Soundcore by Anker P40i True Wireless Earbuds: Bass-Powered Budget ANC Champs
In the ever-evolving budget audio arena, where $50 earbuds often skimp on features, the Soundcore P40i by Anker stands out as a 2024 release that’s still dominating 2025’s value scene at around $50. These stemmed true wireless earbuds pack adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), marathon battery life, and a quirky phone stand in the case—features that feel premium without the premium price.
After weeks of testing them through commutes, workouts, and binge-watches, the P40i proves Anker’s knack for delivering feature-stuffed performers. They’re not flawless (call quality can falter in wind), but for bass enthusiasts seeking everyday reliability, they’re a no-brainer upgrade over basic buds. Let’s dive in.
Specifications
The P40i boasts a spec sheet that belies its budget tag. Dual 11mm composite dynamic drivers handle a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, with BassUp technology for on-the-fly bass boosts via the Soundcore app. Bluetooth 5.3 supports AAC and SBC codecs, multipoint pairing for two devices, and a stable 10m range.
ANC is adaptive, using six microphones and AI algorithms to tailor noise blocking to your environment—up to 49dB reduction in transport mode.
Battery life shines: 12 hours per charge without ANC (8+ hours with), extending to 60 hours total via the case. A 10-minute quick charge nets 4 hours of playtime; full USB-C recharge takes 2 hours, with wireless charging support. IPX5-rated for the buds (case unprotected), they’re sweat- and splash-resistant for runs or showers.
Touch controls are fully customizable in the app for playback, volume, ANC modes (Transport/Indoor/Outdoor), and a low-latency gaming mode.
The compact case (47g) flips open to double as a phone stand—perfect for hands-free Netflix—complete with a lanyard loop.
Each 5g bud includes six silicone tip sizes (XS–XL) with integrated grilles for easy cleaning. The app adds HearID personalization, 8-band EQ, firmware updates, and “Find Device” chirps. No LDAC for hi-res, but for $50, this is loaded.
Value for Money
Compared to Similar EarphonesPriced at $50, the P40i crushes most sub-$50 rivals with its ANC and 60-hour battery, outlasting the JBL Vibe Beam ($40, 32 hours total) and TOZO NC2 ($40, 45 hours but weaker ANC).
The JBL offers better wind-resistant calls and IP54 dust protection, but lacks the P40i’s phone stand and multipoint—JBL’s app is basic by comparison.
Soundcore’s own P30i ($50) matches the stand but skimps on bass depth, while the A30i ($30) drops ANC for a slimmer fit. Against the CMF Buds Pro ($50), the P40i edges in battery but trails in out-of-box ANC strength—CMF blocks voices better, though P40i’s app tweaks close the gap.
The QCY HT05 ($45) has sleeker comfort and stronger initial ANC, but its 40-hour total battery and muddier mids can’t match P40i’s endurance.
For 2025 holdovers like the Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 ($50), the P40i wins on call clarity outdoors, but Edifier’s treble sparkle suits podcasts more. Overall, the P40i delivers 80% of $100 buds’ features (like Liberty 4 NC’s ANC) at half the cost—ideal if battery and bass trump perfection.
It’s often 40% off on Amazon, making it a steal over generics that die after six months.
Sound Quality
The P40i’s sound is a bass-lover’s dream: thumping lows from the 11mm drivers rumble at 60Hz (+12dB boost), ideal for EDM or hip-hop, enhanced by BassUp for real-time punch without mud.
Mids are clear for vocals in pop or podcasts, though the V-shaped profile can veil details in complex rock tracks—treble peaks sharply but lacks sparkle, feeling recessed on cymbals.
App EQ fixes this: HearID scans your ears for a custom profile, while presets like “Piano” balance for acoustics. With ANC on, passive isolation adds depth, blocking 70% of low rumbles like engines. Gaming mode cuts latency to 45ms for synced video, though not pro-level.
Volume hits loud without distortion, and Bluetooth 5.3 pairs instantly with no drops during jogs.
It’s not neutral—rivals like Sony WF-C510 offer crisper highs—but for casual listening, it’s engaging and fatigue-free over 8-hour days. In tests, it handled Spotify’s dynamic range well, outperforming boomy TOZO buds in clarity.
Reliability of the Brand
Anker’s Soundcore line, born in 2018, has cemented its rep as a budget powerhouse, inheriting Anker’s battery and build expertise. 2025 reviews on Reddit and Trustpilot average 4.5/5, with users logging 18+ months on P-series buds without failures—IPX5 holds up in sweat tests, and Bluetooth 5.3 minimizes drops.
The app’s frequent updates (e.g., ANC tweaks) keep things fresh, and Anker’s 18-month warranty plus responsive Amazon support shine; one user swapped a faulty pair in days.
Occasional gripes include touch sensitivity in humidity or case hinge wear after a year, but failure rates are low—far below no-name brands. Compared to JBL’s occasional connectivity woes, Soundcore’s sturdy plastic and magnet-secure buds feel premium.
It’s the go-to for reliable value, with 2025 polls calling it “most dependable under $100.”
Ideal User Type
The P40i suits bass-hungry multitaskers: commuters blocking train noise with adaptive ANC, travelers propping phones for in-flight movies via the stand, or gym rats needing 60-hour sweat-proof stamina.
It’s great for Android/iOS users tweaking EQ for playlists, or remote workers juggling calls and tunes (multipoint helps). Skip if you crave hi-res neutrality or elite wind-free mics—these thrive for 20–40-hour weekly casuals over audiophiles.
At $50, the P40i flips the script on budget buds, blending fun sound, smart features, and Anker toughness. It’s a 4.5/5 daily essential—grab ’em before Black Friday hikes prices.
