This is perfect, I was so sad to lose my XM4's a few months back after using them for a year. Couldn't bring myself to bite the bullet and buy another pair. Wasn't expecting a cheaper and smaller options with most of the same features to come out! This is a no brainer for me. Bummer there's no wireless charging or dual connections but I'll be just fine without those features.
This is a better price alternative to the XM4 almost the same for less and I like that it's lighter and smaller. Also you're right the microphone does sound better on this one too.
I own many different true wireless earbuds, and until I recently bought the Sennheiser MTW3s, the Sony XM4s were my absolute favorites. Where these really shine is in comfort. They are the most comfortable buds I own. They are very comfortable, secure and light weight. Sound quality is very good as is battery life. I am so happy with them that I bought a second pair to use at work! The only complaint I have is that when wearing just one bud, or when switching from one bud to the other is that they switch to ambient sound, and I have to select noise canceling.
Beats Fit Pro don't have wireless charging either. Although not the best comparison, aside from price and lack of wireless charging, what's your take on them vs these new Sony Linkbuds S
To me after having owned two TWS earbuds - Samsung galaxy buds+ and Jabra Elite Active 75T, thanks to Mikes recommendations, I have learnt for myself that I value the small and comfort design of the earbuds. Also, I really enjoy using the ambient feature for when I practise singing at home so it became a must have feature for choose a pair of TWS earbuds for me. I have small ears and ear canals so after knowing how big the XM4’s were, as much as I wished to buy them, I couldn’t 🥲 Now these Linkbuds S are out, I am seriously considering getting these! I also want to own / might only get the Sennheiser TM3 with the same needs in mind. Altho I finally own an iPhone but somehow I just can’t bring myself to buy a pair of AirPods. It’s funny cos AirPods might be the best option for me in terms of their design for my ears. I would say I might get a pair if I one day no longer feel the need to want to try something new and have spare the money to waste 😂
I just recently bought these yesterday. My previous buds were samsung buds 2.bedore that I had beats pros. I LOVE THESE BUDS so far. Honestly it's the ear fatigue being almost non existent. They remind me of the galaxy buds 2( I have a Samsung galaxy device). I'd recommend them. I paid in Vancouver Canada $230 with tax.
For anyone who is annoyed by the beeping sound when you stop walking or start ect. You can shut off the beeping sound in the app. I had the same thing with the xm4 whenever I would turn my head, so I just shut it off in the app. Now i use the linkbuds s and I don’t use the feature at all. And the case is so light because it has no wireless charging. I don’t miss it.
Only problem I know immediately on first day i got it: I cannot customize the touch to cover all necessary features. 1. Volume 2. ANC on/off 3. Play/pause. You can only select 2 from above. Anyone want to buy you need to know this.
With no wireless charging and no Multipoint I'm looking forward to seeing how this matches up with Pixel Buds Pro...seeing that they're the same price.
I disagree with several others in the comments because I’m happy to go without wireless charging if it keeps the cost down. It clearly depends where you are in the world as to whether you think the price is worth it but right now in the UK it’s around 120GBP for the Linkbuds S vs 190 for the XM4s and I’d say 120GBP is a fair price for decent ANC earbuds even without wireless charging
Nice that you test for multi-device connectivity and other quality of life features. Bought some earbuds because they had all great reviews but I had to return them since I simultaneously connect to my laptop and phone often
Great review as always. You are very serious and your opinion must be always considered. In Amazon Spain right now, the 1000XM 4 is at 184 euro. Really tempting...
Hi Mike, thanks for your very informative real world review of these buds your review helped me choose these, I often have problems with earbuds hurting my ears having a small ear canal, I own the pixel a-series buds which sound pretty good but I find them uncomfortable after an hour or two so here's hoping that won't be the case with the Sony buds, I just ordered a pair on Amazon UK for £119 inc VAT 20% (sales tax) and I just noticed that Sony have released a firmware update that's added multipoint and slightly improved the EQ too, they'll arrive on the 1st of Dec, I'll let you know in an update what I think about them, Jim in Liverpool
I have the XM4 and love it. Yeah, it's a little big but it fits me well and sounds awesome. Voice quality is not all that but it's ok. The Linkbuds S makes me look forward to the XM5 whenever it comes out. If Sony can get the size down to that of the Linkbuds S, keep the great sound quality, premium looks and improve voice calls I'm all in.
What a great video, such valuable information. Nice to see Sony audio products maturing a little bit. I was just wondering, as someone who got the buds pro with my s22u, how would you compare the two audio/anc wise?
Thanks for your kind words! I think these have better ANC and probably better audio as well, although I have not extensively listened to them side by side yet
I kind of wish they would have continued to evolve the regular linkbuds concept. I guess this is a nail in the coffin for the SP revision i was hoping for. 😂. I do like the size and LDAC support though Sidenote adaptive sound mode. Using the XM4 by default had the same beep noise but it was able to be turned off. Is it not possible to turn off the chime in the linkbuds S?
You think so? Those just came out like what, 2 months ago? I guess it depends on how successfully those sell but I would imagine they will get a revision next year!
Lack of wireless is a bummer. That's how I charge my buds for years. I hope the xm5s get smaller. I really like my xm4 buds, but it's pretty easy to have them loosen up in my ears when I'm chewing or other movements.
The first time I used the mx4 I changed to the smallest eartips ; cuz I can't wear the medium size, now after 1 year... My ear get used to it and change it back to the medium size and it's really comfy..
Hi Mike, thank you for the review! Can you please test the Linkbuds S with the WF-1000XM4 foam tips and tell us if there's any improvement with the anc?
Do they have Google fast pair? By the way, great review! I really like the smaller design and i agree with you that for 200$ they should have had wireless charging (they are not a game-changer feature but more a nice to have)
While I really liked my linkbuds s, both pairs I've owned have completely died after using them for less than 60 hours of use (just over a month of owning them. When it happened the first time I thought it might just be a defect so I replaced them. When it happens again the exact same way on the replacement set, u just gave up with them and returned them
Just picked these up today from best buy for $129.99 and so far they are awesome. Almost as comfortable if not more so than my galaxy buds2 pro which are extremely comfortable in the ear especially if you have small ears as myself
Thanks for the review. Question is: Better than the WF-1000XM3 - sound and ANC? I'm ready for smaller and lighter earbuds, the WF-1000XM4 weren't it because they where uncomfortable and I don't like the foam tips.
Bought a pair: Testing the Linkbuds S against my WF-1000XM3's. Size and comfort is almost perfect compared to much bigger case and weighty earbuds of the XM3. ANC is also better but not world changing. But the most obvious difference is in the bass/sub bass - the XM3 are still much better and fuller (I listen to alot of Hip-Hop on Spotify). When matching the eq settings on the app the Linkbuds S don't have much thump at all, it's heard bass not felt bass which is a shame. The clearbass slider doesn't make alot of difference on the Linkbuds S. Also missing are the voice alerts for connection, battery status and mode. You have to check the app to check battery status. Will test for a few more hours but I think the Linkbuds S are going back - my WF-1000XM3'S are bought and paid for and the Linkbuds S aren't bringing enough difference to justify. I've already tried the XM4's which I found incredibly uncomfortable and I hate the itchy foam tips. I don't mind the XM3 design as most of the module sits outside of your ear canal meaning there's minimum amount of plastic touching skin. The XM4 touches so much of your ear opening which adds to the discomfort and makes my ears warm. Most earbuds rely on filing your ear opening to stay in place which I don't like, the Linkbuds S also do this but they are small and light enough to not be an issue. Onto the next.....Airpods Pro 2?
@@HecatombRecordings thanks for the answer. Guess Imma need to wait for the wfxm5 then. My xm3 is still doing good. Here in my country, it's really prohibited to return products bought online unless there's a strong evidence of Factory defect which is why i can't test them personally. And your review also coincides with other reviewers saying the bass is lacking and the eq doesn't do much at all.
@@nilskiemle9556 if I didn't already have the XM3 the I'd be happy enough with the Linkbud S. But yes, the eq doesn't bring much like it does with the XM3. Hopefully for the XM5, Sony can use the Linkbuds S size but with a bigger driver.
I just got these, sound and fit excellent. Just one question, do you hear fuzzy static noise when using the mic on earbud for calls or voice recording?
Nobody ever seems to talk about the voice assistant feature. I have watched quite a few of your videos and other peoples and nobody mentions the voice assistant. Why is that? I think I would find that useful and I would like to know how it works and how well it works. I just got a pair of these buds to try out first to see if I like them and I tried using the Alexa voice assistant and if I tell her to make a phone call to my wife it makes the call through the Alexa app and it does not go through the earbuds I can only hear her on my phone and not the earbuds. I don't understand why. Have you used this feature?
I like my music loud and clear. Also ANC is a must but Anything else is a plus. I consider myself an expert with many different brands but Sony is a winner especially when on sale as they currently are ! Get some. Bet !
Great review as always! On the mic test i did think the Link Buds S had a loud and clearer mic but it changed your voice a bit. These make me excited for the XM5s.
Hey Mike. First thanks for the video. I've tried many ear buds over the years. To answer your first question in your video these buds definitely sound better when you were talking with the wind and background noise. Secondly, I really like the sound quality of Sony LinkBuds S. I would rank them second to only the Beats Fit Pro. Those are just absolute best I've ever had with respect to sound quality. But so far I'm loving these buds as well. Thanks again for the video.
My old earbuds got stolen and I have been on the fence if I should buy the MX4s due to their price and size. These seem like a perfect alternative! The main reason I was attracted to the MX4s is their 'godlike' ANC. Can you really attest that these are comparable in that regard? If so, imma pick them up for sure.
I have the xm4s my girl has the regular link buds, the sound quality is way better on the xm4 in sure its the same compared to the linkbuds s. I love my xm4s sound is amazing so is anc
can you list out any open-ear style earbuds that worth buying other than airpods, galaxy buds live and linkbuds? i am one of the person that not really into in-ear earbuds because of the buds going into my ear canal. i was checking on JBL 225TWS but many said that its not worth buying because low battery life and sound not as good as airpods.
Hi Mike, how's fit in your ear? I have samsung buds 2 but easily loose if i use it for long meeting / talking, very annoying. Also how's comfort it is for side sleeping? I am looking for earbuds that can be used comfortably for sleeping too. Also how's anc compared to samsung buds 2? I feel anc in buds 2 is weak for me. Thank you.
I would like the comparison between Bose quiet noise-canceling earbuds vs this vs Sennheiser 3 love to know more about comfort between these three and phone call quality. thank you
They sound great and are amazingly comfortable. But I seem to have connectivity problem when using them on PC (windows). While watching movies, youtube, facebook or any other video app, the earbuds are constantly loosing a connection for a split of second. It sounds like I would stay 15 meteres away from the PC. I don't have this problem with my phone at all, but I tried those buds on 2 different PCs (windows) and on both the problem occur. Is it a common issue for this model or I'm just unlucky buying defective ones?
I tried these on, the sound is pretty solid, I’ve heard better, noise cancelling is amazing best I’ve ever heard on ear buds, however the thing which put me off is that they felt a bit tight in my ear and a bit sore, i tried the other tips and still got the same problem.
@@fightnight14 I really like how quickly the pixel buds connect to your phone after taking them out of the case. I hope the Sony's are similar in that way
I'm really surprised no reviewers seem to have mentioned the problem so many people, including myself have had with these. The day I received my pair, hours into their first use, they blasted my ears with this painful ringing noise. And the more I look around the more common this problem is. What happened!?!?
I own two true wirless earphones samsung galaxy buds pro and Jbl live pro , galaxy they drop all the time from my ears and jbl they really amazing bass everything but i want more volume :) this sony linkbuds s look amazing thank you for content
I am not sure, microphone on Sony's wf-1000xm4 sounded more consistent, there were no distortions in sound, sound was little bit muffled in comparison to linkbuds s but I did not sound any distortions. On the other hand linkbuds s microphone distorted more
$200 seems like a really big ask for not having wireless charging. Especially when you can get the XM4s used for less than that on eBay. If they were $100 or $150 that would be more reasonable. How do you think the sound/noise cancelling compares to the Galaxy Buds Pro?
I saw Sennheiser CX plus on sale at Amazon for $129, now they are back up to $179. I would like to see a comparison between these two. I have the CX-plus and very happy with them. However, everyone knows earbuds have a limited lifespan.
Are they comfortable and well-fitting? How is the sound quality and ANC in your opinion? I'm considering those as well as the Sony Linkbuds S as alternatives to their more expensive counterparts (Momentum TWS 3 and XM4).
@@WinterReflections Just looked at the CX + $124. So it is about $70 less than the Sony's. I find the CX + comfortable and they are very musical. I mow my grass using the anc and I am fine with everything. I have always liked the Sennheiser sound, but that being said I have 3 portable Sony bluetooth speakers (XB43 is the latest). I can't say that one is better than the other because I have never heard the Sony's. It takes a little to get the CX + seated but once done I am happy. I will say if my CX + buds die, I will replace them with the same buds. I am that happy with them. From listening to Mike, I would guess that the Sony's have louder bass, but I am happy with the CX + bass and it will pound well your head.
I want to use them for cycling, are they good filtering wind noice? I've been using the Jaybird Vista 2, which i loved, worked great filtering wind noice but I lost one of them. I also used the Galaxy Buds2 Pro which sound great but wind noice is way too loud.
Anyone seeing this comment: please don't buy Sony Linkbuds S. I was thinking that they are the great earbuds, based on review, but I have to say it is a piece of crap. Eveyone is saying that micrphone/call quality is top-notch, but it is actually the worst part of the earbuds. Immediately after starting the call, they automatically turn on Sidetone (like an ambient mode) and you can barely hear the other side due to wind/white noise + ambient sound around it. Interestigly enough, there is no SINGLE WORD about that from the reviewer. That makes them unsable in any environment except its own quiet room. It is imppossible to use them in train / open office / coffee shops / running...so please stay away from them and buy way better earbuds in the same price range: Nothing Ear 2 or Anker Libert 4 (4 NC) or similar price range Jabra models...
Hi! 1 simple question. Worth spending $50 more for Senn MTW3? Senn seem to have better build and battery and maybe slightly better ANC or Sound? Which are you grabbing daily?
I love these Sony buds so much I bought a second set to use at work. My use primarily is for listening to podcasts and audio broadcasts in particular, and I usually use one bud at a time with NC on. They are the most comfortable buds I own, and I own many. However the Sennheiser MTW3 are simply outstanding, particularly in sound quality. They are very comfortable and secure for me also. IMHO if you favor sound quality then it is a no-brainer; get the Sennheisers.
Hey! Just wanted to know if those have wireless charging? (probably not but better ask!) EDIT: just found the part where you mention that, now for 179, no wireless charging is kind of a deal breaker, I mean, even my earfun have wireless charging and ANC for just 70 bucks, literally half the price, I understand they don’t want to cannibalize their XM4’s but still, not only that, but you can find other great choice in that price range, and the airpods pro got massive price cuts, I sometimes see them going for 200 bucks on amazon, so I would prefer going to the pro’s except of the linkbuds. Kind of disappointing, would have been an amazing bang for your buck if they had wireless charging. TL:DR For 179, wireless charging is essential, even more so when they are literally 30 bucks cheaper than airpods pro that have price cuts
Yeah I hate when brands omit great features to encourage you to buy their nicer model. I think more times than not, it hurts the brand and buyers just purchase a different brand (e.g. earfun or samsung)
Any other cheaper alternative to the LinkBuds S? I did look at Galaxy Buds 2? ... Any other to recommend? I currently have a Soundcore Life P3.. but the ANC or supposed ANC on it sucks... It's alr 80+ SGD on my end...
I'm considering to getting a new workout earbud with ANC, and is considering this "Linkbuds S" or "Jabra Elite 7 Active". I'm wondering, how does the audio, ANC, and fit of these 2 earbuds compare with each other. Is it worth more to get "Linkbuds S" than "Jabra Elite 7 Active"? I am not sure the ANC performance of "Jabra Elite Active 7", and worry that it won't do a good enough job, as from all the review I heard, it is just so so.
Hey Mike great review, really like your videos 👍👍👍 I have a question about the XM 4 predecessor if you know, do you know the launch calendar for the XM series? It is very hard to find any information about an possible XM5 because google brings up the over the ear XM5 which launch recently 🙂 I really want to get the XM4 but I also want to wait for an XM5 earbuds, maybe it will be greatly improved in terms of ergonomics so if it will be announced this year or early next year I will wait, but no longer than that. 🙂 Maybe I'm not the only one facing this decision as if I buy any of the models I will use it until it breaks so if a new model is imminent it would be worth the wait.🙂 Thanks 👍
This is perfect, I was so sad to lose my XM4's a few months back after using them for a year. Couldn't bring myself to bite the bullet and buy another pair. Wasn't expecting a cheaper and smaller options with most of the same features to come out! This is a no brainer for me. Bummer there's no wireless charging or dual connections but I'll be just fine without those features.
and now they actually have multipoint connection so still a very good deal
Mine died cause of the battery drain issue on the right earbud, what about yours
This is a better price alternative to the XM4 almost the same for less and I like that it's lighter and smaller. Also you're right the microphone does sound better on this one too.
I own many different true wireless earbuds, and until I recently bought the Sennheiser MTW3s, the Sony XM4s were my absolute favorites. Where these really shine is in comfort. They are the most comfortable buds I own. They are very comfortable, secure and light weight. Sound quality is very good as is battery life. I am so happy with them that I bought a second pair to use at work! The only complaint I have is that when wearing just one bud, or when switching from one bud to the other is that they switch to ambient sound, and I have to select noise canceling.
The seinheiser mtw3 is better ?
You are one of the best TH-camrs very underrated. Keep going and you will be a bigger TH-camr.
Thanks so much for your kind words!
Beats Fit Pro don't have wireless charging either. Although not the best comparison, aside from price and lack of wireless charging, what's your take on them vs these new Sony Linkbuds S
To me after having owned two TWS earbuds - Samsung galaxy buds+ and Jabra Elite Active 75T, thanks to Mikes recommendations, I have learnt for myself that I value the small and comfort design of the earbuds. Also, I really enjoy using the ambient feature for when I practise singing at home so it became a must have feature for choose a pair of TWS earbuds for me.
I have small ears and ear canals so after knowing how big the XM4’s were, as much as I wished to buy them, I couldn’t 🥲 Now these Linkbuds S are out, I am seriously considering getting these! I also want to own / might only get the Sennheiser TM3 with the same needs in mind.
Altho I finally own an iPhone but somehow I just can’t bring myself to buy a pair of AirPods. It’s funny cos AirPods might be the best option for me in terms of their design for my ears. I would say I might get a pair if I one day no longer feel the need to want to try something new and have spare the money to waste 😂
I just recently bought these yesterday. My previous buds were samsung buds 2.bedore that I had beats pros. I LOVE THESE BUDS so far. Honestly it's the ear fatigue being almost non existent. They remind me of the galaxy buds 2( I have a Samsung galaxy device). I'd recommend them. I paid in Vancouver Canada $230 with tax.
For anyone who is annoyed by the beeping sound when you stop walking or start ect. You can shut off the beeping sound in the app. I had the same thing with the xm4 whenever I would turn my head, so I just shut it off in the app. Now i use the linkbuds s and I don’t use the feature at all. And the case is so light because it has no wireless charging. I don’t miss it.
Only problem I know immediately on first day i got it: I cannot customize the touch to cover all necessary features.
1. Volume 2. ANC on/off 3. Play/pause.
You can only select 2 from above.
Anyone want to buy you need to know this.
With no wireless charging and no Multipoint I'm looking forward to seeing how this matches up with Pixel Buds Pro...seeing that they're the same price.
Lol, never trust a company that doesn't have a good audio history.
@@Max.527 The history doesn't matter. Only the current product. I'll wait for the Pixel Buds Pro reviews and compare
latency, sound quality/ signature, better noise cancellation
What's Multipoint?
@@theyamato4106 We don't know anything about those specs on the Buds Pro yet. So you can't say any of that is better
I disagree with several others in the comments because I’m happy to go without wireless charging if it keeps the cost down. It clearly depends where you are in the world as to whether you think the price is worth it but right now in the UK it’s around 120GBP for the Linkbuds S vs 190 for the XM4s and I’d say 120GBP is a fair price for decent ANC earbuds even without wireless charging
2 days ago I pirchased 1000 xm4 for 160 euros from some dude. Super happy with them. Since then youtube sends me a lot of linkbuds videos...
Nice that you test for multi-device connectivity and other quality of life features. Bought some earbuds because they had all great reviews but I had to return them since I simultaneously connect to my laptop and phone often
The feature you’re looking for is multipoint. Luckily it’s becoming more common
They are multipoint now.
Great review as always. You are very serious and your opinion must be always considered. In Amazon Spain right now, the 1000XM 4 is at 184 euro. Really tempting...
The best one in reviewing earbuds and smartwatches period.
Can you compare them to the beats fit pro please! That would be awesome!
Hi Mike, thanks for your very informative real world review of these buds your review helped me choose these, I often have problems with earbuds hurting my ears having a small ear canal, I own the pixel a-series buds which sound pretty good but I find them uncomfortable after an hour or two so here's hoping that won't be the case with the Sony buds, I just ordered a pair on Amazon UK for £119 inc VAT 20% (sales tax) and I just noticed that Sony have released a firmware update that's added multipoint and slightly improved the EQ too, they'll arrive on the 1st of Dec, I'll let you know in an update what I think about them, Jim in Liverpool
Hi Jim! I wanted to ask if the firmware update did add the multipoint connectivity as a feature?
I have the XM4 and love it. Yeah, it's a little big but it fits me well and sounds awesome. Voice quality is not all that but it's ok. The Linkbuds S makes me look forward to the XM5 whenever it comes out. If Sony can get the size down to that of the Linkbuds S, keep the great sound quality, premium looks and improve voice calls I'm all in.
Awesome content Mike. Please keep those reviews coming 🙂
Thanks, John! Many more are in production now
Good balanced review, love how you show an in screen image of the app
What a great video, such valuable information. Nice to see Sony audio products maturing a little bit. I was just wondering, as someone who got the buds pro with my s22u, how would you compare the two audio/anc wise?
Thanks for your kind words! I think these have better ANC and probably better audio as well, although I have not extensively listened to them side by side yet
I kind of wish they would have continued to evolve the regular linkbuds concept. I guess this is a nail in the coffin for the SP revision i was hoping for. 😂. I do like the size and LDAC support though
Sidenote adaptive sound mode. Using the XM4 by default had the same beep noise but it was able to be turned off. Is it not possible to turn off the chime in the linkbuds S?
You think so? Those just came out like what, 2 months ago? I guess it depends on how successfully those sell but I would imagine they will get a revision next year!
guess I'll have to start saving up for these to replace my WF-C500, I don't mind the lack of wireless charging as I charge my current WF once a week.
Lack of wireless is a bummer. That's how I charge my buds for years. I hope the xm5s get smaller. I really like my xm4 buds, but it's pretty easy to have them loosen up in my ears when I'm chewing or other movements.
Yeah me too. I usually just set mine on my desk and never think about plugging them in. Oh well...
The first time I used the mx4 I changed to the smallest eartips ; cuz I can't wear the medium size, now after 1 year... My ear get used to it and change it back to the medium size and it's really comfy..
Id love to see what your opinion is on the battery packs and if they really charge for as long as they advertise :)
You definitely deserve more views.
Would you recommend them over the xm4s given a price difference of £40 in the UK? Had the xm3 but wouldn't stay in my ear and anc was very weak.
Gret fit, lightweight great sound almost as good as XM range. Can't wit for XM5s
Hi Mike, thank you for the review!
Can you please test the Linkbuds S with the WF-1000XM4 foam tips and tell us if there's any improvement with the anc?
I'm watching this review with LinkBuds S on. I love them 👍.
Do they have Google fast pair? By the way, great review! I really like the smaller design and i agree with you that for 200$ they should have had wireless charging (they are not a game-changer feature but more a nice to have)
While I really liked my linkbuds s, both pairs I've owned have completely died after using them for less than 60 hours of use (just over a month of owning them. When it happened the first time I thought it might just be a defect so I replaced them. When it happens again the exact same way on the replacement set, u just gave up with them and returned them
Just picked these up today from best buy for $129.99 and so far they are awesome. Almost as comfortable if not more so than my galaxy buds2 pro which are extremely comfortable in the ear especially if you have small ears as myself
Thanks for the review. Question is: Better than the WF-1000XM3 - sound and ANC? I'm ready for smaller and lighter earbuds, the WF-1000XM4 weren't it because they where uncomfortable and I don't like the foam tips.
Yes i tested them yesterday, really great sound compared to the xm3 and way better fit
I'm for this answer too. I currently have xm3 and I just wanna know if it sounds better than wf xm3
Bought a pair: Testing the Linkbuds S against my WF-1000XM3's. Size and comfort is almost perfect compared to much bigger case and weighty earbuds of the XM3. ANC is also better but not world changing.
But the most obvious difference is in the bass/sub bass - the XM3 are still much better and fuller (I listen to alot of Hip-Hop on Spotify). When matching the eq settings on the app the Linkbuds S don't have much thump at all, it's heard bass not felt bass which is a shame. The clearbass slider doesn't make alot of difference on the Linkbuds S.
Also missing are the voice alerts for connection, battery status and mode. You have to check the app to check battery status.
Will test for a few more hours but I think the Linkbuds S are going back - my WF-1000XM3'S are bought and paid for and the Linkbuds S aren't bringing enough difference to justify.
I've already tried the XM4's which I found incredibly uncomfortable and I hate the itchy foam tips. I don't mind the XM3 design as most of the module sits outside of your ear canal meaning there's minimum amount of plastic touching skin. The XM4 touches so much of your ear opening which adds to the discomfort and makes my ears warm. Most earbuds rely on filing your ear opening to stay in place which I don't like, the Linkbuds S also do this but they are small and light enough to not be an issue.
Onto the next.....Airpods Pro 2?
@@HecatombRecordings thanks for the answer. Guess Imma need to wait for the wfxm5 then. My xm3 is still doing good. Here in my country, it's really prohibited to return products bought online unless there's a strong evidence of Factory defect which is why i can't test them personally. And your review also coincides with other reviewers saying the bass is lacking and the eq doesn't do much at all.
@@nilskiemle9556 if I didn't already have the XM3 the I'd be happy enough with the Linkbud S. But yes, the eq doesn't bring much like it does with the XM3. Hopefully for the XM5, Sony can use the Linkbuds S size but with a bigger driver.
Are they better in comparison to Jabra 85T in terms of ANC and music quality ?
yes of course ı can use lınk buds s
Mike, if you had to choose between these and Jabra 7 pro what would you pick?
Nice review, mic sounds good. No multipoint? then can forget about it. Looking at 1more EVO now.
I just got these, sound and fit excellent. Just one question, do you hear fuzzy static noise when using the mic on earbud for calls or voice recording?
Nobody ever seems to talk about the voice assistant feature. I have watched quite a few of your videos and other peoples and nobody mentions the voice assistant. Why is that? I think I would find that useful and I would like to know how it works and how well it works. I just got a pair of these buds to try out first to see if I like them and I tried using the Alexa voice assistant and if I tell her to make a phone call to my wife it makes the call through the Alexa app and it does not go through the earbuds I can only hear her on my phone and not the earbuds. I don't understand why. Have you used this feature?
Absolutely love Mine. 2 days old and in awe of the quality. Got them on sale at Best Buy. $50 off
Are they comfortable?
Was wondering where you were. I've been waiting for this.
I published this video the minute the embargo lifted!
You should compare the Link buds S with the Pixel buds pro when they get released.
I like my music loud and clear. Also ANC is a must but Anything else is a plus. I consider myself an expert with many different brands but Sony is a winner especially when on sale as they currently are ! Get some. Bet !
I have the xm4s but i want another pair of earbuds. Is getting the link buds s worth it?
Can you make a comparison between these and the beats fit pro
Would love to know how they compare to the elite 7 pro .. especially call quality
Great video as always, good sir! Keep it up!
Do you think I should get the Wf 1000xm3 or save to get these because I don't exactly have the most money? :(
Great review as always! On the mic test i did think the Link Buds S had a loud and clearer mic but it changed your voice a bit. These make me excited for the XM5s.
Hey Mike. First thanks for the video.
I've tried many ear buds over the years. To answer your first question in your video these buds definitely sound better when you were talking with the wind and background noise.
Secondly, I really like the sound quality of Sony LinkBuds S. I would rank them second to only the Beats Fit Pro. Those are just absolute best I've ever had with respect to sound quality. But so far I'm loving these buds as well.
Thanks again for the video.
How do these stand against Technics AZ40 ? I love the small form factor but don’t want to sacrifice sub-bass 😊
My old earbuds got stolen and I have been on the fence if I should buy the MX4s due to their price and size. These seem like a perfect alternative! The main reason I was attracted to the MX4s is their 'godlike' ANC. Can you really attest that these are comparable in that regard? If so, imma pick them up for sure.
If sound is a priority for you get the 1more Evo. Sound waaay better and anc is almost up there with bose
I have the xm4s my girl has the regular link buds, the sound quality is way better on the xm4 in sure its the same compared to the linkbuds s. I love my xm4s sound is amazing so is anc
These are so quiet outdoor compared to the xm4 which have bit of starter...am jealous.
In terms of sound quality, does this sound better than wf1000xm3?
what about getting both in same price which would you choose.
I have local store who have discounted the xm4 price to the same price as the linkbuds!!
Would you recommend these over the galaxy buds2 pro to use with my S10 Lite?
can you list out any open-ear style earbuds that worth buying other than airpods, galaxy buds live and linkbuds? i am one of the person that not really into in-ear earbuds because of the buds going into my ear canal. i was checking on JBL 225TWS but many said that its not worth buying because low battery life and sound not as good as airpods.
Ur reviews are truly great!
Hi Mike, how's fit in your ear? I have samsung buds 2 but easily loose if i use it for long meeting / talking, very annoying. Also how's comfort it is for side sleeping? I am looking for earbuds that can be used comfortably for sleeping too. Also how's anc compared to samsung buds 2? I feel anc in buds 2 is weak for me. Thank you.
In your opinion mike, is the beats fit pros or sony linkbuds s better? Because they are similarly priced in where i live
How do these compare to the LG UFP9 which I have been hearing a lot of good stuff about?
I would like the comparison between Bose quiet noise-canceling earbuds vs this vs Sennheiser 3
love to know more about comfort between these three and phone call quality. thank you
They sound great and are amazingly comfortable. But I seem to have connectivity problem when using them on PC (windows). While watching movies, youtube, facebook or any other video app, the earbuds are constantly loosing a connection for a split of second. It sounds like I would stay 15 meteres away from the PC.
I don't have this problem with my phone at all, but I tried those buds on 2 different PCs (windows) and on both the problem occur.
Is it a common issue for this model or I'm just unlucky buying defective ones?
I tried these on, the sound is pretty solid, I’ve heard better, noise cancelling is amazing best I’ve ever heard on ear buds, however the thing which put me off is that they felt a bit tight in my ear and a bit sore, i tried the other tips and still got the same problem.
I like these pair but will wait for Pixel Buds Pro since I really like the egg-shaped case form factor and design
I currently use the pixel buds 2 and am tossing up between these two for an upgrade also.
@@MasTiempoPorFa I have the Pixel Buds A. I'm staying with this form factor although the Buds themselves are totally different I will give it a try
@@fightnight14 I really like how quickly the pixel buds connect to your phone after taking them out of the case. I hope the Sony's are similar in that way
I'm really surprised no reviewers seem to have mentioned the problem so many people, including myself have had with these.
The day I received my pair, hours into their first use, they blasted my ears with this painful ringing noise. And the more I look around the more common this problem is. What happened!?!?
Love your reviews. Keep up the good work. ❤️
Can I connect the linkBuds to my Garmin Watch?
I own two true wirless earphones samsung galaxy buds pro and Jbl live pro , galaxy they drop all the time from my ears and jbl they really amazing bass everything but i want more volume :) this sony linkbuds s look amazing thank you for content
Great vid. Can you compare them with the Nuratrue?
I am not sure, microphone on Sony's wf-1000xm4 sounded more consistent, there were no distortions in sound, sound was little bit muffled in comparison to linkbuds s but I did not sound any distortions. On the other hand linkbuds s microphone distorted more
Is it comfortable enough to use on fullface motorcycle helmet ?
$200 seems like a really big ask for not having wireless charging. Especially when you can get the XM4s used for less than that on eBay. If they were $100 or $150 that would be more reasonable.
How do you think the sound/noise cancelling compares to the Galaxy Buds Pro?
I saw Sennheiser CX plus on sale at Amazon for $129, now they are back up to $179. I would like to see a comparison between these two. I have the CX-plus and very happy with them. However, everyone knows earbuds have a limited lifespan.
Are they comfortable and well-fitting? How is the sound quality and ANC in your opinion? I'm considering those as well as the Sony Linkbuds S as alternatives to their more expensive counterparts (Momentum TWS 3 and XM4).
@@WinterReflections Just looked at the CX + $124. So it is about $70 less than the Sony's. I find the CX + comfortable and they are very musical. I mow my grass using the anc and I am fine with everything. I have always liked the Sennheiser sound, but that being said I have 3 portable Sony bluetooth speakers (XB43 is the latest). I can't say that one is better than the other because I have never heard the Sony's. It takes a little to get the CX + seated but once done I am happy. I will say if my CX + buds die, I will replace them with the same buds. I am that happy with them. From listening to Mike, I would guess that the Sony's have louder bass, but I am happy with the CX + bass and it will pound well your head.
I want to use them for cycling, are they good filtering wind noice? I've been using the Jaybird Vista 2, which i loved, worked great filtering wind noice but I lost one of them. I also used the Galaxy Buds2 Pro which sound great but wind noice is way too loud.
Anyone seeing this comment: please don't buy Sony Linkbuds S. I was thinking that they are the great earbuds, based on review, but I have to say it is a piece of crap.
Eveyone is saying that micrphone/call quality is top-notch, but it is actually the worst part of the earbuds. Immediately after starting the call, they automatically turn on Sidetone (like an ambient mode) and you can barely hear the other side due to wind/white noise + ambient sound around it. Interestigly enough, there is no SINGLE WORD about that from the reviewer. That makes them unsable in any environment except its own quiet room. It is imppossible to use them in train / open office / coffee shops / running...so please stay away from them and buy way better earbuds in the same price range: Nothing Ear 2 or Anker Libert 4 (4 NC) or similar price range Jabra models...
My XM4's just took a shit on me so these were a no brainer. They will be here in about 12 hours, im so excited!
Hi, may I know is this more comfortable than Jabra elite 7 pro? because I brought Jabra Elite 7 pro I feel its not comfortable
Hi! 1 simple question. Worth spending $50 more for Senn MTW3? Senn seem to have better build and battery and maybe slightly better ANC or Sound? Which are you grabbing daily?
I love these Sony buds so much I bought a second set to use at work. My use primarily is for listening to podcasts and audio broadcasts in particular, and I usually use one bud at a time with NC on. They are the most comfortable buds I own, and I own many. However the Sennheiser MTW3 are simply outstanding, particularly in sound quality. They are very comfortable and secure for me also. IMHO if you favor sound quality then it is a no-brainer; get the Sennheisers.
How does the size compare with the Jabra Elite 7 Active?
How do the link buds s compare to the galaxy buds+ in sound quality?
They seem similar in class as an upgrade path.
Hi mike if i were to use this with a iphone will there be any differences?
Does the sound signature change between ANC on, ANC off and Ambient Mode?
Hey! Just wanted to know if those have wireless charging? (probably not but better ask!)
EDIT: just found the part where you mention that, now for 179, no wireless charging is kind of a deal breaker, I mean, even my earfun have wireless charging and ANC for just 70 bucks, literally half the price, I understand they don’t want to cannibalize their XM4’s but still, not only that, but you can find other great choice in that price range, and the airpods pro got massive price cuts, I sometimes see them going for 200 bucks on amazon, so I would prefer going to the pro’s except of the linkbuds. Kind of disappointing, would have been an amazing bang for your buck if they had wireless charging.
TL:DR For 179, wireless charging is essential, even more so when they are literally 30 bucks cheaper than airpods pro that have price cuts
Yeah I hate when brands omit great features to encourage you to buy their nicer model. I think more times than not, it hurts the brand and buyers just purchase a different brand (e.g. earfun or samsung)
Any other cheaper alternative to the LinkBuds S? I did look at Galaxy Buds 2? ... Any other to recommend? I currently have a Soundcore Life P3.. but the ANC or supposed ANC on it sucks... It's alr 80+ SGD on my end...
Are they small enough to use while laying on a pillow?
Which camera did you use for this video?
I'm considering to getting a new workout earbud with ANC, and is considering this "Linkbuds S" or "Jabra Elite 7 Active". I'm wondering, how does the audio, ANC, and fit of these 2 earbuds compare with each other. Is it worth more to get "Linkbuds S" than "Jabra Elite 7 Active"? I am not sure the ANC performance of "Jabra Elite Active 7", and worry that it won't do a good enough job, as from all the review I heard, it is just so so.
Thanks for the review Mike.,
Can’t decide between this or CX Plus
Mr .mike
How is the bass effect
Wen it ll be lanuch in India
Please reply
Those cheering kids at 2.45 scared the living sh*t out of me :O
Good review though. Thinking about getting these myself.
I'd like to see them compared to the Galaxy Buds Pro and the Jabra Elite 7 Pros
Good review! Thanks alot.
Is there any white noise in the background while playing music at very low volume??
Even though they don't seem like an upgrade to xm4. Rather the SP800N or C500's , if the fit is better its a go.
Hey Mike great review, really like your videos 👍👍👍 I have a question about the XM 4 predecessor if you know, do you know the launch calendar for the XM series? It is very hard to find any information about an possible XM5 because google brings up the over the ear XM5 which launch recently 🙂
I really want to get the XM4 but I also want to wait for an XM5 earbuds, maybe it will be greatly improved in terms of ergonomics so if it will be announced this year or early next year I will wait, but no longer than that. 🙂
Maybe I'm not the only one facing this decision as if I buy any of the models I will use it until it breaks so if a new model is imminent it would be worth the wait.🙂
Thanks 👍
What about common problem of right bud constantly disconnecting - read google. I also returned mine for this annoying problem.
I do use Adaptive sound but I turned off the notification tone when switching!
Hey, can you compare buds pro to Linkbuds S?
How do these compare in size to the Galaxy Buds+?