The Ultimate Guide to JBL’s Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones in 2025

To appreciate the best noise-cancelling headphones, you need to understand the few key specifications that truly matter.

Active Noise Cancelling vs Passive Noise Isolation

Let’s begin with understanding how noise is eliminated. Passive noise isolation is the physical barrier; the snug fit of the earcups that mechanically blocks ambient noise. However, true quiet comes from Active Noise Cancelling (ANC).

JBL uses both external and internal microphones to monitor noise in real time and generates an inverted sound wave to actively cancel disruptive low-frequency sounds. Our True Adaptive Noise Cancelling feature takes this further by automatically adjusting the cancellation level based on your environment.

Sound Quality

Once the world goes quiet, your audio has to be phenomenal. JBL’s legacy is built on two dynamic profiles. First, JBL Signature Sound delivers a balanced soundstage. It’s crisp, clear, and trusted by sound professionals.

Second, for those who crave impact and want to feel the rhythm, JBL Pure Bass delivers a deep, powerful, and punchy low-frequency experience. Ultimately, the best noise-cancelling headphones deliver both clarity and impact, ensuring the only thing that remains when the ANC kicks in is pristine, world-class audio.

Comfort, Design & Battery Life

A powerful audio experience should never come at the expense of comfort. Since the best noise-cancelling headphones are built for endurance, comfort is non-negotiable. JBL uses soft, lightweight materials and expert ergonomic design to ensure a fit that won’t cause fatigue, even after hours of wear.

In terms of battery life, our top models deliver impressive runtime, pushing the boundaries of 40 hours or more of continuous playback with ANC engaged. This means your music and the silence can last for days without needing a charge.

Microphone Quality

In today’s fast-paced, hybrid world, your audio gear has to handle calls like a pro. That's why, to be the best noise-cancelling headset with a mic, the gear needs smart technology designed to focus on your voice. JBL achieves this by employing multi-mic arrays alongside advanced beamforming technology. With dedicated noise-cancelling microphones, your voice comes through crystal clear.

The Best JBL Noise-Cancelling Headphones in 2025

Now that you know the technology behind the silence, it’s time to dive into the best noise-cancelling headphones that redefine focus and sound quality. Below are our top picks of 2025.

Which JBL headphones have the best noise-cancelling?

The JBL Tour headphone series, specifically the Tour One M3, offers the best noise-cancelling feature available. It utilises True Adaptive Noise Cancelling 2.0, which scans your environment and automatically adjusts the cancellation level. This makes it the top choice for those who prioritise silence for their listening or working environment.

Are JBL noise-cancelling headphones good for flights and travel?

Absolutely. JBL designs its Tour series specifically with air travel in mind. The Tour One M2, for example, is engineered to be one of the best wireless noise-cancelling headphones for flights, allowing you to relax, work, or enjoy in-flight entertainment in peace. Many models even include a detachable wired connection option, perfect for plugging directly into older in-flight entertainment systems. If you prefer a compact solution, while not over-ear, our in-ear headphones also provide superb isolation for travel.

Do JBL wireless headphones support multipoint connectivity?

Yes, most of JBL’s wireless noise-cancelling headphones, including the Tour and Live series, support multipoint connectivity. This feature allows you to pair your headset with two devices simultaneously. If your phone rings, the headphones automatically switch to the incoming call, and then switch back to your music once the call ends.

Which JBL noise-cancelling headphones are best for calls?

The JBL Tour One M2 is often cited as the best noise-cancelling headphones for communication. It has a dedicated multi-mic array with advanced beamforming technology. This combination is effective at distinguishing the user's voice from the surroundings, ensuring dialogue is transmitted clearly. For users whose primary need is crystal-clear virtual meetings, whether connected wirelessly or wired to a device, this headphone is the best with a noise-cancelling microphone.

Finding the best noise-cancelling headphones or headset isn't just about specs; it’s about finding the perfect companion that empowers your life. Whether you crave silence, clarity, or just clear audio for your everyday moments, JBL offers the best-in-class gear. 

Ready to upgrade your listening experience? Explore the full range of JBL noise-cancelling headphones at the JBL New Zealand store today.