Anker’s Soundcore brand has launched two new models in its earbud lineup: the C40i clip-style earbuds and the AeroFit 2 open-ear earbuds. Both sets feature open-ear technology, which prioritizes comfort and situational awareness for users, particularly during outdoor activities. This release highlights the brand’s commitment to offering flexible, customizable fit options while maintaining good sound quality, all within a price point of $99.99.
The Soundcore C40i, an update to the company's clip-earbud lineup, features a redesigned, flexible clip mechanism that secures the earbuds to the cartilage of the ear. This design, similar to the Bose Open Ultra earbuds, offers a snug fit during activities like running or biking. Soundcore claims that the clip's flexibility, aided by a titanium wire inside the connector, makes the earbuds comfortable for all-day use while ensuring they stay in place.
These earbuds come equipped with a 12mm x 17mm titanium-coated racetrack driver. This driver, paired with a 20-degree directional acoustic port, aims to provide clear, powerful sound despite the open-ear format. The directional acoustic port is designed to focus sound toward the user’s ear, reducing sound leakage, a common challenge with open-ear designs.
For users who want to customize their fit, Soundcore has included plastic sleeves that slide onto the earbuds to provide a better grip, particularly for those with smaller ears. The C40i also uses physical button controls, placed on the rear portion of the clip for easy access during use.
The earbuds support Bluetooth Multipoint, allowing users to connect two devices simultaneously. This feature makes it convenient to switch between devices like a smartphone and a laptop without the need to disconnect and reconnect. Additionally, the C40i can be paired with the Soundcore app, which offers customization options such as a 3D-Sound profile for a more immersive listening experience.
The Soundcore C40i delivers a claimed battery life of 7 hours per charge, assuming 50% volume, and up to 21 hours in total with the help of the charging case. A quick charge feature adds 2 hours of playtime after just 10 minutes of charging. The earbuds are IPX4 rated, meaning they are water-resistant and can handle light rain and sweat during workouts.
Available starting October 31, the C40i will initially come in Graphite Gray, with two additional colors—Desert Bronze and Clarity Black—slated for future release. The earbuds are priced at $99.99 and will be available on both Amazon and Soundcore’s official website.
Alongside the C40i, Soundcore has also launched the AeroFit 2, an update to its AeroFit series. The AeroFit 2 introduces several improvements over its predecessor, including a new dual-curved design that adapts more naturally to the shape of the ear. The addition of rotatable ear hooks provides further customization, allowing users to adjust the fit to their preferences. This makes the AeroFit 2 more comfortable for extended use, even for those wearing glasses.
The AeroFit 2 earbuds are designed to sit outside the ear canal, offering better situational awareness while still directing sound into the user’s ear. Soundcore has included its BassTurbo Acoustic Architecture and a 20mm x 11.5mm racetrack driver in the AeroFit 2 to deliver clean bass and clear mid and high frequencies.
A standout feature of the AeroFit 2 is its support for high-resolution audio through Sony’s LDAC codec, which delivers higher-quality sound when paired with compatible devices. This differentiates the AeroFit 2 from other open-ear options like the C40i, as it targets users who prioritize sound quality in addition to comfort.
The AeroFit 2 offers a longer battery life compared to the C40i, with 10 hours of playtime on a single charge and a total of 42 hours when using the wirelessly charging case. A quick charge feature provides an additional 4 hours of playtime after just 10 minutes of charging, making it ideal for users on the go.
Like the C40i, the AeroFit 2 features Bluetooth 5.4 and supports Bluetooth Multipoint, enabling users to connect two devices simultaneously. The earbuds also come with dual noise-reducing microphones, enhancing call clarity. Additionally, the AeroFit 2 has an IP55 rating, which means it offers protection against both water and dust, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use.
The AeroFit 2 is available now for $99.99 and comes in three colors: Minty Green, Black, and White. A fourth color, Abyss Blue, is expected to be available in late November or early December.
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