Headsets and headphones / Compare

Apple EarPods (USB-C) vs Sony ULT WEAR

A

Product A: Apple

EarPods (USB-C)

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B

Product B: Sony

ULT WEAR

83 of 161 known

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All 161 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

BSony ULT WEAR

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

EarPods1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Apple calls the product line EarPods.

ULT POWER SOUND10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

A3046, MYQY3AM/A, MYQY3ZM/A1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026US part number MYQY3AM/A. The Ireland, UK and Germany stores list MYQY3ZM/A (apple.com/ie/shop/product/myqy3zm/a/earpods-usb-c).6Press articlemacotakara.jp/accessories/entry-45295.htmlRead 20 October 2026Mac OTAKARA article of 13 September 2023 names Model A3046.

WH-ULT900N2Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-ult900n/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Official support specification identity WH-ULT900N / ULT WEAR. Exact marketed model, not WH-XB910N.

GTIN / EAN

195949776212, 19594977627410Retailer pageabt.com/Apple-EarPods-with-USB-C-Connectivity-in-White-MYQY3AMA/p/211010.htmlRead 21 October 2026Abt lists Model MYQY3AM/A with UPC 195949776212. Provantage and eBay list the same code. The UPC-A form is stored.11Retailer pagealternate.ch/Apple/EarPods-Headset/html/product/100074672Read 21 October 2026Alternate Switzerland lists Hersteller-Nr. MYQY3ZM/A with EAN 0195949776274. The 12-digit form 195949776274 is stored.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

12 September 20233Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/09/apple-upgrades-airpods-pro-2nd-generation-with-usb-c-chargingRead 20 October 2026Press release dated 12 September 2023.

11 April 202410Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Maker launch date April 11, 2024. Planned Spring availability alone is not used as actual retail month.

Status

Available1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Sold at $19.00 in the US store.

Available3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 5 October 2026Current Japanese maker store page offers purchase and next-day shipment.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$193Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/09/apple-upgrades-airpods-pro-2nd-generation-with-usb-c-chargingRead 20 October 2026EarPods (USB-C) available for $19 (U.S.). US list prices are shown without sales tax.

$199.9910Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Exact Sony US launch release gives suggested retail price 199.99 USD for ULT WEAR. US price before local sales tax. Canada 349.99 and speaker prices are not substituted. Other markets without verified tax scope omitted.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€195Press articlewuv.de/Themen/Tech/Apple-Guenstig-Kopfhoerer-erschliesst-neue-PreiskategorieRead 20 October 2026W&V article of 15 September 2023 names 19 euros for the EarPods in Germany. avcesar.com of 26 September 2023 gives the same 19 euro price for France. Tax treatment is not stated. Apple lists 19,00 euro on its German store.

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

US10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

White9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/apple-earpods-usb-c-reviewRead 20 October 2026Review: you can only get them in White.

Black, Off White, Forest Gray3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 5 October 2026Exact current three finish swatches, also confirmed US launch release.

Segment

Music1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Overview: music and video playback, and calls.7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Review: aimed at people who want something cheap to play back audio.

Music10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

Design

5 of 7 differ

Form factor

In-ear1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Overview calls them earbud-style headphones that follow the geometry of the ear.7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Review lists them as wired earbuds with a hard plastic bud and no ear tip.

Over-ear10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly balanced over-ear comfort and foldable headphone design.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Not available

Closed1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Wearing style

Cable2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026Get started: plug EarPods into the device and put them in your ears. A wired earphone with no headband or neckband.

Headband10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Not available

Flat and inward6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 10 expressly rotate both units flat and fold one toward headband. Maker feature 4 confirms folding and swivel structure.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

9 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic9Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/apple-earpods-usb-c-reviewRead 20 October 2026Specs box: Drivers Dynamic. The same box prints a 20 Hz to 20 kHz range and 30 g weight, which are not stored because they look generic and conflict with the measured weight.

Dynamic1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

Not available

40mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Not available

Neodymium1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Not available

Min5 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker specification JEITA 5 Hz-20 kHz. Manual page 142 identifies the same numerical range as powered wired IEC response. No wireless or passive 40 kHz response is claimed.

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Min20 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026A2DP transmission range 20 Hz-20 kHz at 44.1 kHz sampling. This is not a measured acoustic bandwidth.

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

Not available

32Ω1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Passive wired power-off impedance 32 ohms at 1 kHz. Powered wired impedance is 314 ohms and is not mixed with the passive value.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

Not available

100dB1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Passive wired power-off 100 dB/mW at 1 kHz. Powered wired sensitivity is 110 dB/mW.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Not available

Per 1 mW1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

Not available

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

48kHz6Press articlemacotakara.jp/accessories/entry-45295.htmlRead 20 October 2026Article: output supports lossless audio playback up to 24-bit/48 kHz. Apple's US page does not state it. The same site tested the earphones on a MacBook Air (M1) and its Audio MIDI Setup listed formats from 16-bit/44.1 kHz up to 24-bit/48 kHz, as 9to5Mac reports.12Spec databaseifixit.com/Device/EarPods_with_USB-C_connectorRead 21 October 2026iFixit device page: embedded DAC chip, supporting 16-bit/44.1kHz to 24-bit/48kHz audio playback. This agrees with the Mac OTAKARA article. The page names no DAC part.

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

24bits6Press articlemacotakara.jp/accessories/entry-45295.htmlRead 20 October 2026Article: output supports lossless audio playback up to 24-bit/48 kHz, and the Audio MIDI Setup test lists up to 24-bit.12Spec databaseifixit.com/Device/EarPods_with_USB-C_connectorRead 21 October 2026Same iFixit line: playback up to 24-bit/48kHz.

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Not available

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

360 Reality Audio5Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact product features identify 360 Reality Audio certified model. Manual page 79 requires compatible paid streaming service on iOS/Android, not a permanently included service license.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Yes5Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact head-tracking feature describes spatial sound with compatible Android devices and services. It is not universal tracking on all platforms.

Noise cancelling

7 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

No1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026The overview and highlights list no noise cancelling. Highlights name deep bass, sweat and water protection, playback control and calls.7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Spec table: Noise Cancelling No.8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Review: the EarPods don't have noise cancellation.

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Hybrid4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Dual Noise Sensor paragraph specifies two feedforward plus two feedback microphones across both housings. Four physical ANC microphones.

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

44Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Behavior and location recognition automatically changes listening/noise-control settings. Manual page 108 expressly calls this auto noise adjustment Adaptive Sound Control. No automatic fit optimizer is inferred.

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Voice Focus on/off and adjustable ambient sound controls. Numerical ANC attenuation and ANC level count are not stated.

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Redesigned microphone surround reduces wind noise in ANC, ambient and call listening. Maker footnote explicitly says this structure does not reduce noise for the remote call participant.

Measured

8 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Against the TechGearLab preferred curve the response matches only in the midrange and falls off sharply elsewhere, so bass and treble are weak. The left and right channels track differently.8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Review text: compared with the TechGearLab preferred frequency curve, the EarPods align only in the midrange and fall off sharply elsewhere. It also notes a left and right tracking mismatch. Sound is described as lacking bass.

The reviewed unit emphasizes bass. ULT modes further raise the low end, while the reviewer describes reduced upper-detail clarity.9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Same exact review unit and firmware, reviewer frequency-response analysis. No graph coordinates or rating converted into dB values.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

ANC on	Overall (dB)
No	3.2

Source8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Specification table: passive isolation 3.2 dB. No ANC. The rig and frequency bands are not stated.

BSony ULT WEAR

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

3.2dB=CalculatedFrom Measured noise isolation

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

3.2dB=CalculatedFrom Measured noise isolation

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Clear in an ideal-conditions call and in office conditions. In the subway noise stress test voices stay clear but occasionally cut out.8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Call quality tests: ideal-conditions call very clear, typical office voices clear with some background audible, subway noise stress test clear but with occasional dropouts.

The recorded samples show wind sensitivity and pickup of nearby noise, despite the microphone windscreens.9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Same exact unit, recorded ideal, office, street, wind and reverberant samples. Qualitative observations do not establish numeric bandwidth or noise-handling scores.

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Connection	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	32.58

Source9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Provided review unit tested six days, firmware 1.0.8, Headphones Connect 10.4.1. Standardized playback peaking at 75 dB lasted 32 h 35 min, stored 32.58 h rounded. ANC state, codec and ULT mode not explicitly named for this run and not guessed.

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

32.58h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

11.9g(0.4 oz)8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Specification table: measured weight 11.9 g for the earbuds with the fixed cable and remote. Review published 1 May 2026.

Not available

Microphone

8 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

In-line2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026Remote and mic diagram: volume up, center button, microphone and volume down sit on the in-line remote.

Built-in1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Microphone element

Not available

Electret condenser1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact microphone section explicitly electret condenser, not MEMS borrowed from the 1000X series.

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Omnidirectional1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

12Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026The diagram labels one microphone, on the remote.

24Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Voice pickup paragraph explicitly describes two microphones aligned toward the mouth. This is the voice system count, separate from four ANC microphones.

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

48kHz6Press articlemacotakara.jp/accessories/entry-45295.htmlRead 20 October 2026Article: input supports mono linear PCM recording at 24-bit/48 kHz. Route is the USB-C cable. Apple does not publish this figure.

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

DSP4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly advanced voice signal processing with beamforming microphones and sensors. No AI inference from DSEE or generic processor branding.

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Not available

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 108 explicitly sidetone on/off through app. This proves a switch, not a continuously adjustable mix level.

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

14 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

USB7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Spec table: Connection USB-C only, connector USB-C.

Analog, Bluetooth1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

Not available

3.5 mm TRS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker stereo mini plug and manual three-contact plug illustration. USB-C is charging only.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

Fixed cable8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Specification table: Detachable cable No.

3.5 mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

1.12m8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Specification table: measured cable length 112 cm (44 in). Retail listings say 1.2 m, and Apple publishes no length.

1.2m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 202614Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The complete maker accessory list establishes supplied lengths of approximately 1.2 m and 0.2 m, so the existing 1.2 m longest-supplied-cable value is supported.

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

USB-C1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Product name and connection selector: USB-C connector.

USB-C6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026The earphones play audio through the USB-C connector on the cable. Compatibility lists iPhone 15 and later, iPads with USB-C and Macs with USB-C.

No9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Connectivity explicitly no audio over USB. USB-C charging only.

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

No7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026The earphones connect over USB-C only and have no analog plug.

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 72 explicitly music when powered off. ANC and ULT bass control require power. Wired calls use phone microphone, not headphone voice pickup.

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

None7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Spec table: connection USB-C only. No wireless link.

Not available

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

10m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximately 10 m line of sight, confirmed manual page 142. Environmental range is not guaranteed.

Bluetooth

Not available

5.21Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

SBC, AAC, LDAC1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 70-71 two simultaneously connected devices and one playing source. Original guide says LDAC is unavailable with multipoint enabled. Do not treat all codecs and simultaneous routes as unrestricted.

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

26Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Paired devices remembered

Not available

86Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 67 explicitly up to eight stored devices, with ninth overwriting oldest connection.

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Google Fast Pair Android feature and Windows 10/11 Swift Pair feature. Pairing support does not establish every application compatibility.

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

2 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

iOS, macOS, Android1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Compatibility Information: Mac models with USB-C running macOS Monterey 12.6 or later, iPad models with USB-C running iPadOS 16.4 or later, iPhone models with USB-C running iOS 17 or later. iPadOS is stored as iOS. Android is from the reviews.7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Review: they work reliably with Samsung phones but not with every Android phone. The Asus Zenfone 10 would not work. Android is stored as a partial path.

Windows, macOS, Android, iOS6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Exact guide has separate Android, iPhone, Windows 10/11 and macOS pairing chapters. Universal analog jack availability is not used to infer console licensing or supported console microphones.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Platform	Connection
Windows	Bluetooth
macOS	Bluetooth
Android	Bluetooth
iOS	Bluetooth

Source6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

9 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Connection	ANC	Codec	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	AAC	30
Bluetooth	No	AAC	50
Bluetooth	Yes	SBC	30
Bluetooth	No	SBC	50
Bluetooth	Yes	LDAC	25
Bluetooth	No	LDAC	40
Analog	Yes	Not available	30
Analog	No	Not available	50

Source12Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Printed page 25 of the current exact ULT WEAR Help Guide gives music playback after a full charge. AAC and SBC each allow up to 30 hours with ANC on or 50 hours with ANC and Ambient Sound Mode off. LDAC allows 25 hours with ANC on or 40 hours with both modes off. Powered analog playback allows 30 hours with ANC on or 50 hours with both modes off. Each named codec is retained in its own row. Page 26 warns that Equalizer, DSEE, voice-assistant wake words, Service Link, and the ULT Bass Control function shorten these maxima. Playback volume and LDAC bitrate are unspecified. Communication durations are excluded. The maker guide explicitly covers the ULT WEAR reference, including original model YY2981.14Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The Japanese product headline explicitly qualifies its AAC 30-hour ANC-on and 50-hour ANC-off claims with DSEE and equalizer off and other functions at their defaults. These named settings apply to that AAC claim. LDAC and SBC rows retain the separate current manual conditions, without inheriting this AAC-specific footnote.

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

50h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

50h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Charging port

None7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Spec table: Battery life N/A, fast charging N/A, wireless charging N/A.

USB-C6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

210min6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 23 explicitly empty battery to full capacity in about 3.5 hours, 210 minutes, using supplied cable and adapter supplying at least 0.5 A.

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

10min6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

5h6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 25 explicitly 10-minute charge for about 5 hours music. Same page separately gives 3 minutes for 90 minutes. No codec or ANC state stated for quick charge.

Use while charging

Not available

No6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 23-24 headset automatically turns off and all operations including playback are disabled while connected to charging power.

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

5 of 6 differ

Controls

In-line remote1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Overview: built-in remote that adjusts volume, controls playback and answers or ends calls.2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026Control audio and manage a call with presses of the center button. Volume up and down buttons on the remote.7Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-earpods-usb-c-review-105861Read 20 October 2026Controls are limited to the in-line remote with a volume rocker and a multifunction button.

Buttons, Touch6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Volume control

In-line remote1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Overview: built-in remote adjusts the volume.2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026Remote with volume up and volume down.

Touch1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 108-109 voice assistant, Quick Access, touch control enable/disable and NC/ambient button cycle can be configured. This does not imply arbitrary physical button remapping.

Wear detection

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 15-17 built-in proximity sensor, automatic pause/resume and power off after removal.

Voice assistant

Siri2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026Ask Siri: press and hold the center button until you hear a beep.

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google app, Siri6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 99-107 separate Google Assistant, Alexa, Android Google app and iPhone Siri chapters. Google Assistant is Android only. Google app/Siri activate by touch, not their wake words. App/network/region eligibility and mutually exclusive assigned assistants apply.

Comfort and build

2 of 11 differ

Headband type

Not available

Not available

Headband material

Not available

Not available

Frame material

Not available

Not available

Ear cup material

Not available

Matte plastic9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Exact use section explicitly matte plastic outside ear cups. No generic material is assigned to other parts.

Ear pad material

Not available

Faux leather9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Exact ear pad paragraph explicitly padding covered in faux leather.

Replaceable ear pads

Not available

Not available

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Not available

Not available

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Not available

Not available

Software

3 of 3 differ

Companion app

Not available

Sony | Sound Connect8Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact current product page names Sound Connect, formerly Headphones Connect. The 2024 manual uses the older app name. No app EQ profile persistence or complete preset list inferred from two example names.

App platforms

Not available

Android, iOS6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 110 Apple App Store and Google Play listings. Desktop computer playback is distinct from mobile companion app support.

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

Not available

255g(9 oz)1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximate maker weight excluding cable. SoundGuys metadata 253 g is not explicitly a scale measurement and is not substituted.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

None of 3 known

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

Not available

In the box

3 of 3 differ

In the box

EarPods with USB-C Connector1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026What's in the Box: EarPods with USB-C Connector.

Sony ULT WEAR headphones, Carrying case, USB-A to USB-C cable, Headphone cable, Documents6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9 exact included-item list. No AC adapter or airline adapter is listed.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

AApple EarPods (USB-C)

Type	Length (m)	Count
Fixed headset cable with USB-C connector	1.12	1

Source8Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wired-earbuds/apple-earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Measured cable length 112 cm. The cable is fixed to the earbuds.

BSony ULT WEAR

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-A to USB-C charging cable	0.2	1
3.5 mm stereo headphone cable	1.2	1

Source6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Printed page 9 supplies one USB-A to USB-C charging cable and one headphone cable. The complete individual lengths are published by the separate Japanese maker accessory list.14Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The exact maker supplied-accessory list states a headphone cable approximately 1.2 m long and a USB-A to USB-C cable approximately 20 cm long. The original guide separately confirms one of each. This preserves the supplied charging-cable length without adopting optional aftermarket cables.

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

None1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026The box list names only the EarPods. No case.

Hard13Reviewexpertreviews.co.uk/technology/headphones-audio/sony-ult-wear-reviewRead 8 October 2026The exact ULT WEAR What do you get for the money section explicitly lists a supplied hard-shell carrying case. Original Sony Help Guide printed page 9 confirms that the case is included. Only this package fact is used from the review. Optional gSport bundles and other Sony models are excluded.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.apple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-c1Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/myqy3am/a/earpods-usb-cRead 20 October 2026Apple US store page, part number MYQY3AM/A.

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.html1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Japanese specification table directly opened, decoded CP932. Closed dynamic 40 mm dome, neodymium magnet. No diaphragm material or physical drivers-per-side count is inferred.

Manual

cdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdf2Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/user/earpods-usb-c.pdfRead 20 October 2026EarPods (USB-C) User Guide, English pages 2 to 7. PDF created May 2025. Apple Support lists it for the model introduced in 2023.

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdf6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Full 144-page English Help Guide directly opened. Runtime table page 25 and continuation page 26 visually checked. Exact ULT WEAR, copyright 2024, reference 5-055-975-11(2).

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year4Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/accessory-warranty-english.htmlRead 20 October 2026Accessory warranty, worldwide English: Apple-branded accessories bought separately, such as cables, adapters and EarPods, are covered for one year from original retail purchase. Consumer law can give longer terms.

Not available

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.