Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort SC
The Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is the budget-friendly option, offering an impressive 60 hours of battery life. In contrast, the Bose QuietComfort SC, a mid-range contender, provides superior adjustable ANC modes for a more tailored listening experience. After testing both models, the standout feature for the Soundcore is its battery life – 60 hours means you can binge-watch movies without worrying about recharging. Meanwhile, Bose's advanced noise cancellation is a game-changer for travelers, effectively blocking out ambient noise even in windy conditions, which is invaluable for flights or public transport in 2026.
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Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose QuietComfort SC
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 Bose QuietComfort SC
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose QuietComfort SC
| Criterion | Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Bose QuietComfort SC |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(49,159)Amazon | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid ANC; reduces up to 90% of low-frequency noise) | Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Hi-Res Audio Certified in wired mode) | Bose TriPort acoustic architecture (Proprietary) |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 16 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | Not disclosed by manufacturer |
Microphones | Single microphone for calls (AI noise reduction); 4 total mics for ANC processing | Built-in microphone array (calls/ANC) + In-line microphone on audio cable |
Battery Life | Up to 60 hours (ANC off) / Up to 40 hours (ANC on) | Up to 24 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) |
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; 2.5 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = up to 4 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Dual-device connection) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard Bluetooth latency ~200ms) | No (Standard SBC/AAC latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm AUX cable included; ANC functions are disabled in wired mode) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable included; works passively without battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 8.6 oz (244 g) | 8.5 oz (240 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, NC Button) | Physical buttons (Power/BT, Volume +/-, Multi-function, Action button) |
App Eq | soundcore App (Custom EQ + 22 Presets) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ, Custom ANC modes, Shortcut settings) |
Extras | BassUp Technology; Foldable design; White noise soundscapes in app | Soft carrying case (SC exclusive); SimpleSync (connect to Bose soundbars); Spotify Tap |
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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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Bose QuietComfort SC
✓ Pros:
- • World-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and Wind Block
- • Extremely comfortable 'clamp-free' fit suitable for all-day wear
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control compared to touch gestures
- • Soft case makes the headphones easier to pack into tight bags than hard shells
- • Multipoint Bluetooth allows seamless switching between phone and laptop
✗ Cons:
- • Soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case
- • Lacks high-bitrate codecs (aptX/LDAC) found in competitors
- • Wired connection requires a 2.5mm cable (less common than 3.5mm)
- • No USB-C audio support (USB port is for charging only)
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Which one is better?
The Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 60 hours of battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort SC's 24 hours. That said, grab the Bose if you prioritize superior noise cancellation modes - it's worth considering for long flights.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you need a whopping 60 hours of battery life, want customizable EQ settings, or are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Choose the Bose QuietComfort SC if: you value world-class noise cancellation, prefer a comfortable fit for all-day wear, or need seamless switching between devices. (8.47 oz weight)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
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. Bose QuietComfort SC is better if you prioritize world-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and wind block. 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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