Soundcore makes reliable mid-range audio products that compete well on features and price, though they don't match premium brands on raw performance. Their current range spans over-ear noise-cancelling headphones, true-wireless earbuds, and portable speakers — all designed to deliver good sound without breaking the bank.
Why Soundcore?
Soundcore is Anker's dedicated audio brand, launched in 2015 to specialise in affordable headphones, earbuds, and speakers. They've built a reputation for including features traditionally reserved for premium price points — active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and multi-device connectivity — in products under £110. Their strength lies in balancing build quality, battery life, and sound clarity at price points where competitors often cut corners. That said, they won't match the noise cancellation of Sony or Bose, or the sound signature of audiophile-focused brands.
Top Picks
Soundcore Space Noise Cancelling Headphones — £102.00
Best for: Commuters and office workers seeking mid-range noise cancellation without premium pricing.
The Space headphones are Soundcore's flagship and the strongest product in their current range. Active noise cancellation reaches 98dB attenuation, which blocks most ambient noise on flights and trains without being class-leading. The 40-hour battery life is a genuine standout — you'll go weeks without charging. Build feels solid with memory foam ear cups, and the foldable design is genuinely portable. Sound is balanced and clear rather than bass-heavy, which suits speech and meetings. The main compromise: noise cancellation doesn't match Sony WH-CH720N, but you save £50.
P40i Smart ANC True-Wireless Earbuds — £44.99
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting decent true-wireless earbuds with basic noise cancellation.
At under £45, the P40i earbuds are excellent value. They include active noise cancellation (unusual at this price), 10-hour total battery life with the case, and IPX4 water resistance for gym use. Touch controls are responsive, and connectivity is stable across multiple devices. Sound is warm and bassy, which suits pop and hip-hop but can muddy classical music. The main catch: active noise cancellation is mild compared to premium earbuds — it handles office noise better than traffic. Fit is snug but not adjustable, so they may not suit all ear shapes.
Boom Go 3i Portable Bluetooth Speaker — £79.99
Best for: Outdoor gatherings and small rooms where portability matters more than raw power.
The Boom Go 3i is a compact Bluetooth speaker (roughly the size of a water bottle) with surprisingly clear sound for its size. 12-hour battery life means you can play through a full day outdoors. It's waterproof (IPX7 rated), so it survives splashes and brief submersion. Bass is pronounced but not overwhelming, and the sound disperses evenly across a small space — good for a kitchen or garden table. The main limitation: at 285g, it's light, but the speaker won't fill a large backyard or compete with dedicated bass-heavy competitors.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Space Headphones | £102.00 | Commutes, office work | 40-hour battery, 98dB ANC | | P40i Earbuds | £44.99 | Budget audio, gym use | ANC at sub-£50 price point | | Boom Go 3i Speaker | £79.99 | Portable outdoor use | IPX7 waterproof, 12-hour battery |
What to Look For When Choosing Soundcore
- Noise cancellation strength: Soundcore's ANC works well for steady background noise (office hum, engine roar) but is less aggressive than Sony or Bose models. If you need to block conversation on a crowded bus, look elsewhere. For commutes and flights, it's adequate.
- Battery life: Soundcore prioritises longevity — the Space headphones offer 40 hours, P40i earbuds offer 10 hours total, and the Boom Go 3i offers 12 hours. Battery performance is rarely a weakness across their range.
- Sound signature: Soundcore products lean warm and bass-forward by default. If you prefer neutral, analytical sound for mixing or classical music, their house tuning may feel muddy. Check reviews for your specific genre.
- Build materials: Most Soundcore products use plastic and silicone, not metal or premium leather. They feel sturdy enough for daily use, but won't match the tactile premium feel of more expensive brands. Water resistance (IPX4 or higher) is included across the range.
The Bottom Line
Buy the Soundcore Space Noise Cancelling Headphones (£102.00) if you want the best all-rounder from their range — the 40-hour battery and solid noise cancellation make them genuinely practical for commuters. For tight budgets, the P40i earbuds at £44.99 deliver surprising value including noise cancellation that usually costs double, while the Boom Go 3i speaker at £79.99 is the best portable option if you prioritise waterproofing and outdoor durability over raw sound power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Soundcore good value for money?
Yes, especially below £80. The P40i earbuds and Boom Go 3i speaker both undercut competitors on price while including mid-range features like ANC and waterproofing. The Space headphones at £102 offer decent value against similarly priced Sony and JBL models, though they don't match premium noise cancellation of £300+ headphones.
How does Soundcore noise cancellation compare to Sony?
Soundcore's active noise cancellation is solid for everyday use — the Space headphones block about 98dB of ambient noise, which handles flights, trains, and office work well. Sony WH-CH720N headphones deliver marginally better isolation and more aggressive ANC, but cost £50 more. For most commuters, Soundcore's ANC is sufficient.
Are Soundcore earbuds suitable for gym and sports use?
The P40i earbuds have IPX4 water resistance and secure fit, making them suitable for light exercise and indoor gym sessions. They won't be ideal for swimming or heavy sweat exposure — for that, seek IPX7-rated sports earbuds. Battery life of 10 hours total is more than enough for daily training.
Which Soundcore product has the longest battery life?
The Soundcore Space headphones offer 40 hours of playback on a single charge, significantly outlasting the P40i earbuds (10 hours total with case) and Boom Go 3i speaker (12 hours). If battery longevity is your priority, the Space headphones are the clear winner.
