Comparing Anker Soundcore Sleep A20 and A10: Which is the Better Choice?

The newly launched Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds by Anker are designed to provide an enhanced sleep experience with improved noise cancellation and a more comfortable fit. Unlike traditional active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, these earbuds utilize passive noise cancellation combined with white noise playback to effectively block out unwanted sounds during sleep. This approach not only reduces background noise but also conserves battery life compared to ANC headphones.

The Sleep A20 earbuds boast several notable features, including Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for seamless pairing with devices, three times stronger passive noise blocking, and a built-in MEMS sensor to track sleeping positions. With up to 14 hours of playback in night mode and 10 hours in Bluetooth mode, these earbuds offer extended usage time for uninterrupted sleep.

In terms of design and fit, the Sleep A20 earbuds feature an evolved design compared to their predecessor, the A10 model. The tapered shape and double-layered eartip provide a more comfortable and secure fit, particularly for side sleepers. Anker includes four sizes of ear tips to ensure a customized fit for different users, enhancing passive noise isolation.

The compact charging case of the Sleep A20 earbuds provides additional battery life and features a convenient USB-C port for charging. Moreover, the Soundcore app, compatible with iOS and Android devices, allows users to control the earbuds and customize their sleep experience. From choosing relaxing sounds and white noise to setting timers for playback, the app offers versatile functionality. Additionally, users can access basic sleep-tracking data collected by the earbuds' MEMS sensor, providing insights into sleep patterns and movement throughout the night.

Overall, the Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds offer a comprehensive solution for achieving a restful night's sleep, combining advanced technology with user-friendly features to enhance comfort and relaxation. Whether used for blocking out noise or tracking sleep metrics, these earbuds cater to the diverse needs of sleep enthusiasts seeking optimal sleep quality.

The Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds offer a commendable audio experience, delivering clear and pleasant sound reproduction ideal for masking external noise during sleep. While sound quality may not be as critical for sleep earbuds compared to regular music earbuds, these earbuds still provide convincing white noise and nature sounds that effectively block out disturbances.

For those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts before bedtime, the Sleep A20 earbuds offer decent overall performance with good clarity and balance. While they may not rival high-end music earbuds like the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, the Sleep A20 surprises with its audio quality, especially considering its compact size. With the Soundcore app, users can further customize their listening experience by toggling the bass boost EQ, enhancing the earbuds' ability to produce satisfying bass.

Battery life is a standout feature of the Sleep A20 earbuds, with Anker claiming up to 14 hours of playback in night mode (white noise only) or 10 hours over Bluetooth. This significant improvement from the previous A10 model ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted sleep without worrying about battery depletion. During testing, the earbuds easily lasted through a full night of sleep with white noise playback, with ample battery life remaining. Additionally, the charging case provides multiple additional charges, offering up to 80 hours of total playback before requiring recharging.

The inclusion of sleep tracking functionality, facilitated by a MEMS sensor, adds a valuable dimension to the Sleep A20 earbuds. While the sleep-tracking data syncs to the Soundcore app, providing insights into sleep metrics such as total sleep time and deep sleep percentage, it may not be as comprehensive as dedicated sleep trackers. The lack of heart rate or breathing tracking, as well as basic position data, limits the actionable insights derived from the sleep-tracking feature. Nevertheless, it serves as a useful bonus feature for users interested in monitoring their sleep patterns.

In conclusion, the Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds offer a compelling combination of effective noise masking, decent audio performance, extended battery life, and basic sleep-tracking capabilities. While they may not replace dedicated sleep trackers, these earbuds provide a convenient and comfortable solution for achieving restful sleep while enjoying personalized audio experiences.

The market for sleep-enhancing earbuds is set to expand with the upcoming launch of the Soundcore Sleep A20 model, scheduled for pre-purchase availability via Kickstarter in multiple countries including the US, UK, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand. Early backers stand to benefit from discounts of up to 40%, along with enticing early bird specials and perks offered on Soundcore.com. Expected to hit the shelves on Amazon.com and Soundcore websites by mid-to-late May, the Sleep A20 earbuds are priced at $149.99 in the US, £119.99 in the UK, and €149.99 in Germany. Meanwhile, the existing Soundcore Sleep A10, available through Anker and Amazon, is priced at £110.

Although the use of earplugs for sleep aid is common, dedicated sleep earbuds remain relatively scarce within the market. Notable alternatives include QuietOn's 3.1 Sleep Earbuds, lacking Bluetooth or white noise features, solely focusing on sound blockage with active noise cancelling, retailing at £249. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, SnoozeBand offers a popular choice with its headband-style design at just £40. Additionally, various competing products from lesser-known brands are available on Amazon.

Kokoon, now under the ownership of Philips, presents a unique pricing model. Priced at £170, purchasers receive one year of complimentary access to the associated app; however, an option for extended access of two years is available at £230. Following the subscription period, the earbuds remain functional but lose access to the app features, effectively transforming into conventional earbuds tailored for comfortable sleep.