10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones in Singapore

For a Singaporean, a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones is not just a luxury—it’s almost a necessity. Battling the daily symphony of the MRT, the persistent chatter of a busy food court, or the consistent drilling from a neighbour’s home renovation, can take a serious toll on your focus and sanity. We’ve all been there, trying to immerse ourselves in a podcast or just get a moment of peace, only to be interrupted by the sounds of the urban jungle.

I don’t know about you, but these days I find myself reaching for my noise cancelling headphones more than ever, and I honestly think they’ve become as essential as my phone. Funnily, I’ve also observed people wearing Loop earplugs to concerts and when they’re out and about to cut down stimulation, which makes me realise just how much we all crave a bit of quiet.

I used to think noise cancelling was just for frequent flyers, but now I can’t imagine working or commuting without it. And if you’re here now looking for the perfect pair of noise cancelling headphones, you know exactly what I mean. Before we dive into my picks for the best noise cancelling headphones in Singapore based on real user reviews, let’s take a quick look at how they work, why you’d need them, and what to consider when shopping for your pair.

Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Cancelling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, From $525.87

Best overall noise cancelling headphones with premium sound in Singapore

Whenever I think of the best noise cancelling headphones, Sony’s WH-1000X series is one of the first that come to mind. I’ve tried the XM3 and XM4 in the past, and the WH-1000XM6 doesn’t just feel like a natural evolution—it also seems like a significant improvement. Its design is sleek and comfortable—slimmer than earlier models—with earcups that feel soft and lightweight enough to wear for hours. I think comfort really matters here, especially on long flights or work days when you can end up wearing them for hours.

What I love though is how powerful the noise cancellation is, which some users aptly dub the “impenetrable sonic barrier”, that blocks out everything from traffic to chatter. Compared to Bose or Sennheiser, I think Sony gives you that extra hush in noisy environments—whether it’s the rumble of an MRT ride or the roar of an airplane cabin. Sony’s new HD noise cancelling QN3 processor and additional microphones (making a total of 12 noise cancelling mics) really seem to make a difference according to user reviews, especially with mid-range sounds like people talking. And the sound quality? It’s punchy, balanced, and detailed. Mids and trebles are well-handled, while the boosted bass is strong without being overwhelming, making everything from lo-fi beats to classical music sound rich and immersive.

Battery life is respectable—up to 30 hours on a single charge, with quick charging that gives three hours of playback from just a three-minute charge. Also, the XM6 is now foldable (the XM5 wasn’t), which makes it so much more portable. For me, these headphones are not just premium but practical. Sony’s focus on longer battery cycles and durable components makes the XM6 a solid long-term investment. Only possible downside is the ear pad design, which some users have reported as clamping tighter—and which may also run hot in Singapore weather.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Cancelling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are priced from $525.87 on Amazon.sg.

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, $444.90

Best noise cancelling headphones for comfort and spatial audio in Singapore

Now, if you’re worried about the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones clamping too tightly and uncomfortably, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra might be your answer. Reviewers highlight its supreme comfort, making it ideal for long flights or study sessions. Personally, I’ve tried a lot of ANC headphones over the years, but whenever I slip on a pair of Bose, I immediately notice how lightweight and plush they feel. The clamping force is gentle, cushioning is soft, and honestly, I think these are the most comfortable pair of noise cancelling headphones for wearing all day—especially if you’re sensitive to pressure from headphones.

The noise cancellation on these is top-tier too. Bose has always been a leader, and the Ultra is no different. Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM6, I find Bose feels a bit more natural. Sony gives you that “total silence” cocoon, while Bose tunes out the chaos without making the world feel artificially muted. I think this balance works really well if you’re wearing them in cafés or on commutes where you still want to feel slightly connected to your environment.

The sound profile is clean and spacious. I’d say Bose focuses more on clarity and balance rather than heavy bass. The new “Immersive Audio feature is also a game-changer. It creates a spatial audio effect that makes it feel like the music is happening around you rather than inside your head, adding a new dimension to your listening experience. If you’re a basshead, Sony or Beats might suit you better, but for everyday listening across genres, I think the Bose sound signature feels effortless.

Battery life is decent at around 24 hours, which is slightly less than Sony’s 30, but still plenty for long-haul flights or work weeks. However, the Immersive Audio feature is reportedly a bit of a battery drainer, which users have complained can drastically reduce battery life to just over 10 hours. In terms of durability, Bose headphones hold up well over time—earpads are replaceable, and the build quality feels sturdy despite the lightness. I believe these can last years with proper care.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are priced at $444.90 on Amazon.sg.

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Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, From $294

Best noise cancelling headphones for audiophile sound quality in Singapore

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about headphones, it’s that you often have to choose between features and pure audio fidelity. But with the Sennheiser Momentum 4, there seems to be no apparent need for compromise. As an audio lover, this is why I think it absolutely deserves a spot on the top 10 list.

The sound: sound quality is where this product shines. It feels like Sennheiser poured its soul into making the audio experience as authentic as possible. When I listen to my favourite albums on these, I hear details and nuances that were completely lost on other headphones. Compared to Sony’s punchier bass and Bose’s lighter touch, I think Sennheiser nails that “studio” feel. The soundstage is wide, the mids are rich, and the bass is deep and controlled—not just a muddy mess. The Sennheiser Smart Control app also gives you a ton of control with a customizable EQ, which is a must-have for anyone serious about their music.

The ANC on these is also effective, although maybe a tiny step behind the Sony or Bose in raw power—still more than enough for everyday use and travel. Transparency Mode is also well-executed, letting in outside sounds naturally when you need to be aware of your surroundings. Design-wise, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is all about understated elegance and comfort. Its foldable design is a huge improvement over the previous generation, making it much more travel-friendly.

But the real star here is battery life—60 hours with ANC on is just insane, and it means you can go nearly a week without even thinking about charging! For anyone who prioritises sound quality above all else, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is a clear winner. Its superb audio, amazing battery life, and solid ANC make it a very compelling package—especially at this price point, which I think offers fantastic value.

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones are priced from $294 on Amazon.sg.

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Soundcore by Anker, Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, From $110.80

Best affordable noise cancelling headphones in Singapore

I think it’s fair to say that Chinese manufacturer Anker has really carved out a niche for itself as a brand that offers premium features at budget prices, and its Soundcore Space One is a fantastic example of that. When I was looking for an affordable pair of headphones for my nephew, these really caught my eye. At barely over $100, I was expecting them to be “decent” at best, but after trying them on, I dare they they are hands down one of the best affordable noise cancelling headphones available right now.

I think the biggest selling point here is how much you’re getting for this price. The design feels modern and clean (not cheap like some budget models), it’s lightweight and the earcups are padded well enough for long sessions. I wouldn’t say they’re quite as plush as Bose or Sony, but for the price, they’re surprisingly comfortable.

The noise cancellation is also surprisingly effective, especially at blocking out consistent mid-to-high frequency sounds, like the chatter in a food court or a bustling office. It might not completely silence the roar of a jet engine like higher-end models, but for daily use, it’s more than capable. The adaptive ANC also adjusts intelligently to your environment, which is a feature I’d typically associate with more expensive headphones.

Sound quality is good enough for casual listening—I think more than satisfactory if you’re not a hardcore audiophile. The 40-hour battery life with ANC on is also a major plus, giving you plenty of juice for a full week of commuting or a few long flights. The fast charge function is great—just a 5-minute charge gives you 4 hours of playback.

In terms of long-term use and efficiency, you can’t really beat the value here. Of course, don’t expect too much—these are still mostly plastic and won’t feel as premium as a Sony or Bose, and the microphone also reportedly struggles a bit in noisy environments. Overall, though, the Space One could be a fantastic fit for anyone wanting to experience ANC without spending a ton.

The Soundcore by Anker Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are priced from $110.80 on Amazon.sg.

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Beats Studio Pro Wireless Headphones, From $300

Best noise cancelling headphones for bass lovers in Singapore

The Beats Studio Pro is one of those headphones that makes you feel a bit cooler just wearing them. I think it’s partly the design—sleek, bold, and fashion-forward—and partly the sound signature that’s unmistakably “Beats.” Compared to the more balanced tones of Bose or Sennheiser, these offer a punchier bass, which I most definitely enjoy when listening to hip hop, EDM, or workout playlists.

Although it’s now Apple-owned, Beats headphones pair easily and work well with both Apple and Android systems (unlike the AirPods Max which are heavily biased towards iOS). Comfort-wise, some users report discomfort, noting that its earcups can press uncomfortably against the ears or feel too tight (Read: not for people with larger heads or ears). There are also complaints of long hair snagging in the folding joints.

Noise cancellation is solid and well praised though. Not quite at the level of the Sony WH-1000XM6, but it does a good job cutting down MRT noise, busy streets, or office chatter. Transparency Mode is useful too, when you need to hear what’s happening around you without taking the headphones off.

Battery life is up to 40 hours without ANC (24 hours with ANC or Transparency Mode), which is still competitive. Fast charging is handy too: just 10 minutes gives you around 4 hours of playback. Long-term, I think they’ll hold up fine if you’re careful with them. The build feels sturdy, and Beats has improved a lot since being under Apple. Plus, they now support lossless audio over USB-C (if you’re connecting to a computer or other compatible device), which feels like a nice upgrade if you care about higher-quality sound.

The Beats Studio Pro Wireless Headphones are priced from $300 at the Apple Flagship Store on Shopee.

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Apple AirPods Max, From $693.90

Best premium noise cancelling headphones for Apple users in Singapore

This one is on my secret wishlist. As an Apple user, I’ve always felt drawn to the AirPods Max—but, fortunately, I’m (still) extremely happy with my AirPods Pro 3. AirPods Max are easily the most striking headphones I’ve seen, with their dreamy candy colours and chic design—you have to admit, they just look so different from all the other headphones on this list. I think the design alone sets them apart—anodised aluminium earcups, a stainless steel frame, that breathable mesh canopy headband, and memory foam ear cushions. They look and feel premium, like something Apple would proudly display next to a MacBook.

They’re noticeably heavier than Sony or Bose, but the weight distribution makes them surprisingly comfortable, even for long listening sessions. Noise cancellation is excellent. Apple’s ANC feels on par with Sony’s WH-1000XM6, and I think it handles higher-frequency noises a bit better than most. Transparency mode is also very natural, which makes it great for commuting or working from cafés when you need to stay aware.

The real killer feature for Apple users, however, is the Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking feature (a mouthful, but game changing). If you’re watching movies or TV on an Apple device, it feels like you’re in a theatre, and the sound moves with your head, creating an incredibly immersive experience. I personally think the sound is top-notch (clean and spacious), but some bass lovers might find the neutral tuning less than exciting.

Battery life is about 20 hours with ANC on, which is less than Sennheiser or Soundcore by Anker, but still decent for daily use. What really sells these, though, is how seamlessly they integrate with Apple devices. Pairing is instant, switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac is effortless, and little touches like automatic device syncing make these feel magical if you’re already in the Apply ecosystem. Long term, I think they’re worth it for Apple users, but if you’re on Android, you’d unfortunately miss out on many of its features.

The Apple AirPods Max are priced from $693.90 at the Apple Flagship Store on Lazada.

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Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, From $555.62

Best studio-quality noise cancelling headphones for audiophiles in Singapore

After all these years, the musician and songwriter in me still has a major soft spot for Shure. The brand takes me right back to recording sessions and live gigs—all the moments when sound really mattered. With its deep legacy in professional audio, Shure’s Aonic 50 Gen 2 is a strong reminder of that heritage. If you’re looking for studio-quality sound without compromise, look no further.

The sound signature here is detailed, natural, and very true to life—no boosted bass, no over-processed highs, just a balanced profile that keeps every track sounding clean and layered. Compared to Sony or Beats, which add a bit of fun colouration, Shure keeps it refreshingly honest. With custom-engineered 50mm dynamic drivers and support for a wide range of high-resolution codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive, these headphones deliver a beautifully detailed and accurate sound.

I think what really sets these apart is the High-Resolution USB Streaming, which allows you to bypass the wireless connection and get up to 32-bit/384 kHz audio via USB-C. This is a huge plus for audiophiles who want the best sound quality without compromise. The customisable parametric EQ in the ShurePlus PLAY app is also a major selling point, letting you fine-tune the sound to your exact preferences.

Design-wise, they look and feel premium, with a solid build that leans more professional than trendy. The earcups are large and plush, and I think they’re comfortable enough for long listening sessions—though they’re not as feather-light as Bose. Still, the craftsmanship feels like something that will last for years if you take care of them.

Noise cancellation is decent, though I’d say Sony and Bose will edge these out if you want absolute silence on a plane. Where Shure wins is in sound quality even with ANC switched on—you don’t lose that richness or clarity. They also have an Environment Mode, which works like transparency mode, letting outside sounds in naturally.

Battery life is about 45 hours with ANC on, which is excellent and well above Bose or Apple. For me, that makes them practical as well as premium. Long term, I think these are a fantastic investment if you care about sound first and ANC second. They may not be the most mainstream choice, but they’re easily one of the best noise cancelling headphones for audiophiles and music lovers who prioritise audio fidelity.

The Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are priced from $555.62 at Amazon.sg.

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Creative Zen Hybrid Pro, $109

Best local brand noise cancelling headphones for battery life in Singapore

The Creative Zen Hybrid Pro feels a little special since it’s from Singapore’s very own Creative—a brand I grew up associating with sound cards and early MP3 players. There’s something nice about supporting a local name in a space that’s dominated by Sony, Bose, and Apple. And honestly, I think Creative has pulled off something pretty cool with the Zen Hybrid Pro—they’ve really packed a ton of features into an incredibly affordable package.

I think the biggest headliner here (and the main reason it makes this list) is the crazy battery life. Up to 100 hours with ANC off and 80 hours with ANC on is just insane. I think that’s a massive deal for anyone who travels a lot or just hates having to charge their headphones constantly. For heavy users, this is a game-changer. Plus, the fast charging is incredibly useful: a quick 5-minute boost gives you 5 hours of playback.

Design-wise, the Zen Hybrid Pro looks simple and understated. No flashy logos, no over-designed gimmicks—just a clean, matte finish with comfortable padding that makes it easy to wear for long stretches. Compared to pricier models, I think the build feels a little lighter, but that’s also what makes them comfortable on commutes or at the desk.

The ANC is surprisingly effective for the price. It won’t cancel out airplane engines as completely as the best noise cancelling headphones from Sony or Bose, but for everyday use—blocking out MRT noise, the aircon hum, or chatter in a café—it does a very decent job. I think this makes them perfect for students, casual listeners, or anyone who doesn’t want to overspend but still wants peace and quiet. Ambient Mode (their version of Transparency Mode) and Creative’s proprietary Super X-Fi AI technology (for recreating an immersive and expansive soundstage) are also great bonuses.

Sound quality is balanced with a slight bass boost, and you can customise it using the Creative app to your own personal liking. It’s not “audiophile-level” like Sennheiser or Shure, but for the price range, I think it punches well above its weight. Long term, I think these are a smart buy if you’re looking for the best affordable noise cancelling headphones and also want to support a local brand. They may not be the flashiest on the list, but they’re reliable, practical, and proudly Singaporean.

The Creative Zen Hybrid Pro are priced at $109 from Lazada.

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JBL Live 670 NC Wireless On-Ear Headphones, $169

Best portable on-ear noise cancelling headphones with long battery life in Singapore

For anyone who wants the benefit of noise cancellation without the bulk and weight of over-ear headphones, the JBL Live 670 NC is an excellent option. These on-ear headphones really deliver a great mix of features, performance, and portability, and this Sandstone finish is also a pretty nice change from your typical black and white options. The JBL Live 670NC is also proof that you don’t always need to spend premium money to get a really strong pair of ANC headphones.

I think the ANC performance is surprisingly good for an on-ear headphone. While it can’t completely isolate you from the world like a premium over-ear model (because the on-ear design itself inherently doesn’t “seal” off sound as well), JBL’s “True Adaptive Noise Cancelling” does a good job of filtering out a lot of background noise—like the rumbling of a bus or the low hum of an aircon. it won’t match the hush of the Bose or Sony, but for this price, it’s completely respectable. JBL also includes “Smart Ambient” mode (aka Transparency Mode) to keep you connected to your environment.

Sound-wise, they lean into JBL’s signature bass-forward tuning—fun for pop, hip hop, rock music, and movies, though maybe not the cleanest for classical or acoustic. For those who prefer a more balanced sound, the JBL Headphones App offers a custom equaliser so you can fine-tune the sound to your taste. Another great feature is the Multipoint connectivity, which allows you to switch seamlessly between two paired devices, like your phone and laptop.

Comfort-wise, on-ear headphones are generally lighter and more compact, making them less bulky for commuting or tossing into a bag, although on-ears can press a little if you wear them for long. For quick MRT rides, working in cafés, or shorter stretches, I think these are lightweight and comfortable. The real headline, though, is up to 65 hours of battery life—around 50 hours with ANC on. I think that positions these as one of the best travel headphones. A quick 5-minute charge also gives around 4 hours of playback, which can be a lifesaver when you forget to charge them. For the price, I think the JBL Live 670 NC offers fantastic value for anyone who wants a portable, feature-rich ANC headphone.

The JBL Live 670 NC Wireless On-Ear Headphones are priced at $169 from Amazon.sg.

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Apple AirPods Pro 3, $349

Best in-ear noise-cancelling headphones in Singapore for the Apple ecosystem

Ok, so I’m biased. I debated long and hard about which in-ear headphones to include in the list, and decided on these instead of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds or Sony WF-1000XM5—which are both excellent choices if you’re not an Apple user. But, I’m an Apple user, and these are the headphones I use the most—when I run, when watching Netflix on the iPad, when listening to Podcasts on my iPhone… you get the idea.

I personally think the ANC performance is fantastic. Apple claims it cancels up to four times more noise than the original AirPods Pro, and while I can’t verify that precise number, I do know that it creates a sense of almost total silence. The foam-infused ear tips, which come in five sizes including a XXS, provide a better seal that enhances the passive and active noise cancellation. I cannot hear the vacuum cleaner in the same room when I put these on. Transparency Mode is also first-class and sounds incredibly natural.

The sound quality is a significant upgrade from older models. The new multiport acoustic architecture and redesigned driver result in deeper bass, a wider soundstage, and better details. Apple AirPods Pro 3’s Adaptive EQ even automatically customises the sound based on your ear geometry to deliver consistently high-quality audio (yes, like magic). The Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking (like on the Airpods Max) is another standout feature which makes movies and music feel incredibly immersive.

I think the biggest and most exciting new feature is the heart rate sensing “health feature”. The earbuds can track your heart rate and calories burned during workouts, even without an Apple Watch, which is a big deal for fitness enthusiasts who prefer a more streamlined setup. Other cool features include Live Translation, Hearing Test and Hearing Aid, and Adaptive Audio, which intelligently mixes noise cancellation and transparency modes based on your environment.

However, if you’re not an Apple user, you won’t be able to access most of the smart features, and you can’t even update the firmware without an Apple device. The total battery life from the case has also decreased slightly compared to the Pro 2, which is a bit of a disappointment (up to 24 hours, but around 8 with ANC on). And while you can now charge the case with a USB-C, MagSafe, or Apple Watch charger, it no longer comes with a charging cable in the box, which is a bit of a letdown.

Still, I love them—and you will too if you have Apple devices.

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are priced at $349 from the Apple Flagship Store on Lazada or Amazon.

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How noise cancelling technology works

At a basic level, noise cancelling headphones use tiny microphones to detect surrounding sounds, then generate opposite or inverted sound waves to cancel them out. That’s the “active” part of Active Noise Cancelling (ANC). The best noise cancelling headphones combine this with snug ear cups or tips that provide passive noise isolation, so you get that satisfying hush even before the tech kicks in. When you put on a good pair of noise cancelling headphones, the effect is almost surreal—like someone hit a mute button on the world.

When and why you need noise cancelling headphones

“When and why wouldn’t you need noise cancelling headphones?” seems to be the more pertinent question. I think everyone benefits from a pair. Here’s when I use mine the most:

• Studying or working: In a busy office or loud café, to improve concentration and productivity.
• Working from home: When my neighbours start drilling, or when the kids start screaming.
• Commuting: MRT or bus rides are instantly calmer when you can zone out to music.
• Travelling: Planes are truly where ANC shines—you’ll be so enveloped in deep calm that you might even forget you’re on a plane.
• Relaxing: Sometimes I wear them with nothing playing, just to enjoy a cocoon of quiet (yes, I have three young kids).
• Sleeping: When you need to block out a snoring partner, noisy neighbours, or traffic, to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

And if you don’t want headphones on all the time, Loop earplugs are worth considering—they’re comfortable, discreet, and reduce sound without cutting you off entirely (I’ve just ordered a pair on Amazon!)

What to look out for when shopping for the best noise cancelling headphones

These are the things I check:

Comfort & Fit: Choose between over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear. I think over-ear headphones work best for long sessions—make sure they are lightweight and feature soft earcups (made of memory foam, for example). A proper fit is important for both comfort and effective passive noise isolation, so you should always try them on before buying if possible.

Noise cancellation technology and quality: Not all ANC is created equal. Some headphones are excellent at cancelling the low rumble of airplane engines, while others are better at reducing chatter in cafés. I always look at reviews that describe real-world usage—because marketing specs don’t tell you how it feels to wear them in daily life.

Sound Quality: For me, there’s no point in cancelling out noise if the music sounds flat or muffled. The best noise cancelling headphones strike a balance: rich bass, clear mids, and detailed trebles. If you’re an audiophile, Sennheiser or Shure might stand out. If you want a more mainstream balance, Sony and Bose are safe bets.

Microphone quality: If you’re planning to take Zoom calls, Teams meetings, or phone calls in crowded places, don’t overlook the mic. Some of the best noise cancelling headphones have dual or triple mic arrays with noise suppression that make your voice sound clear even when there’s background chatter or traffic. I think this is a lifesaver if you work from cafés or need to join calls on the go. Cheaper models sometimes skimp here—so always check reviews that mention call quality, not just music playback.

Battery Life and charging: This is where I’ve made mistakes before. Nothing’s worse than your headphones dying mid-flight. For over-ear headphones, I think you should expect at least 20–30 hours of battery life. For in-ear models, 5–6 hours on a single charge with a case that provides multiple recharges is ideal. Quick charging (10 minutes for a few hours of use) is also a huge plus.

Convenience and smart features: These days, I like headphones that go beyond pure noise cancellation—features like ambient/transparency mode (so you can hear announcements without taking your headphones off), multi-device pairing (which lets you switch seamlessly between devices), companion app (for easy customising), voice assistant integration, or even auto-pause when you take them off. These seemingly small quality-of-life features make a big difference if you use your headphones every day.

Portability: If you travel or commute often, foldable or compact designs are worth it. I personally prefer models that come with a sturdy case, because tossing expensive headphones into a bag without protection is a recipe for regret.

Price: Finally, there’s the question of budget. Premium models from Sony, Bose, or Apple can run over $500, but there are excellent mid-range and even budget choices. I think the sweet spot for most people is finding the balance between premium performance and the best affordable noise cancelling headphones that still deliver solid ANC and comfort.

Warranty and after-sales support: I’ve learnt the hard way that headphones are not a “buy once and forget” product, which is why I always check the warranty period and coverage. Big brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple have solid service networks in Singapore, but with some of the lesser-known brands, you might end up needing to ship your headphones overseas for repairs. I think paying a little more for reliable, local after-sales support can save you a lot of possible frustration later.