Earbuds / Compare

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC vs soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

A

Product A: Skullcandy

Method 540 ANC

59 of 166 known

Change Skullcandy Method 540 ANC

Compare the soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max with

Search earbuds

B

Product B: soundcore

Liberty 5 Pro Max

97 of 166 known

Change soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Compare the Skullcandy Method 540 ANC with

Search earbuds

All 166 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

General

7 of 8 differ

Series

Method1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Maker line name Method, as in Method 360 ANC.

Liberty1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Listed as Liberty 5 Pro Max in the Liberty series.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

S2MFW-T001, S2MFW-T987, S2MFW-T7401Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Store product data SKUs: S2MFW-T001 Bone, S2MFW-T987 Primer, S2MFW-T740 True Black.2Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds.jsonRead 15 October 2026Store product data SKUs for the three colours.

D1204, D1204Z11, D1204ZB1, D1204G11, D1204GB11Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026US store SKUs D1204Z11 and D1204ZB1. D1204 is the base model on the EU declaration. The EU store uses D1204G11 and D1204GB1. Anker Japan uses D1204N11 and D1204NB1, which are not stored.2Maker product pageeu.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbuds.jsonRead 14 October 2026EU store SKUs D1204G11 (Midnight Black) and D1204GB1 (Titanium Gold).15Regulatory filingsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000035681/en_US/000035681.pdfRead 14 October 2026Declaration names the product soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max and model D1204.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

194644331047, 1946443310611Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Barcodes from the US store product data. The EU store lists the same two barcodes for its two colours, so the EU rows carry no barcode of their own.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

8 January 20268Press articletechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandys-new-earbuds-put-ai-in-your-ears-but-theres-a-catchRead 15 October 2026Article dated 8 January 2026: the newly launched Method 540 ANC.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: unveiled on January 8, 2026 at the annual CES tech conference.

21 May 202619Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/what-is-anker-thusRead 14 October 2026Blog: Liberty 5 Pro and Liberty 5 Pro Max launched at Anker Day on 21 May 2026 in New York.

Status

Available1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Store page has an Add to cart button at 149.99 USD.8Press articletechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandys-new-earbuds-put-ai-in-your-ears-but-theres-a-catchRead 15 October 2026Available now in the US per the article.

Available1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026US store lists the product at $229.99 with a New Release tag and a publish date of 21 May 2026.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$149.991Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026US store price 149.99 USD, the same as the launch reporting. Excludes sales tax.8Press articletechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandys-new-earbuds-put-ai-in-your-ears-but-theres-a-catchRead 15 October 2026Available now in the US for 149.99 USD.

$229.991Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026US store price $229.99. The maker comparison page gives $229.99 MSRP as of May 2026. Excludes sales tax.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Quick comparison table, Liberty 5 Pro Max column: MSRP $229.99. Prices stated as MSRP as of May 2026.24Reviewtomsguide.com/audio/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-reviewRead 14 October 2026Review: $229 at Amazon US at launch, and 199 GBP in the UK.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

€249.992Maker product pageeu.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbuds.jsonRead 14 October 2026EU store price 249.99 matches the German maker blog UVP. The EU store listing was published on 12 August 2026, so the German blog gives the launch evidence.18Maker product pagede.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/liberty-5-vs-liberty-5-pro-vs-liberty-5-pro-maxRead 14 October 2026German maker blog dated 22 May 2026: Preis (UVP) 249.99 EUR for the Liberty 5 Pro Max, with launch promotions in Germany from 21 May. German price, VAT included as published.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, GB, EU, CA1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026US store. The UK, EU and Canada stores list the same three SKUs in their product data.3Maker product pageskullcandy.co.uk/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds.jsonRead 15 October 2026UK store product data lists the same SKUs, priced in GBP. GBP is not stored.4Maker product pageskullcandy.eu/en-de/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds.jsonRead 15 October 2026EU store product data lists the same SKUs, priced in EUR. No launch price source was found for the EU, so no EUR price is stored.5Maker product pageskullcandy.ca/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds.jsonRead 15 October 2026Canada store product data lists the same SKUs, priced in CAD.

US, EU1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026US store. The EU store is a second maker source for the EU market.2Maker product pageeu.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbuds.jsonRead 14 October 2026EU store product data lists the Liberty 5 Pro Max with SKUs D1204G11 and D1204GB1.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Bone, Primer, True Black1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Colour selector: Bone, Primer and True Black. TechRadar saw only black and white at its review time.2Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds.jsonRead 15 October 2026Store product data: option values Bone, Primer and True Black.

Midnight Black, Titanium Gold1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026US store colour selector: Titanium Gold and Midnight Black. The Nano Charger bundle rows are not stored.

Segment

Music1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Maker sells it as noise canceling earbuds for everyday and on-the-go listening. The store tags include gym and travel. Stored as music, not as sport.

Office17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Comparison table lists Best for: meetings, AI notes and business travel. The German page calls the model made for business professionals and frequent travellers.

Design

1 of 4 differ

Form factoriIn-ear seals the ear canal with a tip. Semi-in-ear rests in the outer ear without a seal. Open-ear leaves the ear canal unobstructed.

In-ear1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Page: ear gels and fit fins in S, M and L. The store tags the product as in ear.

In-ear3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Wearing guide: place the earbuds in the ear canal and take the fit test for the best noise cancelling.

Bud shapeiStem describes an extending control or microphone stalk. Stemless describes a compact body without a stalk.

Stemless1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Page gallery shows a compact earbud body with a gel tip and no stalk.

Stem3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Overview: the touch control area is on the earbud stems. SoundGuys calls the shape a curved oval without a stem. Maker wording is used, as on the Liberty 5 Pro, which has the same earbuds.

Use one bud aloneiWhich earbud can operate alone. This does not mean two earbuds can play from different sources.

Either bud1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Page feature list: Use Either Bud Solo.

Either bud3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Controls table has a Using Single Earbud column. The support FAQ says either the left or the right earbud can be used alone.8Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/Can-I-use-a-single-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-left-right-earbud-independently-Can-it-output-stereo-soundRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the left or the right earbud can be used independently and still outputs stereo sound.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

9 of 17 differ

Drivers per budiAudio transducers in one earbud. Rows distinguish their type, acoustic role and published diameter. Do not count microphones.

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Diameter (mm)
12

Source1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Driver Diameter 12mm. The page does not state the driver type, the role or the count per earbud.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: 12mm drivers with tuning by Bose.

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Type	Role	Diameter (mm)	Count per earbud
Dynamic	Full range	9.2	1

Source3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs list one 9.2 mm dynamic driver unit.

Driver typeiPublished transducer technology. High-excursion, composite and neodymium do not by themselves establish a driver type.

Not available

Dynamic3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: dynamic driver.

Driver sizeiLargest explicitly published circular driver diameter in one earbud. A rectangular driver width is not a diameter.

12mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

9.2mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Drivers per budiTotal audio transducers in one earbud, summed from explicit driver quantities. A row with an unknown quantity makes the total unknown.

Not available

1=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Frequency responseiPublished acoustic frequency response of the earbuds. Codec transmission bandwidth alone does not qualify. Conditions belong in the source note.

Min20 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Frequency Response 20Hz - 20KHz. Test conditions are not stated.

Min10 HzMax40 kHz3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: 10 Hz to 40 kHz. Test conditions are not stated.

Impedance

16Ω1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Impedance 16 Ohm.

17Ω3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: 17 ohm.

SensitivityiPublished acoustic sensitivity. The electrical reference and frequency must be stated in sensitivity_reference or the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity reference

Not available

Not available

Max sample rateiHighest supported audio sample rate under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. This does not establish lossless playback.

Not available

Not available

Max bit depthiHighest supported audio bit depth under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. Bluetooth version alone does not establish this.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive EQiAn inner mic tunes the sound to your ear in real time

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA profile from a hearing test or ear scan

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: HearID 5.0 with personalised EQ.

Onboard EQ

Not available

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of independently adjustable custom equalizer frequency bands. Availability may require current firmware, an app or a compatible device.

51Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Customizable 5-Band EQ Mode.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Preset EQ and custom 5-band EQ section.

823Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review: an eight-band custom EQ in the app.

EQ presetsiNamed equalizer sound presets. Noise-control modes and spatial-audio modes are separate features.

Music, Bass Boost, Podcast1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: 3 Preset EQ modes (Music, Bass Boost and Podcast). The help page adds a Custom mode, which is not stored as a preset.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Preset EQ section lists Music, Bass Boost, Podcast and Custom. One sentence also names movies, which the list does not. Custom is not stored as a preset.

soundcore Signature, Clear Vocals, Powerful Bass, Calm and Soothing, Balanced for Pure Enjoyment3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Sound Effects lists five presets. SoundGuys counts four presets in its review. The guide list is used. Custom slots are excluded.

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 2 differ

Spatial audioiNamed spatial or surround audio processing supported with the source and platform conditions stated in the source note.

Not available

Dolby Audio3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Dolby Audio section. The maker German page calls it Dolby Atmos with head tracking.18Maker product pagede.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/liberty-5-vs-liberty-5-pro-vs-liberty-5-pro-maxRead 14 October 2026The page names Dolby Atmos with head tracking. The user guide names Dolby Audio, which is the stored name.

Head trackingiSpatial audio changes with head movement. Static spatial processing alone does not qualify. Compatible device or content requirements belong in the source note.

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Dolby Audio section, Music Mode: Head Tracking makes surround sound follow head movement. Fixed mode is spatial audio without head tracking.18Maker product pagede.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/liberty-5-vs-liberty-5-pro-vs-liberty-5-pro-maxRead 14 October 2026The page states Dolby Atmos with head tracking.

Noise cancelling

6 of 11 differ

Active noise cancelling

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Adjustable 4-Mic Active Noise Canceling.

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Ambient Sound section lists Noise Cancellation.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses exterior microphones. Feedback uses interior microphones. Hybrid uses both. Adaptive control is separate from microphone placement.

Hybrid7Maker product pageskullcandy.com/blogs/the-feed/sound-by-bose-method-360-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Maker blog: adjustable 4-mic hybrid ANC. The same blog lists 42 hours with ANC off, wear detection and LE Audio in a side-by-side table that shares values with the Method 360 ANC. Those three claims are not stored because the product page and help page do not state them.

Hybrid18Maker product pagede.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/liberty-5-vs-liberty-5-pro-vs-liberty-5-pro-maxRead 14 October 2026Adaptive ANC 4.0 uses 8 sensors that monitor ambient noise and residual noise in the ear canal in real time. External plus in-ear sensing is stored as hybrid. The maker does not use the word hybrid.20Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Launch release: Adaptive ANC 4.0 monitors external and residual in-ear noise.

ANC microphones in both earbudsiPhysical microphones used by ANC across the pair. A shared call and ANC microphone counts once. Case microphones and vibration sensors are excluded.

41Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: adjustable 4-mic active noise canceling. Four microphones across the pair.

Not available

Adaptive ANCiANC strength or calibration adjusts automatically to noise, fit or ear acoustics. The source note states the adjustment conditions.

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Ambient Sound section: Adaptive mode tunes noise cancellation to the environment.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Table: ANC 4.0 with 10 sensors on the Thus AI chip.

ANC levelsiNumber of selectable ANC strength levels. Excludes ANC off, transparency and activity profiles unless they explicitly set distinct strength levels.

Not available

53Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Ambient Sound section: Noise Cancellation level 1 to level 5.

ANC attenuation (claimed)iManufacturer maximum claimed noise attenuation. Frequency and measurement conditions belong in the source note. This is not reviewer-measured overall attenuation.

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Adjustable Stay-Aware Mode.

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Ambient Sound section lists Transparency.

Adjustable transparency

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Adjustable Stay-Aware Mode. The help page describes a slider in the app.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Adjustable ANC and Stay-Aware section: a slider in the app sets the Stay-Aware level.

Not available

Automatic ANC and transparency blendiAutomatically blends active cancellation with ambient sound. Automatic activity-based switching between separate modes alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Conversation detection

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Easy Chat section: it switches to Transparency and lowers the music when you speak. It works only in ANC mode.

Wind noise reductioniA documented physical design or processing feature for reducing wind noise. The source note distinguishes mesh or shape changes from selectable processing.

Not available

Yes13Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/What-should-I-do-if-I-encounter-wind-noise-when-using-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-outdoorsRead 14 October 2026FAQ: Wind Noise Reduction is a selectable setting in the app under Ambient Sound, Noise Cancellation. It is recommended for windy conditions only.

Measured

2 of 23 differ

Frequency response notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

The default tuning is bass-forward. The reviewer found that ANC changes the sound and that the highest custom EQ band does not reach far enough to restore treble brilliance.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Reviewer listening notes on a unit supplied by the maker, one-week test. Codec, firmware and target curve are not reported. No numeric bass or treble value is stored.

Bass amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the bass range. Positive means more bass. Target, test method and settings belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the treble range. Positive means more treble. Values from different targets may not be directly comparable.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from target (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittings (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortion (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Sound leakage (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation, best (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Call quality notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Voices were clear in ideal conditions with occasional pops or crackles. Noise rejection was a slight step up from the Liberty 5 Pro. Wind noise was mostly suppressed and speech took on a slightly reverberant quality.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Reviewer ideal, office, street, wind and reverberant tests. Phone, codec and firmware are not reported. No numeric microphone value is stored.

Mic low-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratio (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency in game mode (measured)iThe best case the buds can reach. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iReviewer-tested operation from one full charge of the earbuds. Excludes case recharges. ANC, codec, connection, volume and tested edition belong in the row or source note.

Not available

Not available

Longest tested use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only duration among stored reviewer tests. Modes and settings may differ between tests and products.

Not available

Not available

Battery life with case (measured)iReviewer-tested total including earbuds and case recharges. Do not calculate this by multiplying one-charge runtime by claimed recharge count.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iBuds in the case, 0 to 100 %. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Weight per bud (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Microphones and calls

4 of 7 differ

Voice microphones in both earbudsiPhysical call and beamforming microphones across the pair. Excludes case microphones and vibration sensors. Shared ANC microphones can also count here when used for calls.

Not available

820Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Launch release: a 10-sensor matrix of eight MEMS microphones and two bone conduction sensors, with identical earbud hardware on the Pro Max. The case microphone is excluded.

All microphones in both earbudsiEvery physical microphone across the pair, including call and ANC microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes the charging case and voice vibration sensors.

Not available

820Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Eight MEMS microphones across the pair. The bone conduction sensors are not counted.

Bone conduction voice sensoriA dedicated bone or jaw conduction sensor for detecting speech vibrations. A microphone or speech-detecting accelerometer alone does not prove this architecture.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: 10 sensors with the Thus AI chip. The launch release names two bone conduction sensors.20Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Launch release: two bone conduction sensors detect the vibration of the speaker's cranial bones.

Mic noise reduction

AI1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Clear Voice Smart Mic. The help page says it uses artificial intelligence to isolate the speaker's voice.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Clear Voice Smart Mic section: artificial intelligence isolates the speaker's voice and reduces background noise.

AI1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: the ANKER Thus AI chip with 10 sensors isolates the voice for calls.

Call audio bandwidthiHighest supported call-audio bandwidth. Compatible phone, operating system, call app or network requirements belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic mute controliAn earbud control that mutes the microphone during calls. Includes touch or pressure gestures and physical buttons. Phone/app-only controls do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

SidetoneiHear your own voice in calls

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Natural Voice Sidetone for Calls.

Not available

Connectivity

5 of 18 differ

Chip

Not available

ANKER Thus AI1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: Thus AI chip. Exact chip model is not stated.

Connections

Bluetooth1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list and specs: Bluetooth 5.3 only.

Bluetooth3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Bluetooth only. The case also pairs by Bluetooth for AI Note-Taker.

Bluetooth

5.31Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Connection Type Bluetooth 5.3. The page does not list codecs.

6.13Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: BT 6.1.4Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJRead 14 October 2026Spec list: BT 6.1.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: earbuds and case both use Bluetooth 6.1.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Table: Bluetooth 6.1.

Bluetooth codecs

Not available

SBC, AAC, LDAC3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026The LDAC section covers LDAC. The support FAQ lists AAC, SBC and LDAC.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: AAC, SBC and LDAC.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Table: SBC, AAC, LDAC.

Bluetooth profiles

Not available

Not available

LE Audio

Not available

Not available

Auracast

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth connections to multiple source devices. Pairing memory and switching through a manufacturer account alone do not qualify.

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Multipoint Pairing.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Multipoint Pairing section: pair with two devices at once, but they do not play simultaneously.10Reviewsoundguys.com/skullcandy-method-540-anc-gets-skull-ai-151116Read 15 October 2026News article: Bluetooth multipoint.

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Multi-Device Connection is enabled automatically.

Multipoint devicesiMaximum source devices concurrently connected by Bluetooth, not the number remembered in pairing history.

26Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Multipoint Pairing section: two devices at once. The earbuds reconnect to the two most recently paired devices.

33Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Default 2 simultaneous devices, maximum 3.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: connection to up to 3 devices.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review: up to three devices at once, and LDAC is unavailable when three are connected.

Multipoint with LDACiMany buds turn multipoint off on LDAC

Not available

Not available

Paired devices rememberediMaximum remembered Bluetooth source pairings. This is separate from simultaneous multipoint connections.

Not available

Not available

Automatic switching between own devicesiThrough the maker's account

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Google Fast Pair1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Google Fast Pair.10Reviewsoundguys.com/skullcandy-method-540-anc-gets-skull-ai-151116Read 15 October 2026News article: Bluetooth 5.3, Google Fast Pair and Bluetooth multipoint.

Google Fast Pair3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Powering On and Pairing: Google Fast Pair on Android 6.0 and later.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the earbuds support Google Fast Pair.

Audio sharingiShare one stream with a second pair

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)

Not available

10m3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: 10 m (33 ft).5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: 10 m (33 ft).

Wireless receiveri2.4 GHz dongle

Not available

Not available

Receiver connector

Not available

Not available

Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiBoth connection types can play audio together. Quick switching between independent modes does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Latency

3 of 3 differ

Low latency mode

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Skullcandy help page lists Low-Latency Mode in the app. The product page does not.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026App list: turn on Low-Latency Mode to improve performance for gaming or streaming video. TechRadar also lists it.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: the app can turn on low-latency mode.

Not available

Claimed latency

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Not available

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Connection	Mode	Latency (ms)
Bluetooth	Standard Bluetooth connection	350

Source10Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/What-should-I-do-if-there-is-a-significant-delay-between-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-and-the-deviceRead 14 October 2026FAQ: earbud latency is around 350 ms due to Bluetooth limits. It can vary with the earbuds, device, app and connection.

Lowest claimed latency

Not available

350ms=CalculatedFrom Claimed latency

Compatibility

3 of 4 differ

PlatformsiPlatforms with documented audio support. App availability and advanced features can be more limited. Edition-specific support is listed in variants.

Not available

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026The support FAQ on computers covers Windows and macOS. The guide shows Android pairing.12Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-configure-audio-settings-for-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-on-a-computerRead 14 October 2026FAQ covers Windows and macOS audio setup.

Connection per platformiDocumented audio connection for each platform. USB-C phone routes require a compatible port. Platform edition and microphone restrictions belong in source notes or feature requirements.

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Not available

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
Android	Bluetooth	Not available
iOS	Bluetooth	Not available
Windows	Bluetooth	Yes
macOS	Bluetooth	Yes

Source12Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-configure-audio-settings-for-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-on-a-computerRead 14 October 2026FAQ: Windows uses the Hands-Free device for the microphone in Zoom or Teams. macOS sets input and output to the earbuds by default. Android and iOS Bluetooth pairing is in the user guide.

Features that need a specific deviceiDevice, operating system, firmware, codec, content, account or region requirements for a named feature.

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Feature	Needs
Skull AI	Needs the Skull-iQ app. It is free for a limited time and then a monthly or yearly subscription.
Spotify Tap	Needs the Spotify app on the phone and an active Spotify account.
Multipoint	Two devices stay connected but they do not play audio at the same time. Turn multipoint off in the app before a firmware update.
Skullcandy app	Supported on mobile devices only. There is no app support on PC, iPad or MacBook.

Source6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Multipoint, Spotify Tap, firmware update and new features sections.

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Feature	Needs
LDAC	Android 8.0 or later. Not supported on iOS. Turn it on in the soundcore app under Sound Mode. The support FAQ says LDAC cannot be enabled together with AI Sound Enhancement, Dolby Audio or Multi-Device Connection. The user guide says LDAC is unavailable only when three devices are connected. LDAC shortens playback time.
AI Note-Taker	The charging case must be connected to the soundcore app as its own Bluetooth device. Recording works without a phone. Transcription and summaries need the app and a network connection. A free Starter plan gives 120 minutes of AI transcription per month for 24 months.
AI translation	Latest soundcore app with the earbuds connected to the app. Multi-Device Connection must be turned off. Face-to-face translation also works when the earbuds are not connected to the app.
Easy Chat	Available only in ANC mode.
Remote camera	Earbuds connected to the phone by Bluetooth and the phone camera open. Not supported on some phones.
Phone voice assistant	Not set by default. Assign it in the soundcore app to a double press, triple press or long press. A single press cannot be assigned.

Source3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026LDAC, Multi-Device Connection, AI translation, Easy Chat, Remote Photo Snap and AI Assistant sections. AI Note-Taker needs the case connected to the app as its own device.7Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-enable-LDAC-on-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-Where-can-I-do-thisRead 14 October 2026FAQ: LDAC is not supported on iOS and cannot be enabled together with AI Sound Enhancement, Dolby Audio or Multi-Device Connection. The user guide says only three simultaneous devices block LDAC. The sources conflict, so multipoint_ldac is not stored.11Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-trigger-my-phone-s-voice-assistant-using-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-MaxRead 14 October 2026FAQ: assign the phone voice assistant in the app. A single press cannot be used.

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

13 of 13 differ

Battery per budiBattery cell capacity of one earbud. The source note states typical or rated capacity. Charging input current is not capacity.

Not available

62mAh3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: 62 mAh x 2 earbuds. Typical or rated basis is not stated. The safety sheet gives a nominal battery voltage of 3.85 V.4Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJRead 14 October 2026Spec list: 62 mAh x 2 for the earbuds.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: 62 mAh per earbud, about 1 hour to charge fully.

User-replaceable earbud batteryiThe maker documents normal battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

No14Maker spec sheet (PDF)lp.ankerjapan.com/hubfs/aoos/manual/D1204Safety.pdfRead 14 October 2026Safety sheet: the product contains non-replaceable batteries and the user should not replace them.

Claimed battery lifeiManufacturer maximum runtime under the stated mode, codec and spatial processing state. Name the spatial or immersive processing mode and other conditions in source notes. Omit unspecified settings. with_case false means one charge of the earbuds. true means earbuds plus case recharges.

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Mode	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC on	No	9
ANC on	Yes	32
ANC off	No	11
ANC off	Yes	40

Source1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list and FAQ: ANC on 9 hours in the earbuds and 23 hours in the case, 32 hours total. ANC off 11 hours in the earbuds and 29 hours in the case, 40 hours total. Volume and codec are not stated. The maker blog gives 42 hours with ANC off and the help page says up to 30 hours with ANC on. The product page figures are stored.

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Mode	Codec	Spatial audio	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC off	Not available	Not available	No	12
ANC off	Not available	Not available	Yes	50
ANC on	Not available	Not available	No	6.5
ANC on	Not available	Not available	Yes	28
Transparency	Not available	Not available	No	6
Call	Not available	Not available	No	4
ANC off	LDAC	Not available	No	8
ANC on	LDAC	Not available	No	4.5
ANC off	Not available	Yes	No	8
ANC on	Not available	Yes	No	5

Source3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: ANC off up to 12 h and 50 h with the case. ANC on up to 6.5 h and 28 h with the case. ANC plus voice call 4 h. ANC plus Dolby Audio 5 h. ANC plus LDAC 4.5 h. The support FAQ adds Transparency 6 h, Normal mode plus Dolby 8 h and Normal mode plus LDAC 8 h. The maker tests at 50 percent volume on factory settings.6Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/What-should-I-do-if-the-battery-life-of-my-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-earbuds-and-charging-case-is-shorter-than-expectedRead 14 October 2026Battery life list: Noise Cancellation 6.5 h and 28 h with the case, Transparency 6 h, Adaptive 6.5 h, Calls plus ANC 4 h, LDAC plus ANC 4.5 h, Dolby Atmos plus ANC 5 h, Normal mode 12 h and 50 h with the case, Normal plus Dolby 8 h, Normal plus LDAC 8 h. Measured in the Anker lab at room temperature, factory settings and 50 percent volume with music playing. An ANC Extreme row lists 2.5 h and 10.5 h with the case when multiple features run at once. It is not stored because the feature mix is not stated.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Table: 12 h and 50 h with ANC off, 6.5 h and 28 h with ANC on, 5 minutes gives 4 hours.

Longest claimed use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only runtime among all stored modes. This can be ANC off, Hearing Aid, heart-rate or call use. Read the battery table and source conditions.

11h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

12h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge with ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC enabled. Codec and spatial-audio conditions belong in the source note.

9h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

6.5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge without ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC disabled. Codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

11h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

12h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case (claimed)iHighest claimed runtime including the initial earbud charge and all case recharges. It is not the case recharge runtime alone.

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

50h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case and ANC (claimed)iClaimed total playback with ANC, including the initial earbud charge and case recharges.

32h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

28h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Talk time (claimed)

Not available

4h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Full charge time, budsiTime to charge discharged earbuds to full in the case. Excludes charging the case itself or a combined buds-and-case result.

Not available

60min3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: charging time up to 1 hour for the earbuds.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: 1 hour. A second answer says less than 1 hour. The user guide says up to 1 hour. 60 minutes is stored as the maker's upper figure.

Charging guidanceiPublished charging guidance or estimates that do not separate earbuds and case. Preserve the maker’s component scope and limits. Do not assign an unspecified or combined estimate to a component-specific numeric field.

Not available

The earbuds charge fully in about 1 hour. The case charges in about 3 hours by cable with the earbuds removed. Input is 5 V 1 A. The case uses about 2 percent of its battery per day when idle.6Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/What-should-I-do-if-the-battery-life-of-my-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-earbuds-and-charging-case-is-shorter-than-expectedRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the case uses about 2 percent of its battery per day when idle.

Quick charge timeiCharge duration corresponding to quick_charge_playback_h. Source note states earbuds-only or case-inclusive charging and playback settings.

10min1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Rapid Charge, 10 minutes gives 2 hours.

5min3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Charging section: a 5-minute charge of the earbuds gives 4 hours of playtime.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: a 5-minute charge provides 4 hours of playtime in Normal mode.

Earbud playback after quick chargeiEarbuds-only runtime after quick_charge_min of charging. A claimed case-inclusive total does not qualify. ANC, codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

2h1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026FAQ: the earbuds get 2 hours of battery after 10 minutes in their case. This is earbuds-only playback. ANC and volume are not stated.

4h3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Charging section: 5 minutes gives 4 hours of playtime. The support FAQ states Normal mode and earbuds charged from 0 percent.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: a 5-minute charge provides 4 hours of playtime in Normal mode.6Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/What-should-I-do-if-the-battery-life-of-my-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-earbuds-and-charging-case-is-shorter-than-expectedRead 14 October 2026FAQ: 5 minutes gives 4 hours in Normal mode, with the earbuds charged from 0 percent.

Charging case

7 of 10 differ

Case batteryiCharging-case battery cell capacity. The source note distinguishes typical, rated and output capacity. USB output capacity alone does not qualify.

Not available

690mAh3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: 690 mAh charging case.4Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJRead 14 October 2026Spec list: 690 mAh for the charging case.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: 690 mAh, about 3 hours to charge fully.

User-replaceable case batteryiThe maker documents normal case battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

No14Maker spec sheet (PDF)lp.ankerjapan.com/hubfs/aoos/manual/D1204Safety.pdfRead 14 October 2026Safety sheet: the product contains non-replaceable batteries and the user should not replace them.

Case charging port

USB-C6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Charging section: the case charges from a power source with the USB-C charging cable and has a single LED next to the USB-C port.

USB-C3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Overview lists a USB-C charging port on the case.

Case full charge timeiBy cable, 0 to 100 %. A time the maker gives with the earbuds inside the case counts, and the source note says so.

Not available

180min3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Charging section: recharging the case with the earbuds removed takes 3 hours by cable. Specs: up to 3 hours for the case.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the case charges in 3 hours. A second answer gives under 3 hours for earbuds plus case by cable.

Wireless charging

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Charging section: place the case at the centre of a wireless charger.

Wireless standardsiDocumented case charging standards or supported chargers. Magnetic alignment alone does not establish Qi2 certification.

Not available

Qi23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review: the case charges via USB-C or Qi wireless charging.

Wireless charging poweriHighest wireless charging input the maker states for the case. The output of a charging pad does not count.

Not available

Not available

Speaker in caseiAn audio speaker physically in the charging case, for locating or status sounds. A microphone in the case is separate.

Not available

Yes5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026The FAQ lists face-to-face translation on the case. SoundGuys states the case has a built-in speaker and microphone.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review: the case has its own built-in microphone and speaker.

Screen on case

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: a 1.78 inch AMOLED display on the charging case.3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Overview lists the Smart Screen on the case. Smart Screen section lists twelve features.18Maker product pagede.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/liberty-5-vs-liberty-5-pro-vs-liberty-5-pro-maxRead 14 October 2026The page states a 1.78 inch AMOLED touchscreen case.

Case works as audio transmitteriCase relays external source audio through USB or an analog audio input. A case microphone for recording or calls does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Controls

4 of 5 differ

ControlsiPressure is a force sensor that does not move, such as a stem you squeeze. Button is a key that moves when pressed.

Touch6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Quick start default controls use taps and a 1 second hold on either bud. TechRadar says the controls are touch. The help page also calls the control a Main Function Button.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: each bud has touch controls if you tap on its body.

Touch, Swipe, Voice commands3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Touch Control Area on the earbud stems. Voice Control section for hands-free commands. Swipe for volume.

Earbud volume controliHow earbud controls adjust volume, including a voice command if supported. Phone or app controls alone do not qualify.

Touch6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Customize button functions lists volume up and volume down as options. They are not default gestures.

Swipe3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Controls table: slide up or down on the touch area changes the volume.8Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/Can-I-use-a-single-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-left-right-earbud-independently-Can-it-output-stereo-soundRead 14 October 2026FAQ: swipe up or down on the touch area. Swipe cannot be customised.9Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-adjust-the-volume-of-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-using-the-earbudsRead 14 October 2026FAQ: swipe on the logo panel. Up raises the volume and down lowers it.

Gestures

Single tap: play or pause, answer a call, Double tap: next track, Triple tap: switch between ANC on, Stay-Aware mode and ANC off, Hold for 1 second: end a call, reject an incoming call, or launch Spotify, Hold for 3 seconds: start pairing mode for a second device6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Quick start default user controls. The page text is flattened, so the mapping of actions to gestures follows its order. A 3 second hold on either bud starts pairing mode in the multipoint steps.

Double tap right: play or pause, Double tap left: next track, Double tap left or right: answer or end a call, Hold for 2 seconds: switch between ANC and transparency, or reject an incoming call during a call, Slide up: volume up, Slide down: volume down3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Controls table for dual and single earbud use.8Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/Can-I-use-a-single-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-left-right-earbud-independently-Can-it-output-stereo-soundRead 14 October 2026FAQ: with a single earbud a double press plays or pauses and a long press switches the ambient sound mode.

Remappable controls

Yes1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: Customize Button Functions.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Customize button functions: single, double, triple tap and 1 second hold on both buds can be set in the app. Not every function can be changed.

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026The guide states controls can be customised in the soundcore app. Swipe volume cannot be customised.11Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-trigger-my-phone-s-voice-assistant-using-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-MaxRead 14 October 2026FAQ: double press, triple press and long press can be customised. A single press cannot wake the assistant.

Voice assistant

Skull AI1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Page: Skull AI voice assistant, activated with OK, Skully.6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026FAQ: Skull AI Beta, OK Skully. Free for a limited time and then paid.

Anka, Phone voice assistant3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026AI Assistant section: Anka is activated with Hey Anka in the soundcore app. The support FAQ shows how to assign the phone's voice assistant.11Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/How-do-I-trigger-my-phone-s-voice-assistant-using-soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-MaxRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the phone's voice assistant is not set by default and can be assigned in the app.

Sensors and health

3 of 9 differ

In-ear detection

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Wearing Detection section: playback pauses when an earbud is removed. On by default.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review lists wear detection among the app features.

Sensors

Not available

Bone-conduction voice sensors20Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Launch release: two bone conduction sensors.

Heart rate sensor

Not available

Not available

Skin temperature sensingiA documented skin temperature sensor. This is separate from the operating temperature range or a heart-rate sensor.

Not available

Not available

Hearing aid featureiAmplification for mild to moderate hearing loss

Not available

Not available

Medical clearances

Not available

Not available

Hearing testiA documented hearing assessment feature, including consumer sound-personalization tests. Medical diagnostic clearance must be stated separately.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: HearID 5.0. The launch release says it builds the profile from an in-app hearing test. This is a personalisation test, not a medical test.

Hearing protectioniLimits sudden loud sounds

Not available

Not available

Health features

Not available

Not available

Fit and durability

3 of 7 differ

Ear tips includediTip sizes supplied with the product, including the pair fitted to the earbuds. Do not list separately sold sizes as included.

S, M, L1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026What's in the box: Ear Gel sizes S, M, L.10Reviewsoundguys.com/skullcandy-method-540-anc-gets-skull-ai-151116Read 15 October 2026News article, 12 January 2026: three pairs of ear tips.

XXS, XS, S, M, L3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Wearing guide shows XXS, XS, S, M and L. M tips are pre-installed.22Maker product pageankerjapan.com/products/d1204Read 14 October 2026Package list: ear tips in 5 sizes.23Reviewsoundguys.com/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-review-more-case-more-features-157579Read 14 October 2026Review: five sizes of ear tips are included.

Ear tip materials

Not available

Not available

StabilisersiPhysical stabilizing fittings or structures. Stability bands are separate from fins, wings and ear hooks.

Fins1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026What's in the box: Fit Fin sizes S, M, L.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: fins wedge the buds into the ear.

Fins3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Overview lists an ear fin. Size 1 is pre-installed and sizes 0 and 2 are alternatives.22Maker product pageankerjapan.com/products/d1204Read 14 October 2026Package list: ear wings in 3 sizes.

Ear tip fit test

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Wearing guide: take a fit test in the app under Settings, Fit Test.

Dust and water rating, buds

IPX41Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Feature list: IPX4 Sweat and Water Resistant. No rating is stated for the case.

IP553Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Specs: IP55 for the earbuds only.4Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJRead 14 October 2026Spec list: IP55 for the earbuds.5Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/article-description/soundcore-Liberty-5-Pro-Max-FAQRead 14 October 2026FAQ: IP55.17Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/blogs/earbuds/soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-vs-5-pro-vs-5-vs-4-proRead 14 October 2026Table: IP55.

Dust and water rating, case

Not available

Not available

Water resistance depth

Not available

Not available

Software

3 of 6 differ

Companion app

Skull-iQ1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026FAQ: download the Skull-iQ app. The app store listing is named Skullcandy.

soundcore3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026The guide refers to the soundcore app.

App platforms

Android, iOS6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026The Skullcandy app is supported on mobile devices only. The US page links the iOS and Google Play app stores.

Android, iOS1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: manage the AI notes in the soundcore app on iOS or Android.

User firmware updates

Yes6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Firmware over the air updates through the Skullcandy app.

Yes3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Firmware Update section: the app notifies when new firmware is detected.

Finding network

Not available

Apple Find My20Press releaseprnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/earbuds-that-think-anker-unveils-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-and-liberty-5-pro-max-with-ankers-first-neural-net-chip-302780254.htmlRead 14 October 2026Launch release: both models support Apple Find My.

Precision findingiUWB in the case

Not available

Not available

Live translation

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026Page text: face-to-face and real-time AI translation. The manual describes both in the soundcore app.3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026AI Translation section: real-time and face-to-face translation.

Dimensions and weight

3 of 4 differ

Weight per budiMass of one earbud. Tip size and approximate values belong in the source note. Do not store pair or case-inclusive mass.

11g(0.4 oz)1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Weight Buds 11g each.

5.5g(0.2 oz)21Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/4619755/anker-soundcore-liberty-5-pro-max-wireless-earbuds--goldRead 14 October 2026Retailer description: 5.5 g per earbud. Anker Japan lists about 5.9 g per earbud for the same earbuds on its product page. The Liberty 5 Pro file in this catalog states 5.5 g. The two figures are not reconciled.

Bud dimensionsiDimensions of one earbud on the explicitly identified width, height and depth axes. An unlabeled tuple cannot establish those axes.

Not available

Not available

Case weightiCharging case mass excluding earbuds. Case-inclusive product mass does not qualify unless the source explicitly gives the empty-case figure.

72g(2.5 oz)1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications: Case 72g.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: charging case 72g.

Not available

Case dimensionsiCharging-case width, height and depth on explicitly identified source axes. Report conflicting axis labels rather than reorder a tuple by appearance.

Width36Height102Depth29mm(1.4 × 4 × 1.1 in)1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Product gallery drawing with front and side views: 1.4 in (3.6 cm) wide, 1.1 in (2.9 cm) deep and 4 in (10.2 cm) high. Converted exactly to mm. The height excludes the clip ring. TechRadar gives 3.6 x 2.9 x 10.2 cm for the case.9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/skullcandy-method-540-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review: the case measures 3.6 x 2.9 x 10.2 cm. The axes are not labelled in the text, so the product gallery drawing sets them.

Not available

Certifications

1 of 3 differ

Hi-Res AudioiThe Japan Audio Society logos. Hi-Res Audio Wireless is also written Hi-Res Wireless Audio.

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC IDs

Not available

2AOKB-D1204, 2AOKB-D1204L, 2AOKB-D1204R14Maker spec sheet (PDF)lp.ankerjapan.com/hubfs/aoos/manual/D1204Safety.pdfRead 14 October 2026Safety sheet regulatory block: 2AOKB-D1204 for the charging case, 2AOKB-D1204L for the left earbud and 2AOKB-D1204R for the right earbud.

Other certifications

Not available

CE, UKCA15Regulatory filingsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000035681/en_US/000035681.pdfRead 14 October 2026EU and UK Declaration of Conformity for model D1204, dated 2026-05-22, lists Directive 2014/53/EU. CE and UKCA marks follow from the EU and UK declaration.

In the box

1 of 2 differ

In the box

Method 540 ANC True Wireless Earbuds, Charging Case, Ear Gel sizes: S, M, L, Fit Fin sizes: S, M, L, User Guide1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026What's in the box list. The list shows no cable. The help page mentions an included USB-C charging cable.

Liberty 5 Pro Max earbuds, Charging case, Ear tips in five sizes, Ear fins in three sizes, USB-C charging cable, Quick start guide, Safety instructions22Maker product pageankerjapan.com/products/d1204Read 14 October 2026Anker Japan package list: the earbuds, charging case, ear tips in 5 sizes, ear wings in 3 sizes, a USB-C and USB-A cable, a quick start guide and a safety manual. This is the Japan package. The user guide mentions a provided USB-C cable.

Cables included

ASkullcandy Method 540 ANC

Type	Count
USB-C charging cable	1

Source6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Charging section: the included USB-C charging cable. The product page box list does not show a cable.

Bsoundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max

Type	Count
USB-C charging cable	1

Source3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026Charging section: the provided USB-C charging cable.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.skullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026

us.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbuds1Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/products/d1204-liberty-5-pro-max-ai-recording-earbudsRead 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

service.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJ4Maker product pageservice.soundcore.com/ca/product-description/a08e200000QplFqAAJRead 14 October 2026Support product page for the Liberty 5 Pro Max. It lists the user guides, the EU declaration and a short spec list. No standalone datasheet was found.

Manual

www.skullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-anc6Owner's manualskullcandy.com/blogs/product-help/method-540-ancRead 15 October 2026Maker product help page for the Method 540 ANC with setup, controls, app and charging. It is the online guide. No PDF user guide was found.

salesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdf3Owner's manualsalesforce-knowledge-download.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/000034995/en_US/000034995.pdfRead 14 October 2026English user guide D1204 from the soundcore support site. The Specs page is near the end.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year1Maker product pageskullcandy.com/products/method-540-anc-noise-canceling-earbudsRead 15 October 2026Store page: 1-Year Limited Warranty. US market.

1.5years14Maker spec sheet (PDF)lp.ankerjapan.com/hubfs/aoos/manual/D1204Safety.pdfRead 14 October 2026Safety sheet: 18-month limited warranty, with a 12-month warranty for India. US store warranty page also lists 18 months for headphones. The year count is 1.5.16Maker product pageus.soundcore.com/pages/warrantyRead 14 October 2026US store warranty page: Headphones, all series, 18 months. US market.

Both are also in the API. Back to all earbuds.