Apple AirPods 4 vs Sony LinkBuds Open

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Apple AirPods 4 is the better pick — it scores 62/100 to the Sony LinkBuds Open's 53, leading on Noise Cancelling and Battery. Choose the Sony LinkBuds Open instead if connectivity matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple AirPods 4 leads overall

Apple AirPods 4

Sony LinkBuds Open

Why it stands out

Build IP Rating: IP54
Total Battery Life with Case: 30 h (36% more)
Build Weight per Earbud: 4.3 g (16% less)

Winner by category for Apple AirPods 4 vs Sony LinkBuds Open
Category	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open	Winner
Audio	85	85	Tie
Noise Cancelling	21	15	Apple AirPods 4
Battery	58	46	Apple AirPods 4
Connectivity	79	92	Sony LinkBuds Open
Calls	100	0	Apple AirPods 4
Build	75	54	Apple AirPods 4

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Apple AirPods 4

The Apple AirPods 4 are open-style wireless earbuds powered by Apple's H2 chip, featuring a slightly smaller physical footprint than previous generations. Apple offers two distinct versions: a standard base model priced at $129 and a step-up variant at $179 that introduces Active Noise Cancellation. These earbuds target users who prefer an unsealed, open-fit design while taking advantage of Apple's latest audio processing platform.

Best for Listeners who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellationBest for iPhone users looking for an affordable modern entry point into the AirPods lineu

Pros

Equipped with Apple's powerful H2 chip for advanced audio processing
Active noise cancellation option available in an open-ear form factor
Base model launched at a lower price point ($129) than its direct predecessor
Slightly smaller and updated physical design for improved ergonomics

Cons

Active Noise Cancellation is restricted to the more expensive $179 model variant

Sony LinkBuds Open

The Sony LinkBuds Open are open-ear wireless earbuds released in October 2024, designed to let users hear their surrounding environment while streaming audio or taking calls. They feature a dynamic driver design with a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and support for SBC, AAC, and LC3 audio codecs. Weighing 5.1 grams per earbud and carrying an IPX4 water-resistance rating, they target listeners who prioritize situational awareness over passive or active noise isolation.

Best for outdoor running and cycling where environmental awareness is criticalBest for office workers who need to listen to audio while remaining alert to coworkers

Pros

Open-ear design maintains full environmental awareness
Multipoint connection support for pairing multiple devices
Lightweight build at 5.1 grams per earbud
Spatial audio with head tracking support

Cons

Lacks active noise cancelling completely
Total battery life with the case is limited to 22 hours
Case does not support wireless charging

Source

Generated Nov 4, 2026

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple AirPods 4

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Sony LinkBuds Open

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Apple AirPods 4

32.3g

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

4.3g

Weight

Sony LinkBuds Open

5.1g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
Driver Type	N/A	Dynamic
Driver Size	N/A	N/A
Frequency Response	N/A	20 Hz - 20,000 Hz
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	Yes	Yes

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
Active Noise Cancelling	No	No
Transparency Mode	No	N/A

Battery

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
Battery Life per Charge	5 h	N/A
Total Battery Life with Case	30 h36% more	22 h
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	No

Connectivity

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	N/A	SBC, AAC, LC3
Multipoint Connection	N/A	Yes

Calls

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
Microphones per Earbud	3	N/A

Build

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Sony LinkBuds Open
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	4.3 g16% less	5.1 g
Case Weight	32.3 g	N/A

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple AirPods 4 vs Sony LinkBuds Open comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple AirPods 4 rates higher at 59/100 versus 53/100 for Sony LinkBuds Open — a 6-point lead. Apple AirPods 4 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Apple AirPods 4 and Sony LinkBuds Open are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 59/100 for Apple AirPods 4 and 53/100 for Sony LinkBuds Open.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Apple AirPods 4 (59/100) edges out Sony LinkBuds Open (53/100). But if Sony LinkBuds Open is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.