I train 6 days a week and commute through chaos — these are the noise-cancelling headphones worth buying

Sony vs Bose vs the one good budget pick, tested on the train, in the gym and at the desk. The Sony WH-1000XM6 is the default answer — here's the… Aliteq Jordan Okoye · Fitness & Wearables Contributor

Buy these: the Sony WH-1000XM6 — best noise cancelling, best call quality, they fold again, ~$450. The default answer and I'd argue with anyone who says otherwise.

The short version (for people mid-commute)

Buy Bose instead if comfort is your whole thing — the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) are the softest, gentlest pair I've worn on a long flight, ~$429. You give up a little sound detail and call quality.

The short version (for people mid-commute)

On a budget: the Sony WH-CH720N at ~$130 (often under $100) is basically the only sub-$150 pair with ANC I don't resent. Light, huge battery, honest little compromises.

The short version (for people mid-commute)

The honest catch: the XM6 clamp a touch and the earcups run small; Bose calls sound average; the CH720N's treble is hot until you EQ it. None of that sent any of them back.

The short version (for people mid-commute)

Buy the Sony WH-1000XM6. It's the pair in my bag right now — best noise cancelling, the only calls that survive a loud platform, and folding is finally back so it actually travels. Get the Bose QC…

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