If you can’t choose between the Samsung Galaxy Buds Core and the Soundcore P40i, then I’m here to help.
Both earbuds are super affordable and deliver features you’d normally expect from much pricier models — things like noise cancellation, a comfortable fit, and solid sound quality.
So the real question becomes: which one is actually the better deal for you?
I spent time using both of them in everyday situations — music, calls, commuting, even pairing with different smartphones. And yes, while they look similar on paper, the experience is not the same.
One stands out for powerful performance and battery life, while the other shines with smart features and seamless integration if you’re using a Samsung phone.
Let’s break down what each one does well, where they fall short, and most importantly, which one you should spend your money on.
Design and Everyday Experience
Both earbuds come in compact cases, but the approach is different.
Samsung keeps things minimal and lightweight, making the Buds Core easy to pocket. Soundcore, on the other hand, uses a slightly bulkier case — but for a good reason. It doubles as a phone stand, which is surprisingly useful when watching videos on the go.
The earbuds themselves are very comfortable no matter which model you pick. Fit is secure, even for long listening sessions, and neither caused pressure issues during testing.
Connectivity
The biggest advantage of the Buds Core shows up immediately if you’re using a Samsung smartphone. They connect almost instantly, and in some cases, the phone detects them even before Bluetooth is manually turned on. That’s the kind of seamless integration you usually only see in more expensive models.
Soundcore P40i uses Bluetooth 5.3, which is still excellent, but Samsung edges ahead with Bluetooth 5.4 and exclusive features like Samsung Find, offline earbud tracking and the Interpreter mode. If you’re inside the Samsung ecosystem, the Buds Core simply feel smarter.
App Experience
Both earbuds come with solid companion apps. Samsung’s Galaxy Wearable app feels polished, allowing quick adjustments to ANC, Ambient Sound, touch controls and sound profiles. You even get a fit test and notification read-outs.
Soundcore’s app offers deeper sound customization, including a full equalizer and dedicated modes for gaming and watching movies. If you love tweaking audio exactly to your taste, the P40i gives you more freedom.
Active Noise Cancellation
Active Noise Cancelation is available on both, and the results are better than you might expect for the price.
Soundcore has a slight advantage: low hums and crowd noise are reduced more noticeably.
Still, Samsung’s ANC is far from bad, and when sound isolation and comfort come together, both feel surprisingly premium.
Sound and Microphone Quality
When it comes to sound, the Buds Core deliver a well-balanced profile with clean mids and controlled bass. Even at high volume, the audio doesn’t distort, which is impressive at this price point.
The Soundcore P40i push harder on bass and overall energy — in the best way. Music feels lively and full, and they genuinely surprised during the first listen. They are easily one of Soundcore’s best-sounding budget earbuds to date.
Microphone quality is decent on both. Calls sound clear enough indoors, though neither replaces a dedicated headset.
Battery Life
If battery life is your priority, the difference between these two models is massive. The Buds Core, together with the charging case, offer around 35 hours of total playback. That’s respectable.
But the Soundcore P40i go way beyond that. With ANC off, they can reach up to 60 hours combined.
For travelers, commuters or anyone who forgets to charge their earbuds regularly, this is a huge advantage. The bigger case finally makes sense here.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Core vs Soundcore P40i: Specs Comparison
| Category | Samsung Galaxy Buds Core | Soundcore P40i |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
| Battery (Earbuds / Total w/ Case) | Up to 35 hrs (ANC off) / ~20 hrs (ANC on) | 60 hrs total (12 hrs earbuds per charge, ANC off) |
| Water / Dust Rating | IP54 | IPX5 |
| App / Features | Galaxy Wearable — fit test, ANC/Ambient controls, Find my earbuds, Galaxy AI features on compatible Samsung phones | Soundcore app — EQ presets, HearID, ANC/Transparency tuning, Game & Movie modes |
| Microphones | 6 mics (triple-mic setup) | 6 mics with AI noise reduction |
| Earbud Weight / Case | Earbud: 3 g, Case: 31.2 g | Earbuds weight: 11g, Case: 91g |
Which Should You Buy?
If your phone is a Samsung device, the obvious recommendation is the Galaxy Buds Core. They pair instantly, unlock exclusive features, and usually cost a bit less. For Samsung users, the value is excellent.
But if what you want most is the best sound and the longest battery life, then the answer changes quickly: the Soundcore P40i are the stronger all-around performers. Better ANC, richer audio and double the endurance make them extremely compelling.
Best Deal:
- Galaxy Buds Core: View on Amazon
- Soundcore P40i: View on AliExpress
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- Redmi Buds 6 Pro vs Anker Soundcore P40i: Which Earbuds Wins?
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Redmi Buds 6 Pro: What’s the Smarter Choice?
- Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE vs Galaxy Buds Core: Here’s the Clear Winner
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.
