The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro positions itself as a strong competitor to big-brand flagship earbuds, priced affordably at £150. This pair is noted for offering several premium features without the higher price tag, including top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), excellent call quality, and a feature-rich case.
The device boasts an Anker Thus AI chip, which manages noise cancellation, call clarity, and voice commands using on-device processing, eliminating reliance on cloud connectivity. Key hardware features include Bluetooth 6.1 supporting SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs, along with triple-device multipoint connectivity and offline voice commands that do not require a wake word.
The ANC system is highly adaptable; it can be adjusted via the case or app, featuring an Adaptive mode that blends cancellation with environmental awareness. Additional sensory capabilities include eight sensors for on-device processing, personalized HearID 5.0 tuning through a hearing test, and support for Dolby Atmos spatial audio.
In terms of design and build, the Liberty 5 Pro adopts a rounded “bean” shape, representing a departure from previous Soundcore designs. The earbuds come with ear fins and five eartip sizes. The unit features an IP55 rating for both water and dust resistance. Furthermore, the charging case is smart, offering a touchscreen interface that allows control over ANC modes, EQ presets, Dolby Atmos audio, Bluetooth connections, and more.
Battery performance provides 6.5 hours with ANC enabled and 10 hours without it. The total playtime can reach up to 45 hours when using the charging case. Quick charging capability delivers four hours of playback from just a five-minute charge, and wireless charging is supported.
Sound quality is achieved using 9.2mm dynamic drivers and supports LDAC on Android devices. While users can employ preset EQ options or use personalized HearID tuning, some found the default sound to be overly bass-heavy. The earbuds also feature AI Sound Enhancement, although this was described as a gimmick.
Potential buyers should consider whether they want highly versatile, feature-packed audio on a budget, making them useful for commuters and those in noisy environments who require multi-device connectivity or spatial audio. Conversely, individuals who prefer to use off-the-shelf settings may find the unit’s default sound tuning requires adjustments.
Overall, while not expected to surpass Bose and Sony flagships across every metric, the Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro is assessed as a well-rounded package for £150. Its standout features are its excellent call quality and high-performing ANC, which deliver on their promises. The convenience of the smart case and triple-device connectivity also contribute significantly to its appeal.
Source: Trusted Reviews
