuds S and LinkBuds S review: A new take on wireless earbuds," [Online]. Available: https://www.androidcentral.com/sony-linkbuds-s-linkbuds-s-review-new-take-wireless-earbuds
- The Sony WH-CH720N, a wireless over-ear headphone, offers strong active noise cancellation (ANC) and robust sound quality, making it suitable for commuters and travelers, despite the occasional overly strong bass and limited app features [1].
- The JBL Live Pro 2 TWS earbuds, an affordable option, feature ANC, IPX4 water resistance, touch controls, and a thorough control app, delivering lively and entertaining sound quality with nicely judged bass weight [4].
- For fitness enthusiasts on a budget, the Sony LinkBuds Fit earbuds, designed for exercise, offer soft, wing-like 'fitting supporters' and an Ambient Sound mode that adjusts to surrounding noise [5].
- The HyperX Cloud Alpha, wired over-ear headphones, are a standout budget pick for gaming due to their dual chamber drivers for clear sound, comfortable memory foam cushions, and excellent detachable boom mic [2].
- Alternatively, if you aim for noise cancelling capability, sound quality, and a comfy fit under £150 in 2025, and aren't concerned about wireless or ANC, the 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 could be an option to consider, like the Sony WH-CH720N, it provides a balance of features and audio performance [3].
