Ich bewerte ehr ungern Produkte (vor allem nach der kurzen Zeit), aber wenn ich hier teils so einen Unsinn lese, muss ich vorab für die LinkBuds in die Bresche springen!
Erst einmal die Einrichtung: Ein Traum! Ausgepackt, über den QR Code die Anleitung zum Einsetzen abgeschaut und ! -》am Spiegel 《- ! eingesetzt - passen auf Anhieb 👌
Wer sich hier schon keine Zeit nimmt, sollte bei den Earpods bleiben.
Nun richten sich die Buds völlig selbstständig auf dem Smartphone ein (Android / Galaxy S10+).. Und die Software muss man sich auch nicht mal raussuchen - der Download wird direkt vorgeschlagen.
Allerdings ist man man nun immer noch nicht am Ziel.
Nach Firmwareupdates und Softwareeinrichtung will Sony noch Fotos von den Ohren ( wer perfektes 360 Reality Audio möchte). Daraus errechnet Sony wohl das abgestimmte Soundprofil.
Nun kann man schon mal die ersten Klangversuche starten... und wird evtl. feststellen, dass eine Seite nochmal ein wenig gedreht werden muss (obwohl das Tragegefühl unbeschreiblich ist - und das nach 26 Jahren Ohrstöpselerfahrung!
;-) )
Bedingt durch die Form, ist es aber wichtig, dass der "innere Ring" direkt auf den Gehörkanal zielt.
Wer nun erste Musik hört, wird erst mal enttäuscht sein (wie man hier von vielen lesen kann)... Aber dafür hat Sony dem Kunden ja eine Software an die Hand gegeben.
Nach einer erneuten Empfehlung + Anleitung, den Sitz zu überprüfen und diverse Funktionen zu testen, kommt das eigentliche Setup: hier ist der Equalizer wichtiger als nirgendwo sonst ! Auch DSSE und Bluetooth Qualität vor Übertragungsstabilität sollte jeder für sich testen.
Wer dann noch UHD/ 360 Reality Audio Quellen testet, wird merken was die Dinger drauf haben!
Aber auch hier sei gesagt: Es sind keine Inears, also bitte erwartet auch keinen Druck hinter der Musik!
Es sind Lautsprecher für den Gehörgang und wer das versteht, wird auch nicht enttäuscht.
Ich werde noch weiter ausgiebig testen, aber bisher haben mich die LinkBuds vom Tragegefühl und von der Mischung aus Klangqualität und mit der Außenwelt verbunden bleiben, erst mal umgehauen!
Other Sellers on Amazon
Added
Not added
€146.21
& FREE Delivery
& FREE Delivery
Sold by: Topocentras EU
Sold by: Topocentras EU
(281 ratings)
71% positive over last 12 months
71% positive over last 12 months
Only 2 left in stock.
Delivery rates and Return policy Added
Not added
€162.00
Sold by: mySWOOOP® GmbH
Sold by: mySWOOOP® GmbH
(4238 ratings)
79% positive over last 12 months
79% positive over last 12 months
Only 1 left in stock.
Delivery rates and Return policy Added
Not added
€166.95
& FREE Delivery
& FREE Delivery
Sold by: technikgross
Sold by: technikgross
(3790 ratings)
97% positive over last 12 months
97% positive over last 12 months
Only 1 left in stock.
Delivery rates and Return policy Have one to sell?
Add Extra Protection? Check if this cover meets your needs
- XCover product protection provides insurance protection for a wide range of products. Product protection extends and extends the manufacturer's warranty and covers damage, stains, mechanical/electrical defects, cracks and other types of damage not otherwise covered.
- XCover organises a technician who repairs your product through our postal service or at your home, or we will replace or refund the damage from payment to any bank account worldwide.
- Fully digital damage reporting procedure supported by a multilingual, 24/7 call centre, simple online damage report and immediate payment of recognised claims. XCover aims to complete and pay 95% of damage within 3 days.
- This insurance does not cover any loss or damage caused during transport to your address, for preliminary damage and general wear, cosmetic damage or self-exemption.
- Cancel your plan at any time by logging in to your Amazon account. Applies to persons over 18 years with residence in Germany. For a full product description, please see product information and insurance conditions if you follow the links. Please note: if you access our website with a laptop or desktop PC, you may receive a different insurance product on different terms.
Added to Basket
An error has occurred while processing your request. Try again
Add to Basket No thanks
Add Extra Protection? Check if this cover meets your needs
Added to Basket
An error has occurred while processing your request. Try again
Add to Basket No thanks
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
5 VIDEOS -
-
Sony LinkBuds - New concept with open ring design allows conversations without removing the earphones and staying safe while running - Grey
-17% €148.95€148.95
Suggested price: €179.99€179.99
The RRP is the suggested or recommended retail price of a product set by the manufacturer and provided by a manufacturer, supplier, or seller.
Learn more
Learn more
&
FREE Returns
Return this item for free
- Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. For a full refund with no deduction for return shipping, you can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition.
- Learn more about free returns.
How to return the item?
- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Updated other options based on this selection
Enhance your purchase
| Brand | Sony |
| Colour | Gray |
| Connectivity technology | Kabellos |
| Model name | WFL900H.CE7 |
| Form factor | Im Ohr |
| Item weight | 4.1 Grams |
| Water resistance level | Waterproof |
| Special feature | Sweatproof, Fast Charging |
| Included components | Cable, Wireless charging case |
| Wireless communication technology | Bluetooth |
About this item
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
- Clear transparent ambient sound with these Bluetooth headphones thanks to the newly developed ring shaped driver from Sony
- Keep conversations clear and clear while wearing LinkBuds, and safely listen to music while jogging or walking while you hear the world around you
- Ultra-compact and lightweight for all-day comfort
- Listen to clear phone calls and music quality on your wireless headphones with microphone
- Intelligent listening functions for daily ease when using your wireless in-ear headphones
- These Sony headphones are IPX4 waterproof and have a battery life of up to 17.5 hours
This fits your .
Consider a similar item
| Do you want to recycle your electrical and electronic equipment for free? Learn more |
Buy it with
Customers who viewed this item also viewed
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
Compare with similar items
This item Sony LinkBuds - New concept with open ring design allows conversations without removing the earphones and staying safe while running - Grey | Sony WF-SP800N completely wireless sports headphones / earbuds with noise canceling / active noise suppression - super secure hold and waterproof - incl. Charging case for extra power on the go | Sony WF-1000XM3 True Wireless Noise Canceling Headphone (up to 32h battery life, stable bluetooth connection) black | Sony WF-C500 True Wireless Headphones (up to 20 Hours Battery Life with Charging Case, Compatible with Voice Assistant, Built-in Microphone for Calls, Bluetooth), Black | Sony Smart Ear Duo XEA20 Bluetooth Stereo Headset | Sony 1307-4709 In-Ear Earbuds Silver | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Customer Rating | 3.9 out of 5 stars (408) | 4.1 out of 5 stars (646) | 4.1 out of 5 stars (11281) | 4.4 out of 5 stars (1808) | 3.4 out of 5 stars (66) | 4.3 out of 5 stars (68) |
| Price | €148.95 | €124.99 | €102.99 | €58.00 | €184.90 | €24.84 |
| Shipping | FREE Delivery. Delivery Details | FREE Delivery. Delivery Details | FREE Delivery. Delivery Details | FREE Delivery. Delivery Details | FREE Delivery. Delivery Details | FREE Delivery on eligible first order to Germany and Austria. Select this option at checkout. Details |
| Sold By | Amazon.de | Amazon.de | Amazon.de | Amazon.de | LES EXCLUSIVES | Amazon.de |
| Colour | gray | black | black | black | Schwarz | silver |
| Item Dimensions | 4.85 x 4.15 x 3.09 cm | 18.7 x 4.8 x 12.4 cm | 3.5 x 2 x 2 cm | 8 x 5 x 5 cm | 1.02 x 1.75 x 5.96 cm | 2.41 x 1.52 x 5.92 cm |
| Item Weight | 4.1 grams | 59 grams | 94 grams | 87 grams | 100 grams | 17.4 grams |
| Model Year | 2022 | 2020 | 2019 | 2021 | — | 2017 |
Product details
- Batteries : 3 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Language : English
- Product Dimensions : 4.85 x 4.15 x 3.09 cm; 4.1 Grams
- Date First Available : 15 Feb. 2022
- Manufacturer : Sony
- ASIN : B09QMMHL3H
- Item model number : WFL900H.CE7
- Country of origin : Malaysia
- Best Sellers Rank: 3,953 in Electronics & Photo (See Top 100 in Electronics & Photo)
- 180 in In-Ear Headphones
- Customer reviews:
What's in the box?
Customer reviews
3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9 out of 5
408 global ratings
How are ratings calculated?
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyses reviews to verify trustworthiness.
1.0 out of 5 stars
LinkBuds VIEL HYPE GROSSER FLOP
Reviewed in Germany on 26 February 2022
Kurzversion: Sony LinkBuds gute Idee, viel Hype. In der Umsetzung leider kompletter Flop. Trotz vielen Versuchen sind Sony LinkBuds entweder sehr unbequem und gut zu hören oder unbequem und sehr leise.Ich rate deswegen von denen AB. KEINE KAUFEMPFEHLUNGNachdem vielen Reviews und Hype auf YouTube habe ich mich sehr auf die LinkBuds gefreut.Angekommen reingegeben und da kam langsam der Zweifel. Nicht nur drückten sie in den Ohrkanal rein sondern die Plastiklippe oberhalb drückte zu sehr ans Ohr.Nach ein wenig rum probieren entschied ich mich für die große S und fing mit dem Hören an.Es fielen mir mehrere Sachen auf und zwar:1. Die LinkBuds sollen nicht oder nur sehr wenig im Ohrkanal liegen, klar ist ja der ganze Sinn dahinter. Aber durch die Positionierung hängt auch sehr die Klangqualität ab. Ich bin dann nach vielen probieren zum schlussgekommen. Ist die Positionierung im mehr Ohrkanal drinnen ist Soundqualität besser, aber durch jede noch so kleine Anpassung aus dem Ohrkanal aus zieht große Qualitätsverluste mit sich. je mehr die LinkBuds im Ohrkanal drinnen sind desto mehr tut auch das Ohr weh.2. Die Auswahl der Halterung. Diese war schwierig nämlich deswegen, weil auch bei kleineren Größen ein Schmerz oder auf Englisch Sore aufkommt. und bei der kleinsten Größen es überhaupt nicht hält und man zusehe das Plastik spürt.3. Das Hochgelobte Loch. Eigentlich das Killerfeature für mich. Leider muss aber sagen das Loch ist zwar da aber meiner Meinung nach ist die Transparenz die man wahrnimmt nicht gut. Zum Vergleich wer die Originalen AirPods 1. Generation hatte kann sich vllt erinnern, dass man durch diese ebenfalls gut die Außenwelt hören konnte. Meiner Meinung nach ähneln die AirPods Gen 1 denen am meisten, denn das Loch ist so klein, dass der Schall der hindurch kommt fast vernachlässigt werden kann.Abschließend: Die LinkBuds sind auf dem Papier ein frischer Wind in die Truly Wireless Kopfhörer Industrie. Aber leider können die hochgehypten Funktionen nicht Ansatzweise gehalten werden. Nicht nur sind die LinkBuds unbequem die Klangqualität + Lautstärke sind bei nicht schmerzhafter Nutzung UNGENÜGEND.Ich rate deswegen von einem Kauf ab es lohnt sich wirklich NICHT.Was nun?Wer jetzt nach Alternativen sucht braucht nicht lange.Wenn es um Sicherheit und Bequemlichkeit im Sinne keine Oropax geht dem sind die Knochenleitenden Kopfhörer Aftershokz Aeropex wärmstens zu empfehlen nicht nur ist die Technik Innovativ sie sind dazu noch Ohren schonend (es ist nichts im Ohr drinnen) und sind dazu Meiner Meinung nach vom Klang besser als die LinkBuds.Ansonsten würde ich die Apple AirPods Pro Empfehlen sie sind mit dem Transparenz Modus umeiniges besser als die LinkBuds und die Klangqualität ist ebenfalls um Meilen besser.Ich hoffe Ich konnte helfen,Schönen Tag,Johnny Smith
Reviewed in Germany on 26 February 2022
Images in this review
Filter reviews by
- English
- German
Top reviews
Top reviews from Germany
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in Germany on 24 February 2022
Report abuse
Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
87 people found this helpful
Helpful
Translate review to English
Reviewed in Germany on 24 February 2022
Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
Ich habe diese Kopfhörer gekauft, weil diese mal ein gänzlich anderes Konzept aufweisen.
Erstens kommen diese in einem riesen Karton, man sucht das kleine Kartönchen darin. Es ist wirklich winzig die Verpackung ist anscheinend aus recycletem Papier.
Der Kunststoff ist soweit ich erfahren habe ebenfalls recyclet. Ich kann die negativen Rezensionen nicht verstehen. Das was die Kopfhörer versprechen halten diese auch. Man hört seine Umgebung und zeitgleich die Musik, der Klang ist gut, der Bass ist absolut ausreichend, insbesondere wenn man die Headphone App nutzt und die Einstellungen für die Linkbuds entsprechend setzt im Equilizer.
Genial fürs Büro, man kann damit endlich Musik hören, ohne ständig die Kopfhörer herauszunehmen.
Man bekommt mit wenn einer einen Anspricht, für Teams ist der Ton auch mehr als ausreichend, habe niemanden gefragt ob man mich gut versteht etc. niemand hat sich beschwert. Bei anderen Mikrofonen von früher, billigen Headphones wurde sowas direkt angesprochen, dass man sich schlecht anhört oder man einen nicht versteht. Hier keine Probleme.
Angenehm zu tragen, zumindest im linken Ohr, aber das Problem, dass es im rechten etwas unangenehmer ist, ist mein eigenes Problem. Habe ich mit allen In-Ear-Kopfhörern. Obwohl ich bei anderen In-Ears wie meinen Soundcore by Anker Liberty 2 Pro. Hier habe ich lange Einsetze, damit diese gut halten. Bei den Linkbuds nehme ich die XS Variante, die Kopfhörer halten ohne Probleme, und drücken auch nicht nach oben. Man muss halt die Flügel austesten, welche am bequemsten sind. Ggf. werde ich beim linken Ohr zu größeren oder den Standardflügeln wechseln, welche bereits aufgesetzt waren. Aber das ist bei jedem Menschen anders.
Ich bin überrascht wie winzig das Case ist, das einzige was mich verwunderte: Das Update. Man soll alle anderen Geräte vom Handy trennen (Bluetooth). Dann soll es für iOS oder auch Android (Mein Fall) bis zu 60 Minuten dauern, ging dann in wenigen Sekunden über die Bühne. Man solle es nicht im Zug oder am Flughafen durchführen, wo viele 2,4 GHz Netzwerke sind etc. würde auch jedes Zuhause ausschließen, aber nein WLAN habe ich in der Wohnung nicht abgestellt. Die Nachbarn auch nicht, einfach hingelegt.
Der Witz ist auch, dass man Einstellungen wie automatisches Ausschalten deaktivieren soll für das Update, hier wäre es sinnvoll, wenn Sony den Nutze extra für die Updates nicht erzwingt etwas zu ändern, sondern diese Einstellungen in dem Moment einfach blockt, dass es sich beim Update ausschalten kann. Unverständlich wieso die das nicht machen. Auch, dass 33% Handyakku dem System sagt, nein ich kann nicht updaten?! What? Das Handy lädt nicht innerhalb von 60 Minuten bei 33% leer. Ergo, sollte das doch wirklich etwas optimiert werden.
Aber auch das Bedienen über das Klopfen am Kopf, nicht auf dem Kopfhörer selbst, ist irgendwie anders und modern. Sound hört sich an als käme es aus dem Kopf, irgendwie anders und doch auch gut.
Ich bin begeistert. Man muss sich schlicht vor Augen führen, man hat hier eine offenere Bühne, als bei normalen In-Ears, ist einfach so, wenn die offen sind, ist bei Beyerdynamics nicht anders, wenn man die 770 Pro nutzt, ist es geschlossen und man hört nichts drum herum bei den 990 hört man seine Umgebung und auch alle anderen hören einen selbst.
Die Linkbuds haben auch einen Vorteil, die Sensoren, beim herausnehmen aus dem Ohr stoppt die Musik ebenfalls, ist aber alles Einstellungssache. Schade nur, dass man für linkes und rechtes Ohr einstellen kann, ob man mit Tippen Wiedergabe steuert oder Lautstärke, man kann nicht sagen, zweimal Tippen Pause/Wiedergabe und mit dreimal tippen z. B. nächstes Lied, diese zwei Optionen sind immer fixiert für die Auswahl, was man durchführen mag. Lediglich links und rechts kann man separieren, linkes Ohr z. B. Wiedergabe/Pause und rechtes Ohr Lautstärke.
Erstens kommen diese in einem riesen Karton, man sucht das kleine Kartönchen darin. Es ist wirklich winzig die Verpackung ist anscheinend aus recycletem Papier.
Der Kunststoff ist soweit ich erfahren habe ebenfalls recyclet. Ich kann die negativen Rezensionen nicht verstehen. Das was die Kopfhörer versprechen halten diese auch. Man hört seine Umgebung und zeitgleich die Musik, der Klang ist gut, der Bass ist absolut ausreichend, insbesondere wenn man die Headphone App nutzt und die Einstellungen für die Linkbuds entsprechend setzt im Equilizer.
Genial fürs Büro, man kann damit endlich Musik hören, ohne ständig die Kopfhörer herauszunehmen.
Man bekommt mit wenn einer einen Anspricht, für Teams ist der Ton auch mehr als ausreichend, habe niemanden gefragt ob man mich gut versteht etc. niemand hat sich beschwert. Bei anderen Mikrofonen von früher, billigen Headphones wurde sowas direkt angesprochen, dass man sich schlecht anhört oder man einen nicht versteht. Hier keine Probleme.
Angenehm zu tragen, zumindest im linken Ohr, aber das Problem, dass es im rechten etwas unangenehmer ist, ist mein eigenes Problem. Habe ich mit allen In-Ear-Kopfhörern. Obwohl ich bei anderen In-Ears wie meinen Soundcore by Anker Liberty 2 Pro. Hier habe ich lange Einsetze, damit diese gut halten. Bei den Linkbuds nehme ich die XS Variante, die Kopfhörer halten ohne Probleme, und drücken auch nicht nach oben. Man muss halt die Flügel austesten, welche am bequemsten sind. Ggf. werde ich beim linken Ohr zu größeren oder den Standardflügeln wechseln, welche bereits aufgesetzt waren. Aber das ist bei jedem Menschen anders.
Ich bin überrascht wie winzig das Case ist, das einzige was mich verwunderte: Das Update. Man soll alle anderen Geräte vom Handy trennen (Bluetooth). Dann soll es für iOS oder auch Android (Mein Fall) bis zu 60 Minuten dauern, ging dann in wenigen Sekunden über die Bühne. Man solle es nicht im Zug oder am Flughafen durchführen, wo viele 2,4 GHz Netzwerke sind etc. würde auch jedes Zuhause ausschließen, aber nein WLAN habe ich in der Wohnung nicht abgestellt. Die Nachbarn auch nicht, einfach hingelegt.
Der Witz ist auch, dass man Einstellungen wie automatisches Ausschalten deaktivieren soll für das Update, hier wäre es sinnvoll, wenn Sony den Nutze extra für die Updates nicht erzwingt etwas zu ändern, sondern diese Einstellungen in dem Moment einfach blockt, dass es sich beim Update ausschalten kann. Unverständlich wieso die das nicht machen. Auch, dass 33% Handyakku dem System sagt, nein ich kann nicht updaten?! What? Das Handy lädt nicht innerhalb von 60 Minuten bei 33% leer. Ergo, sollte das doch wirklich etwas optimiert werden.
Aber auch das Bedienen über das Klopfen am Kopf, nicht auf dem Kopfhörer selbst, ist irgendwie anders und modern. Sound hört sich an als käme es aus dem Kopf, irgendwie anders und doch auch gut.
Ich bin begeistert. Man muss sich schlicht vor Augen führen, man hat hier eine offenere Bühne, als bei normalen In-Ears, ist einfach so, wenn die offen sind, ist bei Beyerdynamics nicht anders, wenn man die 770 Pro nutzt, ist es geschlossen und man hört nichts drum herum bei den 990 hört man seine Umgebung und auch alle anderen hören einen selbst.
Die Linkbuds haben auch einen Vorteil, die Sensoren, beim herausnehmen aus dem Ohr stoppt die Musik ebenfalls, ist aber alles Einstellungssache. Schade nur, dass man für linkes und rechtes Ohr einstellen kann, ob man mit Tippen Wiedergabe steuert oder Lautstärke, man kann nicht sagen, zweimal Tippen Pause/Wiedergabe und mit dreimal tippen z. B. nächstes Lied, diese zwei Optionen sind immer fixiert für die Auswahl, was man durchführen mag. Lediglich links und rechts kann man separieren, linkes Ohr z. B. Wiedergabe/Pause und rechtes Ohr Lautstärke.
Top reviews from other countries
MyKeyReviews
4.0 out of 5 stars
Sony: LinkBuds (True Wireless Earbuds)
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 February 2022Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
▬ Introduction ▬▬▬
Before you even think about pressing that purchase button, it's important to know what you are wanting in a pair of in-ear headphones and whether these tick all the boxes.
If SOUND QUALITY is the most important aspect you are looking for, then there are other better options available on the market, such as Sony's 'WF-1000XM4' in-ear headphones which aren't too far off in price compared to these LinkBuds.
What these LinkBuds DO offer is the ability to have more of an awareness to your surroundings whilst being able to listen to music or take calls and in doing so, does compromise on the sound quality a little.
I already own a decent pair of wireless earphones; however, the reason why I decided to purchase these is so I can listen to music at work whilst still having a sense of my surroundings as cars get moved around a lot near me.
▬ Box Contents ▬▬▬
The packaging is very small and contents are compactly and very neatly placed inside:
• LinkBuds.
• Charging case.
• USB - USB-C cable (very short).
• Various ear loop size attachments (XS, S, M, L & XL).
• Instruction manual.
▬ Set-Up ▬▬▬
First step is to give the earphones and charging case a full charge before use; simply make sure the earphones are in the charging case and link the case to a powered source via the included or your own USB-C cable.
Whilst they are charging, get a head start by downloading the 'Sony | Headphones Connect' App in Apple's App Store or Android's Play Store. Whilst it isn't a necessary download to use them, it does allow you to wirelessly update the earphones firmware and adjust/customise various settings.
Once charged, the set-up process is very straight-forward; as you take the LinkBuds out of the charging case, they automatically turn on and you just search for them like you would for any other Bluetooth device.
When you open the App, it will guide you through linking them with the App and from there you can turn on/off various settings and some which you can customise. The app will also give you an up to date status of remaining battery for each earphone and charging case.
▬ Main Features (Pros & Cons) ▬▬▬
- Speak-to-Chat:
✔ This is a handy feature should you start talking to someone; the earphones will detect this and pause the music you are currently playing, allowing you to fully hear them. There are options to resume your music after so many seconds the earphones stop detecting vocals (minimum is 5 seconds).
✖ The downside is you literally can't sing without the earphones pausing your music, so if you like singing, you may want to disable this feature.
- Tap Functions:
✔ There are pre-set categories to choose for each earphone (L/R); this could be anything from adjusting volume, skipping tracks and voice assist functions etc...
✖ I was disappointed to see you can't manually customise the options within the categories.
- Wide Tap Area:
✔ This increases the detection area from tapping the earphones directly, to being able to pick up tap commands from nearby areas such as the cheek.
✖ I found this at times to be too sensitive; when I was talking to my friend over the phone, I had a quick chomp on some food when the earphones confused it as a tap command and hung up on my friend; we tried this several times and it happened each time.
The features are quick to enable and disable through the app, so depending on my situation, I'll adjust to my needs.
▬ Sound Quality & Battery Life ▬▬▬
Whilst the overall sound quality is compromised, presumably due to the ring design, I wouldn't say it's bad at all. OF course, other headphones within the same price range are better, but I don't feel like I'm getting a bad audio experience. Whilst the sound isn't flat, it doesn't deliver much bass, so if you love bass, these ain't for you.
I can't comment exactly how good the microphone quality is; however, when I was talking with my friend, we were able to have a fluent conversation without him asking me to repeat my words, so based on that, it's good enough to do the job.
Battery life will vary depending on how many features are enabled and the volume you have the earphones set at. Whilst on a full charge the earphones are supposed to last up to 5.5 hours with the charging case holding up to 12 hours additional charge, but that could be less depending on your use.
Considering how small these earphones are, I'm surprised that they can even deliver 5.5 hours of use, that's pretty impressive. The charging case can give you a further 1.5 hours on a quick 10 minutes charge!
▬ Final Thoughts ▬▬▬
The LinkBuds definitely have its pros and cons, so it's just a matter of seeing which outweighs the other for your needs.
If you're wanting some compact earphones that gives you some flexibility and provides you with a bit more spatial awareness, then these may be right for you.
Before you even think about pressing that purchase button, it's important to know what you are wanting in a pair of in-ear headphones and whether these tick all the boxes.
If SOUND QUALITY is the most important aspect you are looking for, then there are other better options available on the market, such as Sony's 'WF-1000XM4' in-ear headphones which aren't too far off in price compared to these LinkBuds.
What these LinkBuds DO offer is the ability to have more of an awareness to your surroundings whilst being able to listen to music or take calls and in doing so, does compromise on the sound quality a little.
I already own a decent pair of wireless earphones; however, the reason why I decided to purchase these is so I can listen to music at work whilst still having a sense of my surroundings as cars get moved around a lot near me.
▬ Box Contents ▬▬▬
The packaging is very small and contents are compactly and very neatly placed inside:
• LinkBuds.
• Charging case.
• USB - USB-C cable (very short).
• Various ear loop size attachments (XS, S, M, L & XL).
• Instruction manual.
▬ Set-Up ▬▬▬
First step is to give the earphones and charging case a full charge before use; simply make sure the earphones are in the charging case and link the case to a powered source via the included or your own USB-C cable.
Whilst they are charging, get a head start by downloading the 'Sony | Headphones Connect' App in Apple's App Store or Android's Play Store. Whilst it isn't a necessary download to use them, it does allow you to wirelessly update the earphones firmware and adjust/customise various settings.
Once charged, the set-up process is very straight-forward; as you take the LinkBuds out of the charging case, they automatically turn on and you just search for them like you would for any other Bluetooth device.
When you open the App, it will guide you through linking them with the App and from there you can turn on/off various settings and some which you can customise. The app will also give you an up to date status of remaining battery for each earphone and charging case.
▬ Main Features (Pros & Cons) ▬▬▬
- Speak-to-Chat:
✔ This is a handy feature should you start talking to someone; the earphones will detect this and pause the music you are currently playing, allowing you to fully hear them. There are options to resume your music after so many seconds the earphones stop detecting vocals (minimum is 5 seconds).
✖ The downside is you literally can't sing without the earphones pausing your music, so if you like singing, you may want to disable this feature.
- Tap Functions:
✔ There are pre-set categories to choose for each earphone (L/R); this could be anything from adjusting volume, skipping tracks and voice assist functions etc...
✖ I was disappointed to see you can't manually customise the options within the categories.
- Wide Tap Area:
✔ This increases the detection area from tapping the earphones directly, to being able to pick up tap commands from nearby areas such as the cheek.
✖ I found this at times to be too sensitive; when I was talking to my friend over the phone, I had a quick chomp on some food when the earphones confused it as a tap command and hung up on my friend; we tried this several times and it happened each time.
The features are quick to enable and disable through the app, so depending on my situation, I'll adjust to my needs.
▬ Sound Quality & Battery Life ▬▬▬
Whilst the overall sound quality is compromised, presumably due to the ring design, I wouldn't say it's bad at all. OF course, other headphones within the same price range are better, but I don't feel like I'm getting a bad audio experience. Whilst the sound isn't flat, it doesn't deliver much bass, so if you love bass, these ain't for you.
I can't comment exactly how good the microphone quality is; however, when I was talking with my friend, we were able to have a fluent conversation without him asking me to repeat my words, so based on that, it's good enough to do the job.
Battery life will vary depending on how many features are enabled and the volume you have the earphones set at. Whilst on a full charge the earphones are supposed to last up to 5.5 hours with the charging case holding up to 12 hours additional charge, but that could be less depending on your use.
Considering how small these earphones are, I'm surprised that they can even deliver 5.5 hours of use, that's pretty impressive. The charging case can give you a further 1.5 hours on a quick 10 minutes charge!
▬ Final Thoughts ▬▬▬
The LinkBuds definitely have its pros and cons, so it's just a matter of seeing which outweighs the other for your needs.
If you're wanting some compact earphones that gives you some flexibility and provides you with a bit more spatial awareness, then these may be right for you.
MyKeyReviews
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 February 2022
Before you even think about pressing that purchase button, it's important to know what you are wanting in a pair of in-ear headphones and whether these tick all the boxes.
If SOUND QUALITY is the most important aspect you are looking for, then there are other better options available on the market, such as Sony's 'WF-1000XM4' in-ear headphones which aren't too far off in price compared to these LinkBuds.
What these LinkBuds DO offer is the ability to have more of an awareness to your surroundings whilst being able to listen to music or take calls and in doing so, does compromise on the sound quality a little.
I already own a decent pair of wireless earphones; however, the reason why I decided to purchase these is so I can listen to music at work whilst still having a sense of my surroundings as cars get moved around a lot near me.
▬ Box Contents ▬▬▬
The packaging is very small and contents are compactly and very neatly placed inside:
• LinkBuds.
• Charging case.
• USB - USB-C cable (very short).
• Various ear loop size attachments (XS, S, M, L & XL).
• Instruction manual.
▬ Set-Up ▬▬▬
First step is to give the earphones and charging case a full charge before use; simply make sure the earphones are in the charging case and link the case to a powered source via the included or your own USB-C cable.
Whilst they are charging, get a head start by downloading the 'Sony | Headphones Connect' App in Apple's App Store or Android's Play Store. Whilst it isn't a necessary download to use them, it does allow you to wirelessly update the earphones firmware and adjust/customise various settings.
Once charged, the set-up process is very straight-forward; as you take the LinkBuds out of the charging case, they automatically turn on and you just search for them like you would for any other Bluetooth device.
When you open the App, it will guide you through linking them with the App and from there you can turn on/off various settings and some which you can customise. The app will also give you an up to date status of remaining battery for each earphone and charging case.
▬ Main Features (Pros & Cons) ▬▬▬
- Speak-to-Chat:
✔ This is a handy feature should you start talking to someone; the earphones will detect this and pause the music you are currently playing, allowing you to fully hear them. There are options to resume your music after so many seconds the earphones stop detecting vocals (minimum is 5 seconds).
✖ The downside is you literally can't sing without the earphones pausing your music, so if you like singing, you may want to disable this feature.
- Tap Functions:
✔ There are pre-set categories to choose for each earphone (L/R); this could be anything from adjusting volume, skipping tracks and voice assist functions etc...
✖ I was disappointed to see you can't manually customise the options within the categories.
- Wide Tap Area:
✔ This increases the detection area from tapping the earphones directly, to being able to pick up tap commands from nearby areas such as the cheek.
✖ I found this at times to be too sensitive; when I was talking to my friend over the phone, I had a quick chomp on some food when the earphones confused it as a tap command and hung up on my friend; we tried this several times and it happened each time.
The features are quick to enable and disable through the app, so depending on my situation, I'll adjust to my needs.
▬ Sound Quality & Battery Life ▬▬▬
Whilst the overall sound quality is compromised, presumably due to the ring design, I wouldn't say it's bad at all. OF course, other headphones within the same price range are better, but I don't feel like I'm getting a bad audio experience. Whilst the sound isn't flat, it doesn't deliver much bass, so if you love bass, these ain't for you.
I can't comment exactly how good the microphone quality is; however, when I was talking with my friend, we were able to have a fluent conversation without him asking me to repeat my words, so based on that, it's good enough to do the job.
Battery life will vary depending on how many features are enabled and the volume you have the earphones set at. Whilst on a full charge the earphones are supposed to last up to 5.5 hours with the charging case holding up to 12 hours additional charge, but that could be less depending on your use.
Considering how small these earphones are, I'm surprised that they can even deliver 5.5 hours of use, that's pretty impressive. The charging case can give you a further 1.5 hours on a quick 10 minutes charge!
▬ Final Thoughts ▬▬▬
The LinkBuds definitely have its pros and cons, so it's just a matter of seeing which outweighs the other for your needs.
If you're wanting some compact earphones that gives you some flexibility and provides you with a bit more spatial awareness, then these may be right for you.
Images in this review
45 people found this helpful
Report abuse
NickM
2.0 out of 5 stars
Disappointing sound quality
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 February 2022Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
I have owned a number of Sony earbuds/headphones over the years and when I saw these announced, I thought the idea of open backed earbuds was interesting and wanted to give them a go. I knew going into them that because there was no seal (and because of the hole in the middle), there would be no isolation and limited bass, however I was hoping that the wider soundstage and promised clear mids and highs would make up for this; unfortunately they just don't.
Upon first listening to them, it was clear that there was essentially no bass at all. I tried a variety of genres including rock, country, and even some vocal focused folk and acapella music to give them the best shot at sounding decent. With playing with the EQ and listening for around an hour I started to get them to sound reasonable and was starting to be happyish with them, but then I switched to my Sony WH-1000XM4s and back again.
In comparrison the Linkbuds sounded tinny and shrill; I had started to get used to them and in isolation they were okish, but compared to any normal headphones, they just don't sound good.
I think that unless you very specifically need earbuds that will let you have such awareness of what's going on around you, or you struggle with having silicone/foam tips inside your ear canals, there are far better options out there. There are plenty of over-ear open back headphones (notably from Grado and Sennheiser) for half the price that will perform far better; Grado even offer a wireless set now if you've sworn off of wires.
I think I may have kept these for a few limited use cases (walking around the shops, or working outside) if they were nearer the £80 mark, but £150 is just far too much money for the quality. I will be returning them for a refund.
Upon first listening to them, it was clear that there was essentially no bass at all. I tried a variety of genres including rock, country, and even some vocal focused folk and acapella music to give them the best shot at sounding decent. With playing with the EQ and listening for around an hour I started to get them to sound reasonable and was starting to be happyish with them, but then I switched to my Sony WH-1000XM4s and back again.
In comparrison the Linkbuds sounded tinny and shrill; I had started to get used to them and in isolation they were okish, but compared to any normal headphones, they just don't sound good.
I think that unless you very specifically need earbuds that will let you have such awareness of what's going on around you, or you struggle with having silicone/foam tips inside your ear canals, there are far better options out there. There are plenty of over-ear open back headphones (notably from Grado and Sennheiser) for half the price that will perform far better; Grado even offer a wireless set now if you've sworn off of wires.
I think I may have kept these for a few limited use cases (walking around the shops, or working outside) if they were nearer the £80 mark, but £150 is just far too much money for the quality. I will be returning them for a refund.
28 people found this helpful
Report abuse
ethan c.
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the most interesting earbuds I've owned
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 February 2022Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
If you're considering these earbuds you are either someone who loves to try new and different tech or are in the need to be able to listen to audio while still being alert. I am both of these and personally these tick both the boxes really well.
To be clear, these are not for those who want deep punching bass by any means, so if all you care about is loud dirty bass, go look at some in-ear buds, I personally rock the original Samsung Buds.
These earbuds are best in their mids/highs and deliver the excellent audio quality that comes expected with Sony while still delivering bass that is adequate for a loud music session, but you better be in a loud environment or alone because these are open-back earbuds, which means the audio at half volume easily leaks. So no listening to Tay-Tay without your colleagues knowing.
I've been using them while at work and at about 1/6th - 1/4th volume my music/podcasts are reasonably loud to be enjoyable, while still being quiet enough to talk to my colleagues, even with the volume reduction when speaking turned off. I have also been using them at the gym which is really helpful when you can still hear your mates but listen to some heavy music while working out. They have only fallen out one while walking but I put on the bigger ear-wings which has solved that issue.
Overall, I was expecting a lot less out of them but have been pleasantly surprised at how good they are.
To be clear, these are not for those who want deep punching bass by any means, so if all you care about is loud dirty bass, go look at some in-ear buds, I personally rock the original Samsung Buds.
These earbuds are best in their mids/highs and deliver the excellent audio quality that comes expected with Sony while still delivering bass that is adequate for a loud music session, but you better be in a loud environment or alone because these are open-back earbuds, which means the audio at half volume easily leaks. So no listening to Tay-Tay without your colleagues knowing.
I've been using them while at work and at about 1/6th - 1/4th volume my music/podcasts are reasonably loud to be enjoyable, while still being quiet enough to talk to my colleagues, even with the volume reduction when speaking turned off. I have also been using them at the gym which is really helpful when you can still hear your mates but listen to some heavy music while working out. They have only fallen out one while walking but I put on the bigger ear-wings which has solved that issue.
Overall, I was expecting a lot less out of them but have been pleasantly surprised at how good they are.
21 people found this helpful
Report abuse
Lorenzo N.
2.0 out of 5 stars
Scomoda plastica dura, mancanza di Bluetooth multi device, batteria scarsa
Reviewed in Italy on 19 February 2022Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
Uso quotidianamente e con molta soddisfazione delle cuffie a conduzione ossea (le OpenComm) per rispondere al telefono e fare videoconferenze col PC, ma ci ascolto anche musica e podcast. Ma la conduzione ossea ha dei limiti di qualità audio e volume, inoltre l'archetto delle cuffie è un po' scomodo: quindi dalle Sony LinkBuds mi aspettavo una maggiore qualità audio, maggiore comodità e un firmware più flessibile. Purtroppo, qualità audio a parte, sono rimasto deluso e ho chiesto il reso dopo due giorni d'uso intensivo.
Il design aperto dei driver è ottimo: la qualità audio è sorprendente, non isolano dall'ambiente circostante, e permettono all'orecchio di respirare (indossare auricolari isolanti tutto il giorno predispone a micosi dell'orecchio e altri disturbi).
Purtroppo però l'ergonomia è pessima: il driver ad anello che si posiziona sul condotto uditivo è fatto di plastica dura e dopo pochi minuti il padiglione auricolare ha iniziato a farmi male. L’unica parte morbida delle LinkBuds sono le alette di gomma (fornite in 4 taglie) che evitano agli auricolari di uscire dall'orecchio.
Un altro aspetto molto negativo è che questi auricolari non supportano il pairing Bluetooth multi dispositivo: io ho bisogno di usarli sia col telefono che con il PC e dover usare due paia di cuffie diverse per i due dispositivi è assurdo. Assurdo che cuffie pensate per essere indossate sempre non abbiano questa funzionalità.
Ultima nota negativa è la scarsa durata della batteria. Sono abituato ad indossare le cuffie il mattino e toglierle la sera, le LinkBuds è inevitabile ricaricarle a metà giornata.
Spero che Sony in futuro rilascerà una versione aggiornata usando un materiale più soffice e confortevole, pairing multi dispositivo e un po’ più di batteria. Nel frattempo continuerò ad usare le mie fide cuffie a conduzione ossea, e degli auricolari con gommino morbido per ascoltare la musica ad alta fedeltà.
Il design aperto dei driver è ottimo: la qualità audio è sorprendente, non isolano dall'ambiente circostante, e permettono all'orecchio di respirare (indossare auricolari isolanti tutto il giorno predispone a micosi dell'orecchio e altri disturbi).
Purtroppo però l'ergonomia è pessima: il driver ad anello che si posiziona sul condotto uditivo è fatto di plastica dura e dopo pochi minuti il padiglione auricolare ha iniziato a farmi male. L’unica parte morbida delle LinkBuds sono le alette di gomma (fornite in 4 taglie) che evitano agli auricolari di uscire dall'orecchio.
Un altro aspetto molto negativo è che questi auricolari non supportano il pairing Bluetooth multi dispositivo: io ho bisogno di usarli sia col telefono che con il PC e dover usare due paia di cuffie diverse per i due dispositivi è assurdo. Assurdo che cuffie pensate per essere indossate sempre non abbiano questa funzionalità.
Ultima nota negativa è la scarsa durata della batteria. Sono abituato ad indossare le cuffie il mattino e toglierle la sera, le LinkBuds è inevitabile ricaricarle a metà giornata.
Spero che Sony in futuro rilascerà una versione aggiornata usando un materiale più soffice e confortevole, pairing multi dispositivo e un po’ più di batteria. Nel frattempo continuerò ad usare le mie fide cuffie a conduzione ossea, e degli auricolari con gommino morbido per ascoltare la musica ad alta fedeltà.
Lorenzo N.
Reviewed in Italy on 19 February 2022
Il design aperto dei driver è ottimo: la qualità audio è sorprendente, non isolano dall'ambiente circostante, e permettono all'orecchio di respirare (indossare auricolari isolanti tutto il giorno predispone a micosi dell'orecchio e altri disturbi).
Purtroppo però l'ergonomia è pessima: il driver ad anello che si posiziona sul condotto uditivo è fatto di plastica dura e dopo pochi minuti il padiglione auricolare ha iniziato a farmi male. L’unica parte morbida delle LinkBuds sono le alette di gomma (fornite in 4 taglie) che evitano agli auricolari di uscire dall'orecchio.
Un altro aspetto molto negativo è che questi auricolari non supportano il pairing Bluetooth multi dispositivo: io ho bisogno di usarli sia col telefono che con il PC e dover usare due paia di cuffie diverse per i due dispositivi è assurdo. Assurdo che cuffie pensate per essere indossate sempre non abbiano questa funzionalità.
Ultima nota negativa è la scarsa durata della batteria. Sono abituato ad indossare le cuffie il mattino e toglierle la sera, le LinkBuds è inevitabile ricaricarle a metà giornata.
Spero che Sony in futuro rilascerà una versione aggiornata usando un materiale più soffice e confortevole, pairing multi dispositivo e un po’ più di batteria. Nel frattempo continuerò ad usare le mie fide cuffie a conduzione ossea, e degli auricolari con gommino morbido per ascoltare la musica ad alta fedeltà.
Images in this review
Tobster
5.0 out of 5 stars
First Impressions - Indispensable Office/Outdoor Earbuds
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 February 2022Colour Name: grayStyle Name: SingleVerified Purchase
I received my Linkbuds yesterday, so these are just early thoughts, but overall I'm impressed.
Packaging: They come in the recyclable modular cardboard packaging now favoured by Sony. Compact and fits through a letterbox. Includes different size ear hooks and a USB-A charge cable
Setup: The ear hooks can be interchanged from four different sizes, and whilst they're a little fiddly to change, it's easy enough. They went into pair mode right out of the charge case, but you can initiate pairing to further devices by replacing them in the case and pressing the pair button (far preferable to the normal way of having to press both buds for 10 seconds).
Fit: Comfortable and secure once you have the right hooks. I'd probably not trust them for cycling only because of the risk of brushing your ear and one falls on the road, but for pretty much any other use these are just right.
Sound: Surprisingly good, particularly since there's almost no attenuation of background sound with them on. Bass is a bit light and the audio lacks depth, but that's not why you buy these - they're to ensure you can still hear what's going on around you. I find them perfect for Teams calls, because I hate that isolated sound that comes from using regular earbuds when you speak - you're never sure how loud your voice actually is. These fix that beautifully. Obviously noise cancellation would be better in a very noisy environment or on public transport, but for desk use or out walking, these are spot on.
Conclusion: The Linkbuds are now my go-to earbuds for videoconferencing and outdoor activities. I'll continue to carry a pair of noise-cancelling earbuds for travel or serious music listening, but these will easily get just as much use.
Packaging: They come in the recyclable modular cardboard packaging now favoured by Sony. Compact and fits through a letterbox. Includes different size ear hooks and a USB-A charge cable
Setup: The ear hooks can be interchanged from four different sizes, and whilst they're a little fiddly to change, it's easy enough. They went into pair mode right out of the charge case, but you can initiate pairing to further devices by replacing them in the case and pressing the pair button (far preferable to the normal way of having to press both buds for 10 seconds).
Fit: Comfortable and secure once you have the right hooks. I'd probably not trust them for cycling only because of the risk of brushing your ear and one falls on the road, but for pretty much any other use these are just right.
Sound: Surprisingly good, particularly since there's almost no attenuation of background sound with them on. Bass is a bit light and the audio lacks depth, but that's not why you buy these - they're to ensure you can still hear what's going on around you. I find them perfect for Teams calls, because I hate that isolated sound that comes from using regular earbuds when you speak - you're never sure how loud your voice actually is. These fix that beautifully. Obviously noise cancellation would be better in a very noisy environment or on public transport, but for desk use or out walking, these are spot on.
Conclusion: The Linkbuds are now my go-to earbuds for videoconferencing and outdoor activities. I'll continue to carry a pair of noise-cancelling earbuds for travel or serious music listening, but these will easily get just as much use.
7 people found this helpful
Report abuse









