Soundcore P30i Review: Budget ANC Earbuds with 36-Hour Battery
At a Glance
- Price: $79.99 (MSRP) | Often discounted to $69
- Battery Life: 9hrs (earbuds) + 36hrs (case) with ANC on
- Key Feature: Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation at budget price
- Best For: Commuters, gym-goers, bass lovers
- Competitors: EarFun Air Pro 3, JBL Tune Buds, Sony WF-C700N
Anker’s Soundcore brand has been disrupting the audio market with feature-packed products at aggressive prices. The new P30i continues this tradition by bringing hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) to the sub-$100 segment. After two weeks of testing during commutes, workouts, and work calls, here’s our detailed breakdown.
Design & Comfort
The P30i adopts a stem-style design similar to AirPods but with more angular edges. Available in three colors (our review unit was Midnight Black), the matte plastic finish resists fingerprints well. At 4.8g per earbud, they’re lightweight enough for extended wear.
Four sizes of silicone tips are included. The medium tips provided a secure seal for our testers with average-sized ears, though those with smaller ear canals might struggle slightly. The IPX5 rating means they can handle sweat and rain – we successfully tested them during intense gym sessions.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 10mm dynamic titanium drivers |
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC (feedforward + feedback mics) |
| Battery Life | 9hrs (earbuds), 36hrs (case) with ANC on |
| Charging | USB-C + wireless charging (case) |
| IP Rating | IPX5 (sweat/rain resistant) |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 with multipoint pairing (2 devices) |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC (no aptX/LDAC) |
| Controls | Touch-sensitive (customizable via app) |
| Weight | 4.8g per earbud, 42g case |
Sound Quality & Performance
Audio Performance
The 10mm titanium-coated drivers deliver a V-shaped sound signature with emphasized bass and treble. In our tests:
- Bass: Powerful and punchy (BassUp™ technology works well for EDM and hip-hop)
- Mids: Slightly recessed but vocals remain clear
- Highs: Lacks some sparkle compared to premium buds
The Soundcore app offers a 5-band EQ with presets (we preferred “Soundcore Signature”). Audiophiles will miss LDAC/aptX support, but casual listeners won’t notice.
Noise Cancellation
The hybrid ANC system combines feedforward and feedback mics. In real-world testing:
- Reduced subway rumble by ~75% (comparable to $150 buds)
- Office chatter was muted effectively
- Struggled with high-frequency sounds like baby cries
- Transparency mode sounds natural but slightly muffled
Call Quality
The quad-mic system with AI noise reduction performs adequately indoors, but:
- Voice clarity is good in quiet environments
- Wind noise reduction is mediocre compared to Jabra/Sony
- Not recommended as primary work call earbuds
Pros
- Exceptional battery life with ANC on
- Wireless charging case included
- IPX5 rating for workouts
- Strong bass response for EDM/hip-hop
- Stable Bluetooth 5.3 connection
Cons
- No wear detection (auto-pause)
- Mediocre call quality in wind
- Average ANC for high frequencies
- No spatial audio support
- Ear tips may not suit small ears
Battery Life & Charging
Anker’s battery claims held up in our testing:
- 9 hours continuous playback at 60% volume with ANC on
- Three additional charges from the case (total 36 hours)
- 10 minutes charging provides 2 hours playback
- Wireless charging works with all Qi pads
Verdict: Who Should Buy the Soundcore P30i?
Final Score: 7.8/10
Buy if: You want long battery life with decent ANC for under $80, prioritize bass-heavy sound, or need earbuds for workouts.
Skip if: You need crystal-clear call quality, wear small earbuds, or want audiophile-grade highs.
Alternatives:
– EarFun Air Pro 3 ($75): Better ANC but no wireless charging
– Jabra Elite 4 ($99): Superior mics but shorter battery
INR:
5,999
AED:
299
FAQ
Does the Soundcore P30i support multipoint Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth 5.3 allows simultaneous connection to two devices (e.g., phone and laptop).
Can you use either earbud independently?
Yes, both earbuds work in mono mode when used singly.
Is there an IP rating for water resistance?
Yes, IPX5 rating means they’re protected against sweat and rain but not submersion.
