When we reviewed, Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM3 we ranked it as one of the best true wireless earbuds last year. The newly unveiled WF-XB700 ($130) is a new entry in Sony’s Extra Bass lineup. This is a range of devices that promise more low-end tone for those who crave it and won’t come with high-end features like active noise cancelling. In general, Extra Bass headphones offer a collection of handy features, but at a price that’s more affordable than those powerful and pricey 1000X devices.
They last for up to nine hours on a single charge, with the battery case getting you another nine hours for 18 total. And they’ve got an IPX4 water and sweat resistance rating, so they should be able to handle your workouts and the occasional run in the rain. The earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0, and each one establishes an individual connection to your phone. For codecs, Sony is supporting AAC and SBC. The XB700s will be available this month in black and blue color options. You’re not getting any kind of noise cancellation in these, though; for that, you’ll still need to step up to Sony’s flagship pair of earbuds.
The design of the WF-XB700 is also unique. Instead of a primarily oval shape, or a larger rectangular shell like the WF-1000XM3, Sony opted for a “Tri-hold” construction that it says is more ergonomic and comfortable. With a more contoured form, the buds hit your ears in three places, which the company also says will help keep them from wiggling loose. If you want to take these on a run or wear them during a workout, they’re IPX4-rated against water splashes and sweat, so you shouldn’t have issues with a modest amount of moisture.
There’s no word on shipping right now, but Sony says the WF-XB700 will be available for pre-order this month in black and blue color options.
