First, decide on ear-buds or over-ear. Should be easy because and most people know what they like already.
Then just go get a set that matches that preference, try them out on your next flight, and mix it up: put them on for 30 mins without the cancelling on, then turn on the cancelling. If you don't like the result, exchange them for another set/type until you settle on the ones you like the best.
I have the QC25s and do NOT fly without them. It is quieter, more relaxing, more peaceful, and easier to ignore "chatty" seatmates.
