Soundcore by Anker Space A40 Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds Review

Overview

The Soundcore by Anker Space A40 is a pair of true wireless earbuds that aims to bring premium features—adaptive active noise cancellation, LDAC hi-res audio support, Bluetooth multipoint, and a companion app with deep EQ customization—into a compact, budget-friendly package. Released in August 2022, the Space A40 replaced Soundcore’s older Liberty Air 2 Pro and Life P3 models, earning an Editors’ Choice award from PCMag and recommendations from multiple independent review outlets. The earbuds are available in glossy black, white, and navy blue, and they ship with a wireless charging case, five pairs of silicone ear tips, and a USB-C cable. With a claimed 50 hours of total battery life, an IPX4 water-resistance rating, and 10mm dynamic drivers, the Space A40 covers a remarkable amount of ground for a pair of earbuds in this segment. This review synthesizes manufacturer specifications, expert testing from several independent outlets, and feedback from verified purchasers to give you a clear picture of where these earbuds excel and where they fall short.

Design and Build

The Space A40 earpieces are round and compact—Anker made them 25 percent smaller than the previous generation, and they are the smallest of all Soundcore’s ANC earbuds. Each earbud measures roughly 30 x 20mm and weighs just 4.6 grams, making them light enough that many users report forgetting they are wearing them. The gray outer panels have a matte finish with a debossed Soundcore logo, and these panels serve as the capacitive touch surface. Aluminum accents on the front give the earpieces a two-tone look that several expert reviewers found stylish for the category.

The charging case continues the premium aesthetic. It is a small, pill-shaped pod measuring 68 x 44 x 29mm and weighing 58.1 grams, with a matte finish and a debossed logo on top. Despite its diminutive size, Anker managed to retain a USB-C port, an LED indicator, a pairing button, and Qi wireless charging. Tom’s Guide praised the case as particularly attractive and noted that cases this small are often stripped of such features. SoundGuys, however, criticized the hinges on the case as not feeling secure, and some purchasers described the case as slightly flimsy, suggesting a protective cover might be wise. The case uses good magnets to hold the earbuds in place, and it survived a drop from roughly five and a half feet with only minor scratches, according to one user.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is one of the Space A40’s strongest attributes. The earbuds use an ergonomic shape inspired by the natural curvature of the ear, and they rely solely on the silicone ear tips for retention—no ear fins or wingtips are needed. The package includes five pairs of tips ranging from XS to XL (9mm through 12mm), giving most users a path to a secure seal. Multiple purchasers who had struggled with larger, heavier earbuds from Sony, Samsung, and Bose reported that the Space A40 finally fit comfortably, including side sleepers who needed something small enough to lie on.

The Soundcore app includes an ear-tip fit test that runs tonal sounds to determine whether you have achieved a proper seal. Several users noted that they could not pass the test perfectly, yet the earbuds still stayed secure and sounded good. RTINGS.com listed the Space A40 among its recommended picks for small ear earbuds, reinforcing the consensus that these are well-suited to users who find bulkier earbuds uncomfortable.

Fit is not universally perfect, however. A construction worker reported that the earbuds would randomly pop out during activity, sometimes ricocheting across hard surfaces. Another user noted that the buds could come loose when bending over in hot weather. During running, one reviewer found the fit less reliable than at rest. These are common challenges for earbuds without wingtips, but they are worth noting if you plan to use them during vigorous exercise.

Sound Quality

The Space A40 houses 10mm dynamic drivers with a double-layer diaphragm design, covering a frequency range of 20Hz to 40KHz. The overall sound signature is best described as balanced and warm, with slightly emphasized bass and underemphasized treble, according to RTINGS.com’s measurements. PCMag praised the audio as rich and detailed, noting strong bass, clear mids, and bright treble. The mids in particular drew praise from multiple sources—one user who tested extensively found the mid-range to be among the best they had heard on a budget earbud, with vocals and instruments rendered with clarity and control.

The sub-bass is the weakest part of the frequency response out of the box. PCMag and Tom’s Guide both noted that the Space A40 is light on sub-bass, which may disappoint bass enthusiasts. However, the Soundcore app offers 22 preset EQ profiles plus a fully custom EQ, and the HearID feature runs a hearing test to create a personalized sound profile based on your individual frequency sensitivities. Multiple users reported that boosting the bass through the EQ satisfactorily addressed the deficiency, though die-hard bassheads may still find the low end lacking compared to larger, more expensive earbuds.

LDAC support is a standout feature at this tier. This codec, part of the Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, allows compatible Android devices to stream at higher bitrates than standard SBC or AAC. The Space A40 joins an exclusive club that includes Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM4 and the Technics EAH-AZ60 in offering LDAC. iPhone users, however, are limited to the AAC codec, as Apple does not support LDAC. One important caveat: enabling LDAC reduces battery life on the earbuds, so users will need to weigh audio fidelity against runtime.

At high volumes, the sound remains clear and crisp. One user with hearing loss reported listening at around 45 percent volume for regular use, with the earbuds becoming too loud around 70 percent—yet still clear. The maximum volume is substantial, and distortion is not a commonly reported issue.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency

Anker claims the Space A40 can reduce noise by up to 98 percent, and the earbuds feature an adaptive ANC system that detects external noises and automatically selects an appropriate cancellation level for your environment—whether indoors, outdoors, commuting, or on a flight. The Soundcore app also lets you manually choose between different ANC strengths if you prefer to override the adaptive mode.

Expert opinions on ANC performance are mixed but generally positive for the category. PCMag called the noise cancellation quality, noting it is effective for the price. SoundGuys rated the ANC at 8.5 out of 10, calling it effective and consistent. One user who operated a commercial zero-turn mower, chainsaws, stump grinders, and wood chippers reported that the ANC significantly reduced machinery noise, performing better than their hearing aids. Another user combined the earbuds with over-ear protective muffs for industrial noise environments and found the combination reduced noise to a whisper.

Tom’s Guide, however, called the ANC subpar, and multiple users noted that the difference between ANC on and off was not always immediately obvious. One user who had owned Apple AirPods Pro said the ANC seemed comparable after a couple weeks, while another said they sometimes could not tell which mode the earbuds were in without checking the app. The consensus across sources is that the ANC is good for the category but cannot match premium models from Sony, Bose, or Apple. It handles steady low-frequency noise—engines, fans, airplane cabins—better than sharp, sudden sounds, which can occasionally produce a pop.

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The transparency mode offers two settings: a fully transparent mode and a vocal mode that accentuates voices while dimming background noise. SoundGuys rated transparency at 9.0 out of 10, noting that while it sounds slightly tinny at times and is not as natural as more expensive brands, it allows you to hear your surroundings effectively. One user praised the transparency mode as impressive for their first experience with the feature, using it frequently to stay aware of colleagues. Another noted that transparency is not equivalent to having nothing in your ears—distant sounds are muffled, and voices are somewhat harder to hear than normal—but it is functional.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is arguably the Space A40’s most universally praised attribute. Anker claims 10 hours of playback per charge with ANC off, 8 hours with ANC on, and 5 hours with LDAC enabled. The charging case provides additional charges for a total of 50 hours (40 hours with ANC). Fast charging delivers 4 hours of listening from a 10-minute USB-C charge.

Real-world feedback strongly supports these claims. Multiple users reported never running out of battery during a full day of use, even with ANC active. One user used the earbuds for a two-hour mowing session plus extended daily listening without depleting the case. Another reported using them almost daily for weeks without recharging the case. A long-haul traveler used them across multiple flight legs with ANC engaged and never exhausted the battery on any segment. Trusted Reviews highlighted the lengthy battery life as the primary reason to buy, and SoundGuys noted strong battery life as a key positive.

The case charges via USB-C or Qi wireless charging. Three LED indicator lights show the case’s charge level, though some users found the three-light system imprecise. The case reaches a full charge in well under an hour, according to user reports. It is worth noting that the case lacks a battery percentage readout, so you know only roughly how much charge remains.

App and Controls

The Soundcore app is widely regarded as one of the best companion apps in this category. It offers a clean, intuitive interface with the following capabilities: custom EQ with 22 presets, HearID personalized sound profiling, adjustable ANC modes (adaptive, strong, weak, wind reduction), two transparency modes, touch-control customization for single tap, double tap, triple tap, and two-second hold, gaming/low-latency mode, ear-tip fit testing, and a find-your-earbuds feature that plays a loud tone from each bud.

Multiple expert reviewers praised the app’s depth. Tom’s Guide called it feature-heavy with multiple customization tools. SoundGuys described it as intuitive with superb features. PCMag highlighted the customizable EQ and controls. Users appreciated being able to reprogram touch gestures for volume, track skipping, and playback, and several noted that the app does not require creating an account, which is a refreshing change from many companion apps.

There are limitations. You cannot change settings unless the earbuds are actively connected via Bluetooth, meaning they must be in your ears or the case must be open. Call actions—such as answering or declining calls—cannot be customized, and there is no mute option during calls. One user was frustrated that the app does not allow adding two pairs of the same brand of earbuds simultaneously, though this is a minor issue for most. The touch controls themselves received mixed feedback: some found them responsive and accurate with no false taps, while others found the lack of tactile feedback made it unclear where to press, and accidental triggers were common when adjusting the earbuds in the ear.

Call Quality

Call quality is the Space A40’s most divisive aspect, and it represents the clearest weakness in an otherwise strong package. SoundGuys rated the microphone at 5.3 out of 10, calling it just okay. Tom’s Guide did not highlight call quality as a strength. Multiple users reported excellent call performance, particularly in noisy environments—one user working in a construction van with tools rattling and the AC blowing reported that callers could hear them clearly, which they described as remarkable. Another user on a jobsite with power tools running in the background had similar results.

However, a significant number of users reported serious call-quality issues. One user described their voice as sounding underwater to callers, with the audio signal randomly dropping out every seven to eight minutes during calls, requiring them to switch audio sources repeatedly. Another reported an echo on the receiving end. A third noted that the person on the other end could not hear them at all after several minutes. These issues appeared to be unit-specific in some cases—users who exchanged defective pairs sometimes received replacements that worked fine, suggesting quality control variance rather than a universal design flaw. The consensus is that call quality is acceptable for occasional use but unreliable enough that these earbuds should not be your primary tool for work calls or frequent phone conversations.

Connectivity

The Space A40 uses Bluetooth 5.2 with support for the AAC, LDAC, and SBC codecs—but not aptX. Bluetooth multipoint allows simultaneous connection to two devices, which is a valuable feature at this tier. Users reported reliable pairing and quick reconnection when opening the case. One user noted perfect connection up to approximately 100 feet from their phone. Another praised the earbuds for connecting every time without fail, unlike other brands they had tried.

A few iPhone users experienced initial pairing difficulties, with the earbuds not appearing in Bluetooth settings immediately, though persistence resolved the issue. Once paired, the earbuds reconnect automatically when removed from the case. One minor annoyance: the earbuds reconnect as soon as the case opens, which can be problematic if you open the case near a phone that is on speakerphone. LDAC support is limited to Android devices running Oreo 8.0 and above; iPhone users default to AAC. The earbuds do not have wear sensors, meaning they do not automatically pause playback when removed from the ear—a feature some competitors offer.

What Customers Are Saying

The Space A40 has accumulated over 25,000 ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars, reflecting a generally positive reception with some notable caveats.

The most common praise centers on battery life, with numerous users describing it as exceptional, epic, and far exceeding expectations. Many users report going days or weeks without recharging the case. Comfort is the second most praised attribute, particularly among users with small ears or those who found competing earbuds too large or heavy. Side sleepers, in particular, appreciate the compact size. Sound quality draws frequent praise, with users comparing the Space A40 favorably to more expensive earbuds from Bose, Sony, and Apple. The app’s customization options and the earbuds’ reliable Bluetooth connectivity also receive consistent commendation.

The most common complaints relate to call quality. A subset of users report underwater-sounding audio, voice dropouts during calls, and echo issues. These problems appear to affect some units but not others, suggesting manufacturing variance. ANC performance draws mixed feedback—some users find it excellent for machinery and engine noise, while others find it mediocre or hard to distinguish from passive isolation. Fit during vigorous activity is another recurring concern, with earbuds occasionally popping out during exercise or physical work. The touch controls’ lack of tactile feedback and the case’s somewhat flimsy hinge are also mentioned. A few users noted occasional, inexplicable mode switches from ANC to transparency, though this is easily corrected through the app.

Pros and Cons

Pros

– Excellent battery life (up to 50 hours total, 10 hours per charge)

– Compact, lightweight, and comfortable for extended wear

– LDAC and Hi-Res Audio Wireless support

– Deep, intuitive companion app with custom EQ, HearID, and 22 presets

– Effective ANC for the category, with adaptive mode

– Bluetooth multipoint connectivity

– Qi wireless charging and USB-C fast charging

– IPX4 water resistance

– Five ear-tip sizes for fit flexibility

– Strong value for the feature set

Cons

– Call quality is inconsistent, with reports of dropouts and underwater audio

– Sub-bass is light out of the box

– ANC is good but not competitive with premium models

– No wear sensors for auto-pause

– Touch controls lack tactile feedback and can trigger accidentally

– Case hinges feel insecure

– LDAC mode reduces battery life

– Earbuds can pop out during vigorous activity

– Call actions are not customizable, and there is no mute function

Verdict

The Soundcore Space A40 is a remarkably feature-dense pair of true wireless earbuds that punches well above its weight class. It combines LDAC hi-res audio support, adaptive ANC, Bluetooth multipoint, wireless charging, a class-leading companion app, and extraordinary battery life into a compact, comfortable package. For commuters, travelers, podcast listeners, and music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality and runtime over call performance, the Space A40 is an easy recommendation.

The earbuds are not without flaws. Call quality is the most significant concern, with enough reports of dropouts and poor audio to give pause if phone calls are a primary use case. The ANC, while effective for steady noise like engines and fans, cannot match premium offerings from Sony, Bose, or Apple. The sub-bass is thin without EQ adjustment, and the touch controls and case build have minor but real shortcomings. Some users also experienced fit issues during intense physical activity.

Ultimately, the Space A40 succeeds because it delivers the features that matter most to the majority of users—sound quality, comfort, battery life, and useful customization—at a level that rivals or exceeds more expensive competitors. If you need top-tier ANC or flawless call quality, you will need to look elsewhere and likely spend considerably more. If you want a versatile, comfortable, long-lasting pair of earbuds with excellent sound and a superb app, the Space A40 deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

Specifications

Product Name: Soundcore by Anker Space A40 Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Brand: Soundcore (by Anker)
ASIN: B0B1LPNDGF
Type: True wireless in-canal earbuds
Drivers: 10mm dynamic, double-layer diaphragm
Frequency Range: 20Hz–40KHz
Bluetooth Version: 5.2
Codecs: AAC, LDAC, SBC (no aptX)
Multipoint: Yes (two devices simultaneously; LDAC disabled in multipoint)
Active Noise Cancellation: Yes, adaptive with multiple strength levels
Transparency Mode: Yes (fully transparent and vocal modes)
Water Resistance: IPX4
Battery Life (earbuds): Up to 10 hours (ANC off), 8 hours (ANC on), 5 hours (LDAC)
Battery Life (with case): Up to 50 hours (ANC off), 40 hours (ANC on)
Fast Charging: 4 hours from 10-minute USB-C charge
Charging Case: Qi wireless charging, USB-C
Ear Tips: Five pairs (XS, S, M, L, XL)
Earbud Dimensions: Approximately 30 x 20mm
Earbud Weight: 4.6g each
Case Dimensions: 68 x 44 x 29mm
Case Weight: 58.1g
Colors: Black, Navy Blue, White
Companion App: Soundcore app (iOS and Android)
App Features: Custom EQ, 22 presets, HearID sound profiling, touch-control customization, ear-tip fit test, gaming mode, find-earbuds tone
Touch Controls: Single tap, double tap, triple tap, two-second hold (customizable)
Release Date: August 2022
Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5 (over 25,000 ratings)

Sale

Soundcore by Anker Space A40 Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds | Reduce Noise by Up to 98%, Ultra Long 50H Playtime, 10H Single Playtime, Hi-Res Sound, Comfortable Fit, Wireless Charge

Reduce Noise By Up to 98%: Space A40 has an upgraded noise cancelling system to block out a wider range of distracting noises. So wherever you go, you'll always have the space you need to focus.
Automatically Tailored Noise Cancelling: Space A40 detects external noises and automatically selects a suitable level of noise cancelling for your surroundings. Enjoy your personal space whether you're indoors, outdoors, commuting, or on a flight.
50 Hours of Personal Space: That's enough playtime to enjoy up to 1,000 songs or 25 movies. The earbuds have a 10-hour single charge playtime, and fast charging gives you 4 hours of listening from a quick 10-minute charge.