Sony Linkbuds Review - Specs

Our Verdict:

The Sony Linkbuds offer impressive audio quality, advanced features such as active noise cancellation and ambient sound mode, a lengthy battery life, and water/sweat resistance. However, fit and comfort may vary based on personal preferences, and price may be a consideration for some buyers. Sony Linkbuds are worth considering if you're willing to invest in a premium pair of wireless earbuds that deliver excellent audio performance and convenience. However, if cost is a concern or if a perfect fit is a priority, you may wish to investigate alternative options on the market.

Pros:

• The 6mm dynamic drivers in the Sony Linkbuds deliver crystal-clear audio with deep bass, bringing your music, movies, and phone calls to life.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The ANC feature blocks out external noise, allowing you to enjoy your audio in a noisy environment or during a busy commute without interruptions.
• Ambient Sound Mode: The ambient sound mode allows you to hear important sounds from your surroundings, such as announcements or traffic, without removing your earbuds, ensuring your safety while allowing you to stay connected.
• Long Battery Life: With up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge and an additional 16 hours with the charging case, the Sony Linkbuds offer convenient listening throughout the day without the need for frequent recharging.
• Water/Sweat Resistance: The IP55 rating makes the Sony Linkbuds water and sweat resistant, making them appropriate for workouts or outdoor activities and enhancing their durability to withstand daily use.

Cons:

• Fit and Comfort: Some users may find the Sony Linkbuds' fit to be a bit snug or uncomfortable, particularly during extended listening sessions. Depending on the shape and size of your ears, the fit may also vary; therefore, it is essential to try different ear tip sizes to find the optimal fit.
• The Sony Linkbuds are priced in the premium range, which may be a factor for budget-conscious buyers or those seeking more affordable alternatives.

• Bluetooth model: V5.2
• Six-millimeter dynamic drivers
• Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Up to 8 hours (earbuds) plus an additional 16 hours (charging case)
• Resistance to moisture: IP55 rating
• Noise cancellation: Active noise cancellation (ANC)
• Yes, ambient sound mode
• Voice assistant support: Yes (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa)

Review Sony Linkbuds:

Design and Comfort:

The Sony Linkbuds feature a compact, contemporary design that fits comfortably in the ear canal. On each earbud is a touch-sensitive control panel with a minimalist appearance and a glossy finish. The earbuds include a variety of ear tip sizes, ensuring a secure fit for ears of various sizes and shapes. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time without causing discomfort or fatigue due to their lightweight and ergonomic design.

Sound Quality:

The 6mm dynamic drivers in the Sony Linkbuds deliver clear, detailed audio with well-defined bass and crisp highs, resulting in an exceptional sound quality. Whether listening to music, watching movies, or making phone calls, the sound is immersive and enjoyable, allowing you to appreciate your audio content to its fullest.

Controls and Configuration:

The touch-sensitive control panel on each earbud of the Sony Linkbuds enables easy access to a variety of functions, including play/pause, track control, volume adjustment, and call management. The controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing for effortless navigation of audio content. The setup process is also straightforward, with Bluetooth pairing being quick and seamless.

Audio Performance:

The Sony Linkbuds' active noise cancellation (ANC) technology blocks out external noise, creating a quiet and immersive listening environment. The ANC effectively reduces environmental noise, allowing you to listen to audio content uninterrupted. The earbuds also include an ambient sound mode, which enables you to hear important ambient sounds, such as announcements or conversations, without removing the earbuds.

Battery Life & Charging:

The Sony Linkbuds have an impressive battery life, allowing for up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours of battery life, extending the device's portability. The earbuds also support fast charging, allowing for 90 minutes of playback on a 10-minute charge, which is convenient for times when you're in a rush.

Active Noise Cancellation & Smart Features:

The active noise cancellation (ANC) on the Sony Linkbuds is highly effective at blocking out external noise, providing a listening experience devoid of distractions. The earbuds also include intelligent features, such as support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice assistants, allowing you to control your audio and perform other tasks using voice commands. In addition, the earbuds feature automatic ear detection, which pauses the audio when the earbuds are removed and resumes playback when they are reinserted, adding convenience to your daily life.

Are all devices compatible with Sony Linkbuds?

The Sony Linkbuds are designed to be compatible with a variety of Bluetooth-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and others. As long as your device supports Bluetooth, Sony Linkbuds should be compatible with it. However, it is always recommended to check the specifications and compatibility details of the particular Sony Linkbuds model you are interested in, as compatibility can vary based on the model and firmware updates.

How do I pair the Sony Linkbuds with my device?

Typically, connecting Sony Linkbuds to your device is straightforward. Here are the basic procedures:

Follow the instructions in the user manual or on the Sony website to place your Sony Linkbuds into pairing mode.
Navigate to the Bluetooth settings on your device and enable Bluetooth.
Choose your Sony Linkbuds from the list of available Bluetooth devices.
Follow any on-screen prompts or instructions to complete the pairing process.
After successful pairing, your Sony Linkbuds should be connected to your device and you can begin listening to wireless audio.

Can I use Sony Linkbuds while exercising or engaging in outdoor activities?

Many models of Sony Linkbuds are designed to be sweat- and water-resistant, making them appropriate for outdoor activities. However, it is important to check the model-specific specifications to determine the level of water or sweat resistance, as it may vary. It is also recommended to follow Sony's care and usage instructions to prolong the life of your Linkbuds, especially during workouts or outdoor activities where they may be exposed to sweat or moisture.

How long is the charging time for Sony Linkbuds?

Depending on the model and charging technique, the charging time for Sony Linkbuds can vary. The majority of Sony Linkbuds include a charging case that recharges the earbuds when they are placed inside. Typically, the charging time for Sony Linkbuds ranges from one to three hours, but it is always recommended to consult the user manual or product specifications to determine the exact charging time for the Sony Linkbuds model you own or intend to purchase.

What is the length of the Sony Linkbuds warranty?

Depending on the region and the specific model, the warranty period for Sony Linkbuds may vary. From the date of purchase, Sony typically provides a one-year limited warranty on its audio products, including Linkbuds. The most accurate and up-to-date warranty information can be found in the warranty terms and conditions provided by Sony or the authorized retailer from which you purchased the Linkbuds.

Sony Linkbuds are compatible with a variety of devices, and connecting them is typically straightforward. Depending on the model's water or sweat resistance, they are suitable for outdoor activities and workouts. The charging time may vary, and the warranty period is typically one year, but it is always advisable to refer to the model-specific specifications and warranty terms for accurate information.