Soundcore by Anker V20i True Wireless Earbuds: Open-Ear Freedom on a Budget
In the budget audio market of 2025, where true wireless earbuds often compromise on fit or features, the Soundcore V20i by Anker carves a niche with its open-ear design. Priced around $25-$30, these ear-hook buds prioritize situational awareness for active users, blending deep bass, adjustable comfort, and solid battery life.
Released mid-2025, they’ve gained traction for sports and casual listening, especially post-Prime Day deals dipping to $23. After testing them on runs, commutes, and calls, the V20i impresses as a value-driven alternative to in-ear models—though ambient noise bleed is a trade-off.
They’re ideal for those who hate ear canal pressure but want Anker’s reliable punch. Let’s unpack it.
Specifications
The V20i sports an open-ear setup with adjustable ear hooks in four positions, ensuring a snug, ultra-comfortable fit for various ear sizes via a dual-curved support structure. At the core are 16mm dynamic drivers with BassUp technology for enhanced lows, supporting a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response and SBC codec over Bluetooth 5.4 for stable 10m connectivity. No AAC or hi-res here, but multipoint pairing allows seamless device switching.
Battery life stands out: up to 12 hours per charge (8 hours with optional LED lights), extending to 36 hours total via the compact charging case with USB-C. Quick charge yields 2 hours from 10 minutes. IP55 or IP68 rating (sources vary, but Anker claims sweat/dust-proof for workouts) protects the buds, though the case isn’t rated.
Four microphones with AI noise reduction handle calls, while touch controls manage playback, volume, and calls—customizable in the Soundcore app.
The app unlocks EQ presets, BassUp toggles, firmware updates, and a “Find My” feature. Weighing 8g per bud, they include a lanyard case and no silicone tips (open-ear perk). Low-latency mode suits gaming/videos, and they’re iOS/Android compatible. No ANC, but directional acoustics minimize sound leakage.
Difference Between the V20i and the P20i
The V20i and P20i, both budget Anker staples, differ fundamentally in design and use case. The P20i is a classic in-ear bud with 10mm drivers, IPX5 water resistance, and passive isolation for immersive listening—great for blocking noise but potentially uncomfortable for long wears.
In contrast, the V20i adopts an open-ear hook style, avoiding ear canal insertion for better awareness of surroundings, like traffic during runs.Key upgrades: V20i’s 16mm drivers deliver deeper bass than P20i’s, with Bluetooth 5.4 vs. 5.3 for improved efficiency.
Battery edges out too—12/36 hours vs. P20i’s 10/30 hours—while IP55/IP68 trumps IPX5 for dust/rain durability. The V20i adds adjustable hooks and multipoint, absent in P20i, but lacks the latter’s single-bud mode emphasis.
Sound-wise, V20i focuses on directional audio to reduce leakage, whereas P20i relies on seals for isolation. Price-wise, V20i often sells for $25-30, similar to P20i, but targets active users over casual commuters.
If you prefer sealed sound, stick with P20i; for breathable fit, V20i wins.
Value for Money Compared to Other Similar Earphones
At $25-30, the V20i offers strong value in the sub-$30 bracket, rivaling 2025’s best like TOZO T10 ($23), SoundPEATS Clear ($30), and JLab Go Pods ANC ($30). The TOZO matches IPX8 waterproofing and 8-hour battery but skimps on app EQ and bass depth—V20i’s BassUp and customizable presets give it an edge for tweaks.
SoundPEATS Clear provides crisp highs and multipoint but shorter 7-hour playtime and no open-ear awareness, making V20i better for sports.
Against JLab’s ANC-equipped Go Pods, V20i lacks noise cancellation but counters with longer 36-hour total battery and adjustable fit—JLab’s 20 hours feel limiting. Earfun Air Pro 4 Plus ($80) is pricier with premium sound, but for under $30, V20i punches above via Anker’s app ecosystem, absent in generics like Baseus BP1 Pro ($25), which has ANC but muddier mids.
Often discounted to $23, V20i outperforms no-names in durability, though call quality trails wind-resistant JBL Vibe Buds ($40). It’s a top pick for open-ear value, delivering 70% of $50 buds’ features.
Sound Quality
The V20i’s 16mm drivers shine with a bass-forward profile, BassUp boosting lows to taut, punchy levels for hip-hop and pop without overpowering mids.
Vocals remain crisp and clear, while treble adds sparkle for podcasts—though open-ear design allows ambient bleed, reducing immersion in noisy spots.
Directional acoustics focus sound toward your ears, minimizing leakage for bystanders.
App EQ (with HearID personalization) transforms it: “Bass Booster” rumbles for workouts, “Treble” lifts details in acoustics. Bluetooth 5.4 ensures no drops during 5km runs, with low-latency syncing videos seamlessly.
Volume peaks loudly sans distortion, but it’s not audiophile-neutral—highs can recess in complex tracks. Compared to in-ear rivals, it’s engaging for casuals, fatigue-free over hours, and handles Spotify dynamics well.
Reliability of the Brand
Soundcore, Anker’s audio wing since 2018, maintains a stellar rep for budget reliability, with 4.5/5 averages on Reddit/Trustpilot in 2025. V20i users report 12+ months of sweat-proof performance, crediting IP55 build and stable Bluetooth.
App updates fix glitches like pairing, backed by 18-month warranties and quick Amazon support—far surpassing flaky generics.
Occasional complaints include hook adjustments loosening or mic wind noise, but failure rates are low. Anker’s charger heritage ensures battery longevity, outlasting JLab’s in tests.
Ideal User Type
The V20i suits active, awareness-focused users: runners hearing traffic, cyclists needing environmental cues, or gym-goers wanting sweat-proof hooks without ear fatigue.
It’s perfect for podcast lovers during chores or casual calls in mild noise—bass enthusiasts tweaking EQ for workouts. Avoid if you need isolation or ANC for flights; these thrive for 20-30-hour weekly outdoorsy types over office dwellers.
In 2025’s crowded market, the V20i redefines budget open-ear tech with fit, bass, and endurance. A solid 4/5 for value-driven adventurers—worth the snag.
