Sony's LinkBuds Clip take a different path from typical open-ear earbuds by using a clip-style design that wraps around the outer ear instead of sealing the ear canal.
The result is a pair of earbuds built for awareness, comfort, and calls, but with clear compromises in bass and noise isolation.
At Rs 24,990 in India at the time of writing, they sit in premium territory, though that is lower than the launch price of Rs 18,990.
In the US, the LinkBuds Clip are priced at $230.
The central question is whether the open-ear trade-offs are acceptable at this price.
Comfort and design
The LinkBuds Clip's biggest strength is their design.
A flexible band wraps around the outer ear, placing the speaker just outside the ear canal rather than pushing an earbud inside.
This makes them appealing to people who dislike the pressure of conventional in-ear earbuds.
Comfort is generally very good once the right position is found. Included silicone fitting cushions can improve stability and make the earbuds more comfortable for smaller ears.
They can also remain secure during walking, jogging, and workouts.
The design is stylish and relatively discreet. Sony offers four colors, and the case can be customized with different covers.
However, the boxy case can show a noticeable bulge in a pants pocket.
Apart from Green, buyers can choose from Greige, Black, and Lavender.
Sound, awareness, and calls
For an open-ear product, the LinkBuds Clip sound quite good. The presentation is clear, open, and relatively natural, with a strong midrange and decent spatial imaging.
Podcasts, videos, and casual music listening are enjoyable, while the open presentation gives tracks a sense of space that sealed earbuds do not always provide.
Sony also provides a 10-band equalizer through the Sound Connect app, along with DSEE processing and several listening modes.
Standard mode generally offers the most natural sound, while Voice Boost can improve speech clarity for podcasts and videos.
The reviewer particularly enjoyed Voice Boost mode, noting that sound is enhanced even while traveling.
