There are so many true wireless earbuds out there. Fitness earbuds have a few boxes to check. Users want stellar sound, a comfortable fit, solid battery life, and noise cancellation that can silence the world. For those with active lifestyles, the list gets even longer. Thea earbuds should be able to hang on through a sweaty run, a high-intensity workout, or just the chaotic sprint to catch the subway. The Sony LinkBuds Fit, a pair of earbuds that promise a secure fit while being active. Let’s get into it.
Sony LinkBuds Fit Design and Fit
Right out of the box, the Linkbuds Fit make a statement. They don’t look like your typical long-stemmed earbuds or even Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM earbuds. These are small, lightweight, and almost jewel-like, with a rounded, ergonomic shape. Sony is getting better with the color options. I got the white model, but they’re also available in black, green, purple (Olivia Rodrigo version), and now pink. You can also buy covers for the case and earbuds to make it your own
Sony nails the fit down. The LinkBuds Fit earbuds have included what they call “Air Fitting Supporters”. They are wingtops made soft, flexible silicone. They tuck into the small groove in your ear. I’ve tested countless earbuds that promise a secure fit, but the Linkbuds Fit really ace this. Not only are they tucked in tightly, but they fit comfortably. There was no need to constantly readjust, no sense of them slowly slipping as I started to move more and sweat. They feel incredibly lightweight, making them comfortable enough to wear for several hours without causing ear fatigue.
The carrying case is a small little cube with a keyring that I ended up using more than I thought I would. I clip it to my bag or shirt while at the gym. The case is a bit chunky and cube-shaped. The height and thickness makes it a little less pocket-friendly but not a problem to throw in your gym bag. And for a recent release, the lack of wireless charging is a definite miss at this price point.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Sony has a reputation for fantastic audio, and the Linkbuds Fit largely deliver. The sound profile is energetic and punchy, with a satisfying bass that’s perfect for workout playlists. It’s the kind of sound that can give you that extra push when you need to make it for those extra 20 minutes on the treadmill or that last set. With the Sony Headphones Connect app, you have access to a full EQ, allowing you to tailor the sound to your exact preferences. You can also do spatial audio with the Sony 360 Reality audio setup in the app.
When it comes to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the Linkbuds Fit are good, but not great. They’ll successfully mute the low-frequency hum of a bus engine or the background chatter of a coffee shop, but they don’t create the cone of silence that you’d get from the Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds. Ambient Mode is great for those who workout outdoors, and want to stay aware of their surroundings. I actually use this mode when on the subway or walking to the gym. But usually I stay in noise-canceling mode so I can block out all the chatter and weights clanking at the gym.
Features and Battery on the LinkBuds Fit
Sony has packed the Linkbuds Fit with a host of smart features. One of the most unique is the control system. You can tap the earbuds themselves, but you can also tap the area of your face just in front of your ear to control playback. It feels strange to do, but it surprisingly works good enough and it also prevents you from jamming the earbud further into your ear with each tap, which is always so uncomfortable. I don’t use it often, as I still go for controlling within the Sound Connect app.
Battery life is solid, if not spectacular. I love that you can get at least an hour of playback if you charge the earbuds for five minutes. It’s so helpful since I keep these in my gym bag often. When using ANC, I got a little over six hours of playback. With the case, you can get nearly a full day, with about 21 hours of playback. That’s more than enough to get you through the day. Do wish it had wireless charging though.
The Verdict
The Sony Linkbuds Fit definitely solve the problem of staying in place while moving. Some people have this issue outside of the active lifestyle, just in general. The earbuds just dont stay in place.
They aren’t perfect, but close. However, they LinkBuds Fit earbuds nail the fundamentals with a secure, comfortable fit and a enjoyable sound quality that’s perfect for powering you through any activity. I use them outside the gym as well.
If you’re an athlete, a gym-goer, or just someone who has struggled to find earbuds that fit, the Sony Linkbuds Fit, you should definitely check out the Sony LinkBuds Fit. The LinkBuds Fit light design and comfortable fit are a winner for long-term wear. For those who prioritize a locked-in fit above all else, the Linkbuds Fit are a fantastic choice.
Sony LinkBuds Fit Truly Wireless Earbuds
$199
Pros
- Lightweight but firm fit
- four eartip sizes available
- Can accessorize with different cases and wingtip colors
Cons
- No wireless charging
