As a reviewer with a penchant for Apple’s premium AirPods Pro 2, I’ve found that some affordable alternatives offer similar quality. Among these, the Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds stand out, currently available for $104, a significant drop from their usual price. Released in May 2025, the Liberty 5 has refined its features over previous generations, offering about 80% of the high-end experience at a fraction of the cost. They excel in adaptive noise cancellation, sound customization, and microphone quality, all while ensuring comfort with multiple ear tip sizes. Although their battery life is slightly below advertised expectations, they still surpass many competitors with seven hours of use with ANC. The sound quality is nearly on par with more expensive models, making them a solid choice for most users. Additionally, they provide a secure fit during workouts, surpassing even the AirPods Pro 2 in this regard.

