Sony LinkBuds S
Score: 73/100
Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium true-wireless earbuds offering industry-leading active noise cancellation and a total of up to 24 hours of playback with the charging case. They trade off a modest IPX4 water-resistance rating and a premium price point. Ideal for commuters and audiophiles who prioritize ANC and battery life.
The Sony LinkBuds S are ultra-light earbuds with integrated ANC, LDAC support and a compact pocket-sized case. Their battery life is limited to about 6 hours with ANC and they do not offer wireless charging. Perfect for users who value minimal weight and portability over long listening time.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
17.5 hours | 24 hoursbest | |
9 hoursbest | 8 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 120 minutes | 90 minutesbest |
5 mm | 8.4 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 3 minutesbest |
10 metersbest | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 44.6 gbest | 50.8 g |
— | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 44.6 g | 50.8 g |
Battery & Power(3) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 17.5 hours | 24 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 9 hours | 8 hours |
Charging Time (Full) (minutes) | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC |
Driver Size (mm) | 5 mm | 8.4 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the LinkBuds S for setting a new benchmark in weight and comfort, noting the 4.8 g earbuds feel almost weightless and the Integrated Processor V1 provides respectable ANC for such a small device. They also highlight the clear, detailed sound from the 5 mm driver and the convenience of Alexa integration, while criticizing the modest 6-hour battery life with ANC and the lack of wireless charging as shortcomings for a premium offering.
Everyday users repeatedly praise the ultra-light feel, pocket-sized case, and secure fit provided by the four ear-tip sizes, describing the earbuds as comfortable for all-day wear and suitable for workouts thanks to IPX4 resistance. The most common complaints revolve around the limited battery life, absence of wireless charging, and occasional fit issues that can diminish bass response and ANC effectiveness for smaller ears.
Professional reviewers praise the WF-1000XM5 for its market-leading ANC, real-world battery performance that exceeds specifications, and the significant size and weight reductions that enhance portability. The inclusion of dual ANC processors, advanced microphone array, and support for high-resolution LDAC audio further solidify its position as a high-end offering, though the limited IPX4 rating is seen as a minor drawback.
“ultra-light 4.8 g weight and secure fit with four interchangeable rubber tips for all-day wear without fatigue”
