Introduction
Sony’s WF-SP800N earbuds stand at the intersection of sport-focused durability and active noise cancellation (ANC). Designed for fitness enthusiasts, these true wireless buds offer strong battery life, sweat resistance, and rich bass, while also delivering ANC and ambient sound modes for everyday use. Whether at the gym or on the go, they provide a compelling all-round audio solution.
Key Specifications
Release date: May 2020, with a launch price around $199
Battery life: Approximately 9 hours with ANC, 13 hours without; total 18 to 22 hours including the case
Ingress protection: IP55 rated, sweat and dust resistant
Bluetooth: Version 5.0, supports AAC and SBC codecs, includes Sony 360 Reality Audio
Design and Fit
The WF-SP800N features a secure fit with curved arc supporters and multiple ear tip sizes for stability during intense workouts. They are reasonably comfortable, though some users find them tight for long-term casual wear. The charging case is larger than what you’ll find with AirPods but offers sturdy protection for the earbuds.
Sound Performance and ANC
Sony tunes these earbuds with a bass-forward signature that suits high-energy workouts. Users can customize the EQ and ANC via the Sony Headphones Connect app, which also enables Smart Listening and Adaptive Sound Control.
Noise cancellation is present and effective for mid-to-high frequency noise but not as deep as Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM3. Still, ANC works well for reducing background distractions, and the ambient sound mode allows you to hear your surroundings when needed.
Connectivity and Controls
These earbuds pair using Bluetooth 5.0. There is no NFC or fast pairing feature, so users enter pairing mode manually using touch controls.
Touch controls handle playback, track skipping, ANC toggling, and voice assistant activation. While functional, some users report that the controls are not always responsive or consistent.
Battery Life and Charging
Sony claims battery life up to 9 hours with ANC on, and up to 13 hours without. The case provides one full additional charge, giving users a total of up to 18 hours with ANC and 26 without. A 10-minute quick charge gives about one hour of playback, making it convenient for workouts or travel.
Real World Use and Feedback
Reddit and forum users frequently highlight the strong battery life and secure fit, especially during exercise. One user noted:
“9-hour battery with ANC on. That’s very impressive.”
Many users appreciate the customizable sound experience and durability. Some feedback mentions that the touch controls can take some getting used to and that ANC, while helpful, is not as strong as premium models.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
Durable, sweat-resistant IP55 build with a secure in-ear fit
-
Long battery life with fast charging
-
Bass-heavy sound profile with support for 360 Reality Audio
-
Customizable ANC and ambient modes via app integration
Cons
-
ANC performance is decent but falls short of premium ANC earbuds
-
Touch controls may be inconsistent for some users
-
The charging case is relatively bulky
Best Use Cases
The WF-SP800N is best suited for gym-goers, runners, and anyone looking for rugged, feature-rich earbuds with decent noise cancellation. It’s also a solid option for commuting or casual listening, though serious audiophiles may lean toward Sony’s higher-end models.
Conclusion
Sony’s WF-SP800N earbuds offer a powerful blend of fitness-ready durability, deep bass, and flexible noise control at a competitive price. While not the most advanced in ANC, they are an excellent value for anyone seeking a sport-friendly, all-purpose audio solution with the convenience of wireless freedom.
No Comments