Soundcore, a sub-brand of Anker, stands out as a go-to brand offering plenty of earbud options that won’t break the bank.
We’re going to take a close look at three popular models – the P20i, P30i, and P40i – to give you the lowdown on which one might suit you best, depending on what you need and how much you want to spend.
These three are pretty close in price, with about $10-$15 between each step up, but each one brings something different to the table in terms of what it can do and how well it performs.
Price Comparison
Before we delve into the specifics, let’s look at the price points:
- P20i: Around $20
- P30i: Retail $50, often available for about $35
- P40i: Typically available for about $50
With only about $10-$15 separating each model, it’s important to understand what you’re getting for the extra money.
Best Deals:
| Soundcore P20i | Soundcore P30i | Soundcore P40i |
|---|---|---|
| View on AliExpress | View on AliExpress | View on AliExpress |
| Check on Sondcore | Check on Soundcore | Check on Soundcore |
Soundcore P20i vs P30i vs P40i: Specs Comparison
| Category | Soundcore P20i | Soundcore P30i | Soundcore P40i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$20 | ~$35 (retail $50) | ~$50 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| Battery Life | 10 hours | 10 hours | 12 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 | IP54 | IPX5 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes | Yes (Improved) |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | No | No | Yes |
| Multi-point Connection | No | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Microphones | 2 | 4 | 6 |
| App Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| EQ Customization | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Soundcore P20i: The Budget Champion
Design and Build
The P20i comes with a standard-sized case and includes a lanyard for easy attachment. The build quality is lightweight plastic, which feels a bit hollow but is expected at this price point.
Key Features
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Up to 10 hours battery life on a single charge
- IPX5 water resistance
- App support with EQ control
- Gaming mode for reduced lag
Sound Quality
Out of the box, the P20i can sound a bit muddy with bloated bass. However, the app’s EQ presets (especially Classical, Electronic, and R&B) can significantly improve the sound quality by providing better separation between bass and treble.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Decent battery life
- App support with customizable EQ
Cons:
- No active noise cancellation (ANC) or transparency mode
- Build quality reflects the budget price
Best For
The P20i is ideal for first-time true wireless earbud users, kids, or as a backup pair. They’re also great for those on a tight budget who still want app support and customizable sound.
Soundcore P30i: The Mid-Range Contender
Design and Build
The P30i stands out with its unique two-tone color options and shorter stem design. The case, while still plastic, doubles as a phone stand.
Key Features
- Bluetooth 5.4
- Up to 10 hours battery life on a single charge
- IP54 dust and water resistance
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode
- Multi-point connection
Sound Quality
The P30i offers cleaner sound compared to the P20i out of the box, though the bass can still be a bit boomy. The EQ presets (Classical, Electronic, Hip Hop, or R&B) can further enhance the sound quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Better water and dust resistance
- Multi-point connection
- Unique color options
Cons:
- Spatial audio feature is underwhelming
- Still uses lightweight plastic for the case
Best For
The P30i is great for users who want active noise cancellation and better overall features without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate unique color options and multi-device connectivity.
Soundcore P40i: The Premium Budget Option
Design and Build
The P40i feels more premium with a substantial case that supports wireless charging. The earbuds have an off-white color with gold accents, giving them a more polished look.
Key Features
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Up to 12 hours battery life on a single charge
- IPX5 water resistance
- Improved Active Noise Cancellation and transparency mode
- Wireless charging case
- Six microphones for better call quality
Sound Quality
The P40i shines in sound quality, performing well even without EQ adjustments. They offer cleaner sound with more sparkle in the treble and less muddiness compared to their siblings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best sound quality among the three
- Wireless charging
- Longer battery life
- Superior microphone quality
Cons:
- Highest price point in the lineup (though still budget-friendly)
Best For
The P40i is perfect for users who want the best possible sound quality and features while still staying in the budget category. They’re ideal for music enthusiasts, frequent callers, and those who value wireless charging.
Making Your Choice
When deciding between these three models, consider the following:
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, the P20i offers great value for money.
- Features: If you need ANC and multi-point connection, choose between the P30i and P40i.
- Sound Quality: For the best out-of-the-box sound, go for the P40i.
- Battery Life: The P40i edges out with 12 hours compared to 10 hours on the others.
- Call Quality: If you make a lot of calls, the six microphones on the P40i make it the clear winner.
Soundcore P20i vs P30i vs P40i: Final Verdict
Soundcore has done an impressive job of creating distinct earbuds at different price points:
- The P20i is perfect for those on a tight budget or as a starter pair.
- The P30i offers a great balance of features and affordability.
- The P40i provides the best overall experience while still remaining budget-friendly.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and budget. Whichever you choose, Soundcore’s attention to detail and feature-rich offerings ensure you’ll get good value for your money.
Related:
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.
I own the p30i’s and the sound quality is sensational. ANC is adequate but if that is high on your list of requirements look elsewhere. But if you are looking for superb sound and basic ANC you can’t go wrong at such a low price.