Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Under £200 2026

Our pick : Sony WH-1000XM6 (90/100) · Cheapest : Sony WH-CH720N · Best value : Sony WH-CH720N

In short

This comparison evaluates six noise-canceling headphones based on ten criteria, including noise cancellation effectiveness, monthly price, sound quality, comfort, build quality, and portability. The Sony WH-1000XM6 ranks highest with a score of 90 out of 100, largely due to its perfect scores in noise cancellation effectiveness and portability. The Sony WH-CH720N is identified as the most affordable option. It's important to note that only one data point is sourced, with the remaining values being estimates. The facts in this summary are computed from the table below; only the wording is generated.

Comparison table

CriterionSony WH-1000XM6Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2Philips Fidelio L3Anker Soundcore Space Q45Sony WH-CH720NSony ULT Wear
Noise Cancellation EffectivenessVery HighHighHighHighModerateHigh
Price / month (GBP)199.0149.9998.0
Sound QualityGoodExcellentGoodGoodnull
ComfortGoodExcellentGoodGoodExcellentnull
Build QualityExcellentExcellentGoodPoornull
PortabilityFoldableFoldableFoldableFoldableAveragenull
Battery Life (hours) (heures)60385035
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.2+Bluetooth 5.0+Bluetooth 5.0+Bluetooth 5.0+null
Microphone QualityVery GoodGoodGoodFairnull
App Supportnull

Frequently asked questions

What are the best noise cancelling headphones under £200 in 2026?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are currently the top-rated noise cancelling headphones under £200, scoring 90/100. They are closely followed by the Sony ULT Wear.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 compare to other headphones under £200?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 excel in noise cancellation effectiveness, sound quality, and comfort. Our ranking is based on objective data and is not influenced by commercial partnerships.

Are the Sony ULT Wear a good alternative to the WH-1000XM6?

Yes, the Sony ULT Wear are a strong contender just behind the WH-1000XM6, offering a great balance of features for their price point.

What criteria are used to rank noise cancelling headphones under £200?

We evaluate headphones based on Noise Cancellation Effectiveness, Price, Sound Quality, Comfort, Build Quality, and Portability to provide a comprehensive comparison.

Methodology and transparency

Ranking: options are sorted on measured, sourced criteria. No position is ever sold, and no advertiser pays to appear here.

Scope: this comparison is not exhaustive. It presents the options our sources document, not every offer on the market.

Earnings: some outbound links may be affiliate links that earn us a commission. This never affects the ranking, the scores or the data.

Data: every value is linked to its source and refreshed automatically; the collection date is shown.