Sony LinkBuds Clip Open Earbuds review: The perfect blend of audio and ambient awareness

Shopping | ES Best Home | Gadgets & Tech | AudioSony LinkBuds Clip Open Earbuds review: The perfect blend of audio and ambient awarenessAny Londoner knows you need to keep your wits about you on the capital’s busy streets. Can Sony’s new earbuds let you exist in two worlds at once? Abha Shah puts them to the test The Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.SonyAbha Shah @brimfulofashah1 minute agoSign up for our free weekly newsletter for hot deals, best buys and expert reviewsSign upI would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice.Living in the centre of London is a privilege, no doubt. Museums, shops, bars, markets, all a stone’s throw away — buzz on tap. A downside? The traffic. Even with a congestion charge that’s supposed to limit numbers, the roads throng around the clock. And let’s not forget the swarms of cyclists and scooters whizzing past inches away from the pavement.One way to block out the din? Headphones. While ANC (that’s Active Noise Cancelling) is an audio feature that’s most prized amongst die-hard users, blocking off an essential sense isn’t exactly the best idea when you’re darting through busy city streets. If you’re a pedestrian, you need to keep your wits about you. The number of close calls I’ve seen on my walk to the office can attest to that. Read MoreUltimate Ears Miniroll speaker review: This tiny speaker offers field-filling soundBest open-ear headphones for immersive listening with environmental awarenessBest ear protection for concerts and festivals: Top picks for 2025It’s why, despite years of using traditional headphones, open clip earbuds have become an essential in my handbag. The speakers sit beside the ear canal rather than wedged inside of it, so you can hear music clearly while remaining aware of ambient street noise. What you sacrifice in full-blown immersion, you get bac...