Soundcore Liberty 5
Score: 86/100
Yinyoo KZ ZS12 PRO
Score: 82/100Rankings
The Soundcore Liberty 5 blends high-end audio features-LDAC, Dolby Audio, adaptive ANC-with solid battery life and multipoint support, positioning it as a premium-ish ANC earbud at a competitive price.
The KZ ZS12 PRO is a premium hybrid IEM featuring a 1DD + 5BA driver layout, metal housing, and a tunable 4-level switch, delivering detailed, bass-rich sound for gamers and audiophiles. Its build quality and optional tuning make it stand out in the sub-$100 segment, though the stiff stock cable and fragile tuning switch are potential drawbacks. The inclusion of a microphone and dual connectivity (3.5 mm/USB-C) adds versatility.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
12 hoursbest | — | |
9.2 mm | 10 mmbest | |
— | 40,000 Hzbest | |
— | 109 dBbest | |
— | 35 Ωbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4.6 gbest | 58.9 g |
18 monthsbest | 12 months |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 9.2 mm | 10 mm |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 18 months | 12 months |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 4.6 g | 58.9 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Charging Port Type | USB-C | 3.5mm TRS, USB-C |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Reviewers applaud the Liberty 5 for its sophisticated Adaptive ANC, Dolby Audio, and digital battery display, while noting touch-control sensitivity and the need for an app account.
Users love the strong ANC, clear calls and long battery life, but many mention the case scratches easily and the touch controls can be finicky.
Professional reviewers highlight the ZS12 PRO series for its sophisticated hybrid driver architecture and the rare inclusion of an electronic crossover, delivering a highly detailed and balanced soundstage, though critics note that the bass can overwhelm mids in the stock tuning.
Everyday users consistently praise the ZS12 PROs for their value, deep bass, clear treble and solid metal build, while common complaints revolve around the stiffness of the stock cable, the fragility of the tuning switch, fit variability and the lack of a carrying case.
“Best sub-$200 ANC earbud, love the sound and battery.”
“Touch controls are too sensitive, keep triggering.”
“Case scratches easily, wish it was more premium.”
