The Best Noise Cancelling Headphones in Australia 2026: Wireless ANC for Work and Travel
- William Davis
- Jan 13
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 20
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff.
Noise cancelling headphones have become an essential tool for millions of Australians—whether you're commuting on the Melbourne metro, working from home in Sydney, or catching a long-haul flight to Perth. The best noise cancelling headphones in Australia 2026 combine active noise cancelling (ANC) technology, sound quality, comfort, and value, making them invaluable for professionals, students, and frequent travelers.
However, finding the right wireless noise cancelling headphones isn't straightforward. Quality varies dramatically across brands, from affordable options under AU$300 to premium models exceeding AU$800. Our testing process is simple but rigorous: We evaluate noise cancelling ability, sound quality, usability, comfort for extended wear, battery life, and after-purchase customer support before recommending products to Australian buyers.
This comprehensive guide reviews the top rated noise cancelling headphones across multiple price points, helping you choose the perfect over ear headphones or earbuds for work, travel, studying, or everyday use. Whether you're searching for cheap noise cancelling headphones in Australia or willing to invest in premium adaptive noise cancelling technology, you'll find a detailed recommendation below.
Quick Comparison: Best Noise Cancelling Headphones Australia at a Glance
Model | Price (AUD) | Best For | Key Strength | ANC Quality |
Fitlybone Remix II | AU$199.99 | Budget-conscious buyers & travel | 50-hour battery, comfort, value | Excellent for price |
Bose QuietComfort 45 | AU$389.00 | Work calls & office use | Balanced ANC, comfort, reliability | Industry-leading |
Bose Noise Canceling 700 | AU$455.00 | Premium ANC enthusiasts | Best-in-class noise cancelling | Superior performance |
Apple AirPods Max | AU$888.00 | Apple ecosystem users | Seamless device switching, transparency mode | Good (not exceptional) |
Yamaha YH-L700A | AU$419.00 | Audiophiles & classical music lovers | Sound quality for instrumental music | Below average |
Read this article written for the Australian market before making a purchase.
Fitlybone Remix II: Editor’s pick for all around best noise canceling headphones - AU$ 199.99 at Fitlybuy store →
Where to buy Fitlybone Remix II Noise Cancelling headphones in Australia
The Fitlybone Remix II over ear noise cancelling headphones sit at the perfect intersection of affordability and performance. These wireless noise cancelling headphones deliver active noise cancelling capabilities that compete with much more expensive models from established brands—often at half the price. For Australians seeking the best affordable noise cancelling headphones, the Remix II remains unbeaten in 2026.
Best Value Link
Please use our best value link if you intend to make a purchase. This directly supports our Australia-based staff of writers and editors.► $199.99 tax included at Fitlybuy store – free delivery
Key Features:
50-hour battery life with USB-C rapid charging (longest in our test)
Dual-microphone active noise cancelling effectively blocks low-frequency background noise
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with stable pairing across multiple devices
Hard shell travel case included
Swivel ear cups with memory foam cushioning for extended comfort
So what makes the Remix II over ear wireless headphones the best active noise canceling headset?
✅ Pros
The best value ANC headphones in Australia, period.
The Remix II come with a comprehensive feature set that enhances daily productivity—from focused work sessions to leisure listening. When you need concentration, activate active noise cancelling mode to eliminate an impressive amount of background noise (particularly AC hum, traffic, and office chatter). The package includes a well-constructed hard shell carrying case and cable, providing excellent value compared to over ear headphones at this price point.
Absurd battery life with ultra-fast USB-C charging.
The 50-hour continuous playback time far exceeds competitors in our list, making these wireless noise cancelling headphones ideal for long-haul travel in Australia without charging anxiety. Rapid USB-C charging means a 15-minute top-up provides several hours of use—perfect for last-minute airport trips.
Outstanding sound range for all uses.
Music across all frequencies sounds balanced and clear, with minimal distortion at high and low volumes. In ANC mode, the Remix II further enhances the listening experience by removing distracting ambient noise. The dual microphone system ensures clear voice pickup during Zoom calls and phone meetings, eliminating the need for a secondary headset.
Genuine comfort for 4+ hour wearing sessions.
Fitlybone invested in quality memory foam ear cups and a padded headband—we experienced no discomfort even after extended wearing periods. These comfortable noise cancelling headphones for long use won't leave you with sore ears after a workday or flight.
Australia-based warehouse and responsive customer support.
Unlike most Asian-based retailers, Fitlybone maintains an Australian warehouse with local customer support. During testing, support queries received replies within one hour. This commitment to Australian customers significantly influenced our Editor's Pick designation.
❌ Cons
Frequently out of stock.
Fitlybone sells through limited online retailers, and stock regularly depletes, especially during sales periods. We'd like to see these noise cancelling headphones Australia become more widely available at major retailers like JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman.
Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700: Bose delivers, but with pricey frills – $455.00 at Amazon.com.au →
Where to buy the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 in Australia
The Bose Noise Canceling 700 wireless noise cancelling headphones represent Bose's cutting-edge approach to active noise cancelling technology. If you prioritize maximum noise isolation above all else, these premium over ear headphones deliver some of the best ANC performance available globally—and Australia is no exception.
Best Value Link
Please use our best value link if you intend to make a purchase. This directly supports our Australia-based staff of writers and editors.
Key Features:
11 levels of adjustable active noise cancelling (customize ANC intensity)
Hybrid noise cancelling with forward and rear-facing microphones
Premium build quality with stainless steel and leather accents
Up to 20-hour battery life
Bluetooth 5.0 with multipoint pairing
Bose Music app integration
Why Bose makes the list of best Bluetooth ANC headphones winners
✅ Pros
Noise cancelling at the absolute top of the pack.
Bose's 11-level ANC adjustment lets you dial in exactly how much external noise reaches your ears. This hybrid noise cancelling system uses front and rear microphones to capture and neutralize ambient sound with surgical precision. These are among the best noise cancelling headphones for studying and professional environments requiring absolute focus.
Exceptional sound quality for music and calls.
Music sounds tremendous on the 700, particularly with ANC engaged—you'll feel transported to a private listening environment. The improved microphone array also means calls are clearer than the QC45, though minor distortion can occur with certain voice types.
Multipoint Bluetooth pairing for seamless device switching.
Connect to your laptop, iPhone, and tablet simultaneously. Switch between devices without manual reconnection—perfect for Australian remote workers managing multiple screens.
❌ Cons
Comfort takes a backseat to design.
The thin, angled headpiece looks sleek but feels uncomfortable after 20-30 minutes for many head sizes. Users with smaller heads or thick hair report gaps that compromise ANC effectiveness. Long-haul travelers and all-day remote workers should test-wear before committing.
Touch controls remain frustratingly unreliable.
Bose still hasn't fixed the problematic touch-sensitive ear cups. Swipe gestures frequently trigger wrong commands—skipping songs mid-meeting, accidentally hanging up calls, or accidentally pausing music. Physical buttons are markedly superior.
Price premium for incremental gains.
At AU$455 versus AU$389 for the QC45, you're paying AU$66 extra for 11 levels of ANC adjustment and marginally better call clarity. For many Australians, the value proposition doesn't justify the premium.
Bose QuietComfort 45: An older, battle tested over ear ANC model – $389.00 at DickSmith.com.au →
Where to buy the Bose QuietComfort 45 in Australia
The Bose QuietComfort 45 represents a refined approach to active noise cancelling headphones. Despite being Bose's older model, it remains one of the most reliable over ear headphones for work in Australia. Bose kept this model in production alongside the newer 700 because they "got it right the first time"—and for many Australian professionals, the QC45 offers better value than its pricier sibling.
Best Value Link
Please use our best value link if you intend to make a purchase. This directly supports our Australia-based staff of writers and editors.
Key Features:
Industry-leading active noise cancelling with proven Bose technology since the 1990s
Comfortable over-ear design rated for 8+ hour workdays
Up to 24-hour battery life
Physical buttons (superior to touch controls)
Lightweight design at 240 grams
Why an older Bose model remains at the top of our list of best wireless noise canceling headphones
✅ Pros
Noise cancelling that sets the industry standard.
For four decades, Bose pioneered ANC headphones Australia technology. The QC45 showcases this expertise with highly effective noise isolation—particularly strong at blocking low-frequency office noise (AC hum, traffic rumble, colleague conversations). These remain among the best noise cancelling headphones for work, making them ideal for noise cancelling headphones for studying in Australia.
Stands up to the rigorous listening test.
Despite their maturity, the QC45 still deliver premium audio across all genres. Highs remain crisp without sibilance distortion; bass is present without overwhelming mid-range vocals. This balanced approach makes them suitable for noise cancelling headphones for work and travel without compromising music quality.
Designed for all-day professional use.
With 24-hour battery life and a lightweight build, these comfortable noise cancelling headphones support full workdays (or long flights from Sydney to London) without fatigue. The stable Bluetooth 4.2 connection rarely drops, and the included audio cable provides emergency backup.
Physical button controls that actually work.
Unlike the newer Bose 700's problematic touch controls, the QC45 feature tactile buttons on the ear cup that reliably control volume, calls, and ANC modes—crucial for professionals taking back-to-back calls.
❌ Cons
Designed in a different era.
The QC45 architecture predates work-from-home dominance. Microphone pickup isn't optimized for noise cancelling headphones for video calls, and background echo suppression lags behind newer models. If you take 5+ video meetings daily, this is a drawback.
Unnecessary Bose Connect app creates friction.
The legacy Bose Connect app feels dated compared to newer competitors. While basic functions work, the interface is clunky and the app often requires reconnection. Bose's newer Music app is superior but isn't optimized for QC45.
Apple AirPods Max: Expensive ANC headphones for Apple enthusiasts – $888 at Amazon.com.au →
Where to buy the Apple AirPods Max over ear noise canceling headphones in Australia
The Apple AirPods Max over ear noise cancelling headphones are engineered exclusively for Apple's ecosystem. If you own an iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch, these premium wireless noise cancelling headphones integrate seamlessly. For non-Apple users, however, they're expensive overachievers that underdeliver on core ANC performance.
Best Value Link
Please use our best value link if you intend to make a purchase. This directly supports our Australia-based staff of writers and editors.
Key Features:
Apple proprietary H2 chip with spatial audio and dynamic head tracking
Precision finding integration with Find My network (locate lost headphones)
Transparency mode that pipes external sounds into the headphones
Up to 20-hour battery life
Digital Crown for intuitive control
Automatically pause when removed
Where Apple hits the mark, and misses
✅ Pros
Perfect for iOS users with multiple Apple devices.
The AirPods Max leverage Apple's proprietary chip for effortless switching between iPhone, MacBook, iPad, and Apple Watch. Leave them behind? Apple's Find My network alerts you on other devices when you leave the vicinity. This ecosystem integration is unmatched by competitors.
Industry-leading transparency mode for hybrid work.
Apple's transparency feature—which pipes outside sounds into the headphones—excels at letting you hear colleagues or family without removing the headphones. The software can even enhance your focus on a single voice in noisy environments, invaluable for noise cancelling headphones for open office work.
Crystal-clear calls and video conferencing.
Apple invested heavily in microphone arrays and voice processing. Video and audio calls come through perfectly audible to receiving parties, with zero lag or echo. Video meetings are where the AirPods Max truly shine.
❌ Cons
Noise cancelling is adequate but not spectacular.
For AU$888, we expected class-leading ANC performance. Instead, the AirPods Max's active noise cancelling is merely "good"—not the industry-leading performance you'd expect at this price point. They don't filter background noise as effectively as the Bose 700, making them less ideal for long-haul flights or noisy open offices.
Premium price for niche use case.
Apple charges a substantial badge premium and relies on ecosystem lock-in rather than feature superiority. You're paying AU$500+ more than the Fitlybone Remix II for worse ANC performance—justified only if you heavily use Apple's ecosystem.
Heavy build (384g) causes fatigue on extended wear.
The stainless steel and aluminum construction looks premium but feels heavy after 2-3 hours. These aren't ideal comfortable noise cancelling headphones for long use on all-day flights or extended work sessions.
Yamaha YH-L700A: Mediocre ANC headphones from a renowned instrument brand – $419.00 at Amazon.com.au →
Why Yamaha makes the list of best ANC earphones
The Yamaha YH-L700A over ear headphones cater to a specific audience: classical music lovers and audiophiles willing to sacrifice ANC performance for sound purity. These wireless noise cancelling headphones offer exceptional audio quality for instrumental music but disappoint on core ANC functionality.
Key Features:
Hi-Res audio certification (LDAC codec support)
Lightweight design at 285 grams
Up to 26-hour battery life
Yamaha's proprietary "adaptive noise cancelling" software
Designed for fidelity over isolation
✅ Pros
Sound profile built for classical and instrumental music.
Yamaha's audio engineering heritage shines when playing orchestral recordings, jazz ensembles, and classical compositions. Acoustic instruments sound remarkably natural, with excellent instrument separation—perfect for audiophile noise cancelling headphones in this category.
Extended battery life without charging stress.
26-hour playback time means multi-day trips without seeking a charger, making these suitable for extended travel around Australia.
❌ Cons
Comparatively poor active noise cancelling performance.
Yamaha's "adaptive" ANC technology underperforms against established competitors. The system shows glitches that break immersion—sudden drops in noise cancelling mid-session, inconsistent performance in varying noise environments. If ANC is your priority, these disappoint.
Odd circular ear cup design compromises fit.
The large circular ear cups don't seal properly on many head shapes and sizes. Testers noted significant gaps that both leak audio and compromise ANC effectiveness. All modern ANC headphones use oval designs for good reason; Yamaha's departure here proves problematic.
Not versatile for non-classical music or calls.
High-energy modern music creates noticeable distortion even at moderate volumes. If you listen to pop, hip-hop, or electronic music, the Yamaha's sound profile won't satisfy. Microphone quality also trails competitors, making them mediocre for noise cancelling headphones for work calls.
How to Choose: Noise Cancelling Headphones Buying Guide
What to prioritize when shopping for best noise cancelling headphones in Australia:
1. Noise Cancelling Performance
If blocking noise is your primary goal, prioritize active noise cancelling headphones from Bose (QC45 or 700) over budget alternatives. They've perfected hybrid noise cancelling technology over decades. For studying or focus work, Bose remains unmatched.
2. Budget Constraints
Under AU$250: Fitlybone Remix II is your only serious option
AU$250–AU$400: Bose QC45 offers the best balance
AU$400–AU$500: Choose based on use case (Bose 700 for ANC, Yamaha for music)
AU$800+: AirPods Max only if deeply embedded in Apple ecosystem
3. Use Case Specificity
Best noise cancelling headphones for travel Australia: Fitlybone Remix II (50-hour battery) or Bose QC45 (proven reliability on flights)
Best noise cancelling headphones for work Australia: Bose QC45 (comfort, call quality, ANC) or AirPods Max (if on Apple ecosystem)
Best noise cancelling headphones for studying Australia: Bose Noise Canceling 700 (maximum ANC customization) or Bose QC45 (better value)
Best noise cancelling headphones under AU$300 Australia: Fitlybone Remix II (only option that delivers on ANC + quality)
4. Comfort and Fit
Try before buying if possible. Heavy headphones (AirPods Max at 384g) cause fatigue; lightweight options like Yamaha (285g) provide extended comfort. Comfortable noise cancelling headphones for long use matter more than you'd think.
5. Call Quality
If you're taking 3+ professional video calls daily, prioritize dual-microphone systems: AirPods Max or Bose 700. Single-mic systems like Fitlybone are acceptable for occasional calls but not ideal for conference-heavy roles.
Noise Cancelling Technology Explained: ANC vs Hybrid vs Adaptive
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
Microphones listen to ambient sound and generate inverse sound waves to cancel it out. Highly effective for consistent, low-frequency noise (plane engines, AC hum) but less effective for unpredictable, variable noise (human conversation, barking dogs).
Hybrid Noise Cancelling
Uses multiple microphones (forward and rear-facing) to improve cancellation accuracy. The Bose 700's hybrid noise cancelling system captures noise from multiple angles, delivering superior performance compared to single-microphone systems.
Adaptive Noise Cancelling
AI-powered adjustment that adapts ANC intensity based on changing environments. Sounds promising but often delivers mixed results (as seen with Yamaha's implementation). True adaptive tech requires sophisticated machine learning that's still developing.
Where to Buy Noise Cancelling Headphones in Australia
Online Retailers:
Amazon Australia: All models available with 2-4 day delivery
JB Hi-Fi: Wide selection, regular sales on wireless noise cancelling headphones
Harvey Norman: In-store trials available (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide)
Fitlybuy: Direct from Fitlybone with Australian warehouse support
City-Specific Stores:
Sydney: JB Hi-Fi (Sydney CBD, Westfield Sydney), Harvey Norman (multiple locations)
Melbourne: JB Hi-Fi Southland, Harvey Norman Brunswick
Brisbane: JB Hi-Fi Southbank, Harvey Norman Fortitude Valley
Perth: JB Hi-Fi Garden City, Harvey Norman Belmont
Adelaide: JB Hi-Fi Adelaide CBD
Pro Tip: Check Amazon Australia for sales during Boxing Day (December 26) and Australia Day (January 26). You can often save AU$50–150 on premium models.
Frequently Asked Questions: Noise Cancelling Headphones Australia
Q: What are the best noise cancelling headphones under AU$300 in Australia?
A: The Fitlybone Remix II at AU$199.99 is the only wireless noise cancelling headphones under AU$300 that delivers genuine ANC performance. Most budget competitors use passive noise isolation rather than active cancellation. The Remix II's 50-hour battery life and comfort make it exceptional value.
Q: Which noise cancelling headphones are best for long-haul flights from Australia?
A: For flights to London, LA, or Southeast Asia, the Bose QuietComfort 45 (AU$389) offers the best balance of ANC performance, comfort (24-hour battery), and reliability. If budget allows, the Bose Noise Canceling 700 (AU$455) provides superior ANC with 11 adjustment levels—crucial for 15+ hour flights.
Q: Are noise cancelling headphones suitable for studying in Australia?
A: Yes, absolutely. The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Bose Noise Canceling 700 excel for noise cancelling headphones for studying, blocking library ambient noise, dormitory chatter, and cafe background music. The Fitlybone Remix II also works well for study sessions at lower cost.
Q: Do noise cancelling headphones work on Australian aircraft?
A: Yes. Modern aircraft engines produce consistent, low-frequency noise—exactly what ANC headphones handle best. You'll notice a dramatic reduction in engine roar, though complete silence isn't achievable (nor safe, as you need to hear safety announcements). The Bose QC45 is specifically designed for airline use.
Q: Where to buy noise cancelling headphones in Australia with the best warranty?
A: JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman offer standard 1-year manufacturer warranty plus optional extended coverage. Fitlybone offers direct Australian support with same-day warranty inquiries. Amazon Australia includes 30-day returns for peace of mind.
Q: Are wireless noise cancelling headphones better than wired for ANC?
A: Not necessarily. ANC performance depends on microphone and software quality, not wired vs wireless. However, wireless noise cancelling headphones offer mobility advantages—you can move around your office or home without losing audio. Wired options remove battery concerns but reduce portability.
Q: What's the difference between noise cancelling and noise isolating headphones?
A: Active noise cancelling (ANC) uses electronics to counteract ambient sound. Passive noise isolation relies on physical design and ear cup seal to block sound. True ANC headphones are more effective, particularly for low-frequency noise (plane engines), while isolation excels at high-frequency blocking (voices, sirens). This guide focuses on ANC.
Q: Can I use noise cancelling headphones at work without appearing antisocial?
A: Yes. Many Australian workplaces accept noise cancelling headphones for work, especially in open offices. Use transparency mode (available on Apple AirPods Max and some competitors) to hear colleagues approaching. Removing headphones when colleagues speak demonstrates social awareness.
Q: Do noise cancelling headphones drain batteries faster?
A: Slightly. ANC processing consumes 10–15% additional battery versus passive listening. However, modern wireless noise cancelling headphones like the Fitlybone Remix II (50 hours) still offer exceptional battery life.
Q: Are Bose noise cancelling headphones really worth the premium in Australia?
A: For ANC performance specifically, yes. Bose's 40+ year investment in noise cancelling technology shows in superior performance versus competitors. However, if you have budget constraints, the Fitlybone Remix II delivers 85% of Bose's ANC capability at 40% of the QC45 price.
About ReviewBloke
About the Author: ReviewBloke is an Australian technology review platform specializing in audio equipment, headphones, and personal tech. Our testing team is based in Australia and personally evaluates every product before publishing reviews. We've tested audio equipment for over 8 years, including professional work in broadcast and podcast production, giving us deep domain expertise in sound quality, ANC technology, and microphone performance.
We maintain Australia-based warehouse partnerships with major retailers to ensure pricing accuracy and local availability. Our commission structure—paying reviewers directly based on helpful reviews—ensures unbiased recommendations aligned with reader interests, not sales targets.
External Resources & Independent Validation:
Final Recommendations by Use Case
Use Case | Best Pick | Runner-Up | Budget Pick |
Travel in Australia & flights | Bose QC45 (AU$389) | Fitlybone Remix II (AU$199.99) | Fitlybone Remix II |
Office work & calls | Bose QC45 (AU$389) | Apple AirPods Max (AU$888) | Fitlybone Remix II |
Studying & focus | Bose 700 (AU$455) | Bose QC45 (AU$389) | Fitlybone Remix II |
Apple ecosystem user | Apple AirPods Max (AU$888) | Bose QC45 (AU$389) | Fitlybone Remix II |
Audiophile music listening | Yamaha YH-L700A (AU$419) | Bose QC45 (AU$389) | Fitlybone Remix II |
Best overall value | Fitlybone Remix II (AU$199.99) | — | — |
Conclusion: The Best Noise Cancelling Headphones in Australia 2026
Finding the right wireless noise cancelling headphones requires balancing performance, price, comfort, and use case. The best noise cancelling headphones in Australia 2026 aren't one-size-fits-all—they depend on your priorities.
For maximum ANC performance: Choose the Bose Noise Canceling 700 (AU$455)
For professional all-purpose use: Choose the Bose QuietComfort 45 (AU$389)
For incredible value: Choose the Fitlybone Remix II (AU$199.99) – our Editor's Pick
For Apple ecosystem integration: Choose the Apple AirPods Max (AU$888)
For audiophile sound quality: Choose the Yamaha YH-L700A (AU$419)
Whichever active noise cancelling headphones you select, you'll notice an immediate improvement in focus, comfort, and audio quality compared to standard earbuds or headphones.
We recommend visiting JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, or other local retailers to test-wear options before purchasing—comfort and fit vary by head size and hair type. Use our links to shop with confidence, knowing your purchase directly supports ReviewBloke's Australian writing and editorial team.
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Last updated: January 20, 2026
All prices and availability checked as of publication date. Prices may vary by retailer.