Soundcore Anker Life Q20 are Affordable Noise-Canceling Headphones That Punch Above Their Price at $29.99

Crisp audio cuts through the noise of a crowded café and for a moment the world feels peaceful. That’s the promise of the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, a set that delivers performance without the premium price tag. These over-ear Bluetooth headphones are $29.99 (down from $59.99) and aim to bring high quality sound and efficient noise cancellation to budget buyers.

The over-ear design has memory foam ear cups that conform to your head over time for a snug but comfortable fit. They weigh 250g so are perfect for long wear whether you’re commuting or on a long journey. The headband adjusts comfortably and the black finish is simple but stylish. A travel pouch is included so you can chuck them in your suitcase without worrying about scratches.

The 40mm dynamic drivers produce bright and clear audio with a focus on clarity across genres. High frequencies up to 40kHz give music a sharp edge, from classical strings to electronic beats. Bass is great thanks to Anker’s BassUp technology which boosts low end frequencies with a double press of the play button. When listening to hip-hop or EDM the bass thumps, but doesn’t overpower the vocals or mids. It’s not audiophile grade, but for casual listeners or travelers, the sound exceed what you’d expect for the price.

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is usually a luxury feature, but the Life Q20 makes it more accessible. Four built-in microphones and a computer algorithm combine to block out ambient noise by up to 90%, especially low and mid frequency sounds like car engines or aviation humming.

The Life Q20 has up to 40 hours of playback with ANC on at 60% and an impressive 60 hours in regular mode. That’s enough to last a week of commutes or several long haul trips without needing to recharge. A 5 minute USB-C charge gives you 4 hours of listening time, which is handy when you’re in a rush. The included AUX cord also means you can use them wired if the battery runs out, so you’re never without music.

Pairing the Life Q20 via Bluetooth is easy, the connection is strong even in crowded areas. The controls on the ear cups are simple—power, volume, track skip, BassUp. A 3.5mm socket for wired connection and an AUX cord is included for flexibility.