Earbuds / Compare

Beats Studio Buds vs Sony LinkBuds S

A

Product A: Beats

Studio Buds

79 of 166 known

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B

Product B: Sony

LinkBuds S

88 of 166 known

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All 166 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ABeats Studio Buds

BSony LinkBuds S

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

Studio Buds1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

LinkBuds1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 2026

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

MJ4X3LL/A, A2512, A2513, A2514, MJ4Y3LL/A, MJ503LL/A, MMT93LL/A, MMT73LL/A, MMT83LL/A5Maker spec sheet (PDF)apple.com/education/pricelists/pdfs/Apple_US_Education_Institution_Price_List-03-16-2023.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original 2021 Black/White/Red codes and 2022 Moon Gray/Ocean Blue/Sunset Pink codes explicitly published in maker table. All color codes also mapped in flat variants. Factory A2512/A2513/A2514 identifiers preserved.11Owner's manualbeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats-support/global/product-safety-and-handling/studio-buds-gen1/studiobuds-sh-zm.pdfRead 7 October 2026

WF-LS900N, YY29501Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 20263Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Cover page 1 identifies Model YY2950. Contents page 2 identifies WF-LS900N.

GTIN / EAN

19425238829719Retailer pageatt.com/buy/accessories/Headphones/beats-studio-buds-true-wireless-noise-cancelling-earphones.htmlRead 7 October 2026Only verified US Black GTIN in the product-level known-identifier collection. Flat Black variant maps it to MJ4X3LL/A. Other colors do not inherit this code. Maker GTIN was not found. AT&T exact original Black product hardware agrees maker original identity.

Not available

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

14 June 20212Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026

18 May 20224Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original Sony Electronics release issued May 18, 2022, syndicated by PR Newswire. May 20 availability is a forecast here and corroborated by actual retrospective review.

Status

Not available

Not available

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.

Beats Studio Buds +21Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/beats-studio-buds-plus-a-clear-wireless-earbuds-upgradeRead 23 October 2026TechRadar calls the Beats Studio Buds Plus the follow-up to the Beats Studio Buds.

Sony LinkBuds Fit18Reviewm.gsmarena.com/sony_unveils_linkbuds_open_with_open_design_linkbuds_fit_replace_the_linkbuds_s-amp-64762.phpRead 23 October 2026GSMArena says the LinkBuds Fit replaces the LinkBuds S and calls it the sequel to the LinkBuds S.19Reviewtomsguide.com/audio/sony-revives-linkbuds-series-with-a-focus-on-style-and-fit-can-they-beat-boseRead 23 October 2026Tom's Guide says the LinkBuds Fit takes over for the LinkBuds S.

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

$149.992Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Original three-page Studio Buds-US Press Release.pdf in maker ZIP. Page 2 Pricing and Availability explicitly gives 149.99 USD at US launch. June 14 orders and June 24 shipping are separate from actual retail. Not the current discounted price or a converted EUR price.

$199.994Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact US manufacturer MSRP USD 199.99, excluding tax. SoundGuys later USD 198 and current store prices are not launch MSRP.6Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-announces-the-new-linkbuds-s-earth-blue-noise-canceling-truly-wireless-headphones-made-from-water-dispenser-bottles-and-new-model-linkbuds-uc-for-microsoft-teams-301658003.htmlRead 5 October 2026Earth Blue US original MSRP also USD 199.99. No later retail amount substituted.

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.

Not available

Not available

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

US5Maker spec sheet (PDF)apple.com/education/pricelists/pdfs/Apple_US_Education_Institution_Price_List-03-16-2023.pdfRead 7 October 2026

US, JP1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 2026Current exact Sony Japan store offers this model for purchase. US availability is established separately by the original launch release.4Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black, White, Beats Red, Moon Gray, Ocean Blue, Sunset Pink5Maker spec sheet (PDF)apple.com/education/pricelists/pdfs/Apple_US_Education_Institution_Price_List-03-16-2023.pdfRead 7 October 2026Maker US list page 23 includes six standard finishes. 2022 additional colors are same original hardware generation, not separate catalog products. List pricing dates are not announcement/retail dates.

Black, White, Ecru, Earth Blue1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 2026Original Black, White and Ecru plus later Earth Blue. Ear-tip construction is common but identification markings differ by finish. No unproved regional SKU rows.4Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original White and Black at Sony US and Ecru exclusive Best Buy. Later Earth Blue separately sourced.6Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-announces-the-new-linkbuds-s-earth-blue-noise-canceling-truly-wireless-headphones-made-from-water-dispenser-bottles-and-new-model-linkbuds-uc-for-microsoft-teams-301658003.htmlRead 5 October 2026October 25, 2022 original Sony release adds Earth Blue. Its earlier colours have been available since May. Earth Blue is a later finish of the same LinkBuds S, not the LinkBuds UC for Teams announced in the same article.

Segment

Music2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Original maker release positions the model for everyday music. Its 8.2 mm single-driver construction also supports the separate drivers table. Dynamic technology is independently sourced to the exact technical review.

Music1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 2026

Design

0 of 4 differ

Form factoriIn-ear seals the ear canal with a tip. Semi-in-ear rests in the outer ear without a seal. Open-ear leaves the ear canal unobstructed.

In-ear1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

In-ear3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 17 instructs sealing with a tip inside the canal. Exact diagrams show compact bodies without extending stems.4Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Bud shapeiStem describes an extending control or microphone stalk. Stemless describes a compact body without a stalk.

Stemless1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Stemless3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Exact parts and wearing diagrams show stemless bodies.

Use one bud aloneiWhich earbud can operate alone. This does not mean two earbuds can play from different sources.

Either bud1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Either bud3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 19-20 allow either unit with suitable settings. Service Link requires right. Assistant/control assignments can restrict one-ear operation.10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

9 of 17 differ

Drivers per budiAudio transducers in one earbud. Rows distinguish their type, acoustic role and published diameter. Do not count microphones.

ABeats Studio Buds

Type	Diameter (mm)	Count per earbud
Dynamic	8.2	1

Source2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026One driver per earbud. Dual-element describes the diaphragm, not two separate drivers. Original press PDF explicitly gives circular driver diameter 8.2 mm. Dynamic technology independently stated by Headphonecheck. Acoustic role omitted because not separately named.9Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Exact original 2021 review Technical Specifications states Transducer principle: dynamisch. This supports dynamic type in driver row. Diameter and single-driver construction are maker evidence.

BSony LinkBuds S

Not available

Driver typeiPublished transducer technology. High-excursion, composite and neodymium do not by themselves establish a driver type.

Dynamic9Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Exact original Studio Buds technical data gives dynamic transducer principle. Maker 8.2 mm diaphragm structure alone is not used to establish technology.

Dynamic2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker identifies closed dynamic transducer. Neodymium magnet is not treated as diaphragm material.17Maker spec sheet (PDF)boulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/4548736144873_f_0Read 5 October 2026

Driver sizeiLargest explicitly published circular driver diameter in one earbud. A rectangular driver width is not a diameter.

8.2mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Not available

Drivers per budiTotal audio transducers in one earbud, summed from explicit driver quantities. A row with an unknown quantity makes the total unknown.

1=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Frequency responseiPublished acoustic frequency response of the earbuds. Codec transmission bandwidth alone does not qualify. Conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance

Not available

Not available

SensitivityiPublished acoustic sensitivity. The electrical reference and frequency must be stated in sensitivity_reference or the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity reference

Not available

Not available

Max sample rateiHighest supported audio sample rate under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. This does not establish lossless playback.

Not available

96kHz3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 166 publishes LDAC transmission at 96 kHz and 990 kbps. This is supported codec sample rate, not acoustic frequency response or guaranteed lossless sound.15Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/sony-linkbuds-sRead 5 October 2026Exact LDAC supported source conditions. Other codecs need their own limits.

Max bit depthiHighest supported audio bit depth under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. Bluetooth version alone does not establish this.

Not available

24bits15Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/sony-linkbuds-sRead 5 October 2026Exact review explicitly describes supported LDAC input up to 24-bit/96 kHz at up to 990 kbps from compatible source such as Xperia 1 III. This is codec input capability, not DSEE upscaling or lossless transmission.

Adaptive EQiAn inner mic tunes the sound to your ear in real time

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA profile from a hearing test or ear scan

Not available

Yes11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact certified 360 Reality Audio maker section optimizes using ear shape and headphone characteristics through companion app. It is not a hearing-test profile.

Onboard EQ

No15Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Exact original Studio Buds reviewer expressly reports no EQ adjustments. Host-phone music-app EQ does not imply onboard storage. The review was updated to account for 2022 volume-control firmware, so launch-only controls are not inherited.

Yes9Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of independently adjustable custom equalizer frequency bands. Availability may require current firmware, an app or a compatible device.

Not available

513Maker product pageexperience.sony-asia.com/ph/home/exploredetail/546Read 5 October 2026Exact maker article includes LinkBuds S in model list and explicitly five EQ frequencies plus separate Clear Bass. Five independently adjustable equalizer bands stored, bass shelf not counted as sixth.

EQ presetsiNamed equalizer sound presets. Noise-control modes and spatial-audio modes are separate features.

Not available

Relaxed, Bass Boost, Treble Boost9Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly names Relaxed and Bass Boost among eight presets. Treble Boost is independently demonstrated by exact SoundGuys measurements. Unnamed presets are omitted.16Measurementsoundguys.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-74398Read 5 October 2026Exact tested Treble Boost preset is explicitly named and compared against default.

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 2 differ

Spatial audioiNamed spatial or surround audio processing supported with the source and platform conditions stated in the source note.

Dolby Atmos in Apple Music2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Page 1 explicitly automatic playback of Apple Music tracks mixed in Dolby Atmos. Static host/content processing, not dynamic head tracking or an ear/head profile.

360 Reality Audio11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026360 Reality Audio content/service required. Dolby Atmos spatial rendering through optional WLA-NS7 and compatible BRAVIA XR is a separate external-system scenario, not an unqualified native earbud codec.

Head trackingiSpatial audio changes with head movement. Static spatial processing alone does not qualify. Compatible device or content requirements belong in the source note.

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Exact review explicitly says no sensors for spatial head tracking. Maker static Apple Music Dolby Atmos is separate.

Yes12Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026Exact LinkBuds S firmware 4.3.1 previous-benefits section explicitly adds Head Tracking. Supported phone model and Android OS required. Current feature, not original firmware.

Noise cancelling

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Active noise cancelling

Yes1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Yes4Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 20267Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

ANC typeiFeedforward uses exterior microphones. Feedback uses interior microphones. Hybrid uses both. Adaptive control is separate from microphone placement.

Hybrid7Press article9to5mac.com/2021/06/14/beats-studio-buds-now-official-features-priceRead 5 October 2026Same exact model report explicitly feedforward and feedback microphones in each bud. Consistent with maker FAQ two dedicated ANC microphones per bud and physical hybrid teardown.

Hybrid7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Dual Noise Sensor Technology paragraph explicitly integrates feedforward and feedback methods. Activity/location profiles do not establish adaptive ANC-strength calibration or continuously blended audio.

ANC microphones in both earbudsiPhysical microphones used by ANC across the pair. A shared call and ANC microphone counts once. Case microphones and vibration sensors are excluded.

41Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Maker FAQ explicitly two microphones dedicated to ANC in each bud, four across pair. A separate voice microphone gives three physical capsules per bud. Shared call use is separately supported by the contemporary maker briefing reported by 9to5Mac.

414Review52audio.com/archives/122319.htmlRead 5 October 2026Two MEMS per earbud explicitly used for active cancellation and call-noise pickup. Four across pair, overlapping call microphones.

Adaptive ANCiANC strength or calibration adjusts automatically to noise, fit or ear acoustics. The source note states the adjustment conditions.

Yes2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Page 1 real-time adaptive gain control responds to outside noise, including wind. Not proof of an automatic ANC/transparency blend or a selectable strength-level count.

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of selectable ANC strength levels. Excludes ANC off, transparency and activity profiles unless they explicitly set distinct strength levels.

115Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026One selectable active cancellation strength. Off and Transparency are excluded from the count. Continuous automatic adaptation is already stored and is separate from selectable levels.

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)iManufacturer maximum claimed noise attenuation. Frequency and measurement conditions belong in the source note. This is not reviewer-measured overall attenuation.

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Yes1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Yes7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Adjustable transparency

No16Reviewlaptopmag.com/reviews/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Reviewer of original 2021 Studio Buds explicitly identifies adjustable ambient levels as missing. No Studio Buds Plus test is inherited. Noise-control mode selection is not transparency strength adjustment.

Yes7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact maker 20 ambient-level adjustment and Voice Focus. These levels are not ANC strength levels.

Automatic ANC and transparency blendiAutomatically blends active cancellation with ambient sound. Automatic activity-based switching between separate modes alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Conversation detection

Not available

Yes7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Speak-to-Chat pauses playback and changes to ambient sound on voice detection. User setup and detection sensitivity affect operation.

Wind noise reductioniA documented physical design or processing feature for reducing wind noise. The source note distinguishes mesh or shape changes from selectable processing.

Yes2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026

Yes7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker describes mesh around microphones for reducing wind during ANC and ambient listening. Preliminary French sheet calls automatic wind cancellation, but this physical design is the precise published mechanism.

Measured

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Frequency response notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Measured response follows the SoundGuys target broadly, with reduced low-mid frequencies.8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Original model objective curve. Firmware, fixture, target revision and test codec unstated. Ratings and graph points are not converted to numerical dB.

The default measured response follows the review target through much of the bass and midrange. Response above about 2 kHz is reduced. The Treble Boost preset brings the high range closer to the target.16Measurementsoundguys.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-74398Read 5 October 2026Published default and Treble Boost lab curves relative to SoundGuys target. Fixture revision, original firmware and codec unstated. Point 35 dB attenuation around 200 Hz does not establish a band-average isolation figure.

Bass amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the bass range. Positive means more bass. Target, test method and settings belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the treble range. Positive means more treble. Values from different targets may not be directly comparable.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from target (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittings (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortion (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Sound leakage (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

Call quality notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Published ideal, office, street and windy microphone recordings.8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026

Quiet-condition recordings provide usable speech pickup. The published street-noise recording contains processing artifacts and reduced voice clarity.16Measurementsoundguys.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-74398Read 5 October 2026Published ideal, office and street demos with explicit processing-artifact discussion. No numeric handling score or unlabelled codec inferred.

Mic low-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratio (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

Latency in game mode (measured)iThe best case the buds can reach. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iReviewer-tested operation from one full charge of the earbuds. Excludes case recharges. ANC, codec, connection, volume and tested edition belong in the row or source note.

ABeats Studio Buds

ANC	Hours (h)
Yes	4.4

Source8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Purchased exact original model, tested one week. Continuous audio at 75 dB SPL, ANC on, right bud stops 4 h 24 min, left 4 h 41 min. First-stop endpoint stores 4 h 24 min. Exact battery-test host/codec/firmware/app unstated. No case total or AAC codec assumed from a separate connectivity paragraph.

BSony LinkBuds S

Hours (h)
5.68

Source16Measurementsoundguys.com/sony-linkbuds-s-review-74398Read 5 October 2026Exact review tested 5 hours 41 minutes with continuous real music peaking at 75 dB(SPL). ANC state, codec and original firmware not explicit in that paragraph and omitted. Informal experience of case total is not a measured full-case rundown.

Longest tested use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only duration among stored reviewer tests. Modes and settings may differ between tests and products.

4.4h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

5.68h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

Battery life with case (measured)iReviewer-tested total including earbuds and case recharges. Do not calculate this by multiplying one-charge runtime by claimed recharge count.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iBuds in the case, 0 to 100 %. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Weight per bud (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Microphones and calls

4 of 7 differ

Voice microphones in both earbudsiPhysical call and beamforming microphones across the pair. Excludes case microphones and vibration sensors. Shared ANC microphones can also count here when used for calls.

Not available

414Review52audio.com/archives/122319.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact teardown describes two physical MEMS microphones in an earbud, both used for voice and noise cancellation. Four across the pair. Shared roles count once in total.

All microphones in both earbudsiEvery physical microphone across the pair, including call and ANC microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes the charging case and voice vibration sensors.

61Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 20267Press article9to5mac.com/2021/06/14/beats-studio-buds-now-official-features-priceRead 5 October 2026

414Review52audio.com/archives/122319.htmlRead 5 October 2026Two MEMS per earbud, four across pair. Physical voice and ANC roles overlap. Motion and IR sensors not counted.

Bone conduction voice sensoriA dedicated bone or jaw conduction sensor for detecting speech vibrations. A microphone or speech-detecting accelerometer alone does not prove this architecture.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reduction

Not available

AI8Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Precise Voice Pickup algorithm explicitly trained on more than 500 million voice samples, separating wearer voice from environmental noise. Inner microphones also used for calls. This is voice noise reduction, not merely DSEE music upscaling.

Call audio bandwidthiHighest supported call-audio bandwidth. Compatible phone, operating system, call app or network requirements belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic mute controliAn earbud control that mutes the microphone during calls. Includes touch or pressure gestures and physical buttons. Phone/app-only controls do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

SidetoneiHear your own voice in calls

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 100 explicitly returns own voice through the headset microphone during calls.

Connectivity

12 of 18 differ

Chip

MediaTek MT2821A10Review52audio.com/archives/127308.htmlRead 7 October 2026Original Studio Buds versus Fit Pro physical teardown comparison. Studio Buds PCB explicitly MT2821A custom Beats Bluetooth SoC, with separate Cirrus CS47L66 ANC DSP. H1 belongs to Fit Pro and is excluded.

Sony Integrated Processor V14Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-introduces-additional-model-to-linkbuds-series-a-new-frontier-for-headphones--linkbuds-s-301549817.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original release explicitly Sony Integrated Processor V1. Open LinkBuds and LinkBuds Fit processors are not borrowed.7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 20269Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 202617Maker spec sheet (PDF)boulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/4548736144873_f_0Read 5 October 2026

Connections

Bluetooth1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth

5.28Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026

5.22Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 20263Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth codecs

SBC, AAC8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026

SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC32Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026SBC/AAC/LDAC for Classic Audio and LC3 for later LE Audio. LE features are not claimed as original May 2022 firmware.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth profiles

Not available

A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP, TMAP, CSIP, MCP, VCP, CCP2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP plus current TMAP/CSIP/MCP/VCP/CCP LE profiles. Current specification and manual agree.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

LE Audio

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 39-41 and 97 explicitly LC3 / LE Audio with supported Android device and re-pairing. This is actual later feature support, not inferred from Bluetooth 5.2.12Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026Later update explicitly supported LE Audio with Xperia 1 V/5 V and expanded compatible-device list. No Auracast support inferred.

Auracast

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth connections to multiple source devices. Pairing memory and switching through a manufacturer account alone do not qualify.

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Exact FAQ explicitly cannot connect two iPhones simultaneously. No generic audio multipoint inferred from one-touch pairing.

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 76-77 two simultaneous Classic Audio source links and one playing stream at a time. Current app page 118 excludes multipoint under LE Audio.6Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-announces-the-new-linkbuds-s-earth-blue-noise-canceling-truly-wireless-headphones-made-from-water-dispenser-bottles-and-new-model-linkbuds-uc-for-microsoft-teams-301658003.htmlRead 5 October 2026Release states a later software update for simultaneous two-device connections, so this feature is qualified as later firmware.10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 202612Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026

Multipoint devicesiMaximum source devices concurrently connected by Bluetooth, not the number remembered in pairing history.

Not available

23Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 202610Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Multipoint with LDACiMany buds turn multipoint off on LDAC

Not available

Yes10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Current exact maker explicitly says high-quality LDAC remains available in multipoint. This does not apply to LE Audio multipoint.

Paired devices rememberediMaximum remembered Bluetooth source pairings. This is separate from simultaneous multipoint connections.

Not available

810Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact maker up to eight remembered devices, separate from two simultaneous source connections.

Automatic switching between own devicesiThrough the maker's account

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Review updated July 2024 explicitly no automatic audio switching, despite January 2022 firmware adding iCloud account pairing. Pairing sync is not automatic audio routing.

Not available

Fast pairing

Apple one-tap setup, Google Fast Pair1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Google Fast Pair and Windows 10/11 quick pairing. Manual page 49 explicitly names Microsoft Swift Pair and Windows 10 version 1803 requirement.

Audio sharingiShare one stream with a second pair

No9Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Exact model review explicitly no Apple/Beats tandem audio sharing. Its old iCloud-pairing omission is superseded by January 2022 firmware and is not stored as current capability.14Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/aside/iph9b2d76d2f/27/web/27Read 5 October 2026Current maker supported-headphones list includes Studio Buds+ and older Beats families, but excludes original Studio Buds. This corroborates exact original-model review. No sharing support inherited from Plus or account-pairing firmware.

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)

Not available

10m2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximately 10 m line of sight, not a guaranteed indoor range. Manual states obstacle and interference limitations.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 165-166 approximate 10 m line of sight and interference caveat.

Wireless receiveri2.4 GHz dongle

Not available

Not available

Receiver connector

Not available

Not available

Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiBoth connection types can play audio together. Quick switching between independent modes does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 3 known

Low latency mode

Not available

Not available

Claimed latency

Not available

Not available

Lowest claimed latency

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

3 of 4 differ

PlatformsiPlatforms with documented audio support. App availability and advanced features can be more limited. Edition-specific support is listed in variants.

iOS, macOS, Android4Owner's manualdevice.report/m/778c98e9ca6c7c979f8dd49e8410673e55a830bf95016e018db0df3c9c00adad.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 35-48 Android/iPhone, 49-57 Windows and 58-70 macOS. No console Bluetooth microphone compatibility is inferred.

Connection per platformiDocumented audio connection for each platform. USB-C phone routes require a compatible port. Platform edition and microphone restrictions belong in source notes or feature requirements.

ABeats Studio Buds

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
iOS	Bluetooth	Yes
macOS	Bluetooth	Not available
Android	Bluetooth	Yes

Source4Owner's manualdevice.report/m/778c98e9ca6c7c979f8dd49e8410673e55a830bf95016e018db0df3c9c00adad.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original manual exact iPhone/iPad, Android and Mac pairing and call instructions. Siri/advanced app functions vary by host. No generic gaming-console or USB audio route inferred.

BSony LinkBuds S

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
Android	Bluetooth	Yes
iOS	Bluetooth	Yes
Windows	Bluetooth	Yes
macOS	Bluetooth	Yes

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Bluetooth music via A2DP and calls via HFP/HSP. Exact manual computer-call chapter covers video conferencing. Required Bluetooth adapter and application support stated. macOS chapter specifies 10.15 or later.

Features that need a specific deviceiDevice, operating system, firmware, codec, content, account or region requirements for a named feature.

ABeats Studio Buds

Feature	Needs
Apple one-touch pairing	iOS 14.6 or later
Google Fast Pair	Location enabled
Full Android feature access	Android 6.0 or newer, Google Play Service enabled and Google Account
Hands-free Siri	Internet access required. Availability and features vary by language and area.

Source2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Exact original Studio Buds launch requirements. Original earbud model is used, not current support links that redirect to Studio Buds Plus. Apple Music Dolby Atmos requirement remains qualified in existing virtual_surround source note.

BSony LinkBuds S

Feature	Needs
LC3 and LE Audio	Updated headset firmware, a maker-supported LE Audio Android device, and LE Audio Priority selected in the companion app. Delete Classic Audio pairing and pair again. Multipoint and several app functions are unavailable during LE Audio.
Head tracking	Updated headset firmware, supported Android phone and OS, companion app setup and a spatial-audio-compatible service. Historical Locatone integration ended in April 2025 and is not required for the current Android feature.
360 Reality Audio personalization	Companion app ear-shape analysis, compatible content and streaming service. Subscription and regional availability may apply.
LDAC multipoint	Current firmware and Connect to 2 devices simultaneously enabled in the companion app. It routes one audio stream at a time.
Google audio switch	Android 8.0 or later, Google Play, Google Fast Pair pairing and the same Google account on the Android devices. This is separate from Sony Auto Switch with a compatible speaker.
Single-bud use	Either bud works with suitable control assignments. Service Link requires the right bud. Google Assistant or Alexa assignment can limit which bud works alone.
Consecutive-tap volume controls	Updated headset firmware. Four or more left taps lower music volume and right taps raise it. During calls, adjust volume on the phone or app.

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Exact pages 19-20, 39-41, 76-78, 118 and 120 retain feature restrictions, current versus launch firmware and supported platform conditions.6Press releaseprnewswire.com/news-releases/sony-electronics-announces-the-new-linkbuds-s-earth-blue-noise-canceling-truly-wireless-headphones-made-from-water-dispenser-bottles-and-new-model-linkbuds-uc-for-microsoft-teams-301658003.htmlRead 5 October 20268Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Calls require Bluetooth HFP/HSP support. Current Android head tracking separately supported by firmware and support article. Historical Locatone is not treated as a current prerequisite.10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Google audio switch needs Android 8+, Google Play, same Google account and Fast Pair. Current Sony Auto Switch with a compatible speaker is a separate function and is not generic automatic switching between source devices.11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026Companion app or Spatial Sound Personalizer ear photos plus supported service/content. No subscription-free or region-universal promise.12Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026Later two-device connections, volume taps, LE Audio, head tracking and new Find My Device are listed explicitly. New finding is restricted to dedicated Classic Audio.

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

9 of 13 differ

Battery per budiBattery cell capacity of one earbud. The source note states typical or rated capacity. Charging input current is not capacity.

60mAh10Review52audio.com/archives/127308.htmlRead 7 October 2026Original Studio Buds A2512/A2513 teardown explicitly identifies MIC-POWER M1254S2 per-earbud cell, rated voltage 3.7 V and energy 0.222 Wh. Matching exact manufacturer/type/voltage/energy in a published component test summary establishes rated 60 mAh. Not derived by dividing Wh by voltage. Main approved the component identity match. Not Studio Buds Plus or Fit Pro battery inheritance.20Regulatory filingassets.jvc.com/Headphones/2026_Product_Line/SDS/HAA18T/TestSummary_HA-A18T_Earphones_2023.pdfRead 7 October 2026Exact MIC-POWER M1254S2 component. Normal voltage 3.7 V, rated capacity 60 mAh and energy 0.222 Wh. Manufacturer/lab UN38.3 summary issued January 3, 2023. Current published JVC directory links this PDF. The old 2025 path returns 404. Original Beats cell identity is independently stated by 52Audio. Main approved this exact component rating chain. No JVC whole-product facts or Wh/V calculation used.

Not available

User-replaceable earbud batteryiThe maker documents normal battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiManufacturer maximum runtime under the stated mode, codec and spatial processing state. Name the spatial or immersive processing mode and other conditions in source notes. Omit unspecified settings. with_case false means one charge of the earbuds. true means earbuds plus case recharges.

ABeats Studio Buds

Mode	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC off	No	8
ANC off	Yes	24
ANC on	No	5
ANC on	Yes	15
Transparency	No	5
Transparency	Yes	15

Source1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Initial earbud charge plus two case recharges. Maker original release groups ANC or Transparency on at 5/15 h, off 8/24 h. Alternative modes, not simultaneous activation. Current FAQ repeats the ANC conditions. Full test source is original maker press release.2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Pages 2 to 3 original maker April 2021 preproduction iPhone 11 Pro Max test at 50% volume, 358 tracks. AAC file encoding is not Bluetooth codec proof. First earbud-stop endpoint. Case-inclusive test repeats recharge/playback to depletion. Exact firmware and ANC-on codec unstated.

BSony LinkBuds S

Mode	Codec	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC on	LDAC	No	3.5
Transparency	LDAC	No	3.5
ANC off	LDAC	No	4.5
ANC on	AAC	No	6
Transparency	AAC	No	6
ANC off	AAC	No	9
ANC on	SBC	No	6
Transparency	SBC	No	6
ANC off	SBC	No	9
ANC on	LC3	No	5.5
Transparency	LC3	No	5.5
ANC off	LC3	No	9
ANC on	AAC	Yes	20
ANC off	AAC	Yes	30
Call	Not available	No	3.5

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 27-28 separate LDAC/AAC/SBC/LC3 playback with ANC, ambient and both off. EQ, DSEE Extreme, Speak-to-Chat, wake-word assistant and Service Link reduce listed maxima. Volume and original measurement firmware are not stated. Calls are up to 3.5 hours in all three noise-control states, codec unstated. Standby 8.5 hours ANC, 8 ambient and 16 both off cannot be represented by existing runtime modes and are not stored.10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker with-case 20 hours ANC on and 30 hours off. Footnote identifies AAC, DSEE/EQ off and all other settings default. No nominal full-recharge multiplication.

Longest claimed use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only runtime among all stored modes. This can be ANC off, Hearing Aid, heart-rate or call use. Read the battery table and source conditions.

8h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

9h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge with ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC enabled. Codec and spatial-audio conditions belong in the source note.

5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

6h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge without ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC disabled. Codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

8h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

9h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case (claimed)iHighest claimed runtime including the initial earbud charge and all case recharges. It is not the case recharge runtime alone.

24h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case and ANC (claimed)iClaimed total playback with ANC, including the initial earbud charge and case recharges.

15h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

20h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Talk time (claimed)

Not available

3.5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Full charge time, budsiTime to charge discharged earbuds to full in the case. Excludes charging the case itself or a combined buds-and-case result.

Not available

120min3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 25 approximately two hours for empty earbuds charging in a previously charged case. Page 24 empty-to-full combined earbuds/case is about three hours. Page 25 recommends ambient 15 to 35 degrees C. Page 165 rated charging-temperature range is 5 to 35 degrees C.

Charging guidanceiPublished charging guidance or estimates that do not separate earbuds and case. Preserve the maker’s component scope and limits. Do not assign an unspecified or combined estimate to a component-specific numeric field.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration corresponding to quick_charge_playback_h. Source note states earbuds-only or case-inclusive charging and playback settings.

5min2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026

5min3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 202610Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Earbud playback after quick chargeiEarbuds-only runtime after quick_charge_min of charging. A claimed case-inclusive total does not qualify. ANC, codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

1h2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Original footnote 8: drained earbuds charged 5 min, then play until first bud stops, ANC/Transparency off. Same April 2021 iPhone 11 Pro Max, 50% volume test. Earbud playback, not case-inclusive recharge runtime.

1h3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 27 approximately one hour after five-minute charge. Exact Japan feature page footnote independently specifies AAC, ANC on, DSEE/EQ off and all other functions default.10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Five-minute charge provides up to one hour, AAC/ANC on, DSEE/EQ off, other settings default. Earbuds-only playback.

Charging case

2 of 10 differ

Case batteryiCharging-case battery cell capacity. The source note distinguishes typical, rated and output capacity. USB output capacity alone does not qualify.

400mAh10Review52audio.com/archives/127308.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact original A2514 case cell AEC701346 label: rated 400 mAh, 1.52 Wh, 3.8 V. Cell capacity, not USB output capacity. Earbud M1254S2 energy 0.222 Wh is not converted to mAh. Fit Pro case 600 mAh is separate.

450mAh14Review52audio.com/archives/122319.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original June 20, 2022 exact WF-LS900N teardown: case label explicitly rated 450 mAh/1.732 Wh, nominal 3.85 V, SP 731834 pack. Earbud ZeniPower Z52H only 0.21 Wh/3.85 V is not converted to rounded mAh or replaced by 75 mAh aftermarket listings.

User-replaceable case batteryiThe maker documents normal case battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Case charging port

USB-C3Maker spec sheet (PDF)media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdfRead 5 October 2026

USB-C3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Case full charge timeiBy cable, 0 to 100 %. A time the maker gives with the earbuds inside the case counts, and the source note says so.

Not available

180min3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 165 case charging approximately three hours. Pages 24-25 define empty-to-full USB charging with supplied cable and a USB adapter able to supply at least 500 mA. Preliminary sheet calling earbuds three hours conflates the combined result.

Wireless charging

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Exact case charging section explicitly no wireless charging. Studio Buds+ case also lacks it, but not used as this model evidence.

No5Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/sony-linkbuds-sRead 5 October 2026Exact review explicitly states no wireless charging compatibility. USB-C case charging only.

Wireless standardsiDocumented case charging standards or supported chargers. Magnetic alignment alone does not establish Qi2 certification.

Not available

Not available

Wireless charging poweriHighest wireless charging input the maker states for the case. The output of a charging pad does not count.

Not available

Not available

Speaker in caseiAn audio speaker physically in the charging case, for locating or status sounds. A microphone in the case is separate.

Not available

Not available

Screen on case

Not available

Not available

Case works as audio transmitteriCase relays external source audio through USB or an analog audio input. A case microphone for recording or calls does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Controls

4 of 5 differ

ControlsiPressure is a force sensor that does not move, such as a stem you squeeze. Button is a key that moves when pressed.

Button, Voice commands1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Touch, Voice commands3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Earbud volume controliHow earbud controls adjust volume, including a voice command if supported. Phone or app controls alone do not qualify.

Buttons13Press article9to5mac.com/2022/01/25/latest-beats-studio-buds-firmware-update-enables-instant-pairing-via-icloud-and-new-volume-controlsRead 5 October 2026Contemporaneous exact original-model firmware report explicitly adds volume via side buttons, with left/right hold assignment after 10M359/1B56 update. It replaces the selected noise/assistant hold action. Preserved 2021 manual had voice volume only. Current firmware and compatible host settings required.

Touch3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 21 left consecutive taps lower and right raise music volume. Page 100 explicitly says call volume cannot be adjusted on the buds and must use phone/app.

Gestures

Single, double and triple button presses, Press and hold4Owner's manualdevice.report/m/778c98e9ca6c7c979f8dd49e8410673e55a830bf95016e018db0df3c9c00adad.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original manual single/double/triple presses and hold. Current maker support separately establishes later hold-volume remapping. No newer Plus mute-button feature inferred.

Single tap, Double tap, Triple tap, Four or more consecutive taps, Touch and hold3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 21 single, double, triple, four-or-more taps and hold. Consecutive-tap volume support is later firmware. No original LinkBuds wide-area skin taps copied.

Remappable controls

Yes1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Maker hold action can be remapped to noise control or voice assistant. Later firmware volume remapping is separately sourced. Merely disabling a control is not remapping.13Press article9to5mac.com/2022/01/25/latest-beats-studio-buds-firmware-update-enables-instant-pairing-via-icloud-and-new-volume-controlsRead 5 October 2026

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Voice assistant

Siri, Default Android voice assistant1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Siri3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 202610Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Sensors and health

2 of 9 differ

In-ear detection

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/beats-studio-buds-review-55281Read 5 October 2026Exact review explicitly music continues after one or both buds are removed. No in-ear detection claimed from button controls.

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 202610Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Sensors

Not available

Infrared wearing sensors, Motion sensor3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 13 identifies IR wearing sensors. Motion sensing is separately maker-published. A speech-detecting motion sensor is not claimed as dedicated bone-conduction pickup.8Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly identifies internal motion sensor for historical spatial application head tracking. Locatone integration ended April 21, 2025 and is not presented as a current service.14Review52audio.com/archives/122319.htmlRead 5 October 2026Teardown identifies optical wearing sensor and 5L1DR accelerometer. This does not establish bone/jaw speech-conduction pickup.

Heart rate sensor

Not available

Not available

Skin temperature sensingiA documented skin temperature sensor. This is separate from the operating temperature range or a heart-rate sensor.

Not available

Not available

Hearing aid featureiAmplification for mild to moderate hearing loss

Not available

Not available

Medical clearances

Not available

Not available

Hearing testiA documented hearing assessment feature, including consumer sound-personalization tests. Medical diagnostic clearance must be stated separately.

Not available

Not available

Hearing protectioniLimits sudden loud sounds

Not available

Not available

Health features

Not available

Not available

Fit and durability

3 of 7 differ

Ear tips includediTip sizes supplied with the product, including the pair fitted to the earbuds. Do not list separately sold sizes as included.

S, M, L1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

SS, S, M, LL3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026SS/S/M/LL, two of each, M preinstalled. Page 10 explicitly says L is not supplied and sold separately. Preliminary French sheet three S/M/L sizes is overruled by the original manual.

Ear tip materials

Silicone2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026

Silicone3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Hybrid silicone rubber is Sony naming for silicone construction, not proof of silicone/foam hybrid tips.

StabilisersiPhysical stabilizing fittings or structures. Stability bands are separate from fins, wings and ear hooks.

None17Reviewsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-2-vs-apple-airpods-3rd-generation-60919Read 7 October 2026Source explicitly distinguishes original Studio Buds from Fit Pro with wing tip. Inspected complete original maker render also shows stock compact buds without fins, hooks, clips or stabilization bands. Separately sold third-party silicone wings are not included fittings.18Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats-support/global/images/product-hero/set-up-and-use-beats-studio-buds.jpg.large.2x.jpgRead 7 October 2026Complete original black Studio Buds maker render inspected. Stock earbud contours have no stabilization wings, hooks or bands. Paired with explicit SoundGuys distinction from Fit Pro.

Not available

Ear tip fit test

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 17-18 app determines which supplied tips seal best. This is an acoustic fit test, not a hearing assessment.

Dust and water rating, buds

IPX41Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Earbuds only. Maker explicitly case not sweat or water resistant. No case IP code inferred.

IPX43Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 133 exact IPX4 equivalent for earbuds only. Sound conduits, air holes and microphone parts are not completely watertight. Case explicitly not water resistant. No case IP class inferred.

Dust and water rating, case

Not available

Not available

Water resistance depth

Not available

Not available

Software

2 of 6 differ

Companion app

Beats1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Sony | Sound Connect9Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact maker names Sound Connect, formerly Headphones Connect. Original manual old branding is retained only as historical source wording.12Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026Firmware page explicitly current Sony Sound Connect app. Latest update requires Android 10+ or iOS 16+ and app 12.3+.

App platforms

Android1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026

Android, iOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 34 and 120 explicitly Android/iPhone app setup. Current firmware update names Sony Sound Connect.

User firmware updates

Yes2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 118 explicitly software updates through companion app.12Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/software/00278794Read 5 October 2026

Finding network

Last location in the app1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Maker support and original launch release specify last connected location or a nearby sound. No offline crowdsourced Apple/Google network or case UWB inferred.

Last location in the app10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Current exact page describes last Android connection location/time using Google app after Fast Pair. Firmware adds new Find My Device support, but offline crowd-network eligibility is not explicit in the reopened exact documentation. Only proved last-location capability stored.

Precision findingiUWB in the case

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Live translation

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Dimensions and weight

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Weight per budiMass of one earbud. Tip size and approximate values belong in the source note. Do not store pair or case-inclusive mass.

5.1g(0.2 oz)2Press releasebeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats/web/press/beats-studio-buds/studio-buds-press-kit.zipRead 7 October 2026Page 1 explicitly gives 5.1 g per earbud. Saved Apple shop specification lists 5 g without decimal precision. More precise original maker claim retained. Tip/sample conditions unstated. Pair measured 10.3 g is not divided into measured per-bud mass.

4.8g(0.2 oz)2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximate 4.8 g per unit, with M tips confirmed by manual page 165.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 165 approximately 4.8 g each including M tips. Pair mass not stored as single-bud weight.

Bud dimensionsiDimensions of one earbud on the explicitly identified width, height and depth axes. An unlabeled tuple cannot establish those axes.

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Case weightiCharging case mass excluding earbuds. Case-inclusive product mass does not qualify unless the source explicitly gives the empty-case figure.

48g(1.7 oz)3Maker spec sheet (PDF)media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 4 explicitly gives 48 g case, 5 g each bud, 58 g total. Case component is excluding earbuds. Original maker launch 5.1 g bud claim is retained at greater precision. No pair-inclusive mass used.

35g(1.2 oz)3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 165 approximately 35 g charging case, excluding buds. SoundGuys 42 g in-case figure is not substituted.

Case dimensionsiCharging-case width, height and depth on explicitly identified source axes. Report conflicting axis labels rather than reorder a tuple by appearance.

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Certifications

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Hi-Res AudioiThe Japan Audio Society logos. Hi-Res Audio Wireless is also written Hi-Res Wireless Audio.

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Hi-Res Audio Wireless9Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact model Hi-Res Audio Wireless / LDAC conditions. DSEE Extreme upscales to 96 kHz/24 bit and does not establish accepted input bit depth by itself.17Maker spec sheet (PDF)boulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/4548736144873_f_0Read 5 October 2026

Communication certifications

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FCC IDs

BCGA2512, BCGA251311Owner's manualbeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats-support/global/product-safety-and-handling/studio-buds-gen1/studiobuds-sh-zm.pdfRead 7 October 2026Exact original-generation safety leaflet ZM034-04312-D, copyright 2022. 20-page PDF, English pages 1 to 5. PDF page 3 prints both earbud FCC IDs without hyphens. Case A2514 has EMC label but no listed FCC ID.

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Other certifications

ISED Canada 579C-A2512, ISED Canada 579C-A251311Owner's manualbeatsbydre.com/content/dam/beats-support/global/product-safety-and-handling/studio-buds-gen1/studiobuds-sh-zm.pdfRead 7 October 2026Explicit Canadian radio identifiers for original left/right earbuds A2512/A2513. Case A2514 is not assigned a radio identifier. Existing FCC IDs remain separate. This does not add Canadian retail SKU facts.

360 Reality Audio certified11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026

In the box

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In the box

Beats Studio Buds earbuds, Matching charging case, Silicone ear tips in S, M and L, USB-C to USB-C charging cable, Quick Start Guide, b logo sticker, Warranty card3Maker spec sheet (PDF)media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 3 lists cable, supplied S/M/L tips with medium preinstalled, Quick Start Guide, b logo sticker and warranty card. Matching case also explicitly described. Adapter not in published list.

LinkBuds S earbuds, Charging case, Hybrid silicone rubber ear tips (SS, S, M, LL pairs), USB-A to USB-C cable3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9 complete package list: earbuds, charging case, one USB-A/C cable and four pairs of hybrid silicone rubber tips. Manuals and warranty card observed in a regional teardown are not assigned to every international box.

Cables included

ABeats Studio Buds

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-C to USB-C	0.22	1

Source3Maker spec sheet (PDF)media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 3 names one USB-C to USB-C cable. Maker length is unstated. The exact original model review separately describes and tabulates its included 22 cm cable. Review market is unstated.9Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/beats-studio-budsRead 7 October 2026Reviewer explicitly describes included 22-centimetre USB-C to USB-C cable and publishes 22 cm in technical table. Converted to 0.22 m. Existing type/count preserved. This is the included original cable, not an optional replacement.

BSony LinkBuds S

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-A to USB-C cable	0.2	1

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9 approximately 20 cm USB-A to USB-C, one cable.

Links

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Product page

www.beatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-buds1Maker product pagebeatsbydre.com/support/earbuds/studio-budsRead 5 October 2026Exact original 2021 Studio Buds support remains live. The original product URL and linked setup article now redirect to Studio Buds+, whose hardware and later software features are not borrowed.

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_SRead 5 October 2026Exact Sony Japan LinkBuds S generation and current storefront. The smaller original open-ring LinkBuds WF-L900 and later LinkBuds Fit WF-LS910N are excluded.

Spec sheet

media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)media.distrelec.com/Web/Downloads/_t/ds/Apple_BeatsStudioBuds_eng_tds.pdfRead 5 October 2026Saved Apple technical specification for original Studio Buds. Title/photo Black, printed Apple US URL Red, same generation. Original product page now redirects to Plus. All 4 pages read. Maker publishes L/W/H axes, so dimensions are omitted instead of relabeled.

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.html2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/LinkBuds_S/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact maker specification table, read alongside current original 166-page manual. Proved driver diameter is 5 mm, but the physical per-bud transducer count is not explicitly stated. Optional driver table is omitted because its missing count would derive one.17Maker spec sheet (PDF)boulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/4548736144873_f_0Read 5 October 2026Original Sony France preliminary two-page product sheet, reopened from distributor. 5 mm dynamic and V1 agree. Three-tip S/M/L package, 3-hour earbud charge and 3 h 50 min call claims conflict with original manual and are rejected. Printed case axes 42.8 x 60 x 27.6 mm in width/height/depth order conflict with other maker tuple conventions, so case dimensions remain absent. Numeric diameter retained here without unsafe count-derived table.

Manual

device.report/m/778c98e9ca6c7c979f8dd49e8410673e55a830bf95016e018db0df3c9c00adad.pdf4Owner's manualdevice.report/m/778c98e9ca6c7c979f8dd49e8410673e55a830bf95016e018db0df3c9c00adad.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original Apple Support HT212254 French maker manual, published July 21, 2021 and printed August 18, 2021. Four-page original preserved by Coolblue/device.report, independently reopened in peer review. Original English mirror is currently inaccessible. Current HT212254 redirects to the newer Plus guide, which is excluded. No hardware or US box values are transferred from a regional manual.

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdf3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/linkbudss/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Exact original YY2950 / WF-LS900N 166-page Help Guide, current revision 5-035-792-11(8), copyright 2022.

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.

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Warranty

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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.

1year12Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/accessory-warranty-english.htmlRead 5 October 2026Official Apple accessory limited warranty explicitly includes Beats-branded hardware, one year from original retail purchase. Optional retailer coverage and consumer statutory rights are separate.

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Both are also in the API. Back to all earbuds.