Audio & Headphones
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC: Adaptive ANC + LDAC & 50H Battery!
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC by Anker redefines what budget noise-cancelling earbuds can achieve. Featuring powerful adaptive active noise cancellation that reduces up to 98% of ambient noise, premium 11mm dynamic drivers with LDAC high-resolution codec support for Android, an exceptional 50-hour total battery life, and Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection — all for just $80. With an 8-band custom EQ, 22 preset sound modes, IPX4 water resistance, and crystal-clear call quality, these earbuds deliver flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag.
Best Price
$80
★★★★★
4.5 out of 5 - Best ANC Earbuds Under $100
Product Overview
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is Anker's standout true wireless earbuds that prove you don't need to spend $250+ for world-class active noise cancellation and premium sound quality. Built around large 11mm dynamic drivers, these stem-style earbuds deliver a powerful, energetic sound signature with deep bass, clear mids, and smooth highs. The adaptive ANC system automatically adjusts to your environment in real-time, reducing up to 98% of ambient noise — from airplane engine rumble to office chatter — making these earbuds a traveler's dream companion.
For Android users, the LDAC codec support enables high-resolution wireless audio streaming at up to 990 kbps, bringing out details and nuances that standard Bluetooth codecs simply cannot reproduce. The companion Soundcore app unlocks incredible customization with an 8-band graphic equalizer, 22 preset EQ modes, HearID personalized sound profiling, and adjustable ANC levels. Our expert team at Devixo Store has put these earbuds through extensive real-world testing across commuting, office work, gym sessions, and long-haul flights to bring you a comprehensive, honest review.
Why Buy This Product?
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC stands out as the undisputed king of budget noise-cancelling earbuds for several compelling reasons. First, the adaptive ANC performance is genuinely impressive — it effectively eliminates low-frequency rumble like airplane engines and train noise, while also handling mid-range chatter and sudden sounds like door slams with remarkable competence. In direct comparisons, the ANC comes surprisingly close to the $250+ Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5, making the value proposition undeniable. The dedicated Wind Noise Reduction setting is a thoughtful addition that keeps outdoor listening comfortable without compromising awareness.
Second, the sound quality and customization options are exceptional for the price. The 11mm drivers produce a warm, bass-forward sound that brings electronic music and hip-hop to life, while the 8-band EQ and 22 presets let you dial in the perfect sound for any genre. LDAC support on Android devices delivers noticeably better detail and dynamics than standard SBC or AAC codecs. The 50-hour total battery life crushes most competitors — including premium models that often top out at 30 hours. At our store, we rigorously test every product for ANC effectiveness, sound accuracy, call clarity, battery longevity, and long-term comfort. The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC consistently earns top marks as the best value ANC earbuds under $100, earning the Editors' Choice award from PCMag.
Similar Products You Might Like
Looking for alternatives? Check out these related products in the Audio & Headphones category. Whether you want a more compact design, different sound signature, or additional features like head-tracking spatial audio, our curated selection ensures you will find the perfect wireless earbuds to match your listening preferences and budget.
Sources & References
This comprehensive product review and analysis is based on extensive research from leading international technology publications, professional audio review platforms, and official manufacturer data. Our editorial team cross-references specifications, performance measurements, and user feedback from multiple authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Soundcore Official - Official product specifications, feature details, and FAQ documentation
- PCMag Review - Editors' Choice award winner, in-depth ANC and audio performance testing
- Scarbir Audio Review - Detailed sound quality analysis, call testing, and competitor comparisons
- RTINGS Headphones - Objective audio measurement, ANC performance benchmarking, and comfort testing
- SoundGuys - Battery life testing, microphone quality evaluation, and feature comparisons
- Amazon Customer Reviews - Verified purchaser feedback, long-term usage reports, and ratings
Last updated: July 2026. Prices and availability are subject to change. Please verify current pricing on the retailer's website.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
How good is the active noise cancellation on the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC?
The adaptive ANC on the Liberty 4 NC is exceptional for the price, reducing up to 98% of ambient noise according to Soundcore. In real-world testing, it effectively eliminates low-frequency rumble like airplane engines, train noise, and air conditioning hum. It also handles mid-range sounds like office chatter and sudden noises like door slams remarkably well. While flagship models like the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 offer marginally stronger ANC, the difference is surprisingly small considering the Liberty 4 NC costs less than half the price. The Adaptive mode automatically adjusts to your environment, or you can manually select from 5 ANC levels or Transportation modes (plane, train, bus, car).
2
How long does the battery last on the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC?
With ANC turned off, the Liberty 4 NC delivers up to 10 hours of continuous playback per earbud charge. With ANC enabled, battery life drops to approximately 8-9 hours per charge. The charging case holds an additional 40 hours (ANC off) or 32 hours (ANC on), bringing the total to 50 hours or 40 hours respectively. This is significantly longer than most premium competitors that typically offer 30 hours total. A 10-minute quick charge provides approximately 4 hours of playback. The case supports both USB-C wired charging and Qi wireless charging, adding convenience to the exceptional battery performance.
3
Does the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC support high-quality audio codecs?
Yes, the Liberty 4 NC supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs. LDAC is the standout feature here, enabling high-resolution wireless audio streaming at up to 990 kbps on compatible Android devices — nearly three times the bitrate of standard SBC. This results in noticeably better detail retrieval, dynamics, and overall clarity, especially with lossless or high-quality streaming sources. iPhone users are limited to AAC, which still delivers excellent quality but cannot match LDAC's resolution. The earbuds do not support aptX Adaptive or LC3 codecs. To use LDAC, enable it in the Soundcore app under Bluetooth settings on your Android device.
4
Can I connect the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC to two devices at once?
Yes, the Liberty 4 NC supports multipoint Bluetooth connection, allowing simultaneous pairing with two devices. You can connect to your smartphone and laptop at the same time, and the earbuds will automatically switch audio between them. When a call comes in on your phone while music is playing from your laptop, the earbuds seamlessly route the call audio. Note that you need to pause playback on one device before starting on the other — some competitors switch more automatically, but the Liberty 4 NC's implementation is reliable and works well for most use cases. This feature is available on both Android and iOS.
5
How is the call quality on the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC?
The Liberty 4 NC features three microphones on each earbud — a dedicated voice mic at the stem tip and two feedforward/feedback mics for noise reduction. Call quality is very good in quiet to moderately noisy environments, with your voice coming through loud and full while background chatter and traffic are effectively suppressed. In ideal conditions, calls sound clear and professional. However, in very windy conditions or extremely loud environments, your voice may sound slightly bass-heavy and lacking in detail. The Transparency Mode works exceptionally well during calls, allowing you to hear yourself and your surroundings naturally while maintaining conversation clarity.
6
What EQ and sound customization options are available?
The Soundcore app offers extensive sound customization. You get 22 preset EQ modes including Soundcore Signature (default), Bass Booster, Acoustic, Classical, Podcast, Treble Booster, and more. For advanced users, the 8-band custom EQ covers frequencies from 100Hz to 12.8kHz, giving you precise control over bass, mids, and treble. The HearID feature creates a personalized sound profile based on your hearing test results. There is also a 3D Surround Sound spatial audio mode, though most reviewers recommend leaving it off as it sounds artificial. The Safe Volume feature monitors your listening levels and can cap maximum volume between 75dB and 100dB to protect your hearing.
7
Is the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC good for working out?
The Liberty 4 NC is suitable for light to moderate workouts thanks to its IPX4 water resistance rating, which protects against sweat and light splashes. The lightweight design and multiple ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L) help achieve a secure fit for most ear shapes. However, the stem-style design and shallow in-ear fit mean the earbuds can shift during high-intensity activities like CrossFit, HIIT, or vigorous running. For gym sessions, weight training, yoga, and jogging, they perform well. If you need earbuds specifically for intense sports, consider the IP68-rated JBL Endurance Peak 3 or Soundcore Sport X10, which offer more secure fits and better sweat protection.
8
How does the Transparency Mode work on the Liberty 4 NC?
The Liberty 4 NC offers two Transparency Mode options. Fully Transparent mode passes through all ambient sounds naturally, without the artificial or metallic effect common on cheaper earbuds. Vocal Mode enhances conversational frequencies, making it easier to hear people talking around you while still enjoying your music. Both modes include an optional Wind Noise Reduction setting that minimizes wind interference during outdoor activities — a feature that also works in ANC mode. The Transparency Mode performs exceptionally well, sounding natural and usable even with music playing at moderate volumes. You can toggle between modes via touch controls or the Soundcore app.
9
What is the difference between Liberty 4 NC and Liberty 5?
The Liberty 5 ($129) is the newer successor with Bluetooth 5.4 (vs 5.3), adaptive sound leakage compensation, more detailed in-app experience, and faster quick charging (10 min = 5 hours vs 4 hours). However, the Liberty 4 NC actually outperforms the Liberty 5 in battery life with ANC on — approximately 9 hours 53 minutes vs 7 hours 8 minutes per charge. The 4 NC also has slightly better noise cancellation according to some reviewers and uses more intuitive tap controls compared to the Liberty 5's squeeze controls. The Liberty 5 adds Dolby Spatial Audio, sidetone for calls, and a flatter case design. For most users, the Liberty 4 NC offers better value since it delivers nearly identical core performance at a lower price.
10
Does the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC have a gaming mode?
Yes, the Liberty 4 NC includes a low-latency Gaming Mode that can be activated through the Soundcore app. When enabled, it reduces audio delay for a more synchronized gaming and video-watching experience. While the latency reduction is noticeable and makes mobile gaming playable, some delay still exists in fast-paced competitive games compared to dedicated gaming earbuds. The Gaming Mode disables certain audio processing to prioritize speed, which may slightly affect sound quality. For casual mobile gaming and video streaming, the Gaming Mode works well. Serious competitive gamers may want to consider earbuds with dedicated ultra-low latency modes or wired connections for the absolute best performance.
No comment