Wireless earbuds have become a staple for many of us, and while they're not everyone's favorite, I'm a big fan of in-ear buds. I love how easy they are to tuck away in my pocket, how little space they take up when I travel, and how effectively they often block out noise. This is why I keep an eye on our guide to the best noise-canceling earbuds. Read more here
However, one downside to wireless earbuds is the cost of high-quality options. My current favorites, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, offer everything I want but come with a $300 price tag. The AirPods Pro 2, my runner-up, is priced at $250. While they are still more affordable than the best over-ear headphones, finding truly budget-friendly earbuds can be challenging.
So, when Sony introduced new budget-oriented products, I got excited. Known for making some of the best affordable wireless earbuds, Sony's new LinkBuds Fit aims to bring premium features to a lower price point. Having spent time with them, I found a lot to appreciate, but some areas need improvement.
Price Point
The LinkBuds Fit are priced at $199, making them an attractive option compared to competitors. They offer a good balance between affordability and features, especially when you consider options like the premium Sony WF-1000XM5 or the AirPods Pro 2.
Comfort and Fit
The fit of the LinkBuds Fit is excellent. Once you find the right ear tips (which can be surprisingly larger than expected for a good seal), they sit comfortably and stay in place, thanks to the silicone-fit wings. This design aspect makes them suitable for various activities, even if they’re not marketed as fitness earbuds.
Style and Design
Sony’s design choices have varied in the past, but the LinkBuds Fit stand out with their bubble-like design and attractive finish. The small, rounded buds with a pearl-effect lid offer a touch of elegance, distinguishing them from more utilitarian designs.
Features and Customization
The new Sound Connect app offers valuable customization options, including EQ settings and noise-canceling modes. The touch controls, which detect taps on your head instead of the earbuds themselves, are a unique feature that enhances usability.
Noise Cancellation
Noise canceling is a critical feature for any earbuds, and while the LinkBuds Fit do a decent job, they fall short compared to other Sony models. They can block out louder noises but struggle with background conversations. In my testing, I found the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro to outperform the LinkBuds Fit in noise cancellation, and they’re priced at about $60 less. For more information on these options, check out our reviews of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II and Soundcore Space One Pro by Anker.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the LinkBuds Fit is passable but not stellar. There’s a notable bass presence, but sibilance can be uncomfortable at times, with certain high frequencies creating issues. In contrast, the Sennheiser Accentum provide a richer sound profile at a similar price point.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the standout features is the battery life, offering up to 10 hours on a single charge and an additional 20 hours with the charging case. This makes them suitable for long use without frequent recharges, and a quick charge of just 10 minutes can provide up to 60 minutes of playback.
User Experience and Compatibility
The LinkBuds Fit work seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices, thanks to Bluetooth 5.2. This ensures a stable connection and efficient battery usage, perfect for those who use their earbuds for music or podcasts regularly.
Comparisons with Other Popular Earbuds
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($300): Known for their superior noise cancellation and sound quality, they excel in delivering immersive audio experiences. However, they come with a higher price tag. For an in-depth look, read our review here.
- AirPods Pro 2 ($250): They offer great integration with Apple devices, superior noise cancellation, and excellent sound quality, making them a popular choice among iPhone users.
- Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro ($140): A more budget-friendly option that surprisingly outperforms the LinkBuds Fit in noise cancellation and sound quality, providing great value for money. Check out our review of the Soundcore Space One Pro for more insights.
- Sennheiser Accentum ($199): These earbuds are known for their exceptional sound quality, offering a more rounded sound profile compared to the LinkBuds Fit.
Outlook
Overall, the Sony LinkBuds Fit has a lot to offer. They look great and have features that make them appealing, but the noise canceling and sound quality could be improved for a price tag of $200. While they provide a comfortable fit and some useful features, you should carefully consider your priorities before making a purchase.
If you're in the market for affordable noise-canceling earbuds, the LinkBuds Fit is a solid option, especially if you value style and comfort. However, if sound quality and noise cancellation are paramount for you, it might be worth exploring alternatives like the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro or the Sennheiser Accentum.
Need a new pair of earbuds right now? Check out our guide to the best headphones for sleeping to find the right fit for you.
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