Looking for budget-friendly wireless earbuds with premium features? Soundcore by Anker Q20i might be just what you’re after. Known for delivering value-packed audio gear, Soundcore brings a lot to the table with this model — Active Noise Cancellation, long battery life, and a customizable sound experience, all without breaking the bank.
So, is it all hype or truly worth it? Let’s break it down in detail.
First Impressions
Unboxing Experience
Right out of the box, the presentation feels premium. The packaging is minimalistic but sleek, giving you the essentials: the earbuds, a compact charging case, a USB-C cable, ear tips in multiple sizes, and user manuals.
Build Quality and Design
These earbuds sport a modern and elegant matte finish. They’re lightweight and well-crafted — a combination that gives them a higher-end feel. The case is compact enough to slide into your jeans pocket easily.
Comfort and Fit
Thanks to ergonomic design and soft silicone tips, the Q20i sits snugly in your ears. Even after wearing them for hours, there’s no discomfort or fatigue, making them great for binge-listening or workouts.
Sound Quality
Audio Performance Overview
One word: impressive. The Q20i delivers rich sound with punchy bass and well-balanced mids and highs.
Bass, Mids, and Highs Clarity
Bass lovers will enjoy the deep, thumpy lows without it overpowering the rest. Vocals and instruments come through cleanly, and the highs sparkle just enough without sounding harsh.
Comparison with Other Earbuds
Compared to similarly priced models like boAt Airdopes or Realme Buds, the Q20i easily stands out for sound quality. The presence of customizable EQs in the Soundcore app gives it an edge.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
ANC Performance
The ANC here is surprisingly effective for the price. It blocks out consistent low-frequency noise like fans, engines, and traffic hums very well.
Modes Available
You get three modes:
- Normal Mode – For regular use
- Transparency Mode – Keeps you aware of your surroundings
- ANC Mode – Blocks out ambient noise
Real-life Test
Tested in a busy café, the ANC reduced most background chatter. You won’t get Bose-level cancellation, but it’s commendable at this price point.
Battery Life
Single Charge Playtime
Expect up to 9 hours on a single charge with ANC off. With ANC on, it’s around 6-7 hours — still very respectable.
Charging Case Backup
The case provides an additional 28 hours, totaling nearly 36 hours of playtime. That’s enough to get you through a week with moderate use.
Fast Charging
A quick 10-minute charge gives you about 2 hours of playtime. Super handy when you’re in a rush.
Connectivity and Bluetooth Performance
Bluetooth Version and Range
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, the connection is solid, fast, and energy-efficient. You’ll get about 10 meters of range without interruption.
Pairing Process
Pairing is smooth and quick — especially with Android phones thanks to fast pairing support. Once paired, the buds reconnect instantly when removed from the case.
Stability of Connection
No dropouts, no lags. Streaming YouTube, Spotify, or taking calls is seamless.
Controls and Features
Touch or Button Controls
The earbuds come with touch-sensitive controls — intuitive and customizable via the app.
Voice Assistant Support
Just tap and hold, and you’re talking to Google Assistant or Siri in seconds.
Soundcore App Features
You can:
- Customize touch controls
- Adjust EQ
- Toggle ANC modes
- Check battery levels
It’s one of the best apps in the audio space.
Microphone and Call Quality
Clarity in Calls
Calls are clear, and the dual microphones work well to suppress wind and background chatter.
Performance in Noisy Environments
Even in bustling streets or cafés, the person on the other end hears you loud and clear — a big win for work calls and voice notes.
Build and Durability
IP Rating and Resistance
With an IPX5 rating, these are splash- and sweat-resistant — perfect for workouts or rainy commutes.
Material Quality
From the earbuds to the case, the plastic used feels sturdy and scratch-resistant.
Portability
Lightweight and pocketable. Ideal for travel, gym, or daily carry.
Customization Options
EQ Settings
Through the Soundcore app, you get access to:
- 22 preset EQs
- A customizable 8-band EQ
Tailor the sound just the way you like.
Compatibility
Device Support
Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and even smart TVs.
Voice Assistant Integration
Quick access to voice assistants with a simple tap.
Value for Money
Price vs. Features
Priced under ₹3000 (subject to offers), it punches way above its weight class in terms of sound, features, and ANC.
Competitor Comparison
Compared to boAt Airdopes 441 Pro, Realme Buds Air 3, or Noise Buds VS104, the Q20i easily outshines them in ANC performance and audio customization.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent sound with customizable EQ
- Effective ANC with Transparency mode
- Great battery life with fast charging
- Comfortable for long use
- Superb app integration
Cons
- No wireless charging
- No in-ear detection
- Touch controls may need getting used to
User Reviews and Ratings
Most users praise:
- Sound quality
- Noise cancellation
- App features
Common complaints:
- No wireless charging
- Case build feels average to some
Average user rating across platforms: 4.4/5
Conclusion
If you’re searching for wireless earbuds that combine solid sound, decent ANC, and long-lasting battery life — without burning a hole in your wallet — Soundcore by Anker Q20i is a top contender. It offers a premium listening experience in a budget-friendly package.
FAQs
1. Does Soundcore Q20i support multipoint connection?
No, it currently does not support connecting to two devices simultaneously.
2. Can I use one earbud at a time?
Yes, the Q20i supports mono-mode. You can use either bud individually.
3. Is it good for gaming?
For casual gaming, yes. Latency is minimal but not ultra-low like in gaming-specific earbuds.
4. What’s included in the box?
You get:
- 1 pair of earbuds
- Charging case
- USB-C cable
- 3 sets of ear tips
- User manual
5. How to reset the earbuds?
Put the earbuds in the case, press and hold both buds for 10 seconds until the LED blinks red. That’s it — reset done.