Sony WF-1000XM4 for $248 ($278) at Amazon, Target, Best Buy
Sony's WF-1000XM4 is another compelling in-ear option that's down to the lowest price we've tracked. This pair's ANC is comparable to that of the AirPods Pro, with even greater effectiveness in the higher-frequency range. Their sound profile is heavier on the bass by default, but they still sound nice for those who enjoy that kind of thing. The earphones have the same IPX4 water resistance rating as Apple's pair, and they support a number of features from the over-ear WH-1000XM4, including "speak-to-chat" auto-pausing and a customizable EQ. Battery life is excellent for earbuds at roughly 10 hours of continuous playback.
All told, this is a good choice for non-iPhone users willing to pay for a higher-end pair of true wireless earphones. Just note that they might be a tight fit for smaller ears, since the earpieces are somewhat large.
Jabra Elite 75t for $77 ($135) at Amazon, Target, Best Buy
While Jabra technically replaced them earlier this year, the Elite 75t is an excellent option for those looking for a more affordable pair of true wireless noise-cancelers at this deal price. Jabra added ANC functionality to these earphones through a post-launch firmware update, so they're not as capable of muting outside noise as models built with the tech in mind, particularly when it comes to lower-end rumbles. Still, the noise canceling is strong enough to be useful in more casual surroundings.
The real appeal is in its ultralight and compact design, which makes it one of the most comfortable in-ear headphones I've tested. The earphones do well to stay in place while on the move, and with an IP55 water-resistance rating, they're a little better-suited for workouts than the Apple or Sony models above. The one-button control scheme on each earpiece is relatively straightforward, and the whole package comes in a diminutive charging case that's especially easy to transport. Battery life is sufficient at seven hours of continuous playback, and call quality is solid as well.
Out of the box, the Elite 75t has a "v-shaped" sound signature that emphasizes the bass and treble by default. It's solid, but not as impressive as what you'd get from the pricier Apple or Sony pairs. Jabra's app does let you customize the sound to your liking. I would recommend you pony up for one of the models above if you prioritize ANC or audio performance, but the Elite 75t are a good pick for less than $100. This discount matches the best price we've tracked.
Beats Studio Buds for $100 ($145) at Amazon, Target, Best Buy
For an alternative near this price range, the Beats Studio Buds are worth a look at this deal price, which marks a new low. As we noted in our review earlier this year, the Studio Buds' sound profile is more mellow and measured than the Elite 75t's default signature, and the earphones are even more lightweight and compact in the ear. They also pack many (but not all) of the iPhone-friendly conveniences you'd get from the AirPods Pro.
Their ANC, while fine, isn't as effective as the Pro, their mic quality is worse, and they lack ear detection for auto-pausing content when they're removed from your ear. Nevertheless, they're a good option for iPhone owners looking to spend about $100.
Beats Solo Pro for $99 ($150) at Walmart
If you want noise cancelation in an on-ear design, the Beats Solo Pro are worth considering at this all-time lowest price. Their noise canceling is plenty respectable—though not as good as Sony, Apple, or Bose—and the headphones come with the same set of user-experience conveniences you'd expect from an Apple headphone. Audio quality is up to the mark as well: the profile here definitely bumps the bass, but not to the extent you might expect from a set of Beats cans. Battery life clocks in between 20-25 hours, and the foldable design is both stylish and sturdy.
Most people looking for noise-canceling headphones should still grab one of the over-ear pairs above since the Solo Pro's on-ear form factor can't naturally isolate the ear from as much outside noise. The mic quality also isn't the best, and those with larger heads may find this pair to clamp down somewhat tight over time. But for those who wear glasses and/or just can't seem to make any pair of over-ears fit, the Solo Pro is a worthy compromise at this price.
Always a Good Value: Anker Soundcore Life Q30 for $80 at Amazon
If you're looking to pay even less for an over-ear pair, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is my current recommendation for a wireless noise-canceling headphone under $100. Its sound profile has a massive bass boost by default, though it can be customized through a companion app. While its ANC isn't as strong as any of the over-ear pairs above, it's effective enough, which is more than I can say for most other headphones in this price range. It also lasts longer than 40 hours on a charge, which is tremendous. This pair isn't any cheaper than usual as of this writing, but if you're on a particularly tight budget, it's worth a mention.
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