Sony Linkbuds S

On-the-go earbuds that adapt to your surroundings

Sony designed the Linkbuds S for you to wear for long stretches, as you move throughout your day. These streamlined, lightweight true wireless earbuds can learn your preferences and adjust the amount of noise cancellation or ambient sound. They aren't the "open-air" LinkBuds. Instead, these earbuds rely on Sony's advanced internal circuitry — namely, their V1 processor chip — to allow external noises in or keep them out. 

That's the same state-of-the-art chip found in their flagship WF-1000XM4 earbuds. Now, you shouldn't expect the XM4's level of noise cancellation or sound performance in these smaller earbuds. But you do get some of Sony's most convenient features. Like the ability to customize the level of noise cancellation or ambient sound based on your task, movement, or even location.

High-quality Bluetooth streaming and clear calls

Music plays wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.2, a newer version of Bluetooth that's stronger and more reliable than previous iterations. It also makes for a stronger connection to most phones for music and calls. Sony uses special algorithms to clear up background noise for calls, so that voices come through clearer. 

Sony's free mobile app lets you fine-tune the sound and noise cancellation

Download Sony's Headphones Connect mobile app for even more control over noise cancellation and more. You can customize the sound characteristics and tell the app to prioritize either connection stability or sound quality. (The former is helpful when competing with other wireless signals in a high-traffic area like an office or mall.) You can also reconfigure the touch controls or set up Alexa or Google Assistant to activate via voice command through your paired phone.

A convenient way to hear others

With the earbuds secured in place, there are other ways to quickly hear outside sounds. A single tap of the left earbud toggles between noise cancellation and "Ambient Sound" mode. The built-in mic system will pick up external sounds and voices while your music continues to play. Hold the left earbud to activate Sony's "Quick Attention" feature that will temporarily turn off all audio and noise cancellation circuitry.

Each earbud has a snappy touch-sensitive panel. You swipe and tap your finger on the earbuds to control music, calls, and noise cancellation.

Earth-conscious packaging 

Like most Sony headphones these days, the LinkBuds S arrive inside a low-key, yet substantial carton made of a recyclable blended material. Sony has told me that this sustainable packaging is made "from bamboo, sugarcane fibers, and post-consumer recycled paper, all of which are available around the world's largest manufacturing hubs in Asia." It's refreshing to see big companies like Sony becoming mindful of their packing materials — and trusting their products to do the talking.