Soundcore Life A1 USB-C
Score: 81/100
Tozo NC9 with ANC
Score: 82/100Rankings
The TOZO NC9 earbuds deliver hybrid active noise cancellation, six microphones, and an IPX8 waterproof rating, backed by a massive 59-hour total battery life. Trade-offs include the absence of wireless charging, modest single-earbud runtime, and no high-resolution codec support. They are ideal for fitness enthusiasts, travelers, and budget-conscious users who want ANC and rugged durability.
The Soundcore Life A1 offers a rugged IPX7 rating, wireless charging and a long 35-hour total battery life, making it a solid budget choice for active users. Its lack of ANC and bass-heavy tuning may disappoint listeners seeking balanced sound. Best suited for gym-goers and budget-conscious users who value durability and endurance.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
9 hoursbest | 8 hours | |
35 hours | 59 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 120 minutesbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 59 g | 42.5 gbest |
— | 15 metersbest | |
8 mm | 10 mmbest | |
4 | 6best | |
1.5 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds) (hours) | 9 hours | 8 hours |
Battery Life (With Case) (hours) | 35 hours | 59 hours |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX7 | IPX8 |
Total Weight (including case) (g) | 59 g | 42.5 g |
Audio(3) | ||
Active Noise Cancellation | false | true |
Driver Size (mm) | 8 mm | 10 mm |
Microphone Count | 4 | 6 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Life A1 for its value-driven feature set, especially the IPX7 rating, secure fit, strong bass and the rare inclusion of wireless charging at this price tier. They note the stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection and long battery life as strong points, while calling out the absence of active noise cancellation and the average call performance as drawbacks.
Everyday users repeatedly praise the earbuds' long battery life, secure fit during workouts, and the punchy bass in the Booster mode, while common complaints focus on muddy mids in the default setting, mediocre microphone quality in noisy environments, occasional Bluetooth drop-outs, and the need to experiment with ear-wing sizes for comfort.
Professional reviewers commend the NC9 for its strong performance-to-price ratio, lightweight comfort, and rugged build, highlighting the effective hybrid ANC and solid passive isolation. While the original model's lack of wireless charging and modest battery capacity are noted, the earbuds deliver premium-grade features at a budget price.
Everyday users consistently praise the NC9 for its affordability, durable construction, comfortable fit, and effective noise isolation. Common themes include appreciation for the long total battery life, IPX8 water resistance, and the extensive EQ options, while the primary complaints revolve around the absence of wireless charging and limited single-earbud runtime.
“comfortable and secure fit, inexpensive, stable connection”
“massive improvement”
“exceptional performance and simplicity”
