Best Overall$350-$400at Amazon
Sony WH-1000XM6
The current gold standard for travel ANC headphones. Wirecutter and Reddit both crown it best-in-class for noise cancellation, comfort, and audio performance.
Helpful?
If you fly more than twice a year, just get the XM6. It beats everything else on noise cancellation and comfort, and the community consensus is overwhelming.
Pros
- Best-in-class active noise cancellation for blocking engine drone
- Lightweight and comfortable for long-haul flights
- Top-tier audio performance across highs, mids, and lows
- Strong build quality with no hinge issues reported (unlike XM5)
Cons
- Premium price point — most expensive Sony option
- Newer model means less long-term durability data available
- Folds flat but case is still bulky for ultralight packers
“The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are our favorite over-ear ANC headphones because this set provides the best combination of effective noise cancellation, comfort, audio performance, and build quality.”
— Wirecutter