Compare Sony LinkBuds

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Sony LinkBuds

Sony LinkBuds

Brand:

Sony

Launch Year:

2022

Price:

$179 USD / £149 GBP at launch

Connectivity & Codecs:

Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC and AAC codec support, multipoint connection for simultaneous device pairing

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):

No active noise cancellation, open-ring design intentionally maintains complete ambient awareness

Battery Life:

5.5 hours per charge, total 17.5 hours with charging case, quick charge provides 1.5 hours from 10-minute charge

IP Rating:

IPX4 certified for sweat and light water splash resistance during exercise and light rain conditions

Driver Type & Impedance:

12mm ring-shaped dynamic drivers with open acoustic design, impedance not specified

Pros:

  • Revolutionary open-ring driver design allows complete ambient awareness enabling natural conversations and environmental monitoring without removing earbuds
  • Ultra-lightweight construction at approximately 4 grams per earbud enables comfortable all-day wearing without pressure or ear canal fatigue
  • Innovative wide area tap controls on face and around ears provide intuitive gesture-based operation reducing accidental command activation
  • Adaptive volume adjustment automatically optimizes playback levels based on environmental noise conditions ensuring consistent listening experience across locations
  • IPX4 water resistance provides adequate protection against sweat and light rain during outdoor activities and exercise routines
  • Precise voice pickup technology with advanced microphone array and processing algorithms delivers clear call quality in various noise environments
  • Extended battery life of 5.5 hours per charge with quick charging capability provides full-day usage for typical listening scenarios

Cons:

  • Open-ring design intentionally provides no noise isolation making these earbuds unsuitable for noisy environments like airplanes or loud public transit
  • Sound quality emphasizes clarity and vocals but lacks deep bass extension and dynamic impact compared to sealed in-ear designs
  • Unique fit configuration may not suit all ear shapes with some users reporting difficulty achieving secure comfortable positioning
  • No active noise cancellation capability limits usability for users seeking ambient noise blocking during travel or concentration-demanding work
  • Charging case is larger than typical compact designs due to unique earbud shape reducing pocket portability compared to minimalist alternatives
  • Limited color availability restricts aesthetic personalization options for users seeking distinctive appearance matching individual style preferences
  • Sound leakage at higher volumes may disturb nearby people in quiet environments like libraries or shared office spaces

Description:

The Sony LinkBuds revolutionizes true wireless earbud design with an innovative open-ring driver configuration that maintains ambient awareness while delivering clear audio. This radical departure from traditional sealed earbud designs creates a unique listening experience where environmental sounds naturally blend with music, podcasts, and calls. The ultra-lightweight construction and distinctive donut-shaped drivers enable all-day comfortable wearing without ear canal fatigue or occlusion effects. Advanced features including adaptive volume control, precise voice pickup technology, and wide area tap controls demonstrate Sony’s commitment to reimagining how wireless earbuds integrate with daily life beyond pure audio fidelity considerations.

Youtube Video Review: Sony LinkBuds

Youtube Video Review: Sony LinkBuds

Author: Rosy Mabansag

- Senior Sound Specialist

Rosy Mabansag is the dedicated Head of Audio Testing and a senior writer at GlobalMusicVibe.com. With 10 years of experience as a live sound technician and music instructor, Rosy possesses an unparalleled ear for audio quality. She leads the site's rigorous evaluations of earbuds, high-fidelity headphones, and passive/active speakers, providing data-driven insights for audiophiles. As an accomplished guitarist and songwriter, Rosy also crafts in-depth music guides and technique tutorials, drawing on her extensive performance background. Her mission is to bridge the gap between technical specs and musical feel, ensuring readers get the best sonic experience, whether listening or performing.

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