Marshall Marshall - Monitor II A.N.C. Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones - Black Review

The Marshall Monitor II A.N.C. wireless headphones deliver the brand's iconic rock-inspired sound and design in a capable noise-cancelling package. Battery life and microphone quality are top-notch, but comfort over long periods is a known weak point. For around $150, they're a strong choice if you value audio character and durability over all-day coziness.

If you're looking for wireless noise-cancelling headphones with a distinct rock-and-roll vibe, the Marshall Monitor II A.N.C. is a strong contender. For around $150, you get a feature-packed over-ear set with custom-tuned 40mm drivers, active noise cancellation, and a claimed 30 hours of battery life. It's a closed-back design that folds up for travel, and it connects via Bluetooth 5.0 or a 3.5mm cable. Our data shows these are a 'Best Buy' pick for commuters and general listening, though they're not the top choice for budget-focused shoppers. Basically, you're getting Marshall's signature style and sound in a modern ANC package.

The sound quality here is excellent, landing in the 92nd percentile in our database. That 'Marshall Signature Sound' delivers a warm, detailed, and punchy audio profile that's great for rock, pop, and most genres. The active noise cancellation is solid, scoring in the 87th percentile. It's effective for drowning out constant hums like airplane engines or office chatter, though it might not match the absolute silence of the top-tier Sony or Bose models. Where these headphones really shine is battery life and microphone quality. With 30 hours of ANC-on playtime, they're in the 93rd percentile, and the mic performance is stellar, hitting the 96th percentile. That makes them a surprisingly good pick for calls and video chats.

At $150, the Monitor II A.N.C. sits in a sweet spot. You're paying a bit of a premium for the Marshall brand and aesthetic, but you're also getting performance that often beats more expensive rivals in key areas like mic quality and battery. It's a better value proposition than something like the Bang & Olufsen HX if you prioritize sound and features over pure luxury. Compared to a JBL Tune 770NC, you're getting a more distinctive sound profile and better build, though you might sacrifice a bit of comfort.

The obvious competitor is the Sony WH-1000XM6. The Sony has arguably the best ANC on the market and is often more comfortable, but it costs significantly more. The Marshall fights back with better battery life and a more engaging default sound for music lovers. Then there's the Sennheiser Momentum 4. It's another sound-first headphone with fantastic battery, but it's also pricier. The Marshall undercuts it on price while offering a more rugged, less plasticky feel. Against the Apple AirPods Max, it's no contest on ecosystem integration, but for pure sound and value, the Marshall is a compelling alternative for Android and Windows users.

Skip these if you have a larger head or ears, or if you plan to wear headphones for 8+ hours straight. The comfort issues are real. Also, if you're deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and want seamless switching, the AirPods Max or even AirPods Pro are better integrated. For pure, budget-focused ANC, models like the Anker Soundcore Q30 might offer more comfort for less money, though you'll sacrifice the Marshall sound and build.

Should you buy the Marshall Monitor II A.N.C.? Yes, if your priorities are great sound, marathon battery life, and that classic Marshall look. They're fantastic for commutes, travel, and long listening sessions where you can plug in for a call. But you should skip them if all-day comfort is your number one concern. The clamp force and smaller ear cups are a real issue for some, and that's the trade-off for the solid seal and build. Think of these as the reliable, good-sounding road warriors of the headphone world, not the plush lounge chairs.