If you’re looking for some top-notch budget-friendly earbuds, you might want to check out the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC.
They’ve both got some pretty impressive specs and features that have been turning heads.
This detailed comparison will delve into their features, and performance in key areas such as active noise cancelling (ANC), call quality, sound quality, user experience, and additional features like head tracking and app functionalities.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Specs comparison
| Specification | Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 | Soundcore Liberty 4 NC |
|---|---|---|
| Main Feature | Hi-Res Audio, Spatial Audio with Head Tracking | Advanced Noise Cancelling, Hear ID 2.0 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-40KHz (LDAC) 20Hz-20KHz (SBC, AAC) | Hi-Res Wireless and LDAC |
| Connection Type | Bluetooth V5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3, Fast Pair, Multi-point connection |
| Microphone | 8 (4 on each earbud) | 6 mics with AI algorithm |
| Battery Life | ANC On: 4h + 12h (case) ANC Off: 5.5h + 16.5h (case) | Up to 10h, 50h with case |
| IP Rating | IP54 | IPX4 |
| Connector | USB Type-C | USB Type-C |
| Drivers | Knowles Balanced Armature + 10mm Dynamic | 11mm drivers |
| Dimensions | Earbuds: 35x21x27mm Case: 67x55x30mm | 4.25 x 4.25 x 2.17 inches |
| Weight | Earbuds: 5.6g each Case: 49.2g | 19 Grams |
| Color | Black | Black, Light Blue, Navy Blue |
| Price | $129.99 | $99.99 |
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Detailed review
Design and Comfort
Both the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC boast modern designs that cater to different user preferences.
The Edifier’s design is sleek and compact, offering a snug fit with a wide range of ear tips to accommodate various ear sizes. This snug fit ensures that the ANC performance is maximized by preventing sound leakage.
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, on the other hand, also offers a comfortable fit but shines in its user experience with a more polished app and multi-point pairing feature, which allows it to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
Active Noise Cancelling and Call Quality
ANC performance is crucial for earbuds today, and both models offer effective noise cancellation features.
The Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 excels in reducing background chatter and the rumble of subway trains, making them one of the more effective options in the budget category.
However, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC edges out slightly in terms of overall quietness, albeit not by a significant margin.
When it comes to call quality, the NeoBuds Pro 2 demonstrates superior noise reduction capabilities, especially in windy conditions, thanks to its effective wind noise rejection.
In contrast, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC delivers louder and fuller voice reproduction in quiet environments, although it falls slightly behind in noise reduction during calls.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is arguably the most subjective aspect of any audio product, but both the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offer impressive performances.
The NeoBuds Pro 2 stands out with its thumpy and crisp sound, particularly in the mid-range frequencies where vocals reside.
However, they are not as bass-heavy as the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC and exhibit a darker soundstage, which may not appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and sizzly sound profile.
Interestingly, the Edifier app provides extensive EQ customization options, allowing users to tweak the NeoBuds Pro 2’s sound profile to closely match that of the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC.
Soundcore’s app also offers a range of EQ presets and an auto-calibration feature to tailor the sound quality to the user’s preference, making it more accessible for those unfamiliar with audio customization.
Head Tracking and Spatial Audio
A unique feature that sets the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 apart from the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC and many other budget earbuds is its support for head tracking and spatial audio.
This feature enables a more immersive listening experience, especially when watching videos, by pinning the audio to simulate the effect of listening through large, stationary speakers.
While the NeoBuds Pro 2 requires manual calibration for head tracking, it offers a budget-friendly entry point into experiencing this advanced feature without the premium price tag.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Pros and Cons
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2
- Pros:
- Effective ANC performance.
- Superior call quality in windy conditions.
- Support for head tracking and spatial audio.
- Extensive customization options via the Edifier app.
- Snug fit with a wide range of ear tips.
- Cons:
- Darker soundstage compared to Soundcore Liberty 4 NC.
- Limited control gestures.
- Requires manual calibration for head tracking.
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Pros:
- Slightly better overall ANC performance.
- Louder and fuller voice reproduction in quiet conditions.
- Vibrant and sizzly sound profile.
- Multi-point pairing and larger battery.
- Polished and feature-rich app experience.
- Cons:
- No support for head tracking.
- Sound customization may be less detailed compared to Edifier.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Final Verdict
Choosing between the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC vs Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 boils down to what features and qualities you prioritize in earbuds.
If you’re intrigued by the prospect of experiencing head tracking and spatial audio without breaking the bank, and you value extensive sound customization, the NeoBuds Pro 2 is a compelling choice.
However, if you prefer a more polished user experience, slightly better ANC performance, and a more vibrant sound profile, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC may be the better option.
Both earbuds represent the advancements in audio technology that are now accessible in the budget category, demonstrating that premium features are no longer exclusive to high-end products.
Whichever you choose, both the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offer excellent value for money and a high-quality listening experience.
You may also like to see:
- Soundcore Liberty 4 NC vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
- OnePlus Buds 3 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- EarFun Free Pro 3 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Edifier WH950NB vs SoundCore Space Q45
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.
