Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Sony LinkBuds S
The Verdict
Both earbuds target premium listeners but serve different priorities. Bose Ultra Open emphasizes spatial audio with head-tracked Immersive Audio and directional OpenAudio technology, ideal for movie fans and gaming enthusiasts willing to sacrifice active noise cancellation. Sony LinkBuds S counters with proper ANC, hi-res LDAC codec support, and a lighter 4.8g design per bud versus Bose's 6.5g, making them more comfortable for extended wear. Battery life favors Bose at 7.5 hours per charge versus Sony's 6 hours with ANC engaged. Price-wise, Sony's $199 positioning undercuts Bose by $100, delivering ANC and hi-res audio without the open-ear design compromise. For commuters and travelers requiring noise isolation, Sony LinkBuds S offers better value. For spatial entertainment and those preferring awareness of surroundings, Bose Ultra Open justifies its premium. Sony edges ahead due to ANC inclusion, superior portability, and compelling pricing.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds if…
- →Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- →Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- →Wireless charging case adds convenience
Buy the Sony LinkBuds S if…
- →Extremely compact and lightweight — barely noticeable when worn
- →LDAC hi-res audio support at a sub-$200 price
- →Solid ANC performance for such a small form factor
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Pros
- Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- Wireless charging case adds convenience
- Multipoint and aptX Adaptive for high-quality streaming
- Ideal for situational awareness during outdoor activities
Cons
- Very expensive at $299 for earbuds without ANC
- Bass is inherently limited compared to sealed designs
- 7.5-hour battery is decent but not exceptional
- Sound leak is noticeable in quiet environments
Sony LinkBuds S
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight — barely noticeable when worn
- LDAC hi-res audio support at a sub-$200 price
- Solid ANC performance for such a small form factor
- Multipoint Bluetooth and Bluetooth LE Audio support
- Speak-to-Chat and Adaptive Sound Control are genuinely useful
Cons
- Smaller driver means less bass depth than larger rivals
- ANC is good but not as powerful as Sony WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5
- IPX4 only — not suitable for heavy sweat or rain
- Small ear tips may not seal well for all ear shapes
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds | Sony LinkBuds S |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.5 g (each) | 4.8 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7.5 hrs, 19.5 hrs total with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on), 14 hrs additional with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Bose OpenAudio technology | 5 mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Cuff-style design clips onto the ear, Bose Immersive Audio with head tracking, OpenAudio directional sound technology, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wireless charging case, Customizable EQ via Bose Music app | LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Integrated Processor V1 + QN1e chip, Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Smallest and lightest Sony ANC earbuds, Bluetooth LE Audio (LC3) |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC | LDAC, LC3, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 (buds) |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Bose products or all Sony products. View full details for the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds or the Sony LinkBuds S.