'Listening to music has never been so addictive': of all the noise-cancelling headphones I've tested, these are the only 3 I'd spend my money on

1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51, Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3, and Sony WH-1000XM6 alongside one another — (Image credit: Future)

I've tested a whole lot of noise-cancelling headphones here at TechRadar, including everything from budget-friendly models through to some truly luxurious alternatives.

But after countless hours of testing, there are only three models I'd recommend above all others — and I'm here to share my selections with you. In this list, I've included my overall top choice, an excellent cheap option, as well as a premium pick.

1. Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony WH-1000XM6 leaning on pole — (Image credit: Future)

I use the Sony WH-1000XM6 just about every day, and for my money, they're the best pound-for-pound noise-cancelling headphones on the market.

Why? Well, they're the definition of true all-rounders. They offer class-leading active noise cancellation, beautifully balanced and dynamic audio, and a sleek yet foldable design — all of which makes them genuinely feel worth their asking price.

Combine that with the best call quality I've experienced from a pair of headphones, a neat magnetic case, and a Cinema mode for more immersive movie-watching, and these are the total package. It's no surprise, then, that we class the WH-1000XM6 as the best overall pick in our guide to the best headphones.

2. 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51

1More SonoFlow Pro HQ51 headphones held in a man's hands — (Image credit: Future)

It almost feels impossible that the 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 even exist. They just deliver so much for such a small price, with genuinely solid ANC, intricate and well-rounded sound, and a neat look to boot.

They make the cut in our guide to the best noise-cancelling headphones, and we found that they competed with far pricier cans, like the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Cambridge Audio P100 SE, in terms of noise-crushing capabilities, which only goes to show their phenomenal value.

When I reviewed the Sonoflow Pro HQ51, I was also blown away by their 65-hour battery life...that's with noise cancelling active by the way! Pair that with a foldable design, and these headphones are ideal for on-the-go use. They're easily the best budget option on the market, in my view.

3. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3

Bowers &amp; Wilkins Px7 S3 over-ear headphones on a white surface — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

And finally, if you're looking for a premium pair of noise-cancelling headphones, then it doesn't get a whole lot better than the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3.

These luxurious-looking beauties are qualified to satisfy you, with incredibly spacious and beautifully separated sound, stellar build quality, and higher-resolution Bluetooth streaming capabilities.

With the Px7 S3, every sound is so well defined, the soundstage is so expansive, and with aptX Adaptive, every detail is laid bare. B&W's headphones may not provide the unstoppable ANC that the aforementioned XM6 do, but noise cancelling is still vastly improved against the Px7 S2.