Today we have with us the new Sony LinkBuds Open. These are the second generation version of the LinkBuds that launched almost three years ago.
Much like the original model, LinkBuds Open are based around the idea of having an open-ear design for the earbuds that lets outside sound in naturally. For this, Sony uses a custom ring-shaped driver that sits around the hole in the middle.
At first glance, the earbuds look rather alien with their pod-shaped design and the ring attached to one end. Unlike the previous model, the ring is smaller than the pod it’s attached to. The pod also has a rubber cover around it, which includes supports to secure the earbuds in your ears.
The case design is also unique. The lid and the base look like two small pebbles stacked on top of each other. The white model also has a marbled pattern on the lid.
The LinkBuds Open come in two colors, white and black. The earbuds feature 11mm dynamic drivers, although it is worth noting there is a hole in between so it’s not really comparable to other drivers of similar size. The earbuds are IPX4 rated for water resistance but the case does not get a rating. It also doesn’t have wireless charging. Finally, the LinkBuds Open support SBC, AAC, and LC3 codecs.
The LinkBuds Open are priced at $200. That’s rather expensive for what is ultimately a basic pair of earbuds. They are also proving to be somewhat difficult to test due to their shape. But we will be discussing that and more in our full review.
