Sony WI-C100 Wireless in-Ear Headphones Review


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Introducing the Sony WI-C100 Wireless Headphones with microphone! These Bluetooth earphones offer up to 25 hours of battery power, ensuring non-stop music enjoyment. Quick charging is also included for those on-the-go moments.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the excellent sound quality. With Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), compressed music files are restored closer to their original recording, resulting in a more immersive listening experience. Whether you’re a fan of rock, jazz, or classical music, these Sony wireless earbuds allow you to enjoy a personalised sound experience. Choose from a list of genre presets or create your own sound profile using the equaliser in the Sony Headphones Connect app.

Not only do these headphones offer great sound, but they are also designed to resist water splashes and sweat with their IPX4 water-resistant rating. No need to worry about rain ruining your music or your workout sessions.

Equipped with a built-in microphone, the WI-C100 allows you to enjoy clear and convenient hands-free calls. Additionally, these headphones offer seamless access to your preferred voice assistant, making it easier than ever to get the help you need.

While the WI-C100 Wireless Headphones have many appealing features, it’s important to note that there may be potential weaknesses to consider. For some, the 25-hour battery life may fall short compared to other models on the market. Additionally, the sound quality, although enhanced with the DSEE technology, may not match the performance of higher-end, more expensive options. Lastly, the IPX4 water-resistant rating may not be sufficient for those who require full waterproof protection for their headphones.

Overall, the Sony WI-C100 Wireless Headphones provide a solid wireless listening experience with a good balance of features. While they may not excel in every aspect, they offer convenience, customization, and durability at an affordable price point.

Key Technical Specifications:

  • Battery Power: Up to 25 hours
  • Charging: Quick charging
  • Sound Quality: Excellent
  • Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE): Restores compressed music files closer to their original recording
  • Sound Experience: Personalized sound presets or custom equalizer via the Sony Headphones Connect app
  • Water Resistance: IPX4
  • Mic Functions: Built-in
  • Hands-free Calls: Clear
  • Voice Assistant: Accessible

Sony WI-C100 Wireless Headphones: A Deep Dive into Features, Fit, and Competition

In the jam-packed arena of wireless headphones, Sony’s WI-C100 Wireless Headphones with a built-in microphone are making waves. But how do they stand against their peers from other tech giants? For the Aussie tech-enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive evaluation, buckle up as we dissect the ins and outs of these Bluetooth earbuds.

Battery Life and Quick Charging

Let’s kick things off with one of the WI-C100’s standout features: battery life. Offering up to 25 hours of playback time, the WI-C100 outshines several mid-range competitors such as the Beats Flex and JBL Tune 215BT, which generally max out at around 12 hours. Quick charging is a cherry on top — classic for Sony but a significant convenience nonetheless. However, these headphones fall short of premium options like Apple’s AirPods Pro, which boast wireless charging capabilities. It’s clear that the WI-C100 is geared towards users who prioritise longevity and constant connectivity over premium features.

Audio Quality and Customisation

The sound clarity on the WI-C100 benefits from Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE). This technology aims to restore the quality of compressed music files closer to their original state, ensuring a rich listening experience. While comparable to Bose’s SoundSport Wireless in delivering a stable and well-balanced audio output, the WI-C100 has its own unique charm with the equaliser customisation available through the Sony Headphones Connect app. This personalisation gives it an edge over some competitors, but audiophiles may still favour the unmatched clarity offered by high-end models like Sennheiser’s CX 400BT.

Durability and Water Resistance

Sporting an IPX4 water resistance rating, the WI-C100 can shrug off rain and sweat, making them a safer bet for fitness enthusiasts compared to Apple’s broader range of AirPods, which varies in water resistance. Nevertheless, it doesn’t hold a candle to the rugged durability of the Jaybird Tarah Pro, with its IPX7 rating, which offers stronger protection against heavy moisture and accidental drenching. Thus, the WI-C100 is best suited for regular commuters and casual joggers rather than hardcore athletes who might need sturdier endurance.

Hands-Free Functionality

Sony doesn’t skip on the modern essentials. With integrated microphone functions and compatibility with various voice assistants, the WI-C100 offers sizable competition to Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Live, providing clean, hands-free calling and smart assistant features. However, some users report that in noisy environments, call clarity isn’t as strong as that in competitors like the Jabra Elite 65t. This feature makes it a more fitting option for quieter settings or general casual use.

Who Should Opt for the WI-C100?

Overall, the Sony WI-C100 Wireless Headphones present a solid middle-ground offering in the wireless audio segment. Best suited for users looking for significant battery life, good audio customisation options, and dependable water resistance, these earbuds are perfect for everyday commuters, casual fitness enthusiasts, and those on a tighter budget. However, those needing top-notch call quality, superior water resistance, or extra premium features might find more value in some of Sony’s higher-tier models or competitors.

Price: 60.07

Posted by Matthew Miller

Matthew Miller is a Brisbane-based Consumer Technology Editor at Techbest covering breaking Australia tech news.