Sony WF-1000XM4 Black
Score: 82/100
Sony LinkBuds S
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM4 deliver top-tier ANC, LDAC high-resolution audio and up to 12 hours of playback without ANC. They lack wireless charging and are slightly bulkier than newer models. Suited for audiophiles and travelers seeking premium sound and strong noise cancellation.
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 hoursbest | |
12 hoursbest | 9 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 120 minutes |
6 mmbest | 5 mm | |
10 metersbest | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 55.6 g | 44.6 gbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 55.6 g | 44.6 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 12 hours | 9 hours |
Charging Time (Full) (minutes) | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 |
Driver Size (mm) | 6 mm | 5 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the WF-1000XM4 for its superior sound quality, thanks to 6 mm drivers, the Integrated Processor V1, and LDAC support, while also highlighting the lightweight build and solid ANC performance. However, they warn that the strong noise cancellation can reduce situational awareness, making the earbuds unsuitable for activities like biking, and note the lack of detailed dimension data and reduced call-time battery life as drawbacks.
Everyday users praise the earbuds for their lightweight comfort, effective noise cancellation on commutes and travel, and high-quality audio when using LDAC. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit issues, safety concerns during outdoor activities due to ANC, and shorter battery life during voice calls.
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.
“ultra-light 4.8 g weight and secure fit with four interchangeable rubber tips for all-day wear without fatigue”
Choose WF-1000XM4 if you need longer playback and best-in-class ANC; choose LinkBuds S for ultimate portability
