Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
The Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones takes the lead with its impressive 60-hour battery life, making it a no-brainer for anyone who wants to binge-watch or listen to music on long trips without worrying about recharging. In contrast, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers high-resolution audio and a sleek design, but it falls short with its lack of Active Noise Cancelling and shorter 50-hour battery life. After testing both headphones, I found that the Soundcore's Hybrid ANC does a fantastic job blocking out low-frequency noise, like the hum of an airplane, while the Audio-Technica relies on passive noise isolation. So if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in battery longevity and sound isolation, the Soundcore is your best bet for 2026.
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Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(49,159)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid ANC; reduces up to 90% of low-frequency noise) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | No |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Hi-Res Audio Certified in wired mode) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 16 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | Single microphone for calls (AI noise reduction); 4 total mics for ANC processing | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 60 hours (ANC off) / Up to 40 hours (ANC on) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 5 min charge = 4 hours playback | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Dual-device connection) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard Bluetooth latency ~200ms) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm AUX cable included; ANC functions are disabled in wired mode) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 8.6 oz (244 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, NC Button) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | soundcore App (Custom EQ + 22 Presets) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | BassUp Technology; Foldable design; White noise soundscapes in app | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (60 hours) outperforms many premium competitors
- • Hybrid ANC effectively blocks low-frequency engine noise for the price
- • App support allows for deep EQ customization and firmware updates
- • Bluetooth Multipoint is a rare and valuable feature in the budget tier
- • Comfortable, lightweight fit suitable for long listening sessions
✗ Cons:
- • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cannot be used in wired mode
- • Call quality is mediocre with only a single microphone for voice pickup
- • No low-latency mode makes it unsuitable for competitive wireless gaming
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
The Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 60-hour battery life crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)'s 50-hour limit. That said, grab the Audio-Technica if you prioritize high-resolution audio and dual microphones for calls - it's the smarter buy if you want to enhance your audio experience in a quieter environment.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you want a whopping 60 hours of battery life, need effective noise cancellation for travel, or prefer a comfortable fit for long listening sessions.
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you crave high-resolution audio support for your music, require dual microphones for better call quality, or want a headphone that works seamlessly in wired mode. (10.83 oz weight)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones excels if you value exceptional battery life (60 hours) outperforms many premium competitors. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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