The wireless earbud market has evolved significantly since the LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) launched in late 2022 and the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro ($129.99) arrived in early 2023. Both represent different approaches to premium features at different price points, and they're still highly competitive options today.
Modern wireless earbuds have become sophisticated mini-computers for our ears. They need to handle multiple tasks well:
The LG T90Q and Liberty 4 Pro take different approaches to sound. The LG model uses graphene drivers (think ultra-thin, super-strong speaker cones) that produce a more neutral, accurate sound. This is great for listeners who want to hear music exactly as it was mixed. The Soundcore opts for a more consumer-friendly sound with stronger bass and brighter treble, which many listeners find more engaging.
In terms of wireless audio quality, the LG has a slight edge with its support for aptX Adaptive, a high-quality Bluetooth codec that can adjust its performance based on your connection strength. The Liberty 4 Pro supports LDAC, another high-quality codec, but it's only available on Android devices.
For home theater enthusiasts, the LG T90Q has a unique advantage: its charging case can work as a Bluetooth transmitter. This means you can plug it into your TV's audio output and use the earbuds for private listening - perfect for late-night movie sessions. The Dolby Atmos support also shines here, creating a more immersive experience for compatible content.
Both earbuds handle noise cancellation differently:
In real-world testing, the Liberty 4 Pro consistently performs better at blocking out low-frequency noise like airplane engines or bus rumble. However, the LG's noise cancellation feels more natural, with less of the "pressure" sensation some users experience.
Here's where the price difference becomes interesting. The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro offers better battery life despite its lower price:
Both support fast charging, but the Liberty 4 Pro is more efficient, providing 4 hours of playback from a 5-minute charge.
The LG T90Q includes some unique features:
The Liberty 4 Pro counters with:
Since these models launched, we've seen improvements in battery technology and noise cancellation algorithms, but both have received firmware updates to stay competitive. The LG's Dolby Atmos implementation has improved significantly through updates, while the Liberty 4 Pro has refined its noise cancellation performance.
For most users, the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro represents the better value. At $100 less than the LG model, it delivers comparable or better performance in key areas like noise cancellation and battery life. The main reason to choose the LG T90Q is if you specifically need its unique features like the Bluetooth transmitter or UV sterilization.
Think about your primary use case:
Remember that both are excellent earbuds that will serve you well - the choice comes down to your specific needs and budget rather than overall quality.
After testing both models extensively, I've found myself reaching for the Liberty 4 Pro more often for daily use, mainly due to its stronger noise cancellation and more comfortable fit. However, I keep the LG T90Q in my home theater setup because the transmitter feature and Dolby Atmos support make it perfect for late-night movie watching without disturbing others.
| LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) | Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro ($129.99) |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Good but not class-leading, better for consistent noise | Excellent with fast adaptation, reduces noise by up to 81% |
| Battery Life - Important for all-day reliability | |
| 9 hours (29 with case), ANC reduces to 5 hours | 10 hours (40 with case), maintains hours with ANC |
| Sound Quality Codecs - Determines maximum audio quality possible | |
| aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC (more versatile, better quality) | LDAC (Android only), AAC, SBC |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts sound clarity and detail | |
| 9.8mm graphene drivers (balanced, accurate sound) | 10.5mm drivers with titanium tweeter (bold, bass-forward) |
| Special Features - Can justify price difference | |
| Dolby Atmos, UV sterilization, Bluetooth transmitter case | Touch bar case controls, HearID sound customization |
| Fit Options - Crucial for comfort and noise isolation | |
| 3 tip sizes (limited options) | 6 tip sizes (better chance of perfect fit) |
| Water Resistance - Important for exercise use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IPX5 (better water resistance) |
| Charging Speed - Helpful for quick top-ups | |
| 60 min playback from 5 min charge | 240 min playback from 5 min charge |
The LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) is superior for home theater use because its charging case doubles as a Bluetooth transmitter for TVs. It also features Dolby Atmos with head tracking, creating a more immersive movie experience than the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro ($129.99).
The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro offers superior battery life with 10 hours per charge and 40 hours total with the case. The LG T90Q provides 9 hours per charge and 29 hours total with the case.
There's a $100 difference - the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro costs $129.99 while the LG TONE Free T90Q is priced at $229.99.
The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro offers stronger noise cancellation, reducing ambient noise by up to 81%. The LG T90Q provides good but not class-leading noise cancellation.
Yes, both work well, but the LG T90Q is specifically better because its case can connect directly to your TV's audio output, eliminating any audio lag issues common with regular Bluetooth connections.
The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro typically offers better comfort due to its 6 different ear tip sizes, compared to just 3 sizes with the LG T90Q.
Yes, both work with all phones, but the LG T90Q offers better codec support across both platforms, while the Soundcore's LDAC high-quality audio only works with Android devices.
Both perform well, but the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro has a slight edge with its 6-mic system and advanced noise reduction for clearer calls.
Yes, both are water-resistant, but the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro has a better IPX5 rating compared to the LG T90Q's IPX4 rating.
The LG TONE Free T90Q offers more balanced, reference-quality sound, while the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro provides a more dynamic, bass-forward signature. Both are excellent but suit different preferences.
Yes, both models support wireless charging through their cases.
The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro offers better overall value at $129.99, providing comparable or better performance than the LG T90Q in most areas except specialized features like the Bluetooth transmitter and Dolby Atmos.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: techradar.com - soundstagesolo.com - digitaltrends.com - loudnwireless.com - tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - thetechnologyman.com - youtube.com - musicphotolife.com - aptx.com - bestbuy.com - soundcore.com - alwayswander.info - youtube.com - digitaltrends.com - gadgetoid.com - soundguys.com - laptopmag.com
