The true wireless earbud market is a crowded one, with options ranging from budget-friendly to audiophile-grade. The Soundcore R50i NC carves its niche in the affordable segment, promising features like active noise cancellation (ANC) and a built-in phone stand for a surprisingly low price tag. Can it deliver on its promises, or is it a case of style over substance? We help you decide if it’s the right fit for your ears and wallet.
Unboxing Essentials
The R50i NC arrives in a compact box with a minimalist design. Inside, you’ll find the charging case, the earbuds themselves nestled securely, three pairs of ear tips (small, medium, and large) to ensure a proper fit, a USB-C charging cable for easy power-ups, a user manual to guide you through setup, and a warranty card for peace of mind.
Design: Comfort and Style
The R50i NC earbuds themselves boast a sleek and low-profile design. They’re constructed with lightweight materials, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. I like the comfortable fit, and I’ve never had any discomfort even when wearing it for hours when I went out on commuting or events. The earbuds come in four color options (black, white, and blue – the one photographed for this review) in matte finishes to match your style.
The built quality feels decent, and the touch controls on the earbud stems are responsive. However, it’s important to note that these are budget-friendly earbuds, so the materials might not feel as premium as some higher-end options. Nevertheless, the overall design is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
One unique element that sets the R50i NC apart from the competition is the charging case. While it maintains a compact and pocketable design, the back cleverly folds out into a kickstand. This unexpected feature allows you to prop your phone up for hands-free viewing, making it a convenient addition for movie marathons or catching up on videos on the go. While some users might find the kickstand a tad flimsy, it’s a thoughtful inclusion at this price point.
Sound Quality and Connectivity
The R50i NC boasts 10mm drivers, which are the workhorses responsible for producing sound. Coupled with Soundcore’s BassUp technology, these drivers aim to deliver powerful bass for an immersive audio experience. The sound quality is decent for casual listening — Vocals are clear, and the bass does pack a punch, which is great for bass-heavy genres like electronic music or hip-hop.
However, it’s important to manage expectations. Audiophiles seeking pristine sound with intricate details and a wide soundstage might find the R50i NC a bit lacking. The overall sound signature leans towards the bass-heavy side, and some users might find the mids and highs a bit muted.
Connectivity is smooth and reliable through Bluetooth 5.0. Pairing the earbuds with your device is a quick and hassle-free process, and the connection remains stable with minimal dropouts during everyday use.
There’s also the Soundcore App which controls all of the EQ presets and controls you can do with each of the bud stems, which is convenient for those looking for more customizations. This is a crucial aspect for any pair of wireless earbuds, and the R50i NC delivers in this regard.
Noise Cancellation
The R50i NC features active noise cancellation (ANC) that claims to reduce noise by up to 42 dB. While it won’t eliminate all ambient sounds, we found it effective at reducing low-frequency noise like the constant hum of airplanes or the rumble of traffic. This is a welcome feature for those who want to escape the background noise and immerse themselves in their music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
The R50i NC also boasts adaptive technology that automatically adjusts the NC level based on your surroundings. This means the earbuds will attempt to optimize noise cancellation based on the level of ambient noise you’re encountering. While this feature adds a layer of convenience, some reviewers noted that it wasn’t as seamless as pricier options with more sophisticated ANC technology.
The R50i NC also offers a transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings without having to remove the earbuds. This is a great feature for situational awareness, especially when you need to be aware of your environment or have conversations without taking your earbuds out.
Battery Life
The R50i NC boasts a respectable battery life of 10 hours on a single charge. This is enough to get you through most commutes, workouts, or listening sessions. The charging case extends this to a total of 45 hours, which is more than enough for a day’s worth of heavy use. This translates to less scrambling for a charger and more time spent enjoying your music. The long battery life is to be praised, especially considering the affordable price tag.
The R50i NC also features a quick charge function, a lifesaver for those moments when you’re running low on juice. A quick 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of playtime, allowing you to top up the battery for a short burst of listening before a flight, meeting, or any other time you need a quick audio fix.
The Rundown: Who Should Get the Soundcore R50i NC?
The Soundcore R50i NC is a solid choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize the following:
- Value for money: With its feature set and price point, the R50i NC offers a compelling combination of affordability and functionality.
- Comfortable fit: The lightweight design and secure fit ensure extended listening sessions without discomfort.
- Basic noise cancellation: While not top-tier, the ANC effectively reduces low-frequency noise, making it suitable for commutes or blocking out distractions.
- Long battery life: The 10-hour playtime on a single charge and the 45-hour total with the case provide ample listening time.
- Bonus features: The built-in phone stand on the charging case is a thoughtful addition for those who enjoy watching videos on their phones.
