Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds 2026: Top ANC Earbuds in Malaysia

The best noise cancelling earbuds can make a huge difference when you are travelling, working in a noisy office, commuting by train or simply trying to enjoy music without distractions.

Active Noise Cancellation, commonly known as ANC, has also improved significantly in 2026. Premium earbuds from Sony, Bose, Apple and Samsung can now reduce a wide range of background sounds, while more affordable models from brands such as Soundcore offer increasingly competitive noise cancellation.

For Malaysian buyers, the choice is not simply about finding earbuds with the strongest ANC. Comfort, sound quality, microphone performance, battery life, water resistance, smartphone compatibility and price are equally important.

Among the current models worth considering are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen), Sony WF-1000XM6, Apple AirPods Pro 3, Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro.

Recent 2026 testing from RTINGS places the Sony WF-1000XM6 at the top of its noise-cancelling earbuds recommendations, while Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) have also received strong recognition specifically for ANC performance.

What Are Noise Cancelling Earbuds?

Noise cancelling earbuds use microphones and electronic processing to reduce external sounds before they reach your ears.

There are two important types of noise reduction:

• Passive noise isolation – the physical ear tips block outside sound.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) – microphones detect external noise and the earbuds generate an opposing signal to reduce it.

The best earbuds combine both technologies.

ANC is particularly effective against continuous low-frequency sounds such as airplane engines, bus engines, train noise and air-conditioning. Modern premium earbuds can also reduce voices and higher-frequency environmental noise, although no ANC system completely eliminates every sound.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds in 2026

Earbuds	Best For	Main Strength	Ecosystem
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)	Maximum ANC	Excellent noise cancellation	Android + iPhone
Sony WF-1000XM6	Sound + ANC	Strong ANC and audio	Android + iPhone
Apple AirPods Pro 3	iPhone	Apple ecosystem	Apple
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro	Samsung users	ANC + Galaxy integration	Android/Samsung
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro	Value	Strong ANC for the price	Android + iPhone
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2	Android	Google integration	Android + iPhone
Technics EAH-AZ100	Audiophiles	Sound quality	Android + iPhone
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2	Exercise	Secure fit	Apple + Android

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are one of the first models to consider if your primary goal is maximum noise cancellation.

Forbes selected them as its best noise-cancelling wireless earbuds, highlighting their strong ANC and comfortable fit. Tom’s Guide has also listed them as its best overall noise-cancelling earbuds.

The biggest attraction is the Bose noise-cancelling technology.

They are particularly suitable for environments such as:

• Airplanes
• Trains
• Public transport
• Busy offices
• Shopping malls
• Cafés
• City streets

Bose also provides an app with customisable controls and sound settings.

The downside is that the earbuds are relatively expensive and battery life is not their strongest advantage. Forbes lists up to six hours of playback with ANC enabled.

Best for: Buyers who prioritise ANC above almost everything else.

Consider another model if: You want maximum battery life or a lower price.

Sony WF-1000XM6

The Sony WF-1000XM6 is another flagship contender and one of the strongest choices for users who want both excellent noise cancellation and high-quality audio.

RTINGS currently lists the WF-1000XM6 as its top noise-cancelling earbuds recommendation, highlighting their strong isolation performance across low-frequency engine rumble as well as higher-frequency noise.

Sony has also improved the microphone system compared with the previous generation.

The WF-1000XM6 is particularly interesting for people who listen to a wide range of music because Sony provides extensive sound customisation through its companion app.

The earbuds also offer advanced adaptive features that can adjust the listening experience based on your environment and activity.

Best for: Music lovers who want excellent ANC and extensive audio customisation.

Consider another model if: You want the deepest Apple or Samsung ecosystem integration.

Apple AirPods Pro 3

For iPhone users, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 are one of the most straightforward premium ANC choices.

Apple’s ecosystem is the major attraction. AirPods integrate closely with iPhone, iPad, Mac and other Apple devices, making switching between devices particularly convenient.

Independent 2026 testing has also recognised the AirPods Pro 3 for strong ANC and Apple-specific integration. WIRED lists them as its preferred ANC earbuds for iPhone users.

The AirPods Pro 3 are suitable for:

• iPhone users
• Office work
• Travel
• Music
• Podcasts
• Calls
• Everyday commuting

Another advantage is the range of Apple-specific features that are not available in the same way on Android.

However, if you use a Samsung, Xiaomi, HONOR, vivo or other Android smartphone, many of the AirPods’ ecosystem advantages become less relevant.

Best for: iPhone users who want premium ANC and seamless Apple integration.

Consider another model if: You use Android as your primary smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are aimed heavily at Galaxy smartphone users.

RTINGS currently identifies the Galaxy Buds4 Pro as its best Samsung earbuds, with strong ANC performance capable of reducing sounds such as bus engines, ambient chatter and train noise.

The earbuds are particularly attractive if you already own a Samsung Galaxy smartphone because Samsung can integrate additional features across its hardware and software ecosystem.

The sound signature also has a relatively energetic character, making them appealing to users who enjoy more powerful bass.

Samsung has also added AI-related functionality to its latest Galaxy Buds generation.

Best for: Samsung Galaxy smartphone owners.

Consider another model if: You use a non-Samsung Android phone and want broader cross-platform functionality.

Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro

If flagship prices are too high, the Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro deserves attention.

RTINGS currently lists it as its best mid-range wireless earbuds and notes that its ANC performance comes close to the Sony WF-1000XM6 in several areas.

This is important because buyers no longer necessarily need to spend RM1,000 or more to get useful ANC.

The Liberty 5 Pro is designed for people who want a balance between:

• ANC
• Sound quality
• Battery life
• App features
• Call performance
• Price

The Soundcore app also provides extensive customisation compared with many cheaper earbuds.

Best for: Buyers looking for strong ANC without paying flagship prices.

Consider another model if: You want the strongest ecosystem integration from Apple or Samsung.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 remain an interesting option for Android users, particularly people who use Google Pixel smartphones.

They combine active noise cancellation, transparency mode, Google Assistant-related functions and a compact design.

The main advantage is integration with Google’s Android ecosystem.

However, Samsung Galaxy users may find the Galaxy Buds4 Pro more naturally integrated with their phones, while iPhone users have stronger reasons to consider AirPods Pro 3.

Best for: Google Pixel and Android users.

Technics EAH-AZ100

The Technics EAH-AZ100 is worth considering if sound quality is a major priority.

Technics positions the model toward users who want high-quality wireless audio while retaining active noise cancellation and everyday convenience.

It is not necessarily the first choice for someone who only cares about maximum ANC. Instead, it is more suitable for listeners who want a combination of detailed audio and noise reduction.

Best for: Music enthusiasts and audiophile-oriented listeners.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 takes a different approach from most premium ANC earbuds.

Instead of focusing entirely on compact lifestyle design, it uses an ear-hook style intended to provide a more secure fit during exercise.

This makes it particularly interesting for:

• Running
• Gym workouts
• Cycling
• HIIT
• Outdoor exercise

WIRED currently includes the Powerbeats Pro 2 among its notable noise-cancelling options for workouts.

Best for: Active users who need a secure fit.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Travel

Travel is one of the biggest reasons people buy ANC earbuds.

Airplane engines produce relatively continuous low-frequency noise, which is exactly the kind of sound ANC technology is designed to reduce.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are particularly interesting for frequent flyers because Bose’s main strength is powerful noise cancellation.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 is another strong travel option because it combines effective noise isolation with strong sound quality and adaptive features.

When choosing earbuds for travel, also consider:

• Battery life
• Charging case capacity
• Comfort during long flights
• Transparency mode
• Multipoint connectivity
• Call quality
• Ear-tip fit

A comfortable earbud can be more important than a small difference in ANC performance when you are wearing it for several hours.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Office Work

For office workers, ANC is useful for reducing:

• Air-conditioning noise
• Keyboard noise
• Background conversations
• Café noise
• General office chatter

However, transparency mode is equally important.

You do not want to completely block the world when a colleague is speaking to you.

Sony, Bose, Apple and Samsung all provide ambient or transparency modes, although the implementation differs between models.

For frequent video calls, microphone quality should also be considered. Sony’s WF-1000XM6 has received positive comments for microphone improvements and voice performance compared with its predecessor.

Best Budget Noise Cancelling Earbuds

You do not necessarily need flagship earbuds to get ANC.

The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro is one of the more interesting mid-range choices in 2026. RTINGS specifically highlights its strong noise isolation performance relative to its price category.

There are also cheaper options from Soundcore, CMF by Nothing and other brands.

However, cheaper ANC earbuds typically make compromises in areas such as:

• Microphone quality
• ANC consistency
• Transparency mode
• Sound quality
• App features
• Multipoint connectivity
• Build quality

If you only need ANC for commuting or occasional travel, an affordable model can be sufficient.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for iPhone

For Apple users, the main choice is relatively straightforward.

Apple AirPods Pro 3

The strongest reason to choose AirPods Pro 3 is ecosystem integration.

They work particularly well with Apple’s devices and provide access to Apple-specific features.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose is a better fit if your priority is powerful ANC and you also want the flexibility to use the earbuds with Android.

Sony WF-1000XM6

Sony is another strong option for iPhone users who prioritise audio customisation and sound quality over Apple’s ecosystem features.

WIRED currently lists AirPods Pro 3 as its recommended ANC earbuds for iPhone users, while Bose and Sony remain strong alternatives.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Android

Android users have considerably more choice.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 is particularly compelling because its features are not restricted to one smartphone manufacturer. RTINGS currently highlights it as a top Android wireless-earbud choice.

Samsung users can look closely at the Galaxy Buds4 Pro.

Google Pixel users may prefer Pixel Buds Pro 2.

For users who want to save money, Soundcore’s Liberty range provides an alternative without requiring a premium flagship budget.

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen

These two models are among the most important premium ANC choices in 2026.

Feature	Sony WF-1000XM6	Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen
ANC	Excellent	Excellent
Sound	Detailed, customisable	Powerful, bass-forward
Comfort	Good with correct fit	Good
App	Extensive	Extensive
Android	Excellent	Excellent
iPhone	Excellent	Excellent
Travel	Excellent	Excellent
Battery with ANC	Competitive	Up to 6 hours
Best suited to	Music + ANC	Maximum ANC focus

Independent testing differs somewhat in which model comes out ahead, which shows why ANC performance should not be judged by marketing claims alone. RTINGS currently gives the Sony the top overall noise-cancelling position, while Forbes and Tom’s Guide highlight Bose as their leading ANC choice.

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM6

The AirPods Pro 3 and Sony WF-1000XM6 target slightly different users.

Feature	AirPods Pro 3	Sony WF-1000XM6
iPhone integration	Excellent	Very good
Android integration	Limited	Excellent
ANC	Excellent	Excellent
Sound customisation	More limited	Extensive
Apple features	Excellent	Limited
Audio customisation	Good	Excellent
Best for	Apple users	Cross-platform users

If you are deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem, AirPods’ integration can be more important than small differences in ANC.

If you switch between devices or use Android, Sony provides considerably more flexibility.

What to Look for When Buying ANC Earbuds

1. ANC Performance

Do not look only at advertised decibel numbers.

Real-world ANC depends on microphone quality, processing, ear-tip seal and the type of noise around you.

2. Fit and Comfort

A perfect ANC system cannot perform properly if the earbuds do not seal your ears.

Try different ear-tip sizes if available.

3. Sound Quality

ANC is only half the experience.

Look for good bass control, clear vocals and balanced treble. An EQ in the companion app is also useful.

4. Battery Life

Check battery life with ANC enabled, not only the maximum figure with ANC disabled.

5. Transparency Mode

Good transparency mode is important for conversations, walking outdoors and hearing announcements.

6. Microphone Quality

If you make frequent calls, meetings or voice messages, microphone quality can be just as important as ANC.

7. Water Resistance

For gym use or outdoor activities, check the actual IP rating.

Sweat resistance is particularly useful if you plan to use earbuds during workouts.

8. Multipoint Connectivity

Multipoint allows supported earbuds to connect to multiple devices and switch between them.

This is useful if you regularly move between a laptop and smartphone.

Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds: Quick Comparison

Model	ANC	Sound	Battery	Best For
Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Travel
Sony WF-1000XM6	Excellent	Excellent	Very good	Music + ANC
AirPods Pro 3	Excellent	Excellent	Very good	iPhone
Galaxy Buds4 Pro	Excellent	Excellent	Very good	Samsung
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro	Very good	Very good	Very good	Value
Pixel Buds Pro 2	Very good	Very good	Very good	Google/Android
Technics EAH-AZ100	Very good	Excellent	Very good	Audiophiles
Powerbeats Pro 2	Very good	Very good	Very good	Workouts

Pros and Cons of Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Advantages

• Reduces unwanted background noise
• Better listening experience during travel
• Useful for noisy offices
• Can allow lower listening volume in some situations
• Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings
• Compact compared with over-ear ANC headphones
• Many models offer excellent call quality
• Premium models offer advanced sound customisation

Disadvantages

• Premium ANC earbuds can be expensive
• ANC performance depends on ear-tip fit
• Battery needs regular charging
• Some models have limited features outside their preferred ecosystem
• ANC cannot eliminate every type of noise
• Some users may find in-ear designs uncomfortable

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best noise cancelling earbuds in 2026?

Current leading options include the Sony WF-1000XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen), Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro. Different independent reviews place different models at the top depending on whether ANC, ecosystem integration, sound or value is prioritised.

2. Which earbuds have the best ANC?

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Sony WF-1000XM6 are among the strongest ANC options in 2026. RTINGS currently ranks the Sony WF-1000XM6 at the top of its noise-cancelling earbuds recommendations, while Forbes and Tom’s Guide highlight Bose for ANC performance.

3. Are Sony WF-1000XM6 good for noise cancellation?

Yes. The WF-1000XM6 has received strong independent test results for both ANC and passive isolation, including reduction of low-frequency engine rumble and higher-frequency background noise.

4. Are Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen worth considering?

They are particularly suitable for users who prioritise noise cancellation and comfort. Forbes and Tom’s Guide both currently highlight the second-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds among their leading ANC choices.

5. What are the best noise cancelling earbuds for iPhone?

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 is a strong choice for iPhone users because of its Apple ecosystem integration. Bose and Sony are alternatives if ANC performance, Android compatibility or audio customisation is more important.

6. What are the best noise cancelling earbuds for Samsung phones?

The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro is designed to integrate closely with Samsung Galaxy devices and has strong ANC performance. RTINGS currently lists it as its best Samsung earbuds.

7. What are the best affordable ANC earbuds?

The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro is one of the more interesting mid-range choices in 2026. RTINGS highlights its ANC performance as being competitive with significantly more expensive models in some areas.

8. Are noise cancelling earbuds good for airplane travel?

Yes. ANC is particularly useful for reducing continuous low-frequency sounds such as airplane engine noise. Bose and Sony are especially relevant choices for frequent travellers.

9. Does ANC use more battery?

Yes. Active noise cancellation requires additional processing and microphone activity, so battery life is usually lower with ANC enabled than with ANC switched off.

10. Are ANC earbuds better than noise cancelling headphones?

Not necessarily. Over-ear headphones generally have larger drivers and earcups that can provide strong passive isolation and long battery life. Earbuds are smaller, lighter and more convenient. The better option depends on comfort, portability and how you plan to use them.

Conclusion

The best noise cancelling earbuds in 2026 depend on what matters most to you.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 is a particularly strong all-round option for users who want excellent ANC, high-quality sound and extensive customisation. RTINGS currently ranks it at the top of its noise-cancelling earbuds recommendations.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are particularly compelling for frequent travellers and users who put ANC performance first.

For iPhone owners, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 offers the biggest advantage through Apple’s ecosystem. Samsung Galaxy users have a similarly compelling ecosystem option in the Galaxy Buds4 Pro.

If you want to spend less, the Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro demonstrates how mid-range earbuds can now deliver strong ANC without moving all the way into flagship pricing.

For Malaysian buyers, the final decision should come down to ANC performance, smartphone compatibility, comfort, sound quality, battery life and budget rather than simply choosing the most expensive earbuds.