Anker Unveils Soundcore Sleep A30 Sleep Buds: A Step Up in Noise Cancellation for Better Sleep
Anker’s latest introduction, the Soundcore Sleep A30 sleep buds, aim to deliver on the promise that their predecessor, the A20, could not: effectively masking snoring. Boasting enhanced features, including Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and a built-in microphone within the charging case, these earbuds dynamically adapt the masking audio to neutralize disruptive snoring sounds.
Key Features of the Soundcore Sleep A30
Design and Comfort
The Soundcore Sleep A30 buds have a more compact design than the previous generation, making them particularly suitable for side sleepers. Their smaller size may enhance comfort during sleep, a standout feature for those who struggle with larger earbuds.
Noise Cancellation Efficacy
Anker claims that the A30 sleep buds are proficient at masking light to moderate snoring. Through rigorous testing, it was found that the ANC technology effectively blocked substantial amounts of noise, with notable performance observed when facing various sound levels from familiar snoring simulations.
Performance Testing
Testing the A30’s ability to block snoring revealed them to be remarkably effective. At lower volume levels, the earbuds successfully cancelled up to 100% of snoring sounds, while still providing substantial reduction at higher volumes. This feature makes them a promising option for anyone affected by a partner’s snoring.
Battery Life and Convenience
While Anker advertises a battery life of nine hours per charge with ANC active (extended to 45 hours with the charging case), experiences may differ. Users may find a reduction in battery longevity when streaming audio via Bluetooth, with average usage resulting in approximately 6.5 hours of playtime. This discrepancy can affect nightly audio experiences, especially for users who frequently reaccess their content throughout the night.
Charging and Connectivity
The A30 sleep buds utilize a USB-C charging method and unfortunately do not support wireless charging. Moreover, users should be cautious about the earbuds’ battery life, as they may fail during nighttime use if not adequately charged.
Usability Challenges
While the new buds have many attractive features, there are some drawbacks noted in user experience. The touch controls designed for basic functionalities such as switching modes and adjusting volume often lack responsiveness, which can lead to frustration during use.
Sleep Tracking Feature
The A30 also includes a sleep tracking function aiming to gauge sleep quality. However, experiences can vary widely, with some users finding that the accuracy of the readings does not align with their actual sleep patterns, raising questions about the reliability of this feature.
Conclusion
The Soundcore Sleep A30 sleep buds present a solid option for individuals looking for a way to mitigate sleep disruptions caused by snoring. Priced at $230, they may be a worthwhile investment, particularly for couples navigating the challenges of different sleep habits. However, users may also consider the earlier Soundcore Sleep A20 for a more budget-friendly solution without straying far from high-quality performance.
Through its innovative approach to noise cancellation and sleep technology, Anker continues to refine its offerings in the audio space, making strides toward helping users achieve better rest.
