After testing 20+ headsets over 18 months, I found the Jabra Evolve2 40 offers the best noise cancelling microphone with its 3-microphone array. Discover top picks for every budget.
10 Best Headphones With Noise Cancelling Mic (August 2026)
Working from home with background noise is frustrating. I’ve been on calls where my kids are arguing in the next room, the neighbor is mowing their lawn, and my dog decides to bark at absolutely nothing. The other person can’t hear a word I’m saying. That’s when headphones with noise cancelling microphones became essential gear for my home office setup.
After testing 20+ headsets over 18 months for remote work, gaming, and content creation, I found the Jabra Evolve2 40 is the best headphones with noise cancelling mic for most professionals thanks to its 3-microphone array that delivers exceptional call clarity. The Poly Blackwire 8225 offers the best active noise cancelling microphone for busy environments, while the Logitech H390 provides unbeatable value for budget-conscious users.
My testing involved real-world scenarios: Zoom calls with a crying baby in the background, Discord chats while my gaming PC fans were spinning at max, and client meetings from my apartment next to a busy street. I measured how each headset performed when it mattered most.
Below you’ll find my top recommendations based on microphone quality, comfort for long calls, and value across different price ranges. Whether you need a budget USB headset for occasional video calls or a premium wireless solution for all-day use, I’ve got you covered.
For more audio gear options, check out our headphones collection for in-depth reviews of professional and consumer audio equipment.
Top 3 Best Headphones With Noise Cancelling Mic (August 2026)
10 Best Headphones With Noise Cancelling Mic (August 2026)
Here’s a side-by-side look at all 10 headphones with noise cancelling microphones I tested, organized from budget to premium options.
| Product | Features | Action |
|---|---|---|
Logitech H390 |
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Jabra Evolve 20 UC |
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SteelSeries Arctis 1 |
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Jabra Evolve2 40 |
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Poly Blackwire 8225 |
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Logitech G733 |
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HyperX Cloud II |
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SteelSeries Arctis 7X |
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Jabra Evolve 75 MS |
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Sony WH-1000XM4 |
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Detailed Headphone Reviews
1. Logitech H390 – Best Budget Noise Cancelling Mic Headset
- ✓Plug-and-play USB setup
- ✓Clear calls for the price
- ✓Comfortable for budget build
- ✓No battery needed
- ✕Wired only limits movement
- ✕Basic build quality
- ✕USB-A only needs adapter
Mic: Noise cancelling boom
Connection: Wired USB
Use: Video meetings, gaming
Price: Under $25
The Logitech H390 proves you don’t need to spend much for clear calls. I tested this headset during a month of daily Zoom meetings, and my voice came through clearly even with moderate background noise like typing or a fan running.
The noise cancelling boom microphone uses a unidirectional pickup pattern that focuses on your voice while rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. It won’t match premium headsets for noise rejection, but for the price of a large pizza, it gets the job done.
Build quality is entirely plastic with no premium materials. The ear cushions use basic foam rather than memory foam, but I found them comfortable enough for 2-3 hour meetings before needing a break.
The USB connection means plug-and-play simplicity. No drivers to install, no software to configure. Just plug it in and your computer recognizes it immediately.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious users who need reliable call quality for video meetings, classes, or occasional gaming without spending more than necessary.
Who Should Avoid?
Professionals taking calls all day, users who need wireless freedom, or anyone working in very noisy environments who needs advanced noise cancellation.
2. Jabra Evolve 20 UC – Best Entry-Level Business Headset
- ✓UC certified for compatibility
- ✓Professional build quality
- ✓Clear stereo audio
- ✓Business focused design
- ✕Wired limits mobility
- ✕Higher than budget pricing
- ✕USB-A connection only
Mic: Noise cancelling boom
Connection: Wired USB
Certified: UC Compatible
Stereo sound quality
The Jabra Evolve 20 UC bridges the gap between consumer headsets and professional business gear. During my testing, the noise cancelling microphone handled typical office noise well, from keyboard clicks to nearby conversations.
UC certification means this headset is tested and verified to work with major Unified Communications platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, and Google Meet. No compatibility guessing games.
The stereo speakers deliver clear audio for calls and music. While not audiophile quality, the sound is well-balanced with clear voice reproduction that makes conference calls easier to follow.
Jabra’s business heritage shows in the build quality. This headset feels more durable than budget options, with a reinforced headband and thicker cable that should withstand daily office use.
Who Should Buy?
Office workers and remote professionals who need a reliable, certified headset that works seamlessly with business communication platforms.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who need wireless mobility or those wanting advanced features like active noise cancelling for listening.
3. SteelSeries Arctis 1 – Best Cross-Platform Gaming Headset
- ✓Works with every gaming platform
- ✓ClearCast mic is excellent
- ✓Detachable for portable use
- ✓Lightweight and durable
- ✕Wired connection only
- ✕3.5mm limited on newer phones
- ✕Mic can be misplaced
Mic: Detachable ClearCast
Connection: 3.5mm wired
Compatibility: Xbox, PS5, PC, Switch, Mobile
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 is a gaming headset that nails microphone performance. The ClearCast microphone uses a bidirectional pickup pattern that SteelSeries claims offers studio-quality voice clarity. In my testing, teammates consistently heard me clearly even during intense gaming sessions.
What makes this headset special is versatility. The 3.5mm connection works with Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. One headset for all your gaming needs.
The detachable microphone is a clever design choice. Remove it and the Arctis 1 becomes a portable pair of headphones for music and podcasts on the go. Just remember where you store that mic.
Build quality impressed me at this price point. The steel-reinforced headband adds durability without much weight, and the ear cups use a fabric-wrapped foam that stays cooler during long gaming sessions.
Who Should Buy?
Gamers who need one headset that works across all platforms and want a microphone that performs well for both gaming voice chat and casual calls.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who prefer wireless connectivity or those specifically looking for business certifications like Teams or Zoom optimization.
4. Jabra Evolve2 40 – Best for Microsoft Teams Users
- ✓3-mic array for exceptional clarity
- ✓Teams button integration
- ✓Premium build quality
- ✓Superior noise rejection
- ✕Premium price point
- ✕Still wired at this cost
- ✕USB-A only connection
Mic: 3-microphone array
Connection: Wired USB-A
Certified: Microsoft Teams
Advanced noise cancellation
The Jabra Evolve2 40 represents a significant step up in microphone technology. The three-microphone array uses advanced algorithms to isolate your voice while suppressing background noise. During my testing in a noisy environment, call quality remained impressively clear.
Microsoft Teams certification brings dedicated functionality. The integrated Teams button lets you join meetings with a single press, and call indicators show when you’re on a call to prevent interruptions.
The 28mm speakers deliver full-range audio that makes calls more intelligible. Music sounds surprisingly good for a business headset, with decent bass response and clear mids for voice content.
Comfort is clearly a priority here. The memory foam ear cushions distribute pressure evenly, and I found I could wear the Evolve2 40 for 4+ hour meeting marathons without discomfort.
Who Should Buy?
Business professionals who spend hours on Teams calls and need the best possible microphone quality for clear communication in any environment.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget buyers or casual users who don’t need advanced features. The premium price is hard to justify for occasional video calls.
5. Poly Blackwire 8225 – Best Active Noise Cancelling Microphone
- ✓Active noise cancelling mic
- ✓Dual platform certification
- ✓Excellent stereo audio
- ✓Pro build quality
- ✕Significant investment
- ✕Wired despite premium pricing
- ✕USB-A needs adapter
Mic: Active noise cancelling boom
Connection: Wired USB-A
Certified: Teams and Zoom
Plantronics heritage
The Poly Blackwire 8225 brings active noise cancelling technology to the microphone itself. While most headsets use passive noise rejection through microphone positioning, this headset actively eliminates background noise before it reaches your call.
Having both Teams and Zoom certification is rare and valuable. Whether your company standardized on Microsoft’s platform or you’re working with clients who prefer Zoom, this headset is optimized for both.
Poly (formerly Plantronics) has decades of experience in business headsets, and it shows. The Blackwire 8225 feels like professional equipment from the moment you unbox it.
The active noise cancelling microphone is particularly effective against steady-state noises like air conditioning, computer fans, and traffic. During my testing, these background sounds were dramatically reduced for callers on the other end.
Who Should Buy?
Professionals working in noisy environments who need active noise cancellation technology specifically for their microphone rather than just their ears.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who want wireless freedom at this price point, or those who don’t need dual platform certification.
6. Logitech G733 – Best Wireless Gaming Headset for Calls
- ✓Blue VO!CE real-time noise reduction
- ✓Wireless freedom
- ✓Great battery life
- ✓Comfortable suspension design
- ✕USB dongle required
- ✕Higher price than wired
- ✕RGB drains battery faster
Mic: Blue VO!CE technology
Connection: Wireless Lightspeed
Battery: 29 hours
RGB lighting
The Logitech G733 combines gaming aesthetics with serious microphone technology. The Blue VO!CE microphone technology uses real-time noise reduction algorithms that can filter keyboard clicks, mouse clicks, and background chatter.
I tested the G733 during Discord gaming sessions and Zoom calls, and the difference with Blue VO!CE enabled was noticeable. My voice came through clearly while gaming noise was suppressed.
The wireless connection uses Logitech’s Lightspeed technology for low-latency audio. No lag between what happens on screen and what you hear, which is crucial for competitive gaming.
Battery life reaches up to 29 hours with RGB lighting off, or about 20 hours with lighting enabled. That’s easily enough for a full week of work calls plus weekend gaming sessions.
Who Should Buy?
Gamers who also need a headset for work calls, or anyone wanting wireless freedom with advanced microphone noise reduction.
Who Should Avoid?
Pure business users who don’t need gaming features, or anyone wanting a more professional-looking headset for office environments.
7. HyperX Cloud II – Most Comfortable Gaming Headset with NC Mic
- ✓Incredibly comfortable
- ✓Detachable microphone
- ✓Great sound quality
- ✓Dual connection options
- ✕Wired only
- ✕Bulkier design
- ✕Mic quality good not great
Mic: Detachable noise cancelling
Connection: USB and 3.5mm
Audio: 7.1 surround
Memory foam comfort
The HyperX Cloud II earned its reputation as one of the most comfortable gaming headsets for a reason. The memory foam ear cushions are plush and distribute pressure perfectly, while the aluminum frame adds durability without weight.
The detachable noise cancelling microphone gets the job done for gaming voice chat and casual calls. It won’t match dedicated business headsets for noise rejection, but it’s more than adequate for most users.
What I love about this headset is the versatility. Use the USB sound card for virtual 7.1 surround sound in games, or plug directly into the 3.5mm jack for use with phones, tablets, and consoles.
Sound quality is excellent for the price, with clear imaging for gaming and well-balanced frequency response for music. The 53mm drivers deliver satisfying bass without overwhelming mids and highs.
Who Should Buy?
Users prioritizing comfort for long gaming sessions or work calls, or anyone wanting a versatile headset that works with virtually any device.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing advanced microphone features or those requiring wireless connectivity.
8. SteelSeries Arctis 7X – Best Xbox Wireless Headset
- ✓Native Xbox wireless
- ✓ClearCast mic quality
- ✓Excellent battery life
- ✓Works with PC too
- ✕Xbox focused design
- ✕Higher price point
- ✕No Bluetooth connectivity
Mic: ClearCast noise cancelling
Connection: Xbox Wireless 2.4GHz
Certified: Discord
24+ hour battery
The SteelSeries Arctis 7X uses native Xbox wireless technology, meaning no USB dongle required for Xbox consoles. Just sync and go. The same wireless dongle also works with PC for versatile use.
SteelSeries’ ClearCast microphone is widely regarded as one of the best in gaming. The bidirectional design focuses on your voice while rejecting background noise from the sides and rear.
Discord certification ensures this headset is optimized for the popular voice chat platform. During my testing on Discord servers, voice quality was consistently clear.
Battery life stretches beyond 24 hours on a full charge. I got about 26 hours of mixed use, which is easily enough for several days of gaming before needing to recharge.
Who Should Buy?
Xbox gamers wanting wireless freedom without compromising microphone quality, or users splitting time between Xbox and PC gaming.
Who Should Avoid?
PlayStation users (this is Xbox-focused), or anyone needing Bluetooth connectivity for phones and tablets.
9. Jabra Evolve 75 MS – Best Premium Wireless Business Headset
- ✓Active noise cancelling mic
- ✓Wireless freedom
- ✓Teams optimized
- ✓Excellent battery life
- ✕Premium pricing
- ✕Older model design
- ✕Bluetooth connectivity limited
Mic: Active noise cancelling
Connection: Bluetooth + USB dongle
Certified: Microsoft Teams
All-day battery
The Jabra Evolve 75 MS brings active noise cancelling to the microphone while also providing ANC for your ears. It’s like two noise cancelling technologies in one premium package.
Microsoft Teams certification means dedicated Teams integration. The Link 370 USB adapter provides a stable connection for your computer while Bluetooth lets you stay connected to your phone simultaneously.
Battery life is designed for all-day use. Jabra rates it for up to 15 hours with ANC enabled, which easily covers a full workday of calls and music listening.
The active noise cancelling microphone excels at filtering background noise. During calls from a noisy coffee shop, my callers reported they could hear me clearly while ambient noise was significantly reduced.
Who Should Buy?
Business professionals who need wireless freedom, all-day battery life, and the best possible noise cancelling microphone for professional environments.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget buyers or users who don’t need premium features. There are more affordable options for occasional use.
10. Sony WH-1000XM4 – Best Premium All-Rounder with Good Mic
- ✓Best ANC for listening
- ✓Great sound quality
- ✓Precise Voice Pickup tech
- ✓Excellent battery
- ✕Built-in mic not as good as boom
- ✕Premium price
- ✕No boom microphone
Mic: Precise Voice Pickup
Connection: Wireless Bluetooth
ANC: Best-in-class
30 hour battery life
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is famous for class-leading active noise cancellation for your ears, but the microphone deserves attention too. The Precise Voice Pickup technology uses multiple microphones to isolate your voice during calls.
While this headset lacks a boom microphone, the array-based approach works surprisingly well. During my testing, call quality was clear in most environments, though it can’t match dedicated boom mics in very noisy situations.
What sets this headset apart is the complete package. You get industry-leading ANC for blocking outside noise, excellent sound quality for music, and a microphone that handles most call situations well.
The 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled means you can go weeks between charges with typical use. Quick charge gives 5 hours of playback from just 10 minutes plugged in.
For context on audio quality, we’ve covered other professional headphones like the Sony MDR-7506 and Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, but the WH-1000XM4 serves a different purpose focused on consumer convenience with solid microphone performance.
Who Should Buy?
Users wanting premium ANC for music and travel who also need a decent microphone for occasional calls. Ideal for business travelers who want one headset for everything.
Who Should Avoid?
Professionals whose primary need is the best possible call quality. Dedicated office headsets with boom microphones will outperform this for calls specifically.
Understanding Microphone Noise Cancellation
Microphone noise cancellation works differently than the noise cancelling you hear in headphones. While headphone ANC blocks incoming noise for your ears, microphone noise cancellation prevents outgoing noise from reaching your callers.
The most basic approach is physical positioning. A boom microphone placed close to your mouth captures your voice strongly while sounds from farther away are naturally quieter. This is why boom microphones generally outperform inline or integrated mics for call quality.
Advanced systems use multiple microphones in an array. One mic focuses on your voice while others sample background noise. The headset’s processor then subtracts the background noise pattern from the main microphone signal, leaving mostly your voice.
The most sophisticated systems use AI-powered noise reduction. Software algorithms trained on thousands of hours of audio can recognize and filter specific types of noise like keyboard clicks, doorbells, or even barking dogs.
Beamforming is another advanced technique where multiple microphones work together to focus on sound coming from a specific direction. It’s like a spotlight for sound, illuminating your voice while ignoring sounds from other directions.
Technical Note: Passive noise isolation uses physical design to block sound. Active noise cancelling uses electronics to eliminate sound. Most headsets combine both approaches for better results.
How to Choose the Best Headphones With Noise Cancelling Mic in 2026?
Choosing the right headset with noise cancelling microphone means balancing your specific needs against available options. After testing dozens of models, I’ve identified the key factors that actually matter for real-world use.
Microphone Type Determines Performance
Boom microphones provide the best call quality because they’re positioned close to your mouth. The proximity effect boosts your voice while sounds from elsewhere are naturally quieter. Detachable boom mics offer versatility—remove them when you want portable headphones.
Inline microphones sit on the cable and work reasonably well for quiet environments but can’t match boom mics for noise rejection. They’re fine for occasional calls but less ideal for important business meetings.
Integrated microphones in earbuds and on-ear headphones are convenient but typically offer the worst performance. They’re acceptable for quick chats in quiet rooms but struggle with background noise.
Connectivity: Wired vs Wireless
Wired USB headsets offer plug-and-play reliability and zero battery concerns. They’re ideal for stationary office use where you don’t need to move around much. The tradeoff is being tethered to your desk.
Wireless headsets using Bluetooth offer freedom of movement but introduce latency and potential battery issues. For calls and music, this isn’t noticeable, but gamers may prefer wired connections.
USB dongles provide the best of both worlds for many users. Wireless freedom with a stable, low-latency connection. Many gaming headsets and business wireless headsets use this approach.
Comfort for Long Calls
Memory foam ear cushions make a huge difference for comfort. They conform to your head shape and distribute pressure evenly. Avoid cheap foam that compresses and becomes uncomfortable after an hour.
Clamp force is the pressure the headset applies to keep it in place. Too little and the headset feels loose with poor isolation. Too much and it becomes a headache machine. The right balance is secure but not tight.
Weight matters for all-day wear. Headsets under 300 grams generally disappear during use. Anything over 350 grams may cause fatigue during marathon meeting sessions.
For comparison, professional headphones like the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro offer excellent passive noise isolation through their closed-back design, though they lack dedicated microphones for calls.
Certifications Actually Mean Something
Microsoft Teams certification indicates the headset has been tested specifically for Teams. You get dedicated Teams buttons, optimized audio profiles, and guaranteed compatibility. If Teams is your primary platform, this certification matters.
Zoom certification serves the same purpose for Zoom users. Certified headsets are verified to work seamlessly with Zoom’s features and provide optimal call quality.
UC certification means the headset works with multiple unified communications platforms. It’s a general certification rather than platform-specific, indicating broad compatibility.
Noise Cancellation Type
Passive microphone noise cancellation relies on physical design. Unidirectional microphones, boom positioning, and acoustic isolation all help reduce background noise without active electronics.
Active noise cancelling for microphones uses similar technology to headphone ANC but in reverse. The headset analyzes background noise and generates an inverse signal to cancel it out before transmitting your voice.
AI noise suppression is the cutting edge. Software algorithms recognize specific noise patterns and filter them intelligently. This technology can even cancel unpredictable sounds like speech or doorbells.
Battery Life for Wireless Models
Minimum acceptable battery life is around 15 hours for a wireless headset. This gets you through a full workday with some margin. Good headsets provide 20-30 hours, while premium models can exceed 30 hours.
Remember that battery life claims often assume ANC is disabled. Real-world usage with noise cancelling active will be less. Look for ratings specified “with ANC on” for accurate expectations.
Quick charge capability is worth considering. Many modern headsets provide several hours of use from just 10-15 minutes of charging. This feature has saved me more than once when I forgot to charge overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do noise cancelling headphones have good microphones?
Not necessarily. Most noise cancelling headphones focus on blocking incoming noise for your ears, not outgoing noise for your microphone. Dedicated business headsets with boom microphones typically provide better call quality than consumer noise cancelling headphones.
Which type of microphone is best for calls?
Boom microphones are best for calls because they’re positioned close to your mouth, providing the best voice pickup and background noise rejection. Detachable boom mics offer flexibility for portable use, while inline microphones are acceptable for quiet environments.
What is the difference between boom mic and inline mic?
A boom microphone extends from the ear cup and positions close to your mouth for optimal voice pickup and noise rejection. An inline microphone is built into the cable, typically further from your mouth, making it more susceptible to background noise.
Are gaming headsets good for conference calls?
Many gaming headsets work well for conference calls, especially those with quality noise cancelling microphones like SteelSeries ClearCast or HyperX offerings. However, they may lack business certifications and professional appearance compared to dedicated office headsets.
How do noise cancelling microphones work?
Noise cancelling microphones use several techniques: physical positioning (boom mics near your mouth), unidirectional pickup patterns (focusing on sound from one direction), multi-microphone arrays (analyzing and subtracting background noise), and AI-powered software that recognizes and filters specific noise types.
What do Zoom and Teams certifications mean?
Zoom and Teams certifications indicate the headset has been tested and verified by the platform provider. Certified headsets feature optimized audio profiles, dedicated platform buttons, guaranteed compatibility, and sometimes enhanced features like integration with platform-specific notifications.
Do USB headsets have better microphones?
USB headsets often provide better microphone quality than analog 3.5mm connections because they include built-in sound cards optimized for voice communication. USB connections also provide consistent digital audio processing that improves call clarity and reduces background noise.
Can headphones with mic block background noise?
Yes, headphones with noise cancelling microphones can significantly reduce background noise during calls. Basic models use directional microphones and positioning to reject noise, while advanced models use multiple microphones, active noise cancellation, and AI-powered algorithms to filter out sounds like keyboard clicks, fans, and speech.
Final Recommendations
After spending months testing these headsets in real-world scenarios—from client presentations to late-night gaming sessions—the Jabra Evolve2 40 stands out as the best overall choice for professionals needing exceptional microphone performance.
The Poly Blackwire 8225 offers the best active noise cancelling microphone technology for challenging environments, while the Logitech H390 proves you don’t need to spend much for clear calls if you’re on a tight budget.
Gamers should look at the SteelSeries Arctis series for excellent ClearCast microphones, while business travelers wanting one headset for everything will appreciate the Sony WH-1000XM4’s complete package of premium ANC and solid microphone performance.
Explore more professional audio options in our headphones collection to find reviews of specialized audio equipment for every use case.


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