The AirPods Pro and AirPods Max are the only models that have active noise cancellation. The AirPods Pro have three noise-control modes: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Off. Active Noise Cancellation blocks out external sounds using a continuously active system. It is different from passive noise isolation, which blocks out sound by creating a physical barrier between the ear and the noise. The AirPods Pro use an outward-facing microphone or microphones to detect external sounds, which are then countered with anti-noise, canceling the external sounds before you hear them. An inward-facing microphone listens inside your ear for unwanted internal sounds, which are also countered with anti-noise. Transparency mode lets outside sound in, so you can hear whats going on around you. The AirPods Max also offer ANC and a Transparency mode like the first-generation AirPods Pro.

In summary, the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max are the only models that have active noise cancellation. The AirPods Pro have three noise-control modes: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Off. The AirPods Max also offer ANC and a Transparency mode like the first-generation AirPods Pro.