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AKG Y30 vs Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 76. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones - Great overall at around $36.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones leads on 6 of 6 measures.

  • AKG Y30
  • Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones
HearWiki score
53
76
Sound
6.7
7.0
Battery
-
9.2
Calls
5.0
5.6
Value
-
8.8
Price (USD)
$49
$36

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones is 6 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones adds USB-C. For 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Y302018
  • H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones20246 yr newer
What differsY30H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

Y30H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones
Type
On-Ear
On-Ear
Price (USD)
$49
$36
HearWiki score
53
76
Released
2018
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
40 mm driver
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
-
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
13 Hz - 27 kHz
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
115 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
115
-
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Latency
-
300 ms
Wireless range
-
10 m
Battery life
-
70 h
Full charge time
-
120 min
Quick charge
-
5 min → 4 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Voice assistant
-
Yes
Weight
106 g
183 g
Foldable
Yes
Yes
Detachable cable
No
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

AKG Y30

The AKG Y30 is a budget-friendly on-ear headphone that delivers a lively, well-balanced sound with a slight midrange emphasis, making it a versatile pick for everyday listening across various genres. Its lightweight, foldable design and built-in mic with playback controls add practicality for portable use, though it lacks active noise cancellation and a detachable cable. Overall, it's a strong value choice for entry-level listeners seeking engaging audio without breaking the bank.

  • Pro:Lightweight and portable with foldable design
  • Pro:Energetic, balanced sound with good detail for the price
  • Pro:Built-in microphone and playback controls for convenience
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Non-detachable cable limits replacement options
  • Con:On-ear fit may not suit all users for long sessions

Soundcore H30i Wireless On-Ear Headphones

The Soundcore H30i are an affordable on-ear option that prioritize long battery life and practical features like multipoint and app EQ over premium extras. They deliver a balanced sound signature for the price, though their lightweight build and lack of noise cancellation make them best for casual listening in quiet settings. Overall, they offer strong value for budget-conscious shoppers who want reliable wireless performance.

  • Pro:Exceptional battery life for the price
  • Pro:Multipoint connectivity and AAC support
  • Pro:Custom EQ via companion app
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or water resistance
  • Con:Comfort can degrade during long sessions
  • Con:Microphone quality is mediocre

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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