Sony LinkBuds S
Score: 73/100
Sony WF-C500 Black
Score: 75/100Rankings
The Sony WF-C500 deliver balanced sound with up to 20 hours of total battery life and customizable EQ via the Sony Headphones Connect app. They lack active noise cancellation and have physical button controls that can be inconsistent. Great for value-seeking users who prioritize neutral audio and long runtime.
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 | 20 hoursbest | |
9 hours | 10 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 120 minutesbest | — |
5 mm | 5.8 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 10 minutesbest |
10 metersbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 44.6 gbest | 58.8 g |
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 | 58.8 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 17.5 hours | 20 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 9 hours | 10 hours |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.0 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | SBC, AAC |
Driver Size (mm) | 5 mm | 5.8 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 commend the WF-C500 for their neutral, detailed sound and the flexibility of the Sony Headphones Connect app, highlighting the solid 10-hour battery life and comfortable fit. They criticize the lack of ANC, the limited codec range, a cramped soundstage and occasional driver imbalance, noting that the earbuds are best positioned as a value-focused alternative to higher-end Sony models.
Everyday users consistently praise the earbuds for their balanced sound, comfortable lightweight design and long battery life, describing them as a great value for the price. Common complaints revolve around occasional static, insufficient bass, low volume on larger devices, Bluetooth dropouts and a confusing companion app.
“ultra-light 4.8 g weight and secure fit with four interchangeable rubber tips for all-day wear without fatigue”
