Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Anker Soundcore Space A40
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods 3rd Gen deliver seamless ecosystem integration and Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, leveraging custom drivers and Apple's tuning expertise. However, they lack active noise cancellation, a significant limitation at this price point. Anker's Soundcore Space A40 competes aggressively with adaptive ANC, superior battery longevity (10 hours with ANC versus 6 hours), multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and LDAC codec support for higher-quality streaming. Build quality is comparable with IPX4 ratings on both, though the Space A40 proves more versatile for general use. The A40 also includes comprehensive customization via the Soundcore app with adjustable EQ and HearID profiling. For Apple ecosystem users who prioritize Spatial Audio and wireless charging convenience, the AirPods 3 justify their premium. For broader compatibility, longer listening sessions, and noise control without sacrificing sound quality, the Space A40 offers substantially better value at half the price.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
Buy the Anker Soundcore Space A40 if…
- →Incredible value at $79 with ANC, LDAC, multipoint, and wireless charging
- →50-hour total battery with case is best-in-class for true wireless
- →LDAC codec supports high-resolution audio streaming
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
Anker Soundcore Space A40
Pros
- Incredible value at $79 with ANC, LDAC, multipoint, and wireless charging
- 50-hour total battery with case is best-in-class for true wireless
- LDAC codec supports high-resolution audio streaming
- HearID creates personalized sound profiles based on hearing test
- Compact and lightweight for a secure, comfortable fit
Cons
- ANC is decent but not competitive with Sony or Bose flagships
- Call quality can be inconsistent in noisy environments
- IPX4 rating is basic splash resistance only
- Touch controls are sometimes unresponsive
- Bass can be slightly muddy at default EQ settings
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Anker Soundcore Space A40 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 4.9 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 10 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 10mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | Adaptive ANC with multiple levels, Transparency Mode, HearID personalized sound profiles, Multipoint Bluetooth, Wireless charging case, Soundcore app with EQ customization |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
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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.
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