We’ve all heard about the golden age of television, a time of unparalleled creativity fueled by streaming platforms—an era that is sadly now fading. But while TV might be losing its shine, the wireless earbud market is still glowing, undergoing its own golden age. Earbuds today are evolving rapidly, bringing cutting-edge technology to a wide range of consumers. Whether it’s 3D spatial audio, customized sound experiences, or breaking free from traditional wired limits, the options continue to expand, as proven by the Anker Soundcore Space A40.

A few years ago, finding quality noise-canceling earbuds under $200 was rare, but today, the Space A40 delivers all that and more at half the price. With effective sound performance, long-lasting battery life, and a host of customizable features, all wrapped in a sleek design, these earbuds show that innovation doesn’t have to come at a high cost.

Elegant Design, Compact Comfort

In the crowded field of wireless earbuds, the A40 manages to stand out—not just for its compact size, but also for its sophisticated design. The charging case, pill-shaped and Qi wireless charging ready, boasts a matte exterior and metallic accents that give it a premium feel. The earbuds themselves are ergonomically shaped, with a combination of glossy and matte finishes for aesthetic appeal and practicality in use.

At under 5 grams each, the Space A40 earbuds are lightweight, comparable to Apple’s AirPods Pro. With five different ear tip sizes, these earbuds cater to various preferences, ensuring a secure fit for most activities. While jogging or intense workouts may require some readjustments, the stability is generally reliable. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, they’re sweat-resistant but not fully waterproof, making them ideal for light workouts and everyday use.

One standout feature is the impressive battery life. The A40 can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, with the case providing an additional 40 hours of playback. Even with noise canceling on, you can expect around 7 to 8 hours of use, which is still better than many higher-priced competitors.

Customization at Your Fingertips

The Anker Soundcore Space A40 goes beyond basic functionality, allowing users to personalize almost every aspect of their experience. The Soundcore app opens up a world of possibilities, from reassigning touchpad controls to tweaking sound settings. You can adjust everything from volume to voice assistant activation, ensuring you’re in control without needing to reach for your phone.

However, some features require a bit of fine-tuning. For example, the touch controls can sometimes be unresponsive, especially when trying to differentiate between single and double taps. While the hold command for switching between noise-canceling and transparency modes takes only a couple of seconds, it may feel slower to those who prefer immediate responses. Fortunately, these functions can be managed directly through the app.

Another feature worth exploring is the sound signature customization. Through a hearing test, the Space A40 tailors the sound profile to your individual hearing. Although the difference may be subtle for some, it’s a unique option for audiophiles looking to optimize their listening experience. The app also offers an extensive equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune their preferred sound settings.

For most users, the default sound setting offers a balanced, crisp sound with clear stereo imaging. Whether you’re enjoying the textured harmonies of Nickel Creek or the precise beats of The Chemical Brothers, the A40 provides a satisfying level of clarity and separation. While they may not reach the audiophile-level quality of more expensive models like Sony’s WF-1000XM4, the performance is remarkable for their price.

Solid Performance and Call Clarity

Beyond sound quality, the Anker Space A40 delivers solid performance in everyday use. The earbuds handle phone calls well, with no significant complaints from either end. For windy environments, the Wind Buffer feature can help reduce interference, although it’s not a game-changer. Additionally, while the earbuds lack advanced features like auto-pause or spatial audio, they still offer a robust experience with their reliable noise canceling and transparency modes.

Though the transparency mode could be improved, especially in terms of capturing ambient sounds, it’s functional for quick conversations or awareness in busier environments.

Effective Noise Canceling

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the A40 is its noise-canceling ability. Despite their budget-friendly price, the earbuds excel at reducing lower-frequency noise, making city noise and constant hums nearly disappear. The adjustable noise canceling feature ensures a quieter, more immersive experience, even in noisy surroundings. While they aren’t as effective at blocking higher frequencies—voices or sharp sounds still come through—most daily distractions are significantly reduced.

When compared to similar models, the A40 stands out for its passive noise isolation, even without active noise canceling. Adding a bit of music easily blocks out the majority of ambient noise, providing a peaceful listening experience.

Conclusion: Flagship Features Without the Price

Anker’s Soundcore Space A40 earbuds offer a blend of performance, design, and customization that far exceeds their modest price tag. With solid noise-canceling capabilities, excellent battery life, and sound quality that punches above its weight, these earbuds are an excellent choice for anyone seeking budget-friendly, feature-rich wireless earbuds. While they may lack a few high-end features found in pricier competitors, the A40 still delivers a flagship-worthy experience.

If you’re in the market for a reliable, affordable pair of noise-canceling earbuds under $100, the Anker Soundcore Space A40 should be at the top of your list.