February 21, 2026

Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter

Reducing pesky ambient noise — like the whir of an airplane engine or the roar of a subway train — can be the difference between enduring a trip and enjoying it. That’s where noise-cancelling headphones can really shine. Over the years, we’ve tested more than 300 pairs to find the very best: Our favorites are lightweight, comfortable, and offer excellent sound quality.

A game changer for frequent travelers→

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