Soundcore Space Q45 by Anker: Are $150 Famous Headphones Worth It?

Soundcore Space Q45 by Anker

When it comes to headphones, many of us believe that premium sound quality and advanced features come with a hefty price tag. But what if you could experience top-tier audio for just $150? Enter the Soundcore Space Q45 by Anker. After spending two weeks testing these budget-friendly headphones, I’m here to say that they can indeed hold their ground against competitors priced at $300, $400, or even $550. Let’s dive into the details of these impressive headphones.

Active Noise Cancellation That Exceeds Expectations

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is often a weakness for budget headphones. However, the Soundcore Space Q45 surprised me with their effectiveness. Featuring four microphones and an adaptive algorithm that adjusts based on your environment, these headphones excel in noise suppression.

For instance, while sitting in my office with the AC running, the Soundcore Space Q45 blocked out all background noise, performing on par with my $549 AirPods Max. But the real test came when I wore them while mowing my lawn. My lawnmower is far louder than an airplane cabin, yet the Soundcore Space Q45 eliminated almost all low-end noise and only allowed a small amount of high-end sound through. In fact, they reduced more low-end noise than my AirPods Max, leaving me thoroughly impressed.

This effectiveness is partially due to the memory foam ear seals, which provide a snug yet comfortable fit. They seal well without creating the head pressure often associated with premium headphones, making them a joy to wear for extended periods.

Unmatched Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Soundcore Space Q45 is their remarkable battery life. These headphones are rated for 50 hours of playback with ANC turned on and a staggering 65 hours without ANC. For context, competitors like the Sony XM5s offer up to 30 hours with ANC, while my AirPods Max struggle to maintain 20 hours in real-world usage.

The Soundcore Space Q45 also support fast charging, providing 4 hours of playback after just a 5-minute charge. This extended battery life means you can go days—or even weeks—without needing to recharge, making them perfect for long trips or busy schedules.

Premium Build Quality

At $150, you might expect compromises in build quality, but the Soundcore Space Q45 deliver a premium feel. The headphones feature aluminum hinges and a metal headband, providing durability and a polished look. The plastic components are well-designed and don’t feel cheap.

Another thoughtful design choice is the foldable construction, allowing you to store the headphones compactly. Unlike the AirPods Max or Sony XM5s, the Q45 fold neatly, making them easy to toss into your bag. The included hard-shell case further enhances portability, offering robust protection for your headphones.

User-Friendly Controls and Features

The Soundcore Space Q45 feature physical buttons on both ear cups for intuitive control. On one side, you’ll find the power button, ANC toggle, and charging port, while the other side houses volume controls, a play/pause button, and a headphone jack. Notably, the headphone jack works even when the headphones’ battery is depleted, a feature missing in many high-end models.

For connectivity, the Soundcore Space Q45 include multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. Whether you’re working on your laptop or taking a call on your phone, the headphones seamlessly switch between devices. While they don’t offer Apple’s iCloud device switching, this limitation applies to all non-Apple headphones.

Transparency Mode and Microphone Quality

Budget headphones often fall short in transparency mode, but the Soundcore Space Q45 are an exception. The transparency mode uses the headphones’ microphones to let external sounds in without sounding overly processed. This feature is customizable via the Soundcore app, allowing you to fine-tune it to your preference.

Microphone quality is another highlight. Thanks to noise reduction technology, the Q45 deliver clear audio during calls. My wife noted that my voice sounded crisp and natural, even in noisy environments, making these headphones a reliable choice for work and personal use.

Customizable Sound Quality

Out of the box, the Soundcore Space Q45 offer a natural sound profile with balanced mids and bass. However, for audiophiles or those who prefer a specific sound signature, the Soundcore app provides extensive customization options. The app includes presets and an equalizer that lets you tweak bass, treble, and volume levels to your liking.

For my personal settings, I boosted the low-end for more pronounced bass and sharpened the highs for better clarity. The dual 40mm drivers, featuring double-layer diaphragms, also support high-resolution audio, ensuring excellent sound quality for a variety of music genres.

Additional Features via the Soundcore App

The Soundcore app enhances the Q45 with additional features, including:

• Customizable Noise Cancellation: Adjust ANC levels to match your environment.
• Safe Volume Mode: Monitor and limit volume levels to protect your hearing.
• Button Customization: Reassign button functions to suit your needs.
• Talk Mode: Automatically lowers music volume when transparency mode is activated, making it easier to have conversations without removing the headphones.

These features make the Q45 highly versatile and user-friendly, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Pros and Cons

Are the Soundcore Space Q45 Worth It?

In a word: yes. The Soundcore Space Q45 by Anker deliver exceptional value, offering features and performance that rival or exceed those of headphones costing two or three times as much. From their impressive noise cancellation and extended battery life to their premium build quality and customizable sound, these headphones are a game-changer in the budget segment.

Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a music enthusiast, or someone looking for reliable headphones without breaking the bank, the Q45 are an excellent choice. If you’ve already purchased these or other Soundcore headphones, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. And if you’re considering buying a pair.

For just $150, the Soundcore Space Q45 redefine what budget headphones can achieve—offering an experience that’s truly worth every penny.