Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X
Soundcore Life Q20
What Buyers Say
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X
These open-back headphones from Audio-Technica are praised for their exceptional sound quality and value, often outperforming more expensive models. Users highlight the wide soundstage and balanced audio, making them ideal for music, gaming, and movies. While the design may look unusual, it prioritizes comfort, though long sessions can cause slight discomfort. Durability is generally good, but one user reported a static shock issue after years of use.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Great value for money
- Wide soundstage
- Balanced audio
- Comfortable design
Cons
- Unusual design aesthetics
- Slight discomfort during long sessions
- Static shock issue after years
- Not for bass-heavy listeners
Soundcore Life Q20
Users overwhelmingly praise these headphones for their exceptional value, comfort, and impressive noise cancellation at a budget price. Battery life is a standout feature, with one user reporting 60% charge remaining after two weeks of use. A few minor complaints include the headphones being slightly heavy and the lack of a clear power indicator light. Overall, the sentiment is highly positive, with most reviewers recommending them as a top budget pick.
Pros
- Exceptional value for money
- Impressive noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
Cons
- Slightly heavy on the head
- No clear power indicator light
- Noise cancelling not confirmed for wired mode
Scores
Specifications
| Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X | Soundcore Life Q20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | over-ear | over-ear |
| Open/Closed | open | closed |
| Foldable | — | ✓★ |
| Weight | 0.23 kg★ | 0.26 kg |
| Ear Cushion | raised-fabric | memory foam |
| Headband | honeycomb aluminum | memory foam |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | 53 mm★ | 40 mm |
| Drivers | — | 4★ |
| Freq Min | 5 Hz★ | 16 Hz |
| Freq Max | 25 kHz | 40 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 48 Ω | 16 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB | 105 dB★ |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones, Frequency Response 5 Hz to 25 kHz | Foldable design with ergonomic headband, memory foam ear cups and multi-point rotation, travel pouch |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | — | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | hybrid |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.0★ |
| Profiles | — | A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Detachable Cable | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cable Length | 3 m | 1.2000000476837158 m |
| Range | — | 15 m★ |
| Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 60 hrs★ |
| Charge Time | — | 2 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 5 minutes for 4 hours of listening |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 4★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Boom Mic | — | ✗ |
| Detachable Mic | — | ✗ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | Siri, Google Assistant |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | soundcore app |
| Gaming Mode | — | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | Water-Resistant |
Pros & Cons
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X
- Strong build (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (88th percentile)88th %ile
- Strong sound (88th percentile)88th %ile
- Below average mic (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average comfort (30th percentile)
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Soundcore Life Q20
- Strong sound (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong connectivity (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong anc (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong battery (91st percentile)91st %ile
Verdict
Scores 91 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 18 of 40 specs.