Nothing Ear (a) Black
Score: 81/100
Soundcore Life Q20 with ANC
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Nothing Ear (a) are true-wireless earbuds offering hybrid ANC up to 45 dB, a lightweight 4.8 g design and fast 10-minute charging. They lack wireless charging for the case and the microphones deliver modest call quality. Ideal for budget-conscious users who value ANC and multipoint connectivity.
The Soundcore Life Q20 are over-ear headphones offering hybrid active noise cancellation, Hi-Res audio and up to 60 hours of battery life. Their long endurance and budget price are balanced by a bulky headband and occasional treble harshness. They are best for travelers and commuters who value marathon battery life over high-end sound fidelity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6 hoursbest | — | |
9.5 hours | 60 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4.8 gbest | 255 g |
| ↓ lower better | 10 minutes | 5 minutesbest |
11 mm | 40 mmbest | |
5,000 Hzbest | — | |
— | 16 Ωbest | |
— | 15 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(3) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 6 hours | 40-49 hours |
Battery Life (ANC Off) (hours) | 9.5 hours | 60 hours |
Quick Charge Time (minutes) | 10 minutes | 5 minutes |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Audio(2) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 11 mm | 40 mm |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 5000 Hz | 16-40000 Hz |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 4.8 g | 255 g |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 1.5 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Ear (a) for delivering premium-level sound quality, a sophisticated adaptive ANC system, and a highly customizable app, all at a sub-$100 price point. They also note the low harmonic distortion and rapid charging as standout technical achievements, while pointing out the need for manual Fast Pair reconnections and the relatively modest microphone performance.
Everyday users love the earbuds' sleek transparent design, strong ANC for the price, lightweight comfort, and the long battery life provided by the case. Common frustrations revolve around occasional connectivity hiccups with iPhones, the need to re-pair after device power cycles, and the earbuds' microphone not being as clear as desired.
“powers multiple flights”
Professional reviewers commend the Life Q20 for its feather-light weight, impressive battery endurance, and effective low-frequency ANC, noting that the hybrid system and Hi-Res drivers deliver a satisfying audio experience for the price. However, they point out ergonomic drawbacks such as the oversized headband, a flimsy travel pouch, and occasional audio imbalances like bass inconsistency with glasses and harsh treble, as well as the absence of a low-latency gaming mode.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the ultra-long battery life and reliable ANC that silences cabin and traffic noise, while also highlighting the comfort of the memory-foam earcups. Recurring criticisms focus on the bulky headband on smaller heads, the minimal protection of the drawstring pouch, occasional app pairing issues, and treble harshness that can become fatiguing over long sessions.
