The claim of "the world's best noise cancellation" is currently attributed to two of 2025's top earphones. If you're considering buying a new pair of noise-cancelling earphones, you have a lot of choices to consider.
Bose and Apple are fighting for the title of "the world's best" noise-cancelling earphones. The back half of this year delivered some of the best models, with both companies releasing top-notch products.
Bose's product page for the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd-gen notes "The best. Now even better."
Apple's AirPods Pro 3 page says up front "The world's best in-ear Active Noise Cancellation"
Both companies claim to have the best noise-cancelling earphones, making it necessary to put them to the test.
Author's summary: Comparison of AirPods Pro 3 and Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2.