Sony LinkBuds Open (Black) review

The LinkBuds Open is an open-ring earbud rather than a tip-sealed in-ear model. In Sony's US black WF-L910/B configuration, a ring-shaped part rests around the opening of the ear while a fitting supporter braces against the ear groove. The design leaves the ear canal unsealed, which is a central tradeoff rather than a small style detail. This assessment uses Sony's US product page, WF-L910 specifications and YY2964 instructions; it includes no personal fit trial, listening test or measured runtime.

Open ring, not a disguised noise-cancelling bud

Sony's product FAQ is unusually clear about the tradeoff: it says the LinkBuds Open does not offer active noise cancelling or traditional noise isolation. The ring design keeps the listener connected to surroundings, but it does not block a cabin, street or office in the way a well-sealed ANC model is intended to. Sony's description of “ambient sound” here refers to the openness of the design, not a microphone-based Ambient Sound Mode like the sealed LinkBuds Fit. Anyone who wants a quiet listening space should compare a closed model instead.

The physical arrangement still needs a check. Sony describes placing the driver over the lower portion of the ear opening and pushing the housing into the ear groove; the fitting supporters are part of the design. The soft body does not make every ear compatible, and the guide cannot predict how a user will feel after hours of wear. A return window is useful when comfort is unknown. The case also needs space for the supporters to sit properly when stored, so check that a seller's kit is complete.

Three codec routes, with one important boundary

The manual separates the wireless routes: SBC and AAC are supported with Classic Audio over A2DP, while LC3 is for LE Audio. Sony says LE Audio needs a compatible source and that some headphone functions are unavailable during that connection. The app's feature notes identify multipoint as unavailable with LE Audio. This is why the documented LC3 single-device arrangement and the two-device multipoint arrangement are separate here. A general codec list is not proof that every codec can be combined with every connection feature.

Sony's operating-time table lists up to eight hours of music with each codec—SBC, AAC and LC3—from a fully charged headset. A short charge of about three minutes can provide about one hour of playback, according to the guide. The US product page says the case adds up to 14 more hours, for a total up to 22 hours. Those are source claims and can change with sound settings and actual use. The manual specifically warns that functions such as EQ, DSEE, Speak-to-Chat, voice assistant activation, Service Link and Adaptive Volume Control can reduce the available time.

Multipoint, touch, and care

Sony documents simultaneous Bluetooth connections to two devices and switching playback without a new pairing step. The instructions describe music coming from one source at a time, not two streams mixed together. A third device connection displaces one of the active connections. The Black product page also promotes customizable touch and head-gesture controls, but button configuration and host behavior depend on app setup and software. If a laptop-and-phone handoff matters, confirm the current manual covers your devices and try the actual connection before relying on it.

The support sheet gives Bluetooth 5.3, SBC/AAC/LC3, up to eight hours of music, an IPX4-equivalent earbud rating and case weight of about 1.08 ounces. The included US kit lists the charging case, USB cable, warranty card and reference guide; the manual calls the cable USB-A-to-USB-C and documents the fitting supporters as part of the headset. Sony says the case is not water resistant and instructs users to dry the earbuds and case before charging. IPX4 applies to the earbuds only, and the headset is not for use in water.

Who should compare it?

This model fits a different decision than the Fit or the sealed XM earbuds. It is for comparing an open-ear ring, awareness of nearby sound, and several codec options, not for comparing which ANC setting is strongest. The standard black listing is WF-L910/B; the same family is also offered in White under a separate suffix. A White retail listing does not make its image interchangeable with the Black pair shown here. Check exact model, included cable, seller and return policy; verify LE Audio support on the source device; and decide whether an open design suits your surroundings before treating a specification match as a practical one.

Other documented finish

The White WF-L910/W listing is a separate finish from the Black WF-L910/B model used for the review's lead image. The White picture below is a visual identification reference only; it is not a claim that the colors have different functions or that the pictured earbuds are the full package. Check the exact suffix and supplied kit on the seller's page.

Exact identity page: Sony's White US listing names model WF-L910/W. The visual caption identifies a retailer-sourced appearance image; the family specifications and Help Guide above continue to support the functional assessment.

Sources: Sony's Black US listing, WF-L910 specifications and YY2964 Help Guide.