Soundcore just expanded their Liberty 4 series with the introduction of the new Liberty 4 Pro model, which offers a more premium experience compared to the standard Liberty 4 and the value-oriented Liberty 4 NC.
In this article, we’ll compare the Pro model to the more budget-friendly 4 NC to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Price and Availability
Price is often a key factor when choosing earbuds. The Liberty 4 NC is priced at around $99.99, making it a fantastic option for budget-conscious buyers. It delivers impressive performance and features for the price, which is hard to beat.
The Liberty 4 Pro, priced at about $129.99, offers enhanced sound quality and advanced features. If you’re looking for top-notch audio and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Pro model is worth the investment.
Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro vs Liberty 4 NC: Specs Comparison
| Specification | Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro | Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | October 2024 | June 2023 |
| Price | $129.99 | $99.99 |
| Dimensions (Earbuds) | 25 x 32 x 22 mm | N/A |
| Weight (Earbud) | 5.5 g | 5.7 g |
| Weight (Case) | 51 g | N/A |
| Water Resistance Rating | IPX5 | IPX4 |
| Battery Life (with ANC) | Up to 7.5 hours | Approx. 9 hours and 53 minutes |
| Total Battery Life (with Case) | Up to 30 hours | Approx. 50 hours |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 with LDAC | 5.3 with LDAC |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes, advanced ANC | Yes, good ANC |
| Touch Controls | Swipe volume controls | Tap controls |
| App Features | Comprehensive with EQ customization | Extensive EQ options |
Design and Build Quality
Both the Liberty 4 Pro and Liberty 4 NC have a sleek design that’s comfortable to wear.
The Liberty 4 Pro earbuds are a bit larger, weighing 5.5 grams each. Their charging case is reflective, which can make it look stylish but also attracts fingerprints.
The Liberty 4 NC earbuds are slightly heavier at 5.7 grams, and their case has a more practical design that doesn’t show fingerprints as easily.
Both models come with an IPX4 water resistance rating, which means they can handle sweat and light rain.
However, if you plan to use them during intense workouts, you might want to consider earbuds specifically designed for that purpose. Overall, both models fit well and feel sturdy.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound, the Liberty 4 Pro truly shines. They feature larger drivers that deliver rich and detailed audio. You’ll get a wide soundstage, which makes music feel more immersive.
The bass is powerful and really enhances the listening experience. You can customize the sound using the Soundcore app, which is a great bonus.
On the other hand, the Liberty 4 NC also offers solid sound quality but doesn’t quite match the depth of the Pro model. While they still deliver good audio performance, the bass can feel somewhat subdued compared to the Liberty 4 Pro.
If you love bass-heavy genres like hip-hop or electronic music, you might find the Liberty 4 Pro more satisfying.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency Modes
Both models come with active noise cancellation (ANC), but the performance differs. The Liberty 4 Pro uses advanced ANC technology, effectively blocking out background noise.
This makes them great for travel or noisy environments. They also have adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to your surroundings.
The Liberty 4 NC also has good ANC, with features like adaptive noise control and wind reduction. However, it may not silence external noise as effectively as the Pro model.
For users who often travel or commute, the superior noise-canceling capabilities of the Liberty 4 Pro can make a noticeable difference in sound quality and overall enjoyment.
Transparency mode is another feature both models offer, allowing users to hear their environment while still listening to music.
The Liberty 4 Pro excels in this area, amplifying external sounds more effectively, making it easier to chat with people nearby.
The Liberty 4 NC’s transparency mode is competent but may not provide the same level of clarity as its Pro counterpart.
Controls and Features
When it comes to controls, both models feature intuitive touch-sensitive controls on the stems.
The Liberty 4 Pro offers swipe functionality for volume adjustments, which adds a layer of convenience.
You can also customize the controls using the Soundcore app, allowing for a tailored experience based on individual preferences.
The app is packed with features for both models, offering various EQ settings and sound adjustments.
The Liberty 4 Pro, however, includes additional functionalities, such as a touch display on the charging case that allows for quick adjustments without needing to pull out a phone.
While this feature is cool, you may find that using the app is quicker for common tasks.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important factor for wireless earbuds. The Liberty 4 Pro boasts an impressive battery life of up to 7.5 hours on a single charge with ANC turned on.
When you include the charging case, you get a total of around 30 hours of use. The fast-charging feature is a nice touch, giving you about 4 hours of playtime from just a 5-minute charge.
The Liberty 4 NC offers even longer battery life, with approximately 9 hours and 53 minutes of playback time with ANC activated.
The case provides up to 50 hours of total battery life. Both models charge quickly, but if you want longer usage without recharging, the Liberty 4 NC is the winner.
Final Verdict
If you want superior sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and additional features, the Liberty 4 Pro is the clear winner. It’s perfect for audiophiles and frequent travelers.
However, if you’re looking for great performance at a lower price, the Liberty 4 NC is an excellent choice. With solid sound quality, impressive battery life, and effective noise cancellation, it delivers fantastic value for everyday use.
Both models reflect Anker Soundcore’s dedication to quality, making either a smart investment.
Related:
- SoundCore Liberty 4 vs Liberty 3 Pro
- Nothing Ear (2024) vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Earfun Air Pro 4 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Soundcore Liberty 4 NC vs P40i vs P30i
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.
