Sony Wireless Earbuds Reviews | U.S. News

Founded in 1946 as Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo K.K., Sony is a major Japanese electronics company with humble beginnings. It started with just 20 employees and a budget of 190,000 yen, and today it is a global technology company. Sony has a number of technological achievements, from introducing the first consumer-use tape recorder to inventing the world’s first portable CD player. Today, Sony continues to be a leader in consumer electronics, offering everything from video game systems, such as PlayStation, to cutting-edge headphones for audiophiles. The larger Sony Group takes the brand even further, including a movie studio, music label and publishing company, and even a life insurance company.

Sony Wireless Earbuds Reviewed

Sony WF-1000XM4s ($279.99) place No. 1 on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023 and No. 1 on our list of Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds of 2023.

Touted by professional reviewers for their top-notch listening experience and excellent noise-canceling, these earbuds offer customizable sound settings for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Those who need to make hands free calls will enjoy the WF-1000XM4’s speak-to-chat technology, which automatically pauses the music when you start talking and plays again when you stop. Professional reviewers also point to the set’s crystal clear calling capabilities and exemplary noise reduction, especially when used outdoors.

Noise-cancellation and sound quality are powered by Sony’s proprietary V1 processor, which can support spatial audio. However, note that you’ll need a paid music subscription such as Tidal, Apple Music, or Amazon Music Unlimited to enjoy this enhanced feature.

Sony also offers an app to control sound optimization, allowing users to adjust equalizer settings or choose preset audio modes such as Base Boost or Speech Mode. Some reviewers found the app a bit clunky, while others praised its simplicity of use.

One drawback to the Sony WF-1000XM4, according to professional reviewers, is that the earbuds are bulky to wear and uncomfortable for some users. The set does come with three different sizes of Noise Isolation Earbud Tips, though reviewers point out that the sizing may not accommodate larger or smaller ears.

Priced at $279.99, these are the most expensive earbuds on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. However, they might be worth the cost if you’re looking for a great overall pair of earbuds with exceptional audio quality and customization.

Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are priced at $279.99, making them the most expensive option on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. According to professional reviewers, Sony’s proprietary V1 processor technology offers some of the best noise-canceling and sound in the industry. The earbuds include two noise-censoring microphones per ear to catch ambient sounds, adding to the set’s price tag. They also offer an extended Bluetooth range of up to 300 feet, customizable sound settings, and speak-to-chat hands free calling.

In the box, you’ll find two Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds, a wireless charging case, three different sizes of Noise Isolation Earbud Tips, and a USB-C charging cable. The Noise Isolation Earbud Tips can be used for a customizable fit.

Offered in black and silver, Sony WF-1000XM4 are round and stemless, with ear tips that nestle inside your eardrums and help seal off your ear canal. Three sizes of Noise Isolation Earbud Tips are included for fit customization. However, with a weight of 7.3g, they are one of the bulkier options on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. The included wireless charging case is relatively lightweight at 41g, with reviewers pointing out that it’s compact enough to easily fit in a pocket.

To control the Sony WF-1000XM4, you can use touch sensors on the earbuds. Plus, some settings can be controlled through the Sony | Headphones Connect app. You can also control some functions with your voice by setting up your preferred virtual assistant, whether you’re using Google, Alexa, or Siri.

Sony WF-1000MX4 are known for their premium sound quality. They rely on Sony’s proprietary 6mm driver, a tiny speaker that makes pressure waves, resulting in sound to your ears. The earbuds also feature spatial 360 Reality Audio and can support High-Res recordings. Spatial audio is an immersive sound, like what you’d hear at a concert, and High-Res recordings offer a full range of sound with better-than-CD quality. But keep in mind that High-Res tracks are remastered to achieve this more full sound, so there are limited music offerings available. Plus, High-Res tracks are only accessible with certain paid music subscription services, like Tidal, Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, or Qobuz, so you’ll need to pay extra to enjoy this upgraded audio experience.

Reviewers also point out that Sony WF-1000MX4 earbuds automatically restore high-range sounds lost in compression, a unique feature that offers enhanced listening. The earbuds support AAC, LDAC, and SBC audio formats, so they’re able to transition from voice calls to music listening to High-Res Audio with ease. Finally, listeners can use the Sony app to access customizable sound settings, such as Ambient Sound, Treble Boost, Bass Boost, and Speech Mode.

Noise canceling earbuds monitor for sounds around you and then emit opposite signals to cancel out those sounds. You can think of noise cancellation as a sound barrier, preventing unwanted noise from getting to your ears. Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds feature a V1 processor that reviewers say offers strong noise reduction. You’ll also find Noise Isolation Earbud Tips to help with noise-canceling. By using the ambient sound mode, you can allow sound in for added awareness when needed. Ambient sound mode can be activated using Speak-to-Chat. When you start talking, the music automatically pauses and lets in ambient noise. When you’re finished chatting, the music begins playing again. You can customize your ambient settings as well as adjust bass, treble, and more via the Sony app.

When it comes to battery life, Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds get up to eight hours of audio with noise canceling, or up to 12 hours of audio without noise canceling. If you’re using talk, you’ll get around 5.5 hours with noise canceling, or six hours without. The set charges fully in about 1.5 hours, and it takes five minutes of charging for one hour of listening time. This makes Sony WF-1000XM4 one of the better battery life options on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023, with most earbuds offering up to 6 hours of battery life on one charge. You can charge the earbuds wirelessly using the included case, which holds around three full charges.

Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds can be paired with Bluetooth-enabled devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers. They use Bluetooth 5.2 with a range of 300 feet, and can be paired directly on the device or you can manage connections through the Sony | Headphones Connect app. However, some reviewers note that the Bluetooth connection can be spotty at longer distances. The set is true wireless, so there is no wire connecting the two earbuds.

These earbuds have a water-resistance rating of IPX4, meaning they can handle some splashing, sweating, and inclement weather. IPX ratings are a standardized way to measure the water-resistance of electronics, rating them from IPX1 (no water-resistance) to IPX9 (protected from high-pressure or temperature water jets). Sony WF-1000XM4 should be fine for most uses, even active ones in wet weather. However, they’re not rated for swimming.

The Sony | Headphones Connect App allows you to pair the earbuds, customize your sound settings, review headphone usage, and get help and updates. You can use equalizer settings to adjust the sound, control the noise cancellation, or even choose a listening mode preset like Base Boost or Speech Mode to enhance your listening experience. Some reviewers found the app easy-to-use, while others said it was cumbersome to navigate.

AirPods Pro ($249.00) are Apple’s upgraded version of the original AirPods, featuring an improved fit and design. Reviewers say that AirPods Pro have great sound and decent noise-canceling. However, some reviewers note that the sound quality isn’t quite good enough to justify the set’s high price tag. Still, AirPods Pro might work for Apple enthusiasts, thanks to their simple integration with other Apple products. You may even be able to find a deal on AirPods Pro as newer generations are introduced.

Meanwhile, Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are known for their immersive sound experience and customizable settings. They also offer some of the best noise canceling technology around. At $279.99, they’re on the pricier side, but reviewers point out they’re one of the best overall earbud options for performance, comfort, and quality. The Sonys may be better for those who are looking for a well-performing set of customizable earbuds that can pretty much do it all.

Weighing in at just 5g, Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 ($149.99) are one of the smallest and lightest weight options on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. Professional reviewers praise their comfortable, secure fit and decent noise canceling, but some point out that the sound is a bit dull. The sound settings are also not as customizable as with some other earbuds, and with a rating of IPX2, they are less water-resistant than all the other options on our list. Overall, these might be a good option if you’re looking for a budget pair of earbuds that are lightweight and comfortable to wear all day.

Compare that to the Sony WF-1000MX4 earbuds, which feature the latest audio technology, plus optimizable sound settings. The Sonys are probably a better option for audiophiles, those looking for the latest tech, or just anyone who wants an overall excellent pair of earbuds for calling, noise canceling, or listening.

Sony WF-500s tie for No. 4 on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. At $99.99, they’re a budget-friendly option that packs in a lot of features. Professional reviewers praise these earbuds for their lively sound quality, simple audio customization settings, and lightweight, comfortable fit.

Listeners will find many of the bells and whistles of Sony’s audio technology, including a Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) and spatial audio capabilities. However, the real star of the WF-C500s is the out-of-the-box sound, which reviewers say is quite good, allowing the set to handle audio that many earbuds in its price range could not. Audio can be customized and enhanced through in-app equalizer settings.

One thing you won’t get with the Sony WF-C500 is noise-canceling. Reviewers note that the earbuds do let in a good amount of background noise, making them subpar for calls or use in loud places.

The set also doesn’t wirelessly charge, which may frustrate some users. And some reviewers complained that the bulky button was difficult to push, causing discomfort in the ear.

Still, for the price, the Sony WF-C500s offer quite a bit of value in terms of audio quality and customization. They probably won’t work for commuters or travelers who need sound cancellation and clear calling, but they could be right for those who are looking for a great-sounding pair of earbuds that won’t break the bank.

Sony WF-C500 are priced at $99.99, making them one of the more budget friendly options on our list of Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023. While these earbuds do have the quality sound that listeners might expect from Sony, they don’t have all of the bells and whistles of the brand’s premium models, like the WF-1000XM4. For example, they don’t offer wireless charging or noise cancellation, two features you’d probably expect from a pricer model.

In the box, you’ll find two Sony WF-C500 earbuds, a charging case, three sets of different sized earbud tips, and a USB-C charger. The hybrid silicone rubber earbud tips come in sizes SS, M, and, LL for a customizable fit. Note also that the case does not charge wirelessly.

Sony WF-C500s are lightweight and minimalist, weighing just 5.4g. They are black, round, and stemless and nestle in the ear using the included eartips, which are offered in three sizes for an optimized fit. Professional reviewers praise their comfort and wearability, though some warn the fit may be too big for smaller ears. The WF-C500s are operated with a button rather than touch technology, and some reviewers point out that pressing the button is difficult, causing ear discomfort. The charging case is 3.15” x 1.38” x 1.22” and weighs approximately 35g, making it the smallest case of any of our Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023.

Professional reviewers love the energetic audio quality and sound customization options of the Sony WF-C500s, especially for the price. The earbuds rely on a 5.8mm driver, a tiny speaker that delivers powerful audio to your ears. The set also comes with a Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) that restores high-frequency sounds, offering more balanced audio. Another thing that impressed professional reviewers about the WF-C500s is the inclusion of spatial audio capabilities. Spatial audio (called 360 Reality Audio in the Sony world) is immersive, concert-like sound. This feature is more commonly found in pricier earbuds, so reviewers point out that it’s a welcome bonus in a budget model. The WF-C500s support audio formats AAC and SBC, the universal standard for Bluetooth devices. Professional reviewers also note that these earbuds aren’t the best for calls, since they don’t offer noise canceling and allow a good amount of background noise in.

Noise-canceling earbuds have tiny speakers that monitor the sound around you, and block out that sound. Sony WF-C500s do not offer noise-canceling technology, and professional reviewers note that the sound overall could be better. The lack of noise cancellation contributes to these earbuds being priced lower than some others in our rating, but if noise cancellation is important to you, there are other similarly priced options available.

Sony WF-C500s can get up to 10 hours of battery life on one charge, which is on the longer side compared with other earbuds. It takes around 10 minutes to charge for one hour of listening time, and about 2.5 hours to charge fully. The charging case holds up to 20 hours of listening time, leaving some professional reviewers unimpressed.

Sony WF-C500s are able to connect to Bluetooth devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers. Devices can be paired directly, or managed using the Sony Headphones | Connect App. The earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0, with a range of up to 30 feet. They are true wireless, meaning there is no wire connecting the earbuds.

The WF-C500s have a water-resistance rating of IPX4, making them splash- and sweat-resistant. IPX ratings are standardized water-resistance scores for electronics, ranging from IPX1 (no water resistance) to IPX9 (can handle high-pressure or temperature water jets). While these earbuds are not recommended for swimming or other water-based activities, they can handle some splashing and inclement weather, making them fine for most active uses.

Sony offers its Headphones | Connect app, which allows you to customize audio settings, manage Bluetooth connections, control playback and volume, and get updates. Professional reviewers love the Sony app for its added functionality, including adjustable equalizer settings and the ability to turn the DSEE on or off. You can even use the Sony app to help you find the right earbud size.

Beats is a subsidiary of Apple, and their Fit Pros ($199.99) are made with the same technology found in Apple AirPods. Professional reviewers praise the Beats Fit Pro for their exemplary sound, all-day comfort, and impressive noise cancellation. They feature spatial audio for an immersive, concert-like sound, and offer a winged tip that attaches securely to the ear, making them good for sports and activities. Apple users will find easy integration with the Apple ecosystem and plenty of bonus features. However, non-Apple users may be frustrated by limited app features. Reviewers also point out that there’s no ability to manually adjust the noise-canceling or spatial audio, and the set doesn’t wirelessly charge. The Beats Fit Pros may work for Apple fans who are looking for an active set of earbuds.

With the Sony WF-C500, you’re getting more of a budget, entry-level set of earbuds. They don’t have as much added functionality as the Beats Fit Pro. For example, they lack noise-canceling technology. Overall, the Sony WF-C500 may be good for those looking for a low cost option that still offers great sound and customization, while active Apple users seeking the latest tech will likely enjoy the Beats Fit Pros.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are known for their industry leading noise cancellation and rich, clear audio. They also get our top rating for Best Earbuds for Voice Calls. At $279.00, they’re on the pricier side, but if you’re a frequent traveler or commuter, their customizable noise-canceling settings may come in handy.

Sony WF-C500s deliver in sound, but don’t offer noise cancellation. With a function-adding app and optimizable audio settings, they’re a great set of budget earbuds for anyone who doesn’t need noise-canceling.