The Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds deliver a compelling audio experience at a competitive price point, challenging the dominance of higher-priced competitors. This in-depth review explores the Liberty 5's performance across key areas, from its robust Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity and impressive battery life to its adaptive noise cancellation and customizable sound profile. We delve into the comfort and fit, examining the effectiveness of the included ear tips and the ease of use with the Soundcore app. The review also analyzes the sound quality, comparing it to other popular models and assessing the impact of the included Dolby Audio modes.Our comprehensive evaluation covers the earbuds' performance in various scenarios, including video playback, mobile gaming, and workouts, highlighting both their strengths and limitations. We examine the effectiveness of the active noise cancellation and transparency modes, and discuss the user experience with the touch controls and the overall functionality of the accompanying app. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a clear and unbiased assessment of whether the Soundcore Liberty 5 are a worthy competitor to the Liberty 4 Pro, and if they represent a significant value proposition in the crowded true wireless earbud market.
Pros And Cons
- Bluetooth 5.4 with AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs
- Google Fast Pair for easy Android pairing
- Good Bluetooth range (41 ft)
- Single earbud usage mode with ANC and transparency mode
- Multi-point connectivity for up to two devices
- Minimal latency for video and gaming
- Gaming mode (not compatible with LDAC)
- Available in four colors
- Comfortable for long listening sessions (user experience may vary)
- Good grip during workouts (user experience may vary)
- Six sizes of silicone tips included
- IP55 water and dust resistance
- Excellent battery life (up to 11 hours with ANC off and AAC codec)
- Fast charging (10 minutes for 5 hours of playback)
- Wireless charging
- Strong active noise cancellation (ANC 3.0)
- Very good transparency mode
- High maximum volume (up to 122.3 dB)
- Safe volume feature
- Excellent sound quality with strong bass, smooth mid-range, and crisp treble
- 22 EQ presets and Hear ID for sound personalization
- Dolby Audio with music, podcast, and movie modes
- Squeeze controls not as responsive as expected
- Slight discomfort for side sleepers after about an hour (user experience may vary)
- Default Soundcore Signature EQ needs improvement
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Connectivity and Pairing
The Soundcore Liberty 5 boasts Bluetooth 5.4 with AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs, ensuring compatibility with both iOS and Android devices. For optimal audio quality, however, an Android device supporting LDAC is recommended. Google Fast Pair simplifies pairing with compatible Android devices, offering a seamless setup experience.
The Bluetooth range impressed, achieving 41 feet (12.5 meters) in testing. A useful single-use mode allows using just one earbud while charging the other. Conveniently, active noise cancellation and transparency mode remain functional even with only one earbud in use. Multipoint connectivity supports simultaneous pairing with two devices.
This robust connectivity makes these earbuds ideal for multitasking and switching effortlessly between devices.
Video and Gaming Performance
Minimal latency during video playback and mobile gaming is ensured by the efficient Bluetooth 5.4 technology. Streaming services like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix performed flawlessly.
A dedicated gaming mode reduces lag and adjusts the EQ, enhancing the gaming experience. Note that gaming mode is incompatible with LDAC. The inclusion of a gaming mode in more Soundcore products is encouraging.
This feature caters specifically to gamers and enhances the overall user experience.
Design, Comfort, and Fit
Available in four colors (ink black, abyss blue, cloud white, and rose apricot), the Liberty 5 utilizes Soundcore's familiar stem design. While this style isn't universally favored, the reviewer notes it as comfortable.
The earbuds felt light and didn't cause fatigue during extended use. Comfort remains subjective, however, as ear shapes vary. Six sizes of silicone tips are included to help achieve a proper fit for most users.
The reviewer recommends trying different ear tip sizes to optimize the seal, grip, noise cancellation, and sound quality. An upgrade option with SpinFit Omnis ear tips was also mentioned.
Water Resistance and Workout Suitability
The Liberty 5 feature an IP55 water and dust resistance rating, suitable for workouts. The reviewer experienced good grip during walks, without any slippage. The variety of ear tip sizes should ensure a secure fit for most users.
The reviewer emphasizes that personal experiences with grip and fit can vary widely. The included tips and their secure fit make them a good choice for fitness activities.
Sleep Mode and Controls
While sleep suitability varies by user, the reviewer found them surprisingly comfortable, especially for back sleepers. Side sleepers may experience some discomfort after extended periods due to pressure points.
The Liberty 5 utilizes squeeze controls, which although not as responsive as expected, still functioned well. Customizable single, double, triple, and long-press commands are available through the Soundcore app. In-ear detection automatically starts and stops playback, and this feature is customizable as well.
The reviewer mentions typically disabling the automatic playback feature, though the functionality is effective.
Soundcore App and Customization
The Soundcore app (available for iOS and Android) provides detailed battery information, ambient sound controls (including ANC and transparency modes with wind noise reduction), and sound effect settings.
Users can toggle Dolby Audio (with music, podcast, and movie modes) and utilize a Hear ID sound test for personalized EQ. The app offers extensive customization options, including a manual EQ, 22 presets, and the ability to save custom presets.
While the app is recommended, it's not mandatory to use the earbuds.
Battery Life and Charging
Soundcore claims 12 hours of playback plus 36 hours in the case (48 hours total). The reviewer's testing showed variability depending on ANC and codec usage, ranging from 7 hours 36 minutes (ANC on, LDAC) to nearly 11 hours (ANC off, AAC).
This still reflects excellent battery life, exceeding expectations for most users. A 10-minute fast charge provides about 5 additional hours of playback. The case itself supports USB-C and wireless charging.
The inclusion of wireless charging at this price point is a welcome feature.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
The Liberty 5 utilizes adaptive ANC 3.0, offering strong noise cancellation. A slider allows adjusting ANC strength (1-5). Two transportation modes (airplane and vehicle) are included. While strong, voices are still slightly audible at max ANC, although significantly reduced in volume and clarity.
A wind noise reduction mode is also available. The minimal EQ shift between ANC on/off is a positive aspect. Overall, ANC performance is impressive for the price point.
Transparency mode is excellent, comparable to competitors like the Nothing Ear (1) and Sony WF-1000XM4. It sounds natural with minimal white noise in quiet environments.
Sound Quality and Volume
The Liberty 5 uses a single 9.2mm flexible wool driver with dual bass-enhancing tubes. The bass is strong and impactful without being overly boomy, offering excellent sub-bass extension. The reviewer used a custom EQ to further enhance the sound.
Mids are smooth and suitable for live vocals and instruments. Treble is crisp and clear, lacking harshness or sibilance. Good sound stage and stereo separation are also present, enhanced by the Dolby Audio modes.
The inclusion of Dolby Audio (music, podcast, movie modes) adds to the overall sound customization options, with music mode being particularly noted for immersive quality.
Microphone Performance and Comparisons
Microphone samples in quiet and crowded environments were provided. The reviewer also compares the microphone quality of the Liberty 5 with other popular earbuds such as the Liberty 4 Pro, Skullcandy Method 360 ANC, Sony WF-1000XM4, and Nothing Ear (1).
Conclusion and Verdict
The Soundcore Liberty 5 are excellent earbuds, offering impressive features like strong ANC, great transparency mode, long battery life, and a customizable sound profile via the Soundcore app. While not quite surpassing the Liberty 4 Pro in terms of overall sound quality and ANC, they offer comparable performance at a more affordable price.
The Liberty 5 are a strong contender in the sub-$200 market and offer excellent value. They are particularly well-suited for users who prioritize comfort, long battery life, and robust ANC and transparency modes. While the Liberty 4 Pro maintain a slight edge, the Liberty 5 are highly recommended. The reviewer does emphasize the need to use the app's custom EQ to significantly improve upon the default EQ
The Liberty 5 stand as a compelling option for those seeking high-quality earbuds without breaking the bank.