Anker Soundcore Space Q45 vs Sony WF-C500
The Verdict
Anker's Space Q45 delivers exceptional value for a $149 over-ear option, featuring rare LDAC hi-res audio support, industry-leading 50-hour battery life with ANC enabled, and adaptive noise cancellation via six microphones. Sony's WF-C500 takes a different approach as a budget true wireless earbud at $99, offering portability and Sony's DSEE enhancement with 360 Reality Audio, though lacking active noise cancellation and providing only 10 hours of playtime per charge. Sound quality favors the Anker for audiophiles thanks to LDAC codec support and larger drivers, while Sony excels in convenience and portability. Battery life on the Anker is dramatically superior,50 hours versus 10 hours,making it ideal for travel. Choose the Space Q45 if you prioritize audio quality, ANC, and endurance; select the WF-C500 if you need compact true wireless buds for daily commuting on a stricter budget.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 if…
- →Outstanding value — LDAC and ANC at a budget price
- →Remarkable 50-hour battery life with ANC enabled
- →Bluetooth multipoint and LDAC are rare features at this price
Buy the Sony WF-C500 if…
- →10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- →Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- →DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Anker Soundcore Space Q45
Pros
- Outstanding value — LDAC and ANC at a budget price
- Remarkable 50-hour battery life with ANC enabled
- Bluetooth multipoint and LDAC are rare features at this price
- IPX4 sweat resistance makes it gym-friendly
- Quick charge adds 4 hours in just 5 minutes
Cons
- ANC quality does not match Sony or Bose at higher price points
- Sound tuning is V-shaped and lacks midrange clarity
- Build quality and materials feel budget-grade
- App experience is less polished than Sony or Bose
Sony WF-C500
Pros
- 10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
- IPX4 sweat resistance handles workouts
- Reliable Sony sound quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- No ANC or ambient sound mode
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- No wireless charging case
- Basic microphone quality — not ideal for calls
- SBC/AAC only — no high-resolution codecs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Anker Soundcore Space Q45 | Sony WF-C500 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 50 hrs (ANC on) | 10 hrs (20 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | USB-C, 5-min quick charge for 4 hrs playback | USB-C |
| Features | LDAC hi-res wireless audio at $149, Adaptive ANC with 6 microphones, Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Foldable design with carrying case included | DSEE digital sound enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, Sony Headphones Connect app, Fast Pair for Android |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | LDAC, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Drivers | — | 5.8mm driver |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Anker products or all Sony products. View full details for the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 or the Sony WF-C500.