Anker Soundcore Space 2 Pro Review: A Bass-Heavy Powerhouse, If You Can Ignore the Broken AI

The Anker Soundcore Space 2 Pro arrives as the latest attempt by Anker to dominate the mid-range headphone market. Following the success of the Space One Pro, this new iteration promises a premium audio experience for $199. However, our testing reveals a device that is technically impressive but marred by unfinished software features.

Design and Comfort

The Soundcore Space 2 Pro features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Available in a sophisticated mauve gray, these headphones are built for long-term wear. Weighing in at just 9.2 ounces, they are remarkably light and comfortable, even for those who wear glasses. While they lack an official IP rating, their sturdy construction and lightweight design make them a strong contender for daily commuters.

Sound Performance

If you love deep, punchy bass, these are the headphones for you. The 35mm dynamic drivers deliver a bass-forward sound signature that is both energetic and immersive. Whether you are listening to complex electronica or heavy rock, the sub-bass provides a satisfying rumble that doesn't muddy the higher frequencies. Through the Anker Soundcore app, users can utilize the 'HearID' feature to create a personalized EQ, ensuring the sound profile is tailored exactly to their listening preferences.

Connectivity and Battery Life

With Bluetooth 6.0 integration, the connection is exceptionally stable with impressive range. The headphones support multipoint connectivity, allowing you to switch between devices without a hitch. Battery life is another strong point, offering 30 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on, or 60 hours with ANC disabled. Be warned, however: there is no auto-sleep mode, so manual power-off is necessary to preserve the charge.

The AI Misstep

The most contentious point of the Space 2 Pro is its headline AI feature. The headphones include an upgraded chip intended to support an AI assistant named 'Anka,' capable of taking notes and adjusting settings. In reality, the AI is non-functional and fails to answer basic prompts. For users expecting a high-tech AI experience, this is a significant disappointment.

The Verdict

If you can look past the broken AI marketing, the Anker Soundcore Space 2 Pro are excellent headphones that compete well with more expensive alternatives. They offer premium comfort, great ANC, and powerful sound. However, until the promised AI features are fixed, potential buyers may want to consider whether these represent the best value compared to their predecessor, the Space One Pro.