Finding the perfect pair of Bluetooth headphones can be tricky especially when you’re on a budget and still want premium sound, comfort, and battery life. Many people end up trying cheap local brands only to be disappointed by poor sound quality or batteries that die halfway through the day.
After browsing through countless expert reviews on Wirecutter, TechRadar, CNET, and even Reddit’s popular audio threads, two models seem to appear again and again in discussions about the best affordable over-ear headphones:
👉 BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over-Ear (65H Playtime & 6 EQ Modes)
👉 Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Both are top-rated, both promise comfort and great sound, but which one actually delivers the best value for your money? Let’s break it down.
🎧 1. BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over-Ear (65H Playtime & 6 EQ Modes)
If you’re after long battery life, lightweight comfort, and customizable sound, the BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones are surprisingly impressive for their price.
🔋 Battery Life & Build Quality
One of BERIBES’ biggest strengths is its massive 65-hour battery life. That’s almost three full days of playback without needing a charge. For anyone who listens to music while working, traveling, or studying, this is a huge plus. The build is sturdy but doesn’t feel heavy — soft protein ear cushions sit comfortably even during long sessions.
🎶 Sound Performance
BERIBES includes 6 different EQ modes, something you don’t often find at this price point. You can switch between Bass Boost, Pop, Rock, Jazz, Classical, and Vocal modes depending on your taste or the type of music you’re playing.
The Bass Boost mode is especially popular among gym-goers and bass lovers — it delivers deep, punchy lows without distorting the mids or highs.
The Bluetooth 5.3 connection is stable, pairing easily with phones, tablets, and laptops, and the sound latency is minimal making it good even for watching YouTube or Netflix.
😌 Comfort & Usability
BERIBES did a great job with ergonomics. The earcups rotate and adjust easily, and the memory foam padding reduces ear pressure. These are surprisingly comfortable for long hours — perfect if you’re binge-watching shows, gaming, or working from home.
Overall, for its price, BERIBES offers a near-perfect balance between battery life, comfort, and customizable sound. It’s best suited for people who prioritize battery endurance and sound tuning flexibility.
🎧 2. Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Anker’s Soundcore Life Q20 is one of the most recommended headphones in the under-$60 category — and for good reason. It’s often described as “budget ANC done right.”
🔕 Noise Cancelling Power
Unlike most budget models that claim noise cancellation but barely deliver, the Q20 actually uses Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) — the same technology found in more expensive brands. It effectively reduces low-frequency noises like the hum of airplanes, air conditioners, or traffic.
If you travel frequently or work in noisy environments, this feature alone makes the Q20 a standout option.
🎧 Sound Quality
Soundcore’s signature sound profile is tuned with BassUp technology, providing rich and dynamic sound. The bass is deep, but the mids and highs remain clear and detailed great for pop, EDM, or even podcasts. Many users compare it favorably to headphones that cost twice as much.
The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver crisp detail and an immersive experience whether you’re on a call, gaming, or simply relaxing with your favorite playlist.
🔋 Battery Life & Comfort
Battery life is another strength here up to 40 hours with ANC on, and around 60 hours without. The soft memory foam earcups and adjustable headband make them ideal for extended wear. They also fold up neatly for travel, and the overall build feels premium and durable.
📱 Extra Features
You can use them both wirelessly or wired (via the included AUX cable). This makes them super versatile if your battery dies mid-flight, just plug in the cable and keep listening.
In short, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 is for users who value noise cancellation, rich bass, and travel-friendly durability.
⚖️ So, Which One Should You Choose?
Both BERIBES and Soundcore Anker Life Q20 offer exceptional value but they cater to slightly different needs.
| Feature | BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones | Soundcore Anker Life Q20 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 65 hours | 40–60 hours |
| Noise Cancelling | No (Passive only) | Yes (Hybrid ANC) |
| Sound Customization | 6 EQ Modes | BassUp + Balanced Profile |
| Comfort | Very soft, lightweight | Premium, travel-friendly |
| Best For | Long use, daily work, gym | Travel, commuting, movies |
If you want custom EQ control and marathon-level battery life, go with BERIBES.
If you prefer active noise cancelling and a more premium audio feel, Soundcore Q20 is the smarter pick.
Either way, you’re getting excellent sound quality and comfort without paying premium prices.
🎧 Final Verdict
For most people, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 wins by a slight margin due to its active noise cancelling and richer overall audio profile. However, if you care more about longer battery life and flexible EQ options, BERIBES remains a fantastic alternative especially for gym sessions or long study hours.
