The AirPods Pro deliver excellent noise cancellation, but you might notice that the ANC seems weak initially. Simply wait a few seconds. The earphones first need to measure the surrounding noise and create a custom ANC profile appropriate for your current environment. And then, when it kicks in, it's exceptional. Another positive note—the ANC doesn't seem to introduce any noticeable hiss in quiet settings, which cheap earphones often use as a crutch.

In my tests, the AirPods Pro dramatically lowered powerful low-frequency rumble (like you hear on an airplane) after an initial adjustment period. In some of our deep rumble tests, the AirPods even matched the performance of the $299 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, which is impressive.

What's even more impressive is that, in some tests, the AirPods Pro fare better than the QuietComfort Earbuds. The problem, if you can call it one, is consistency, and something I experienced with the AirPods Max as well. The latter are also capable of shockingly effective noise cancellation, but sometimes a slight head turn can reduce their efficacy. The AirPods Pro are more likely to remain effective after the initial adjustment, but sometimes the resulting profile didn't impress me. But, to their credit, a slight change to the in-ear fit can induce a far more competent noise cancellation profile. So don't be afraid to play around with how the earpieces sit in your ear if the ANC isn't initially impressive.

https://www.pcmag.com