Sony's New LinkBuds Are Different From Any Bluetooth Earbuds You've Used
Most earbuds and headphones try to block out any noise that isn't being filtered into your ears through the drivers, but Sony's new LinkBuds embrace outside sounds as a part of its identity. LinkBuds are aimed at listeners who want or need to both hear their private audio and the world around them. The unique earbuds are available to order in gray or white for $180 at Amazon, Best Buy, and Sony.
Given the fact that many of us have traditionally shopped for a solid pair of noise-canceling headphones or earbuds, it's understandable to be skeptical of LinkBuds' premise. Who exactly are these earbuds for? A few examples: Mobile gamers scouring the augmented reality world of Pokemon, parents who want to listen to something other than Sesame Street but still need to be available to hear their children ask for another snack, office workers who can't completely ignore their nearby coworkers, or anyone who regularly only has one AirPod in at once.
Sony LinkBuds
$180
LinkBuds have a novel form factor, as they are shaped like an infinity symbol--basically two circular pieces put together. Instead of going into your ear canal, these buds rest gently but securely on your ear with the help of rubber hooks that tuck under the ridge above your ear canal. There are five different hook sizes to help you get the right fit. The lower circle has an open ring design to allow sound to sift into your ears from the outside.
Since LinkBuds are designed for an always-on lifestyle, it makes sense that the form factor aims for long-lasting comfort. I put this goal to the test by wearing them for eight mostly uninterrupted hours (small gaps for charging). As someone who thinks traditional earbuds become bothersome after a couple of hours of use,
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