After several weeks of testing Sony's latest Link Buds Fit earbuds, it's time to share my final thoughts. This new pair builds on the brand’s mid-range Link Buds line, which now features intriguing updates in both design and sound quality.
Overview of the Product
Sony has restructured its offerings in the Link Buds category, particularly with the arrival of the Link Buds Open and Link Buds Fit, each retailing at $200. The Link Buds Open present a refined version of the innovative ring driver from the original Link Buds, lending a louder and slightly bass-heavy sound.
Among the two new models, the Link Buds Fit stand out as Sony's primary response to competitive models like Beats' Fit Pro earbuds. These are designed to be lightweight and compact, boasting an IPX4 splash-proof and sweat-resistant rating, weighing just 4.9 grams per bud.
Design and Comfort
A major design feature of the Link Buds Fit is their unique air fitting supporters, essentially silicone fins that provide a more tailored fit in the ear. Users can also customize their look with interchangeable fins and optional case covers, catering to a desire for personal expression.
While the Link Buds Fit offer comfort and secure fit, they may not completely outperform Sony's flagship WF-1000X Mark 5 earbuds in every area. The noise cancellation isn’t as stellar as in the higher-end models, but the fit is notably better for many users, aided by the diverse sizing of ear tips.
Sound Quality and Performance
The sound profile of the Link Buds Fit aligns closely with Sony's signature warm, bass-forward profile. While some may find it lacks a slight clarity, it performs well across various music genres. During testing, the sound quality was found to be superior to that of the Beats Fit Pro, with significant low-end punch compared to the AirPods Pro 2.
Furthermore, users can tailor their listening experience via an equalizer in Sony's newly revamped audio app, which is now more user-friendly yet retains comprehensive settings. The ambient mode has also seen an improvement, sounding more natural compared to previous iterations.
Noise Cancelling and Call Quality
Though the noise cancelling in the Link Buds Fit doesn’t quite match the capabilities of the WF-1000X Mark 5, it remains impressively effective. In a practical test conducted on a noisy street in New York, callers noted minimal background noise and clear voice quality, showcasing the headphones' strong call performance.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, the Link Buds Fit also support features like ear detection sensors, multi-point Bluetooth pairing, and voice controls. However, users need to activate these settings within the app, which adds an extra step. The gesture controls allow for convenient call management through head movements, complementing the array of input methods.
Battery life is serviceable but nothing remarkable, providing about 5.5 hours of use with noise cancelling enabled. The charging case offers an additional three charges but lacks wireless charging capabilities—a downside considering the price point. The case itself is somewhat bulkier than some competitors, though still smaller than the Beats Fit Pro’s case.
In essence, Sony's updates to the Link Buds line reflect a positive evolution in both design and performance. While the customizable accessories may not appeal to everyone and the price point saw a small increase, they have positioned the Link Buds Fit as a strong option in a well-saturated market.
For those who generally prefer earbuds that don't have tips that fit snugly in the ear, the Link Buds Fit are likely to enhance your listening experience. They have rapidly become one of my favorite new earbuds of 2024, especially if you are an Android user.
I invite readers to share their thoughts on the new Link Buds Fit, particularly regarding their design and the accessory options. Thanks for joining in, and I look forward to your feedback!
Part 1/6:
Review of Sony's New Link Buds Fit Earbuds
After several weeks of testing Sony's latest Link Buds Fit earbuds, it's time to share my final thoughts. This new pair builds on the brand’s mid-range Link Buds line, which now features intriguing updates in both design and sound quality.
Overview of the Product
Sony has restructured its offerings in the Link Buds category, particularly with the arrival of the Link Buds Open and Link Buds Fit, each retailing at $200. The Link Buds Open present a refined version of the innovative ring driver from the original Link Buds, lending a louder and slightly bass-heavy sound.
Part 2/6:
Among the two new models, the Link Buds Fit stand out as Sony's primary response to competitive models like Beats' Fit Pro earbuds. These are designed to be lightweight and compact, boasting an IPX4 splash-proof and sweat-resistant rating, weighing just 4.9 grams per bud.
Design and Comfort
A major design feature of the Link Buds Fit is their unique air fitting supporters, essentially silicone fins that provide a more tailored fit in the ear. Users can also customize their look with interchangeable fins and optional case covers, catering to a desire for personal expression.
Part 3/6:
While the Link Buds Fit offer comfort and secure fit, they may not completely outperform Sony's flagship WF-1000X Mark 5 earbuds in every area. The noise cancellation isn’t as stellar as in the higher-end models, but the fit is notably better for many users, aided by the diverse sizing of ear tips.
Sound Quality and Performance
The sound profile of the Link Buds Fit aligns closely with Sony's signature warm, bass-forward profile. While some may find it lacks a slight clarity, it performs well across various music genres. During testing, the sound quality was found to be superior to that of the Beats Fit Pro, with significant low-end punch compared to the AirPods Pro 2.
Part 4/6:
Furthermore, users can tailor their listening experience via an equalizer in Sony's newly revamped audio app, which is now more user-friendly yet retains comprehensive settings. The ambient mode has also seen an improvement, sounding more natural compared to previous iterations.
Noise Cancelling and Call Quality
Though the noise cancelling in the Link Buds Fit doesn’t quite match the capabilities of the WF-1000X Mark 5, it remains impressively effective. In a practical test conducted on a noisy street in New York, callers noted minimal background noise and clear voice quality, showcasing the headphones' strong call performance.
Features and Battery Life
Part 5/6:
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, the Link Buds Fit also support features like ear detection sensors, multi-point Bluetooth pairing, and voice controls. However, users need to activate these settings within the app, which adds an extra step. The gesture controls allow for convenient call management through head movements, complementing the array of input methods.
Battery life is serviceable but nothing remarkable, providing about 5.5 hours of use with noise cancelling enabled. The charging case offers an additional three charges but lacks wireless charging capabilities—a downside considering the price point. The case itself is somewhat bulkier than some competitors, though still smaller than the Beats Fit Pro’s case.
Conclusion
Part 6/6:
In essence, Sony's updates to the Link Buds line reflect a positive evolution in both design and performance. While the customizable accessories may not appeal to everyone and the price point saw a small increase, they have positioned the Link Buds Fit as a strong option in a well-saturated market.
For those who generally prefer earbuds that don't have tips that fit snugly in the ear, the Link Buds Fit are likely to enhance your listening experience. They have rapidly become one of my favorite new earbuds of 2024, especially if you are an Android user.
I invite readers to share their thoughts on the new Link Buds Fit, particularly regarding their design and the accessory options. Thanks for joining in, and I look forward to your feedback!