Sony WF-C500: The Ultimate Budget Earbuds of 2023?

Key Highlights

• Despite being succeeded by newer models, the Sony WF-C500 earbuds still provide outstanding features for their price point.
• These compact, lightweight, and robust earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, enhanced by customizable presets and an EQ.
• Though the tactile physical buttons make control easy, the lack of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and Ambient Mode may lead some users to opt for the newer WF-C510s.

The budget earbuds market is quite saturated, with numerous brands offering products that often resemble one another. Except for a few newcomers like Nothing, Sony remains a key player with a significant influence in the space.

Over the years, Sony has released some standout models, including the WF-XB700, WF-C700N, and the newer WF-C510. However, if you’re seeking a more economical option, the Sony WF-C500 should be on your radar. They offer incredible value, particularly for those on a budget who refuse to compromise on sound quality, app connectivity, or long-lasting reliability.

Having used the Sony WF-C500 for more than two years, I can confidently say they remain my top budget choice. Despite competition from other models, here’s why they stand the test of time.

Let’s explore why the Sony WF-C500 earbuds continue to be relevant since their launch in 2021.

Sony WF-C500 – Quality Budget Earbuds That Impress

In evaluating budget earbuds, I prioritize audio quality, build, battery life, EQ options, weight, and user-friendly controls. I generally don’t expect higher-end features like active noise cancellation or ambient sound modes in this price range, so they won’t affect my decision.

As a somewhat clumsy user, I’m drawn to physical buttons, and the WF-C500 delivers with well-placed tactile controls. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive since I purchased these earbuds on sale two years ago.

TL;DR: I’ve been using the Sony WF-C500 for two years without issues.

Sony WF-C500 – Essential Features in Budget Earbuds

The Sony WF-C500 are among the first true wireless earbuds from the brand that primarily target budget-conscious consumers. Here are the aspects where they shine:

Outstanding Audio Quality

When prices drop below $100, audio quality expectations typically decrease. However, the WF-C500 defies this trend, offering clear sound without being overly bass-heavy or lacking refinement. I recommend using the Sony Headphones Connect app to tailor your sound experience, as it provides a range of presets and enhancements. Although not mandatory, utilizing the app can greatly enhance your listening experience.

In the realm of budget earbuds, sound quality often suffers as prices decrease. Thankfully, the WF-C500 maintains a respectable quality just above that threshold.

TL;DR: Excellent sound profile, customizable EQ settings, and it’s advisable to download the Sony Headphones Connect app.

Simple and Intuitive Controls

Touch controls have always been a hassle for me, often requiring significant adjustment. That’s why I appreciate the WF-C500; their tactile buttons are intuitively designed. Positioned perfectly at the center of the earbuds, they are easy to press even in tricky situations. I can comfortably use them while lying down without accidentally activating the buttons unless I’m very misaligned.

Here’s a breakdown of the controls for the Sony WF-C500:

You can select which Digital Assistant to activate through the Sony Headphones Connect app.

TL;DR: Physical buttons are very effective; the right earbud controls playback while the left manages volume, and either can handle calls.

Functional Yet Not Overloaded with Specs

The Sony WF-C500 may not boast an extensive list of specifications, but they cover the essentials well. Their lightweight design, snug fit, a variety of EQ options, and portable magnetic case make them a standout choice.

Here are the main specifications for the Sony WF-C500:

• Weight: 5.4g x 2
• Driver Size: 5.9mm
• DSEE: Yes
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000Hz (44.1 kHz sampling)
• Supported Audio Formats: SBS, AAC
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• IP Rating: IPX4 water-resistant
• Range: 10m
• Battery Life: Approximately 8 hours (advertised maximum 10 hours)
• Battery Charge Time: 2.5 hours
• Case Charge Time: 3 hours
• Available Colors: Orange, Green, White, and Black

While it lacks ANC or ambient sound features, this absence is somewhat of a relief since those functionalities typically underperform in this price range, which also inflates costs (looking at you, WF-C700N).

Comparing the Sony WF-C500 to Other Budget Earbuds

Given the crowded budget segment, there are many cheaper options vying for consumer attention, including fierce competition from brands like Nothing and its sub-brand CMF. While the CMF Buds and Buds Pro appeal to the sub-$50 market—albeit with some compromises—Nothing’s models have raised the bar for what can be achieved for under $100. In contrast, the Sony WF-C500 strikes a balance among price, quality, and durability, thanks in large part to its intuitive physical controls, sleek design, and robust build.

There is a known issue with the WF-C500 where one of the earbuds (typically the left one) may fail to charge and blink orange continuously. Luckily, I haven’t experienced this issue personally, allowing me to focus on their strengths. Some users have humorously suggested physically tossing or striking the malfunctioning earbud to fix it—a testament to how durable these earbuds can be.

TL;DR: While there are cheaper TWS earbuds with more features, the WF-C500 balances price and functionality well.

Final Verdict

As an audiophile, I highly recommend the Sony WF-C500 earbuds for their remarkable price-to-performance ratio.

Although Sony’s official store has launched the WF-C510s as the latest model, you can still find the WF-C500 available for around $50 on various e-commerce platforms if you’re lucky. The newer WF-C510s, released recently, come with significant upgrades, such as multipoint pairing and Ambient Sound mode, for just a bit more—approximately $60 on Sony’s website.

If you’re like me—someone who doesn’t prioritize ANC and multipoint pairing—snagging the WF-C500 while on sale is a fantastic choice.

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