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Apple noise cancelling headphones, ranked.
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 is the Apple to beat.
The verdict in 10 seconds
Best all-rounder
Apple AirPods Pro 3Superb noise blocking and comfort, best enjoyed with an iPhoneSuits you if
- You use an iPhone and other Apple devices
- You commute, travel, or work somewhere loud and want real quiet
- You take lots of calls or want workout tracking without a watch
Most dependable
Apple AirPods MaxSuperb sound and quiet for Apple fans, if you can handle the weightSuits you if
- You live on an iPhone, iPad or Mac and want effortless pairing and switching
- You travel or commute often and want deep rumble shut out
- You care most about a premium feel and rich, detailed sound
Cut to the chase
Apple is about level with the other brands we cover for noise cancelling headphones. Its best is the Apple AirPods Pro 3, which suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
We researched 25 expert reviews, analyzed 62,289 owner ratings and comments across 22 sources for every Apple model we cover, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
Show me the receipts
Apple in numbersAverage score 78 · experts 88 · owners 78 · reliability 56
Averages across the 2 Apple models we've scored. Other brands: 76.
Questions people actually ask
Is Apple a good noise cancelling headphones brand?
It's a solid choice, about level with the other big names.
Based on: Apple averages 78 across 2 models; other brands average 76.Which Apple noise cancelling headphones is the best?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among Apple models (82).Which Apple noise cancelling headphones is the most reliable?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It's the least likely to give you trouble.
Based on: Reliability 71; problems mentioned by 12% of owners.What is the best alternative to Apple?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds from Bose. It suits you if you commute or fly often and want the quietest earbuds you can get.
Based on: Highest-scoring model from another brand (81).