Last updated: 30 September 2026 · By AnkerSoundcore Kenya, authorised Anker & Soundcore retailer, Luthuli Avenue, Nairobi
Quick answer: Both are excellent entry-level earbuds with 10mm drivers, around 10 hours per charge and 30 hours total. Pick the Soundcore P25i (KSh 2,300) for a lighter stem design; pick the Soundcore R50i (KSh 2,500) for its more secure, rounded fit. Neither has ANC — for that, step up to the Soundcore R50i NC.
P25i vs R50i
| P25i | R50i | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | KSh 2,300 | KSh 2,500 |
| Driver | 10mm | 10mm |
| Battery (buds / total) | Up to 10h / 30h | Up to 10h / 30h |
| Quick charge | 10 min for ~2h | 10 min for ~2h |
| Water resistance | IPX5 | IPX5 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| ANC | No | No |
Why buy a genuine budget earbud at all?
Street stalls and online marketplaces are full of "Soundcore" earbuds for KSh 800. Most are copies with weak batteries, no app support and no warranty. For roughly KSh 1,500 more, the P25i and R50i give you real Soundcore drivers, app EQ, firmware updates and an 18-month local warranty. Our How to Spot a Fake Anker Power Bank or Charger in Kenya guide shows how to tell the difference.
Sound
Both use 10mm drivers with Soundcore's bass-forward tuning and 22 EQ presets in the Soundcore app. There is no meaningful sound difference at this level — fit matters more, because a good seal is what delivers bass.
Design and fit
- P25i: stem design (similar in look to AirPods), light and easy to take in and out. Good for calls because the mic sits closer to your mouth.
- R50i: rounded bud with a slightly more secure fit — better for walking, light exercise and bumpy matatu rides.
Battery
Around 10 hours per charge and 30 hours total on both. A 10-minute quick charge gives about 2 hours of music — useful if you forget to charge overnight.
Which should you buy?
- Students and first-time buyers: either; choose by fit preference.
- Frequent callers: P25i.
- Walkers and light gym use: R50i (for serious training see Best Soundcore Earbuds for Running, Gym and Sports in Kenya).
- Want noise cancelling? Add KSh 1,100 for the Soundcore R50i NC (KSh 3,600) or read Soundcore R50i NC vs R60i NC: Is the Extra KSh 1,200 Worth It?.
For all options under KSh 3,000, see our Best Earbuds Under KSh 3,000 in Kenya roundup.
Where to buy it in Kenya
Every product in this guide is sold by AnkerSoundcore Kenya — genuine, sealed Anker and Soundcore stock with an 18-month local warranty. Pay with M-Pesa, get same-day delivery in Nairobi and 1–3 day delivery countrywide, or test it in person at our shop on Luthuli Avenue, Nairobi CBD. Questions before you buy? WhatsApp or call 0710 837 407.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest genuine Soundcore earbud in Kenya?
The Soundcore P25i at KSh 2,300 is currently the cheapest genuine Soundcore true wireless earbud at AnkerSoundcore Kenya, followed by the R50i at KSh 2,500.
Do the P25i or R50i have noise cancellation?
No. Neither has active noise cancelling. The R50i NC (KSh 3,600) is the cheapest Soundcore model with ANC.
Can I use the Soundcore app with P25i and R50i?
Yes. Both work with the Soundcore app for EQ presets, custom EQ and firmware updates.
Are the P25i and R50i waterproof?
Both are rated IPX5, which protects against sweat and rain but not submersion.
Keep reading
- Best Earbuds Under KSh 3,000 in Kenya
- Soundcore R50i NC vs R60i NC: Is the Extra KSh 1,200 Worth It?
- Soundcore A30i Review in Kenya: Compact ANC Earbuds for Small Ears
- How to Spot a Fake Anker Power Bank or Charger in Kenya
- Soundcore K20i Review: Semi-In-Ear Earbuds for People Who Hate Ear Tips
Shop the range: Soundcore wireless earbuds