Finding the best noise cancelling headphones under $200 doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Trust me, I’ve been there – scrolling through endless reviews, wondering if decent active noise cancellation is even possible without spending a fortune. After testing dozens of pairs over the past two years, I can confidently say that some of the best noise cancelling headphones under 200 rival headphones costing twice as much.
Whether you’re a student trying to focus in a noisy dorm, a remote worker dealing with household chaos, or a commuter tired of subway sounds, this guide will help you find your perfect pair. At Shop by RBA, we understand that everyone deserves quality audio without breaking the bank, which is why I’ve personally tested each pair on this list.
What Makes Great Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $200?
Before diving into our top picks, let’s talk about what separates good noise cancelling budget headphones from the mediocre ones. After using countless pairs, I’ve learned that price doesn’t always determine quality – it’s about finding the right balance of features.
Understanding Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Active noise cancellation works by using tiny microphones to detect ambient sound, then producing opposite sound waves to cancel out the noise. The best ANC headphones under 200 typically reduce low-frequency sounds like airplane engines, air conditioners, and traffic by 15-25 decibels. While they won’t match $300+ flagship models, they’ll still make your daily commute much more peaceful.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for best affordable noise cancelling headphones, I always check these essential features:
Battery Life: Look for at least 25-30 hours with ANC on. The best wireless headphones under 200 should easily last through long flights or work weeks.
Comfort: Over-ear designs typically offer better noise isolation than on-ear models. The best over ear headphones under $200 should feel comfortable during 3-4 hour sessions.
Sound Quality: Good noise cancelling budget headphones should deliver clear mids, decent bass, and crisp highs even with ANC enabled.
Build Quality: Plastic is fine for budget models, but look for reinforced hinges and quality padding.
Controls: Physical buttons often work better than touch controls on budget models.
Top 10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $200
After months of testing, here are my personal favorites. Each pair offers something unique, and I’ve used every single one extensively in real-world situations.
1. Sony WH-CH720N – Best Overall Value
Price Range: $90-$130
The Sony WH-CH720N tops my list of best noise cancelling headphones under $200 for good reason. I’ve worn these during 8-hour workdays, cross-country flights, and countless coffee shop sessions. The ANC isn’t as powerful as Sony’s premium models, but it’s remarkably effective for the price.
What I Love:
- 35-hour battery life with ANC on
- Lightweight design (192g) perfect for all-day wear
- Sony’s signature warm sound profile
- Quick Attention mode for conversations
- Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
What Could Be Better:
- Plastic build feels a bit cheap
- Bass can be muddy at high volumes
The noise cancellation effectively dampens airplane engines and coffee shop chatter. During my recent flight to Denver, these headphones made the journey incredibly peaceful. For anyone seeking best affordable noise cancelling headphones, the WH-CH720N delivers premium features at a fraction of the cost.
2. Anker Soundcore Life Q30 – Best Budget Champion
Price Range: $60-$80
Don’t let the low price fool you – the Soundcore Life Q30 punches way above its weight class. These are hands-down the best ANC headphones under 200 for tight budgets. I bought these as backup headphones but ended up using them as my daily drivers for months.
What I Love:
- Incredible 40-hour battery life
- Three ANC modes (Transport, Outdoor, Indoor)
- Custom EQ through the app
- Comfortable memory foam padding
- Outstanding value for money
What Could Be Better:
- Build quality feels budget-friendly
- Highs can sound slightly muffled
The three ANC modes actually work well. Transport mode handles airplane noise beautifully, while Indoor mode is perfect for offices. If you’re looking for good noise cancelling headphones under 200 that won’t break the bank, the Q30 is your answer.
3. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT – Best for Audiophiles
Price Range: $120-$150
Audio-Technica knows sound, and the ATH-ANC500BT proves it. These best wireless headphones under 200 offer the most balanced sound signature on this list. I use these primarily for music listening and audio editing work.
What I Love:
- Exceptional sound quality with detailed mids and highs
- 20-hour battery life
- Comfortable over-ear design
- Professional-grade audio reproduction
- Solid build quality
What Could Be Better:
- ANC is moderate, not exceptional
- Heavier than some competitors
While the noise cancellation isn’t the strongest, the audio quality more than compensates. These are perfect for anyone who prioritizes sound over maximum noise reduction. Among best over ear headphones under $200, these deliver the most accurate audio reproduction.
4. JBL Tune 760NC – Best for Bass Lovers
Price Range: $80-$100
JBL’s Tune 760NC brings the company’s signature bass-heavy sound with effective noise cancellation. I recommend these to anyone who loves electronic music, hip-hop, or any genre where bass response matters. They’re definitely among the best noise cancelling headphones under 200 for bass enthusiasts.
What I Love:
- Powerful, punchy bass response
- 35-hour battery life
- Lightweight and portable
- Fast charging (2 hours for full charge)
- Effective ANC for the price
What Could Be Better:
- Can sound muddy with complex music
- Build quality is basic
The bass response impressed me during my gym sessions – these headphones make electronic music sound incredibly engaging. For noise cancelling budget headphones with emphasis on low-end response, the Tune 760NC delivers.
5. Sennheiser HD 450BT – Best Build Quality
Price Range: $130-$160
Sennheiser’s HD 450BT offers the most premium build quality in this price range. After six months of daily use, they still look and feel brand new. These represent some of the best affordable noise cancelling headphones for durability-conscious buyers.
What I Love:
- Excellent build quality and materials
- Balanced, natural sound signature
- 30-hour battery life
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Sennheiser’s reputation for reliability
What Could Be Better:
- ANC is mild compared to Sony or Bose
- Higher price point in this category
The build quality really stands out – these feel like they’ll last for years. The sound is quintessentially Sennheiser: balanced, detailed, and natural. If you want best over ear headphones under $200 that prioritize longevity, these are worth the investment.
6. TaoTronics SoundSurge 60 – Best Value Alternative
Price Range: $50-$70
The TaoTronics SoundSurge 60 offers surprising performance for an incredibly low price. I picked these up as emergency travel headphones and was genuinely impressed. They’re perfect examples of good noise cancelling headphones under 200 that deliver on their promises.
What I Love:
- Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio
- 30-hour battery life
- Effective ANC for the price
- Comfortable padding
- Fast charging capability
What Could Be Better:
- Brand recognition is limited
- Build quality reflects the price
- Limited advanced features
For anyone on an extremely tight budget, these deliver shocking value. The ANC works well enough for most situations, and the battery life is excellent. They’re solid noise cancelling budget headphones for first-time ANC users.
7. Cowin E7 Pro – Best for Travel
Price Range: $60-$80
The Cowin E7 Pro has been my go-to travel companion for over a year. They fold flat, offer great battery life, and provide solid noise cancellation for flights. These are among the best wireless headphones under 200 for frequent travelers.
What I Love:
- 30-hour battery life
- Comfortable for long flights
- Effective ANC for travel situations
- Affordable price point
- Compact folding design
What Could Be Better:
- Sound quality is average
- Build quality feels budget-oriented
- Limited brand support
I’ve used these on dozens of flights, and they consistently deliver. The ANC handles airplane noise well, and the battery life means I never worry about them dying mid-flight. For best ANC headphones under 200 focused on travel, these work wonderfully.
8. Mpow H19 IPO – Best for Long Battery Life
Price Range: $70-$90
The Mpow H19 IPO offers incredible 35-hour battery life with some of the most comfortable ear cups I’ve tested. While not the most well-known brand, they deliver solid performance as noise cancelling budget headphones.
What I Love:
- Exceptional 35-hour battery life
- Very comfortable padding
- Decent ANC performance
- Affordable pricing
- Good call quality
What Could Be Better:
- Brand recognition is minimal
- Sound quality is basic
- Limited customization options
The comfort level impressed me during long work sessions. If you need best on ear wireless headphones under 200 that prioritize comfort and battery life over audiophile features, these deliver.
9. Bose QuietComfort SE (Refurbished)
Price Range: $150-$180 (when available)
When available as refurbished units, the Bose QuietComfort SE represents the best noise cancelling headphones under $200 you can find. I managed to snag a pair during a sale, and the ANC quality is noticeably superior to everything else on this list.
What I Love:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Exceptional comfort
- Bose’s renowned build quality
- Balanced sound signature
- Premium feel and finish
What Could Be Better:
- Limited availability as refurbished
- Higher price when available
- Shorter battery life than newer models
If you can find these refurbished within budget, grab them immediately. The noise cancellation is genuinely impressive – among the best ANC headphones under 200 when available at the right price.
10. Skullcandy Crusher ANC (On Sale)
Price Range: $150-$200 (during sales)
The Skullcandy Crusher ANC occasionally drops into our budget range during sales. When it does, it offers unique features like adjustable haptic bass that you won’t find in other best affordable noise cancelling headphones.
What I Love:
- Unique haptic bass feature
- Solid ANC performance
- 24-hour battery life
- Comfortable design
- Personal Sound customization
What Could Be Better:
- Only budget-friendly during sales
- Haptic bass isn’t for everyone
- Can feel gimmicky
The haptic bass feature is either love-it-or-hate-it. I found it fun for electronic music but unnecessary for most genres. When on sale, these are interesting best wireless headphones under 200 for users wanting something different.
Best Affordable Noise Cancelling Headphones by Category
Best Wireless Headphones Under 200 for Commuting
For daily commuters, I recommend prioritizing battery life and effective ANC. The Sony WH-CH720N and Anker Soundcore Life Q30 both excel in these areas. I’ve used both during my 90-minute daily commute, and they make the journey significantly more pleasant.
The key factors for commuting headphones under 200 wireless are:
- At least 30-hour battery life
- Quick charging capabilities
- Effective low-frequency noise reduction
- Comfortable for extended wear
Best Over Ear Headphones Under $200 for Home Use
Working from home requires different priorities. The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT and Sennheiser HD 450BT offer the best sound quality for music and calls. I use the Audio-Technica pair for video editing and the Sennheisers for music listening.
Home use best over ear headphones under $200 should focus on:
- Superior sound quality
- Comfortable long-term wear
- Good microphone quality for calls
- Durable build quality
Best On Ear Wireless Headphones Under 200 for Portability
While most of our picks are over-ear designs, the JBL Tune 760NC offers the best balance of portability and performance. They’re lighter than traditional over-ear models while still providing effective noise cancellation.
Best on ear wireless headphones under 200 typically offer:
- Lighter weight for portability
- Smaller folding size
- Adequate noise isolation
- Good battery life
Comparison Table: Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under $200
| Model | Price | Battery Life | ANC Quality | Comfort | Sound Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-CH720N | $90-$130 | 35 hours | Very Good | Excellent | Very Good | Overall Value |
| Anker Life Q30 | $60-$80 | 40 hours | Good | Very Good | Good | Budget Champion |
| Audio-Technica ANC500BT | $120-$150 | 20 hours | Moderate | Good | Excellent | Audiophiles |
| JBL Tune 760NC | $80-$100 | 35 hours | Good | Good | Bass-Heavy | Bass Lovers |
| Sennheiser HD 450BT | $130-$160 | 30 hours | Moderate | Excellent | Excellent | Build Quality |
| TaoTronics SoundSurge 60 | $50-$70 | 30 hours | Good | Good | Average | Ultra Budget |
| Cowin E7 Pro | $60-$80 | 30 hours | Good | Very Good | Average | Travel |
| Mpow H19 IPO | $70-$90 | 35 hours | Good | Excellent | Average | Long Sessions |
How to Choose Your Perfect Pair: Complete Buying Guide
Determine Your Primary Use Case
The best noise cancelling headphones under $200 for you depend heavily on how you’ll use them. During my testing, I found that different models excel in different scenarios.
For Commuting: Focus on battery life and low-frequency noise reduction. The best ANC headphones under 200 for commuting need to handle consistent rumbling sounds like engines and air conditioning.
For Home Office: Prioritize sound quality and comfort. You’ll likely wear them for hours, so comfort becomes crucial. The best wireless headphones under 200 for home use should also have good microphone quality.
For Travel: Consider portability and battery life. The best affordable noise cancelling headphones for travel should fold compactly and offer quick charging.
For Music: Sound quality trumps everything else. Look for balanced frequency response and good detail retrieval in your best over ear headphones under $200.
Understanding Your Budget Range
Within the noise cancelling budget headphones category, there are distinct tiers:
$50-$80 Range: Basic ANC with acceptable sound quality. Perfect for first-time ANC users or secondary pairs.
$80-$120 Range: The sweet spot for good noise cancelling headphones under 200. You get solid ANC, good battery life, and decent build quality.
$120-$200 Range: Premium features start appearing. Better materials, superior ANC, and enhanced sound quality.
Testing Comfort Before Buying
Comfort varies dramatically between individuals. I recommend checking return policies before purchasing best on ear wireless headphones under 200. What feels comfortable for 30 minutes might become painful after 2 hours.
Key comfort factors include:
- Headband padding thickness
- Ear cup size and depth
- Clamping force
- Overall weight distribution
Sound Signature Preferences
Different best noise cancelling under 200 models emphasize different frequency ranges:
Bass-Heavy: JBL Tune 760NC, Skullcandy Crusher ANC Balanced: Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT, Sennheiser HD 450BT Warm: Sony WH-CH720N, Anker Life Q30
Advanced Features Worth Considering
Multipoint Bluetooth Connectivity
Several best wireless headphones under 200 now support connecting to multiple devices simultaneously. The Sony WH-CH720N handles this particularly well, allowing seamless switching between phone and laptop.
App Integration and Customization
Modern best ANC headphones under 200 often include companion apps for customization:
- Custom EQ settings
- ANC mode selection
- Battery monitoring
- Firmware updates
Voice Assistant Integration
Most noise cancelling budget headphones support voice assistants, but implementation quality varies. Sony and JBL models tend to have the most reliable voice assistant integration.
Quick Charge Capabilities
Fast charging becomes crucial for best affordable noise cancelling headphones used daily. Look for models offering several hours of playback from 10-15 minutes of charging.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance
After using dozens of good noise cancelling headphones under 200, I’ve learned that proper maintenance significantly extends their lifespan.
Battery Care
ANC headphones are battery-dependent. To maximize battery life in your best over ear headphones under $200:
- Avoid fully depleting the battery regularly
- Store at moderate temperatures
- Use wired mode occasionally to rest the battery
- Keep firmware updated
Physical Maintenance
Regular cleaning keeps your best on ear wireless headphones under 200 comfortable and hygienic:
- Wipe ear cups weekly with slightly damp cloth
- Clean charging ports with dry cotton swabs
- Store in protective cases when traveling
- Avoid extreme temperatures
Software Updates
Many best noise cancelling headphones under $200 receive firmware updates that improve ANC performance and fix bugs. Check manufacturer apps regularly for updates.
Common Misconceptions About Budget ANC Headphones
“Cheap ANC Doesn’t Work”
This simply isn’t true anymore. Modern noise cancelling budget headphones like the Anker Life Q30 offer surprisingly effective noise reduction. While they won’t match $400 flagships, they’re genuinely useful for most situations.
“You Need to Spend $300+ for Good ANC”
My testing proves otherwise. Several best ANC headphones under 200 provide 70-80% of the performance of premium models at a fraction of the cost. For most users, this performance level is perfectly adequate.
“Budget Models Break Quickly”
Build quality has improved dramatically in recent years. Many best affordable noise cancelling headphones now offer solid construction that withstands daily use. The key is choosing reputable brands with good warranty support.
Real-World Performance Testing
I’ve used each pair of best wireless headphones under 200 in various real-world scenarios to provide authentic insights.
Airplane Testing
During multiple cross-country flights, I tested how well each model handles jet engine noise. The best noise cancelling headphones under $200 for flying are:
- Sony WH-CH720N – Excellent low-frequency reduction
- Anker Life Q30 – Transport mode works perfectly
- Cowin E7 Pro – Solid performance for the price
Office Environment Testing
In my home office with air conditioning, street noise, and household sounds, the best over ear headphones under $200 performed as follows:
- Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT – Best for focused work
- Sennheiser HD 450BT – Comfortable for long sessions
- Sony WH-CH720N – Good balance of ANC and sound quality
Commuting Testing
During daily subway and bus rides, these good noise cancelling headphones under 200 stood out:
- Sony WH-CH720N – Handled various noise types well
- JBL Tune 760NC – Good for consistent rumbling
- Anker Life Q30 – Excellent battery life for long commutes
The Future of Budget ANC Technology
The noise cancelling budget headphones market continues evolving rapidly. Based on current trends, we can expect:
Improved ANC Algorithms
Manufacturers are investing heavily in software-based improvements. Future best noise cancelling headphones under $200 will likely offer even better performance through software updates.
Better Battery Technology
New battery technologies should extend the already impressive battery life of best wireless headphones under 200 while reducing charging times.
Enhanced App Integration
Expect more sophisticated companion apps for best ANC headphones under 200, offering detailed customization and environmental adaptation.
Shop by RBA’s Recommendation Summary
After extensive testing, here are my personal recommendations for different user types:
For Most People: Sony WH-CH720N
The Sony WH-CH720N offers the best overall balance of features, performance, and value. They’re my go-to recommendation for anyone seeking best noise cancelling headphones under $200 without specific specialized needs.
For Budget-Conscious Buyers: Anker Soundcore Life Q30
If you need good noise cancelling headphones under 200 at the lowest possible price, the Anker Life Q30 delivers shocking value. The 40-hour battery life alone makes them worthwhile.
For Audio Enthusiasts: Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT
When sound quality matters most, the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT provides the most accurate, detailed audio reproduction among best over ear headphones under $200.
For Travel: Cowin E7 Pro
Frequent travelers will appreciate the Cowin E7 Pro’s combination of effective ANC, long battery life, and compact folding design. They’re reliable best affordable noise cancelling headphones for consistent travel use.
Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Pair Awaits
Finding the best noise cancelling headphones under $200 doesn’t require endless research or breaking your budget. The models I’ve tested and recommended here represent genuine value in today’s market. Each offers something unique, whether it’s exceptional battery life, superior sound quality, or unbeatable pricing.
At Shop by RBA, we believe everyone deserves access to quality audio technology. The noise cancelling budget headphones market has matured to the point where you can find genuinely impressive performance at affordable prices. Whether you choose the well-rounded Sony WH-CH720N, the budget-champion Anker Life Q30, or the audiophile-focused Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT, you’re getting headphones that would have cost twice as much just a few years ago.
Remember that the best wireless headphones under 200 for you depend on your specific needs, preferences, and use cases. Consider where you’ll primarily use them, how long you’ll wear them daily, and what audio characteristics matter most to you. With any of these recommended best over ear headphones under $200, you’ll experience the peace and audio quality that active noise cancellation provides.
The world of best ANC headphones under 200 continues evolving, but right now is an excellent time to upgrade. Prices are competitive, features are mature, and quality is at an all-time high for budget-conscious consumers. Your perfect pair of good noise cancelling headphones under 200 is waiting – use this guide to find them, and enjoy the peaceful, immersive audio experience you deserve.
Whether you’re blocking out noisy neighbors, focusing during work, or simply wanting to enjoy your music without distractions, these best on ear wireless headphones under 200 and over-ear alternatives will transform your daily audio experience. The investment in quality best affordable noise cancelling headphones pays dividends in reduced stress, better focus, and pure listening enjoyment.
Take the plunge into the world of active noise cancellation – your ears (and your sanity) will thank you for choosing any of these exceptional best noise cancelling under 200 options. Happy listening!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Really Need Active Noise Cancellation?
If you regularly deal with consistent background noise like airplane engines, air conditioning, or traffic, ANC makes a significant difference. The best noise cancelling headphones under $200 can reduce these sounds by 15-25 decibels, making your environment much more peaceful.
How Long Do Budget ANC Headphones Last?
With proper care, quality noise cancelling budget headphones should last 2-3 years of daily use. The battery will likely need replacement after 2-3 years, but the overall build quality of modern budget models is quite good.
Can I Use These for Gaming?
Most best wireless headphones under 200 work fine for single-player gaming, but competitive gaming might require lower latency wired connections. The audio quality is generally good enough for immersive gaming experiences.
Are These Good for Phone Calls?
Call quality varies significantly between models. The best affordable noise cancelling headphones for calls include:
- Sony WH-CH720N (excellent microphone)
- Sennheiser HD 450BT (clear voice reproduction)
- JBL Tune 760NC (good noise suppression)
How Do I Know If ANC Is Working?
Good best ANC headphones under 200 should noticeably reduce consistent background sounds when you turn n ANC mode. You might hear a slight hiss, which is normal. The noise reduction should be immediately apparent in environments with steady ambient noise.
Can I Use These Without ANC to Save Battery?
Absolutely! Most best over ear headphones under $200 work as regular Bluetooth headphones with ANC disabled, often extending battery life by 10-20%. This flexibility makes them versatile for different situations.
