Sennheiser HD 560S vs Anker Soundcore Space A40
The Verdict
Sennheiser HD 560S and Anker Soundcore Space A40 serve fundamentally different needs. Sennheiser delivers superior sound quality through its 38mm dynamic drivers and open-back reference design, ideal for critical listening and studio work with minimal coloration across its 6Hz-38kHz range. Anker prioritizes portability and convenience with active noise cancellation, 10-hour battery life with ANC enabled, wireless charging, and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity at a significantly lower price point. Sound quality favors the Sennheiser's audiophile-oriented tuning, while the Anker excels in everyday usability and features. Budget-conscious commuters seeking ANC and wireless convenience should choose the Soundcore Space A40. Audiophiles and professional listeners wanting transparent, accurate sound without batteries or cables should invest in the HD 560S. For most consumers balancing performance with practicality, the Anker offers better overall value.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Sennheiser HD 560S if…
- →Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
- →120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
- →Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening
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
Sennheiser HD 560S
Pros
- Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
- 120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
- Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening
- Lightweight and comfortable for marathon listening sessions
- Excellent value as an entry into open-back audiophile headphones
Cons
- Open-back design leaks sound heavily — no isolation
- Wired only — no wireless option
- Bass can sound lean for casual listeners who prefer warmth
- Plastic build feels less premium than metal-bodied competitors
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 | Sennheiser HD 560S | Anker Soundcore Space A40 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 240 g | 4.9 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 10 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs total with case |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 38mm dynamic transducer, 120 ohm impedance | 10mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Open-back reference design, 120-ohm impedance — can be driven by most sources, Detachable cable, Velour ear pads for comfort, Wide frequency response (6 Hz – 38,000 Hz) | 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, LDAC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | 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 Sennheiser products or all Anker products. View full details for the Sennheiser HD 560S or the Anker Soundcore Space A40.