Best Over-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones Compared: Beats, Sony, Marshall & More
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Not all headphones are created equal—and when it comes to finding your perfect pair, the choices can feel overwhelming. Do you go for beastly battery life? Studio-grade sound? Or sleek design that turns heads on the train?
We’ve lined up the heavy hitters—from the stylish Beats Solo 4 to the ANC powerhouse Sony WH‑CH720N—and put them head-to-head (literally). Whether you're a bass lover, remote worker, or casual commuter, this guide will help you tune out the noise and tune in to the best.
1. Beats Solo 4
Our Thoughts (click to read)
The Beats Solo 4 combines a compact on-ear design with up to 50 hours of battery, USB‑C digital audio, and support for Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Featuring Bluetooth 5.3, wired playback via USB‑C or 3.5mm, and Apple’s Find My integration, it’s a lightweight, efficient option for users wanting streamlined performance without ANC.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Passive isolation (no ANC), tight on-ear seal |
| Sound Quality | Balanced tuning, punchy bass, improved mids/highs |
| Comfort & Fit | Lightweight, foldable, soft ear cushions, adjustable headband |
| Battery Life | Up to 50 hrs playback, 10-min Fast Fuel = 5 hrs use |
| Extra Features |
USB-C, 3.5mm port, Class 1 Bluetooth, Apple Find My, Android support |
Pros
- Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking—uses internal gyros and accelerometers to adjust soundstage dynamically on mobile devices
- Bluetooth 5.3 Class 1 connection—delivers extended wireless range, fast pairing, and compatibility with both iOS and Android (Find My supported)
Could Improve
- Lacks EQ/customization tools—no companion app, presets or EQ adjustment capabilities
2. Edifier W80
Our Thoughts (click to read)
The Edifier W80 packs top-tier ANC, LDAC support, and a full parametric EQ into a sub‑£100 design—features seldom seen at this price. With marathon battery life and app-based tuning, it's a standout in the mid‑range segment, offering customization and polish far beyond its cost. If you’re seeking premium noise cancellation and Hi‑Res playback without the premium price tag, the W80 delivers in spades—just pair it with its EQ app to tame the V-shaped tuning.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC up to –49 dB + effective passive isolation from over‑ear seal |
| Sound Quality | 40 mm titanium‑coated drivers with deep, punchy bass, clear mids and highs; LDAC support for Hi‑Res streaming |
| Comfort & Fit | Plush cushioning, foldable design, adjustable headband; lightweight setup for long sessions |
| Battery Life | Up to 65 hours ANC off, ~40 hours with ANC on; Fast charge: 15 min → 10 hrs playback |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint pairing, wired (3.5 mm AUX) option, app-based EQ, AI-clear call and ambient modes |
Pros
- Industry-leading ANC (~ −49 dB): Hybrid noise cancellation that rivals more expensive headphones, effectively cutting low‑frequency ambient noise even on busy commutes
- LDAC support for Hi‑Res streaming: One of the few budget headsets offering LDAC via Bluetooth 5.4—bringing higher audio fidelity for compatible devices
Could Improve
- V-shaped tuning by default: Bass and treble emphasis may overshadow midrange detail unless you use the EQ app to rebalance
3. Soundcore Life Q30
Our Thoughts (click to read)
The Soundcore Life Q30 is easily one of the best bang-for-your-buck headphones in its class. With surprisingly strong hybrid ANC, a fully customizable sound profile via app, and 60-hour battery life, it rivals features found in models twice the price. Lightweight, comfortable, and packed with smart touches like multipoint pairing and EQ control, the Q30 proves that high-performance listening doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. If you want premium features without breaking the bank, this is a clear standout.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC (up to –40 dB), with 3 modes: Transport, Indoor, Outdoor |
| Sound Quality | 40 mm silk-diaphragm drivers; V-shaped tuning with deep bass and clear treble |
| Comfort & Fit | Memory foam earcups, adjustable headband, ~260 g weight; travel-friendly foldable design |
| Battery Life | Up to 60 hrs (ANC off), ~40 hrs (ANC on); Fast charge: 5 min = 4 hrs playback |
| Extra Features |
NFC pairing, multipoint connection, Soundcore app with EQ presets, LDAC via Q35 only |
Pros
- Offers three tailored cancel modes—Transport, Indoor, Outdoor—effectively reducing up to ~95% of low-frequency ambient noise (e.g. engines, traffic). A top performer for mid/low-frequency suppression.
- Customize sound via full graphic EQ and presets. NFC pairing (Android only) and multipoint Bluetooth allow seamless switching between devices.
Could Improve
- While usable for calls, mic performance can become muffled or distorted in wind or crowded environments.
4. Marshall Major IV
Our Thoughts (click to read)
The Marshall Major IV is a smart choice for those who prioritize battery life, portability, and vintage-inspired usability. Its light, foldable design—combined with Qi charging, a tactile joystick dial, and bold rock-leaning sound—makes it ideal for casual listeners and on-the-go music lovers. For a hassle-free headphone with personality and performance, this one doesn't disappoint.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | No ANC – relies on snug on-ear fit for light passive isolation |
| Sound Quality | Classic Marshall tuning – warm mids, crunchy highs, punchy bass; dynamic & fun |
| Comfort & Fit | Lightweight (~165 g), foldable design, cushioned on-ear pads; firm clamping force |
| Battery Life | Up to 80 hrs playback; 15 min fast charge = 15 hrs use |
| Extra Features |
Multi-directional control knob, USB-C + wireless charging, 3.5 mm share port |
Pros
- Unbeatable 80-hour battery life—wireless or wired, one charge lasts for days; 15-minute fast charge adds 15 hours of playback which is a game changer in a rush.
- Ultra-lightweight at ~165 g—foldable pivot hinges and low clamping force make it highly portable and surprisingly comfy for on-ears, perfect for travels.
Could Improve
- SBC-only Bluetooth codec—no AAC or aptX support limits streaming quality on many devices; wired mode needed for best fidelity
5. Sony WH-CH720N 
Our Thoughts (click to read)
The Sony WH‑CH720N hits a smart sweet spot: lightweight comfort, long battery life, solid ANC, and app-enabled EQ—all at a budget-friendly price. While they don’t deliver flagship-level polishing or premium codec support, they still offer remarkable value for everyday commuting, travel, or casual use. If you want Sony reliability and feature-rich performance without the flagship price, these are tough to beat.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Dual Noise Sensor + Sony’s V1 Processor for effective mid-range ANC (same chip as WH-1000XM5) |
| Sound Quality | Clean, balanced sound; supports DSEE for audio upscaling; bass-light compared to rivals |
| Comfort & Fit | Super lightweight (~192 g), soft ear cushions, over-ear fit for long wear sessions |
| Battery Life | Up to 35 hrs with ANC, 50 hrs without; 3-min charge = 1 hr playback |
| Extra Features |
Multipoint, voice assistant support, app-based EQ, 360 Reality Audio support, USB-C |
Pros
- Strong ANC for the price—Sony’s Dual Sensor + V1 chip delivers around 20–28 dB of low-frequency noise reduction, especially effective against engine hum and chatter.
- App-based EQ & 360 Reality Audio support—fine-tune your sound profile using Sony’s five-band EQ and enjoy virtual spatial audio.
Could Improve
- Limited soundstage—closed-back design lacks expansive stereo width; immersive audio isn’t their strength.
Overview:
| Feature | Beats Solo 4 | Edifier W80 | Soundcore Q30 | Marshall Major IV | Sony WH‑CH720N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Passive only | Hybrid ANC (−49 dB) | Hybrid ANC (3 modes) | Passive only | Digital ANC (V1 Chip) |
| Sound Quality | Balanced & refined | V-shaped w/ LDAC | Customizable via app EQ | Punchy, warm bass | Clear with bass emphasis |
| Comfort & Fit | Light on-ear, secure | Over-ear, plush pads | Over-ear, lightweight | Very light on-ear | Extremely light (~192g) |
| Battery Life | 50 hrs (10 min = 5 hrs) | 65 hrs (40 w/ ANC) | 60 hrs (40 w/ ANC) | 80 hrs (15 min = 15 hrs) | 50 hrs (35 w/ ANC) |
| Extra Features | Spatial Audio, USB‑C audio | LDAC, App EQ, multipoint | EQ, ANC modes, multipoint | Qi wireless charging, share port | 360 Audio, App EQ, multipoint |