Different headphones for different… needs.
While one man will want a chunky set of noise-cancelling cans to drown out all around them, others like to stay more aware of their surroundings. Which is where so-called ‘open-ear’ options come in.
These headphones still deliver quality sound, but are designed in such a way – usually by using bone-conduction technology – that allows the outside world in.
That’s good news for runners, cyclists, and anyone else who prefers a bit of spatial awareness while working out or generally going about their days.
Sony’s LinkBuds (RRP £149) represent the brand’s first foray into this open-ear world – though it’s made possible not by bone-conduction, but a unique open-ring design.
The ring sits just inside your ear, allowing the speakers to do their thing while the hole lets background noise in.
The charging case stores 12 hours of play time
Sony LinkBuds: the good
Sticking with the positives, these are slick-looking, barely-there buds that achieve the dual purpose of sounding strong and combining the online and offline worlds.
A full charge gives you five-and-a-half hours of play time, plus another 12 topped up in the case.
They’re also splash-proof and easy to use with single, double and triple taps – or indeed with Alexa or OK Google voice control.
Sony LinkBuds: the bad
With small design, however, comes a big onus on getting the fit just right. And for us the LinkBuds don’t quite achieve that.
Sony say ‘LinkBuds combine a shape that perfectly matches the human ear with an ergonomic design for a more stable fit’, but we found the buds became slippery when wet – an issue if you’re exercising at any intensity – which caused them to dislodge from time to time.
It’s worth noting, of course, that ear shape is not universal, and the buds do come with a few different-sized outer rubber rings for a slightly more customised fit.
Should you buy Sony LinkBuds?
Crisp sound and good looks are the selling points here, so if you’re just looking for a pair of casual-wear headphones the LinkBuds would work well.
For workout wear, though, we prefer to stick to the security of over-ear options.
