If you looking for good quality affordable earbuds then the 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 and the Soundcore Life A3i are two great options.
Both offer compelling packages at similar price points, but which one should you choose? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 vs Soundcore Life A3i: Specs Comparison
| Category | 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 | Soundcore Life A3i |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Stem-style, AirPods-inspired | Stemless, bean-shaped |
| Colors | Black/gold, White/gold | Black, White |
| Weight (per earbud) | 0.16 ounces (4.5g) | Not specified |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 | IPX5 |
| Battery Life (ANC on) | 5 hours | 7 hours |
| Battery Life (ANC off) | 7.5 hours | 9 hours |
| Total Battery Life (with case) | 25-37.5 hours | 35-45 hours |
| Fast Charging | 2 hours use from 10-minute charge | Available (specs not provided) |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Wireless Charging | No | No |
| ANC Modes | Strong, Mid, Wind Noise Reduction, Adaptive | On/Off, Transparency mode |
| Controls | Touch controls | Physical buttons |
| Multipoint Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (needs improvement) | No |
| Gaming Mode | Yes (low-latency) | No |
| In-ear Detection | Yes | No |
| App Support | Yes, with 10-band EQ | Yes, with 22 EQ presets and custom EQ |
| Typical Price Range | $54-$60 | $60-$70 |
Design and Comfort
The Q30 features a sleek, AirPods-inspired design with a stem form factor. Available in black/gold or white/gold color options, they have a premium look that belies their budget price. The earbuds are compact and lightweight (0.16 ounces per bud), making them comfortable for most users. However, some may find the fit a bit tight during extended wear sessions.
The A3i sports a unique bean-like shape with a thin upper end that points upwards when worn. This stemless design may require some adjustment to achieve the optimal fit, but many users report excellent comfort for long listening sessions. They’re available in black or white colorways. The A3i has a more understated appearance compared to the Q30 but still looks modern and stylish.
Winner: Tie – Both designs have their merits, and comfort will largely depend on individual ear shapes.
Sound Quality
The Q30 delivers impressive audio performance, especially considering its price point. It offers a wide frequency range with punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the mids and highs. The soundstage is pleasantly spacious, allowing for good instrument separation. Users can further customize the sound profile using the companion app’s 10-band EQ settings.
Known for their bass-forward signature, the Life A3i provides a fun, energetic listening experience. The low-end is pronounced but well-controlled. At lower volumes, treble can be somewhat recessed, but it becomes more balanced at higher volumes. The Soundcore app offers extensive EQ options, including 22 presets and a custom EQ, allowing users to fine-tune the sound to their preferences.
Winner: 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 – While both offer good sound quality and customization options, the Q30’s more balanced out-of-the-box tuning gives it a slight edge for most listeners.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The Q30 features adaptive ANC with multiple modes:
- Strong: Blocks up to 85% of low and mid-frequency sounds
- Mid: Offers moderate noise reduction
- Wind Noise Reduction (WNR): Effectively reduces wind noise during outdoor use
- Adaptive: Automatically adjusts ANC level based on the environment
The WNR mode is particularly impressive, making these earbuds a great choice for outdoor activities or commuting.
The Life A3i also offers ANC capabilities, though not as advanced as the Q30. It does a good job of reducing low-frequency ambient noise and provides a transparency mode for situational awareness. While effective, it may not match the versatility of the Q30’s multiple ANC modes.
Winner: 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 – The multiple ANC modes and superior wind noise reduction give it a clear advantage in this category.
Call Quality
The Q30 performs adequately for voice calls in quiet to moderately noisy environments. It uses AI-enhanced microphones to help isolate your voice, though it may struggle in very noisy conditions. The stem design helps position the microphones closer to the mouth, which can improve call clarity.
The Life A3i generally receives positive feedback for call quality. It does a good job of filtering out background noise and keeping your voice clear to the other party. However, like many earbuds in this price range, it may struggle in extremely noisy environments. The stemless design may put the microphones slightly further from the mouth compared to the Q30.
Winner: Slight edge to 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 – The stem design and AI-enhanced microphones give it a small advantage, though both perform well for their price range.
Battery Life and Charging
1More PistonBuds Pro Q30:
- 5 hours of playtime with ANC enabled
- 7.5 hours with ANC off
- Charging case provides an additional 20-30 hours (total of 25-37.5 hours)
- Fast charging: 2 hours of use from a 10-minute charge
- USB-C charging (no wireless charging)
Soundcore Life A3i:
- 7 hours of playtime with ANC on
- Up to 9 hours with ANC off
- Charging case adds another 28-36 hours (total of 35-45 hours)
- Fast charging available (specs not provided)
- USB-C charging (no wireless charging)
Winner: Soundcore Life A3i – The significantly longer battery life gives it a clear advantage in this category, especially for users who prioritize extended playtime between charges.
Additional Features
1More PistonBuds Pro Q30:
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint technology (connect to two devices simultaneously)
- Spatial audio support (though reviewers note it needs improvement)
- Low-latency gaming mode
- IPX5 water resistance
- Touch controls (some users find them finicky)
- In-ear detection for auto-play/pause
- Companion app with firmware updates and sound customization
Soundcore Life A3i:
- Bluetooth 5.2
- Physical button controls (more reliable than touch controls)
- IPX5 water resistance
- Extensive app support with 22 EQ presets and custom EQ options
- Companion app with firmware updates and sound customization
Winner: 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 – While both offer a good range of features, the Q30’s multipoint connectivity, spatial audio, and gaming mode give it an edge for versatility.
Price and Value
1More PistonBuds Pro Q30: Typically priced around $54-$60
Soundcore Life A3i: Usually available for $60-$70
Both models offer excellent value for their price points, packing in features often found in more expensive earbuds.
Best Deal:
1MORE Q30: View on 1MORE| View on AliExpress
Life A3i: View on Soundcore | View on AliExpress
1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 vs Soundcore Life A3i: Making the Right Choice
Both the 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 and the Soundcore Life A3i are impressive earbuds that offer great value for money. Your choice between the two will largely depend on your specific needs and preferences:
Some users have reported occasional bugs with the 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30, such as ANC turning off unexpectedly. These issues may be resolved through firmware updates, but it’s worth considering if you prioritize a stable, issue-free experience right out of the box.
The Soundcore Life A3i, being part of a more established line, seems to have fewer reported issues and may offer a more reliable day-to-day experience.
Choose the 1More PistonBuds Pro Q30 if:
- You prioritize versatile ANC performance, especially in windy conditions
- You prefer a more balanced sound signature out of the box
- You want multipoint connectivity and a low-latency gaming mode
- You’re interested in spatial audio features (though be aware of its current limitations)
- You prefer a stem design for potentially better call quality
Choose the Soundcore Life A3i if:
- Battery life is a top priority for you
- You enjoy a bass-forward sound signature (which can be adjusted via EQ)
- You prefer physical button controls over touch controls
- You want extensive app-based sound customization options
- You prioritize a reliable, bug-free experience out of the box
Related:
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- Anker Soundcore A20i vs Baseus Bowie MA10 Pro: Audio Gems on a Budget
- 1MORE Q10 vs Q20: What’s the difference and should you buy?
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
