Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Excellent active noise canceling (ANC) for a pair of wireless earbuds.
  • Output closely follows our in-house target curve, at least until around 2kHz, and bass and mid-range sound are well represented, which makes for a very enjoyable sound.
  • Offers stable connectivity and responsive touch controls.
  • Highly customizable sound and quality of life experience through the headphones app.
  • Comfortable and stable fit and are very portable, making them a solid choice for running or working out.

Product Considerations

  • The battery is remarkably short in single cycle and total charge.
  • The matte texture picks up dust, dirt, and grime very easily.
  • The touch controls aren’t terribly sensitive to successive taps.
  • The microphone doesn’t deal terribly well with external noise.
  • Treble rolls off, which veils details in vocals and cymbals.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sony LinkBuds Truly Wireless, the LinkBuds S are closed-ear, have ANC, are more comfortable and stable, and have a more neutral and flat sound profile.
  • Compared to the Sony WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless, the LinkBuds S are more comfortable and their ANC can block out significantly more ambient sound, the WF-1000XM4 are better built and have better overall battery life.

Takeaway: The Sony LinkBuds S are great because they sound good, cancel noise well, and fit comfortably. With the app, you can set them up just how the listener likes.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

LinkBuds S

reviews

[{"title":"Sony LinkBuds S Review - 6 Months Later","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9Or2KaEaqc","source":"6 Months Later","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"This Makes No SENSE - Sony LinkBuds S","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N63hLQ2Rjk","source":"6 Months Later","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony LinkBuds S review: Small Earbuds, Big Sound","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MZ3iLZjtMI","source":"Hexacris","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"NEW Sony Linkbuds S (Smallest & Lightest ANC HiFi Earbuds)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HP-_W-wvkMs","source":"CEONTHEMAKING","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony LinkBuds S review","link":"https://www.soundguys.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-74398","source":"soundguys.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Headphones Review","link":"https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/linkbuds-s-truly-wireless","source":"rtings.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Sony Linkbuds S Review (6 Months Later)","link":"https://onetechtraveller.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-6-months-later","source":"onetechtraveller.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Battery Life: Up to 6hrs (earbuds) + up to 14hrs (charging case)
  • Charging Time: 1.5 hours (earbuds), 3 hours (case)
  • Water Resistance: Splash resistant
Always on, automated audio for whatever world you're in. High quality noise canceling and natural ambient Sound. Immersive sound quality with Integrated Processor V1.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

WH-CH720N

  • Positioning: A budget-friendly noise-cancelling option built for everyday portability.
  • Description: Offers active noise cancellation and wireless operation with a design that emphasizes ease of use and portability. The simpler technology and affordable build cater to users with modest budgets and daily commuting needs.

WH-1000XM6

  • Positioning: A mid-tier wireless headphone combining advanced noise control with a streamlined design.
  • Description: Features smart sensor integration and enhanced digital noise cancellation that adapts to ambient conditions, ensuring a balanced sound profile in varied settings. Compared to the CH720N and XM5 models, it strikes a middle ground by offering improved connectivity and performance.

WH-1000XM5

  • Positioning: A premium flagship wireless headphone known for top-notch noise cancellation and sound accuracy.
  • Description: Delivers advanced noise cancellation paired with refined acoustic tuning and robust digital processing for an immersive listening experience. When compared with the XM6, it offers a broader soundstage and a more established build quality.

MDR-MV1

  • Positioning: A professional-grade headphone designed for high-fidelity listening and studio applications.
  • Description: Uses a focus on precise audio reproduction and accurate frequency response, supported by technologies that emphasize clarity and neutral tuning. Relative to the consumer-focused wireless models, its design and performance are tailored for users who require technical accuracy for critical listening in controlled environments.

MDR-Z1R

  • Positioning: A high-end audiophile headphone that emphasizes superior build materials and uncompromising sound quality.
  • Description: Uses high-resolution drivers and premium construction to deliver detailed and dynamic sound reproduction, ideal for immersive listening sessions. Compared with the more casual and wireless offerings, it stands out with sonic precision and a focus on luxury performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
795
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
35
Founding Year
1946

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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From our interview with
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Sony

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Noble
FoKus Apollo
649
649
/
10
Reviews
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent passive noise isolation, better than many headphones with ANC enabled, creating a quiet noise floor.
  • Good build quality with quality materials like anodized aluminum, Alcantara headband, and protein leather pads.
  • Supports a wide variety of Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and SBC, offering versatility in device compatibility.
  • Strong battery life, rated up to 80 hours without ANC and 60 hours with ANC, making it suitable for travel and extended use.
  • Powerful, textured, and nuanced bass is a standout feature.

Product Considerations

  • The included carrying case is bulky and may not be ideal for travel, taking up significant space in a bag.
  • Comfort is not great for everyone, with some users experiencing hotspots on the headband during extended use.
  • With ANC on, some users have noted the bass can become boomy with a reduction in sub bass.
  • Treble transparency mode is not as good as other models.
  • The headphone may clip the sound when ANC is on and the user hits bumpy roads or takes a harder step.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze Maxwell: The Apollo has a latency issue.
  • Vs Focal Bathys: The Apollo has a more engaging, punchy, and emotional sound, also it has more features and tech, but the Transparency mode of the Bathys is better.
  • Vs Apple AirPods Max: The Apollo offers superior sound quality with better clarity, speed, separation, and refined dynamics compared to the AirPods Max.

Takeaway: The Noble FoKus Apollo is a well-built wireless headphone with a strong battery life and great bass performance, making it an enjoyable choice for those who prioritize powerful sound and noise isolation. It offers a versatile listening experience with a range of connectivity options and a comfortable design.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay Eleven
599
599
/
3
Reviews
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Luxury design and premium build quality with aluminum accents.
  • Balanced and detailed sound with customizable EQ settings via the Bang & Olufsen app.
  • Good active noise cancellation and transparency mode for immersive listening, and awareness.
  • Bluetooth 5.2 ensures fast and stable pairing.

Product Considerations

  • Expensive compared to other premium earbuds, like AirPods Pro.
  • ANC is good, but not best-in-class compared to Sony or other brands.
  • Fit might not be perfect for everyone, as the earbuds are slightly on the larger side.
  • Touch controls can be sensitive, and may require getting used to.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs AirPods Pro: Beoplay 11 has a bigger case.
  • Vs Sony WF-1000XM4/XM5: Holds its own in terms of sound quality and ANC, but the Sony models might be a slightly lower price.

Takeaway: The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay 11 earbuds are a stylish and luxurious option that provide great sound and noise cancelling. Those who value design and quality may find these earbuds to be a very good pick.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Sony
WF-C700N
78
/
Released
2023
Noise canceling technology to immerse yourself in music. Experience all-day comfort with our ergonomic surface designed earbuds. Unleash exceptional sound for a captivating listening experience.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive noise cancelling, on par with the more expensive LinkBuds S
  • Good sound quality, especially after EQ adjustments in the Sony Headphones Connect app
  • The Sony Headphones Connect app is excellent and allows for a lot of customization
  • Decent mic quality for phone calls in quiet environments
  • Comfortable and lightweight design, and small size

Product Considerations

  • The active noise cancelling (ANC) is not effective, and barely noticeable
  • Battery life takes a hit because of the noise cancelling, and the case only provides one additional charge
  • Build is plasticky, and the case feels cheap
  • Lacks features like wireless charging, in-ear wear detection, and Speak-to-Chat
  • Sound quality is bassy out of the box, and treble response is restrained, some might find the sound dull

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The WF-C700N is a step up from the WF-C500, with active noise cancelling (ANC)
  • The WF-C700N has comparable noise cancelling and sound quality to the LinkBuds S at a lower price
  • The WF-C700N has less effective noise cancelling than the WF-1000XM4/XM5, whose noise cancelling and isolation performance is in a different class and handily reduces plane and bus engines well, alongside chatter and clinking glasses
  • The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC outperform the WF-C700N for ANC
  • The Sony WF-C700N has multi-device pairing, which the Beats cannot do, and more control via the Sony app with a comprehensive equalizer
  • Voices sound more refined and dynamic coming through the Sony WF-C700N, in comparison to the JBL Live Pro 2 TWS

Takeaway: The Sony WF-C700N earbuds are a good value for people who want noise cancelling and good sound without paying a lot. The app is great and helps users make the earbuds sound just how they like them.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
WF-1000XM5
329
/
Released
2023
The best truly wireless noise canceling headphones on the market. Astonishing sound quality with High-Resolution Audio. Sony's best ever call quality with AI based noise reduction algorithm and bone conduction sensor.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent active noise canceling (ANC) performance, considered among the best in the market
  • Good sound quality with clarity, detail, soundstaging, bass impact, and extension, reviewers find the sound rich and detailed, especially with the LDAC codec
  • Smaller and lighter design compared to previous models, like the XM4, leading to improved comfort
  • Good battery life, with around 8 hours of playback with ANC on, and 24 hours total with the charging case
  • Sony Headphones Connect app offers extensive customization options for sound and features

Product Considerations

  • The glossy finish can make the buds slippery
  • Some reviewers find taking the earbuds out of the case a bit awkward due to the glossy sides
  • Volume control via repeated tapping can be uncomfortable
  • The case is prone to scuffs
  • Some users may find the default sound too bassy

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. AirPods Pro 2: WF-1000XM5 reduces noise better
  • Vs. AirPods Pro 2: WF-1000XM5 has more comprehensive software controls
  • Vs. AirPods Pro 2: AirPods Pro 2 have a more comfortable fit
  • Vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4: Sennheiser offers superior sound quality
  • Vs. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2: Bose has slightly better noise cancelling
  • Vs. WF-1000XM4: XM5 has improved sound quality with a wider soundstage

Takeaway: The WF-1000XM5 earbuds are a good choice for those who want great sound and top-notch noise canceling in a comfortable, smaller package. They are packed with features and offer a lot of customization, so users can enjoy their music in peace.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
WF-C710N
129
/
Released
2025
WF-C710N Wireless Noise Canceling Earbuds are the ultimate everyday audio essential with optimal noise canceling abilities. Enjoy all-day comfort with up to 8.5 hours on headphones and up to 21.5 hours in the case. Crystal-clear calls with voice pickup that utilizes AI technology.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers Sony's noise-cancelling expertise at an affordable price point
  • Comfortable and lightweight design
  • Customizable sound through the Sony Sound Connect App, including EQ presets and a 'find your equalizer' feature
  • Good voice call quality, even in windy conditions
  • Decent battery life, with around 8.5 hours in the earbuds and over 21 hours in the case (with ANC on), plus a quick charge feature

Product Considerations

  • Noise cancelling is subtle, not top-performing compared to more expensive models, and ambient pass-through has some noticeable white noise
  • Sound quality out-of-the-box can be very bass-heavy or flat and may require EQ adjustments to suit individual preferences
  • Lacks high-res codec support (aptX or LDAC)
  • May not provide a secure fit for all users due to limited ear tip sizes and lack of fins or wings
  • Some users have experienced issues with the earbuds remaining connected to their device even when placed in the charging case

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sony LinkBuds Fit, noise cancelling is close, but ambient pass-through is clearer on the LinkBuds Fit, the LinkBuds Fit have better detail due to LDAC support
  • Compared to the Apple AirPods, the WF-C710N offers similar sound quality with more bass and greater customization, plus potentially better noise cancelling, for less money
  • Compared to the WF-C700N (predecessor), the WF-C710N has longer battery life, touch controls instead of physical buttons, and a more balanced sound

Takeaway: The Sony WF-C710N is a budget-friendly option that still delivers solid noise cancelling and a comfortable fit. The sound can be customized using the app, so it's worth a try for those who want good sound without spending a lot.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
INZONE Buds
229
/
Released
2023
Active noise canceling and personalized spatial sound helps you stay on top. Industry's longest battery life with up to 12 hrs for Gaming & Chat with 2.4GHz low latency connection (24 hrs with charging case). Reduced ear contact for increased comfort.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Great battery life, with up to 12 hours using the wireless transmitter and up to 24 hours via Bluetooth LE.
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is effective at blocking out a wide range of sounds.
  • Good sound quality, detail, and clarity for both music and gaming.
  • Wireless transmitter for low-latency gaming on PCs and PlayStation consoles.
  • Comfortable fit, designed to minimize ear contact.

Product Considerations

  • Limited Bluetooth connectivity, only supporting Bluetooth LE audio, which is not compatible with many devices.
  • The need to use a USB-C dongle for many devices feels dated.
  • The INZONE Hub software, which unlocks the full feature set, is only available on Windows.
  • The loose fit may not be ideal for everyone and can lead to the earbuds being dislodged with sharp head movements.
  • The touch controls are finicky and can be difficult to use accurately, especially while moving or gaming.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The INZONE Buds have longer battery life and better ANC and mic noise handling than the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, but the SteelSeries are more flexible with Bluetooth codec support.
  • The Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed True Wireless has a more balanced sound profile and better Bluetooth connectivity options, while the INZONE Buds have considerably longer battery life.
  • The INZONE Buds have a longer battery life, better mic performance and noise isolation, and app customization features than the Sony PULSE Explore Truly Wireless, while the PULSE Explore supports Bluetooth and simultaneous streaming from phone while using the dongle with Playstation.
  • The ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova has better Bluetooth connectivity, while the INZONE Buds are geared towards PC and console gaming with dedicated support, EQ, and advanced virtual surround sound.

Takeaway: If you are a PC or PS5 gamer looking for earbuds mainly to use at home with great sound quality, long battery, and effective noise canceling, the INZONE Buds could be a good choice. Just be aware of the limited Bluetooth support.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
LinkBuds Fit Truly Wireless Noise Canceling
229
/
Released
2024
Secure and lightweight fit with Air Fitting Supporters for all-day comfort. Exceptional sound quality for clear calls and distraction-free music.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Lightweight and compact design makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods
  • The 'air-fitting supporters' (sports fins) and redesigned eartips, including XL sizes, provide a secure and comfortable fit for a wide range of ear sizes
  • Sound quality is generally pleasing with a slightly warm, bass-forward profile that works well with various music genres
  • Impressive voice calling performance with clear voice pickup and background noise reduction
  • Packed with features such as Bluetooth 5.3, multi-point pairing, ear detection sensors, speak-to-chat, voice controls, and gesture controls

Product Considerations

  • Noise canceling is not as effective as Sony's flagship WF-1000XM5
  • The charging case does not have wireless charging
  • Battery life is decent but not exceptional, rated at 5.5 hours with noise canceling on
  • Stock sound profile may lack a touch of clarity for some users
  • The eartips don't get inserted deep into your ear canal, possibly leading to a less ideal seal and a fit that might feel like the earbuds are falling out—even when they're not

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Beats Fit Pro: Sound quality is a tad better
  • Vs AirPods Pro 2: More bass punch
  • Vs WF-1000XM5: More comfortable and secure, and have voice controls which the XM5s do not, but XM5s have better noise canceling
  • Vs Sony WF-C710N: Better noise canceling than the C710N

Takeaway: The LinkBuds Fit earbuds are a comfortable and feature-rich option that provide very good sound and call quality, especially for Android users. If you want a set of earbuds that sit comfortably and securely in your ears and have good all-around performance, these are worth checking out.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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