Nothing Ear (2) vs Anker Soundcore Space A40
The Verdict
Nothing Ear (2) delivers premium audio technology with LHDC 5.0 hi-res support and a personalized sound profile via Mimi hearing test, justifying its higher price point. Anker Soundcore Space A40 counters with significantly better battery endurance, offering 10 hours per charge versus Nothing's 4 hours with ANC enabled, and 50 total hours compared to 22.5 hours. Build quality favors Nothing with superior IP54/IP55 ratings and a distinctive transparent design, while Anker focuses on practical value with IPX4 protection and robust EQ customization via its app. Sound profile personalization exists in both, though Nothing's approach appears more sophisticated. For audiophiles prioritizing wireless hi-res audio and design aesthetics, Nothing Ear (2) excels. Budget-conscious users seeking all-day comfort and minimal charging needs will find the Soundcore Space A40 more practical. Recommendation: Choose Nothing Ear (2) if premium audio quality matters most; select Soundcore Space A40 for superior battery life and value.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Nothing Ear (2) if…
- →Striking transparent design that stands out
- →Hi-res LHDC 5.0 codec support and personalized sound profile
- →Bluetooth multipoint for two-device pairing
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
Nothing Ear (2)
Pros
- Striking transparent design that stands out
- Hi-res LHDC 5.0 codec support and personalized sound profile
- Bluetooth multipoint for two-device pairing
- Comfortable, lightweight fit with secure seal
- Affordable at $149
Cons
- ANC is good but not class-leading
- Battery life with ANC on is shorter than rivals
- App and feature support is best on Nothing phones
- Pinch controls take getting used to
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 | Nothing Ear (2) | Anker Soundcore Space A40 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.5 g (per bud) | 4.9 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 4 hrs buds (ANC on) / 6.3 hrs (ANC off), up to 22.5 hrs total with case (ANC off) | 10 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 11.6 mm dynamic driver with custom diaphragm | 10mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Personalized active noise cancellation, LHDC 5.0 hi-res audio support, Personal Sound Profile via Mimi hearing test, Dual connection (Bluetooth multipoint), Pinch-stem controls, Transparent design with glyph case | 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 | LHDC 5.0, AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds), IP55 (case) | 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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Nothing products or all Anker products. View full details for the Nothing Ear (2) or the Anker Soundcore Space A40.