Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) vs Anker Soundcore Space A40
The Verdict
Both earbuds offer solid active noise cancellation and transparency modes, but serve different audiences. Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen delivers superior sound tuning through custom amplification and spatial audio support, with seamless ecosystem integration for Apple users. Battery life reaches 4.5 hours per charge with ANC enabled. Anker Soundcore Space A40 significantly outperforms on practical value, providing 10-hour ANC battery life, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and LDAC codec support for nearly three times the price advantage. The Anker's HearID personalization and app-based EQ customization offer deeper audio customization than Apple's fixed Adaptive EQ. While Apple's build quality and brand prestige appeal to ecosystem loyalists, Soundcore Space A40 delivers objectively better specifications and features for general consumers prioritizing longevity, connectivity versatility, and battery endurance. For budget-conscious buyers seeking feature-rich ANC earbuds, Soundcore Space A40 is the smarter choice. Apple suits users deeply embedded in iOS who value brand consistency over specifications.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) if…
- →Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- →Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- →Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
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 Pro (1st Gen)
Pros
- Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
- Spatial Audio support added via firmware update
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
Cons
- 4.5-hour ANC battery life is short compared to newer models
- Lightning charging port — no USB-C
- Ear tips are prone to degradation and cracking over time
- Force sensor on stems can be tricky to press without dislodging
- Superseded by AirPods Pro 2 with significantly better specs
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 Pro (1st Gen) | Anker Soundcore Space A40 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.4 g (each) | 4.9 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 4.5 hrs ANC on (24 hrs total with case) | 10 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Lightning or Qi wireless charging | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 10mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio (added via software update), Three sizes of silicone ear tips, Ear tip fit test | 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 |
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.
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