The new Sony LinkBuds Open and LinkBuds Fit follow up on the earlier open-air LinkBuds and the closed LinkBuds S, respectively, with a revamped structure on the former for comfort and new Air Fitting Supporters to help them stay in your ear all day long. Because of their open form factor, they do not rely on active noise cancellation and let in ambient sounds which can make the user feel more comfortable during longer listening periods.
The All New Sony LinkBuds Open and LinkBuds Fit
The earbuds house an 11mm circular driver featuring neodymium magnets and come with Sony’s Integrated Processor V2, also found in its premium sibling, the WF-1000XM5. LinkBuds Open features a Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), and Adaptive Volume Control by adjusting sound levels according to ambient noise.
As for the connectivity, it supports Bluetooth 5.3 with multi-point connectivity and is compatible with AAC and LC3 audio codecs. They are also optimized for head tracking and 360 Audio. The improved battery allows up to 8 hours on a single charge and extending to 22 hours with the charging case, which is compact at 46 x 46 x 29.4mm and weighs 30.6g. The earbuds have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to water splashes.
The LinkBuds Fit designed as the successors to the popular LinkBuds S are of the closed design variety with assistance from Air Fitting Supporters along for the ride alongside an option of customizable Earbud Tips that you can choose from in different colors.
They are designed with long-term comfort in mind for extended use and deliver industry-leading noise cancellation, while the Integrated Processor V2 improves sound quality. They work with high-end audio codecs like LDAC and are Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified. Run time is 5.5 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled and up to 21 hours including the charging case.
Common to both models are some features not seen elsewhere, such as Wide Area Tap for gesture controls, and the Sound Connect app for sound personalization. The new LinkBuds Speaker seamlessly integrates with the LinkBuds Open and Fit, allowing users to switch between listening modes effortlessly. The speaker includes a built-in battery lasting up to 25 hours, while its sound system features a tweeter and woofer.
The LinkBuds Open and LinkBuds Fit are available for pre-order at $200 / CAD 300, while the LinkBuds Speaker is priced at $180. The release dates are October 11 for the earbuds and speaker, with the Fit launching on November 1.
FAQs
What are the battery life specifications for the LinkBuds Open and Fit?
The LinkBuds Open offers up to 8 hours of continuous use and 22 hours with the charging case. The LinkBuds Fit provides up to 5.5 hours with ANC on and 21 hours with the case.
When will the new Sony LinkBuds be available?
The LinkBuds Open will be released on October 11, and the LinkBuds Fit will be available on November 1.
