Soundcore Sport X20 workout earbuds: ear hooks, ANC and IP68 explained

The Soundcore Sport X20 (model A3968) is a pair of true wireless earbuds built for exercise. Each bud has an ear hook for a secure fit, active noise cancelling for loud gyms, and a sealed design intended to cope with sweat, water and dust.

An ear hook that adjusts

Most sport earbuds rely on a fixed hook. The Sport X20 hooks can be rotated by up to 30 degrees and extended by 4 mm, according to Soundcore, so you can move the earbud into a position that is both comfortable and stable. That small range matters during running, lifting or classes, where an earbud that shifts becomes a distraction.

If you have never used hooked earbuds, expect a short adjustment period. Try different positions while moving your head before settling on one.

Noise cancelling for the gym

Active noise cancelling (ANC) uses microphones to detect outside sound and counter it. Soundcore says the Sport X20 reduces gym noise such as clanging weights and loud voices, and offers both manual adjustment and adaptive ANC, where the level changes with your surroundings. ANC usually handles steady, low-frequency sound better than sudden bangs.

One practical point: if you run or cycle outdoors, a setting that blocks traffic may not be appropriate. Many earbuds offer a way to let outside sound in, so check the available modes in the app before relying on them near roads.

Sound and bass

Each earbud has an 11 mm dynamic driver and Soundcore's BassUp technology. The brand positions the earbuds around strong bass that supports workout motivation. Dynamic drivers of this size are common in true wireless earbuds and generally give a good bass response when the earbud seals well in the ear.

IP68, sweat and dust protection

The listing advertises IP68 water, sweat and dust resistance. In that code, the first digit (6) means dust tight and the second (8) refers to protection against continuous immersion under conditions set by the manufacturer. Soundcore adds its SweatGuard technology and a cavity design it describes as a "submarine-inspired seal". Rinsing and drying the earbuds after sweaty sessions is generally good practice, so follow the manual.

Battery

The listing's title mentions 48 hours of play, which typically counts total time including recharges from the charging case. Single-charge time depends on whether ANC is on and on volume.

Who it suits

These earbuds fit people who train regularly, especially in gyms, and want a secure fit with noise reduction. If you prefer open-ear sound for awareness outdoors, a different design may suit you better.

What to check before you buy

• Ear size and comfort: try the hook positions with your usual workout movements.
• Whether you need to hear surroundings when running outside.
• Your phone's Bluetooth support and the app's availability.
• How you will clean and dry the earbuds and case.
• Whether glasses, hats or headbands interfere with the hooks.
• What is included in the box, such as spare ear tips and a charging cable.

The short version

• True wireless sport earbuds, model A3968, with adjustable ear hooks.
• Rotation up to 30 degrees and 4 mm extension.
• Manual and adaptive noise cancelling with 11 mm drivers and BassUp.
• IP68 rated with SweatGuard sealing.
• Aimed at gym and workout use.

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