Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
The Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones crush the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi in battery life: 60 hours vs 30 hours. This means if you want headphones that can last through multiple long flights or workdays without needing a recharge, the Soundcore is a no-brainer for 2026. If you're an audiophile who craves premium sound, the Focal Bathys shines with its uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio quality. In real-world use, that translates to an exceptional listening experience, especially with high-quality tracks. You'll appreciate the detail it brings to your music, but you'll pay for it with a bulkier design at 12.3 ounces.
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Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(49,159)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid ANC; reduces up to 90% of low-frequency noise) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Hi-Res Audio Certified in wired mode) | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 16 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | Single microphone for calls (AI noise reduction); 4 total mics for ANC processing | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 60 hours (ANC off) / Up to 40 hours (ANC on) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
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 Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Dual-device connection) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard Bluetooth latency ~200ms) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm AUX cable included; ANC functions are disabled in wired mode) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 8.6 oz (244 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, NC Button) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | soundcore App (Custom EQ + 22 Presets) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | BassUp Technology; Foldable design; White noise soundscapes in app | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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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-hour battery crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 30-hour battery. That said, grab the Focal Bathys if you need audiophile-level sound quality - it's worth every ounce of its extra weight.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you need a long-lasting battery for travel, want effective ANC on a budget, or prefer a lightweight design. (8.61 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you demand top-tier audio performance, often use a USB-DAC for high-quality sound, or enjoy a personalized audio experience with advanced EQ options. (12.35 oz weight)
Conclusion
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones and Focal Bathys Hi-Fi are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
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. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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