Introduction
In recent years, wireless earbuds have become an essential tech accessory for many. However, not everyone loves the feeling of typical in-ear buds that sit tightly in the ear canal. Anker’s Soundcore C40i aims to solve this problem with its unique open-ear design that clips onto the outer ear rather than inserting deeply. In this review, we’ll dive into the unique design, comfort, sound quality, battery life, and overall usability of the Soundcore C40i to see if it’s worth considering.
Design and Comfort
The Soundcore C40i earbuds have a distinct open-ear design. Unlike traditional wireless earbuds, these clip onto the ears, leaving the ear canal unblocked, which allows you to stay aware of your surroundings. This design makes them particularly appealing for those who feel uncomfortable with in-ear earbuds or who need to stay alert in public spaces.
You can find the Soundcore C40i in two color options: graphite gray and desert bronze. The color selection is subtle and understated, giving the earbuds a sleek, professional look. The build quality is decent but leans on the plasticky side. One advantage of this design is that it’s easy to distinguish between the left and right buds due to their distinct shape.
The C40i also includes memory wire made from titanium. This helps the earbuds grip the ear without pinching, allowing them to be worn for extended periods without discomfort. Some users may experience slight ear fatigue after a few hours of use, but as one gets used to them, the discomfort decreases.
If the standard fit feels loose, Anker includes extra ear grips to provide additional support. These attachments are easy to install and secure the earbuds firmly, making them ideal for active users who might jog or walk briskly with them on.
Sound Quality
The open-ear design naturally limits the C40i’s bass response, which may disappoint users who enjoy a punchy, bass-heavy sound. However, the C40i still delivers clear audio, with vocals and midrange frequencies coming through crisply, which is ideal for podcasts and audiobooks.
Using the Soundcore app, users can select different sound modes, including bass mode, 3D surround sound, and Soundcore’s signature sound profile. The app also includes an equalizer, allowing customization to suit individual preferences. The signature sound profile seems to offer the most balanced output, ensuring that music and spoken word content are both clear and enjoyable.
Despite lacking noise cancellation, the C40i performs well for environments where you want to stay aware of background sounds, such as when jogging outdoors or working in an office. However, this feature becomes a drawback in noisy environments, as external sounds can interfere with audio playback. For those who commute on public transport, the lack of noise isolation could detract from the listening experience.
Controls and Usability
Instead of touch controls, the Soundcore C40i features physical buttons on each earbud. Through the Soundcore app, users can customize these buttons for various functions, such as play/pause, volume control, track skipping, and voice assistant activation. The physical buttons have a slight learning curve, especially for those accustomed to touch controls, but they eventually become intuitive to use.
However, the physical buttons sometimes lag in response, which can be mildly frustrating if quick adjustments are necessary. That said, having volume control on the earbuds is a welcome feature, as many wireless earbuds require adjustments through the connected device instead.
Microphone and Call Quality
The Soundcore C40i features dual microphones enhanced with AI to improve voice clarity during calls. The microphones perform well, even in moderate background noise, capturing voices clearly without much interference from environmental sounds. This feature makes the C40i a practical choice for hands-free calls, especially in quieter settings.
Battery Life and Charging
With around seven hours of audio playback on a single charge, the Soundcore C40i holds up well for daily use. This battery life is comparable to other wireless earbuds without noise cancellation, as the open-ear design reduces power consumption.
The included charging case provides a few additional charges, bringing the total listening time to around 20-24 hours. The case itself is compact, with a smooth pebble-like finish, making it easy to carry in a pocket or bag. While the C40i case charges via USB-C, it doesn’t support wireless charging, which some users may find inconvenient. However, given the affordable price point, the lack of wireless charging is not a dealbreaker.
Water Resistance
Anker designed the Soundcore C40i with an IPX4 water resistance rating, making them splash-proof and suitable for light workouts or mild rain. While they can withstand some moisture, they aren’t suitable for swimming or heavy exposure to water. This feature adds versatility for outdoor use, but users should exercise caution in extremely wet conditions.
Pricing and Value
Priced around $100, the Soundcore C40i offers a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive open-ear models like the Huawei Free Clip. The combination of its open-ear design, solid audio quality, and customization options through the Soundcore app makes it an attractive option for those looking for a balance between affordability and functionality.
Conclusion
The Anker Soundcore C40i earbuds present an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a lighter, more comfortable fit than traditional in-ear wireless earbuds. Their open-ear design ensures that you stay aware of your surroundings, making them ideal for specific environments, such as outdoor exercise or office settings where situational awareness is necessary.
While they may not satisfy bass enthusiasts or those seeking noise cancellation, the Soundcore C40i offers clear audio, good call quality, and a secure fit for everyday use. In addition, features like customizable controls, solid battery life, and IPX4 water resistance make them a versatile and affordable choice.
For users who want a pair of earbuds that are comfortable, reasonably priced, and functional without completely isolating them from their environment, the Soundcore C40i could be a worthwhile investment. However, if sound isolation and powerful bass are priorities, other options like the Nothing Ear (Open) or more traditional in-ear models may be more suitable.
