Sony WF-1000XM5 Vs LinkBuds Fit Comparison Review

In today’s saturated market of wireless earbuds, Sony stands out as a top contender, consistently delivering products that balance high performance and quality design. This comparison between the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Sony LinkBuds Fit aims to dive deep into what sets these two earbuds apart, helping you decide which one best suits your lifestyle and listening preferences. While both models offer premium features like advanced noise cancellation, LDAC support, and Sony’s immersive 360 Reality Audio, they cater to slightly different needs, from battery life to sound tuning. If you’re looking for guidance on which Sony earbuds to choose, this breakdown will explore each model’s unique strengths and weaknesses.

What You Get

The only difference in packaging contents is the style of charging case that each set of earbuds provides. With the XM5, you get a classic sleek, solid color charging case that’s very small and easy to put in your pocket, while the LinkBuds use a flashier, marble-style charging case that’s a bit bigger but still fits in your pocket.

Look & Feel

In terms of design, both the XM5 and LinkBuds carry Sony’s classic design with ergonomic shapes and style. Those looking for the smallest option will flock to the LinkBuds, which sport a small shell that has a nifty wingfin that offers good support and security in your ear. The XM5 has a bigger shell but is not less comfortable in comparison.

Design & Functionality

The XM5 and LinkBuds use Sony’s dynamic X driver, which gives the sound similar output power. They also have many of the same features that you can find through Sony’s recently updated Sound Connect app. Noise-canceling is their biggest feature, and it’s top tier in both earbuds. The LinkBuds have better environmental features, but the XM5’s ambient awareness function is superior. Both earbuds also have a tap function, which is similarly responsive and reliable.

Bluetooth

Both earbuds have fast pairing and no instances of dropouts. They also feature similar high-quality CODECs with LDAC support, but only the LinkBuds support LE audio and Auracast.

Battery Life

The XM5 has the best battery life of the two with eight hours of charge compared to the LinkBuds’ five and a half hours.

Soundstage 

Both of these earbuds offer Sony’s 360 Reality Audio technology. In my opinion, this is the best way to assess the full potential of their respective sound staging abilities, but most people will probably only listen in stereo. Without any added features, the XM5 shows more channel separation and width than the LinkBuds Fit. While they both have congealed imaging that doesn’t showcase the greatest accuracy, the XM5 has better stereo properties than the LinkBuds. With spatial audio active, both earbuds display a similar immersive soundstage with more dimension.

Low End

Virtually all Sony earbuds carry a boosted bass response, so you won’t find either set of earbuds lacking power. Both earbuds contain a large body of bass that dominates the sound signature for a fun, casual performance. The XM5 provides a bit more clarity to certain bass instruments, while the LinkBuds Fit is a bit more foggy and disorganized. Both earbuds give you good control over the bass with EQ, but they differ in the potential to show vibrancy and detail.

Mids

The XM5 and LinkBuds Fit both have very dark, v-shaped mids. There’s better extension with the XM5, but it’s not as significant of an upgrade compared to the LinkBuds. You get better accentuation with certain midrange elements that add more striking qualities to instruments, while the LinkBuds only reach a very simple, surface level of clarity.

Highs

You can expect both the XM5 and LinkBuds to have reserved high-end extensions for a smooth performance that is easy to digest. The XM5 will have a better response to treble EQ though, with the opportunity for more coloration and height. With the LinkBuds, the highs sit in one place with just enough presence to make an impression.

Summary

Ultimately, both the Sony WF-1000XM5 and LinkBuds Fit excel in different areas, making them appealing to distinct types of listeners. If extended battery life, better stereo separation, and enhanced bass clarity are priorities for you, the WF-1000XM5 emerges as the superior choice. However, if you’re seeking a more compact, environmentally responsive design with added LE audio features, the LinkBuds Fit is worth considering. Sony’s commitment to quality is evident in both models, but your choice will depend on what you value most in a pair of earbuds.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 and LinkBuds Fit are available at Audio46.