Compare Sony WF-C510 Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

Across reviews, the WF-C510 does not include active noise cancellation. Reviewers generally treat this as expected at the price and lean on fit-based isolation and ambient mode instead.

ANC is the main weakness. The open design limits sealing, so the effect is modest against chatter and steady noise and much less convincing against higher-frequency or sudden sounds, even if it appears somewhat improved over Buds 3.

Android compatibility is strong, and Galaxy phones get the most complete experience. Non-Samsung Android users still get meaningful control through Samsung's software, but the best extras remain Galaxy-first.

The Sony companion app is generally viewed as helpful for EQ, ambient controls, multipoint management, and feature toggles; a few reviewers find parts of the interface or specific tools confusing or limited.

Samsung's settings integration and Wearables app expose useful controls, EQ options, and ANC adjustments. The software feels feature-rich, though some advanced features stay exclusive to Galaxy phones.

Reviews that discuss codecs indicate there is no aptX support, reinforcing that these buds prioritize simple compatibility over advanced codec features.

Where discussed, reviewers report good lip-sync for videos and casual gaming, with no dedicated gaming mode but acceptable performance for non-competitive use.

Bass is described as present and clean, but not the deepest or most powerful by default. Many reviewers recommend EQ tweaks for more punch; a few still consider it insufficient for bass-heavy preferences.

Bass is a standout strength, with reviewers repeatedly calling it punchy, warm, and satisfyingly deep for an open-fit earbud. It is not as textured as the Pro model, but it gives the Buds 4 a lively, full sound.

Per-charge endurance is a standout: many reviewers cite roughly 10 to 11 hours from the earbuds, while the case typically adds about one additional charge. Enabling ambient/transparency or enhancement features can reduce runtime.

Battery life is acceptable rather than exceptional at roughly 5 to 6 hours from the buds and up to 30 hours with the case. Reviewers treat endurance as serviceable, not a category advantage.

Bluetooth stability is mostly reported as dependable, with occasional notes of minor jitters in challenging areas but generally quick reconnection and predictable pairing behavior.

Connectivity looks strong overall, helped by Bluetooth 6.1 and solid range in real-world use. The bigger limitation is not dropouts but that the smartest switching behavior is mostly reserved for Samsung-centric setups.

Build quality is often described as budget-plastic. Earbuds are usually seen as fine for the price, while the case and hinges draw the most complaints about cheap feel or durability impressions.

Build and finish are seen as more refined than the previous generation, with a more polished stem design and cleaner execution. The Buds 4 feel premium enough for the price, though not especially rugged.

Physical button controls are polarizing. Some reviewers like the tactile reliability and customization, while others dislike multi-press complexity, volume-control ergonomics, or the way pressing can push the buds deeper.

The case is widely considered compact and pocketable, but multiple reviewers note it feels cheap and offers limited extra battery (often one additional full charge).

The case earns positive marks for its flatter layout, translucent lid, and practical physical pairing button. It feels useful and better thought out than a generic accessory shell.

Charging is generally described as straightforward via the case, with fast-charge claims mentioned and mixed notes on case recharge speed depending on reviewer expectations.

Codec support is consistently described as limited to SBC and AAC, positioning the WF-C510 as a straightforward streaming-focused option rather than a hi-res Bluetooth pick.

Comfort is a frequent strength: many reviewers cite an ultra-light feel and all-day wearability, though a minority report fit instability during movement depending on ear shape and tip choice.

Comfort is one of the Buds 4's biggest wins, especially for listeners who prefer open-fit earbuds or have smaller ears. The only caveat is that the looser fit can require occasional readjustment.

Design feedback is favorable overall: slimmer stems, a cleaner case, and a more polished look improve the presentation. The main knock is that the styling still feels very close to Apple's template.

Reviews commonly note three ear tip sizes in the box, supporting fit adjustments for different ears.

EQ customization is consistently highlighted as a value-add, including manual adjustment and Sony-guided personalization tools. Some reviews call the EQ limited in precision, while others find it effective for tuning bass or clarity.

EQ flexibility is unusually strong for mainstream earbuds, with both a multi-band equalizer and preset options available. This gives listeners real room to tailor the sound signature.

Some reviews highlight location and recovery-style features via platform pairing tools (for example, last-known location and bud chimes through connected-device ecosystems), though this is not emphasized by all sources.

Most reviews mention multiple tip sizes included; several explicitly note no USB-C cable in the box, framing it as a typical cost-cutting choice.

The Buds 4 separate vocals, synths, percussion, and layered mixes well for the class. They are not hyper-analytical, but they rarely sound congested or smeared.

Multiple reviews explicitly note the absence of LDAC, with some pointing to pricier Sony models for hi-res codec needs.

At higher volumes, clarity is generally maintained without obvious distortion, but some reviewers report bass thinning or reduced impact as volume rises.

Background noise suppression on calls is frequently criticized, with multiple reviewers noting poor performance in busy offices, streets, or windy conditions, while a few report it holding up reasonably in moderate noise.

Noise reduction during calls performs better than expected and can suppress loud background noise effectively. The tradeoff is that strong processing can make the speaker sound a bit digitized.

Call microphone quality is mixed: acceptable or clear in quieter situations for some reviewers, but several report thinness, artifacts, or inconsistent intelligibility when background noise increases.

Call quality is good in quiet spaces and usable in noisier ones, but it is not best-in-class. Voices remain understandable, though they can sound slightly muffled or processed compared with stronger premium rivals.

Midrange clarity is often praised, with vocals and instruments described as crisp and well-presented for everyday listening, podcasts, and video content.

Midrange tuning is clear and well judged, keeping vocals and core instruments present even with the Buds 4's fuller bass. This helps the earbuds sound richer than many entry-level competitors.

Basic listening works across devices, but the overall experience is plainly Samsung-centric. iPhone users and people mixing Apple, Windows, and Galaxy hardware lose access to several of the best features.

Multipoint connectivity is widely praised as reliable and convenient, often highlighted as a standout value feature for quickly switching between two devices.

Automatic switching is strongest inside the Galaxy ecosystem and notably less convenient elsewhere. Mixed-device users should expect more manual intervention than they would want at this price.

Passive isolation is repeatedly praised as impressive for a non-ANC model, with multiple reviewers describing a strong seal that blocks a meaningful amount of outside noise.

Passive isolation is weak because the open design does not create a proper seal. That physical limitation is a big reason the ANC never becomes truly class-competitive.

Preset EQ options are seen as useful but not uniformly loved: some reviewers appreciate the variety, while others describe presets as bland or not very distinct.

Several reviews note the lack of wear-detection sensors, meaning audio does not automatically pause when you remove the buds.

Setup and day-to-day usability are mostly simple, but recurring friction points include control-mapping constraints, occasional app quirks, and volume-control workflows that some reviewers find unintuitive.

Setup and customization are straightforward on Galaxy phones and still manageable on other Android devices through Wearables. The biggest friction comes from Galaxy-only options rather than a confusing interface.

Sound quality is typically rated as very good for the price, with frequent mentions of clean clarity and an enjoyable, balanced-to-bright presentation. Bass impact is considered adequate for most, but bass-focused listeners may want more.

Sound quality is the clearest reason to buy the Buds 4. Across the reviews, the earbuds are praised for rich tuning, strong bass, clear vocals, and a presentation that beats many direct price rivals.

Soundstage impressions are generally positive for the class, with some reviewers noting a wider or more open feel especially when using spatial features, though it is not consistently described as audiophile-level expansive.

For everyday earbuds, the Buds 4 sound fairly open and spacious, especially with higher-quality Galaxy playback modes enabled. They do not sound huge, but they avoid the boxed-in feel common at this tier.

Spatial audio/360 Reality Audio support is a notable bonus for the price. Reviewer reactions vary: some find it immersive for certain content, while others consider it gimmicky or unnatural for music.

Spatial audio is present as a headline feature, but clear enthusiasm is limited. It adds another box to the feature list more than it defines the Buds 4 listening experience.

Stability is often described as strong, with several reviewers comfortable using the buds for workouts or commuting; at least one reviewer experienced buds loosening or falling out, suggesting fit is user-dependent.

Fit stability is acceptable for regular daily use, but the open shape can shift enough to require adjustment. This is not the best pick for people who prioritize a locked-in feel.

Touch and stem-based controls are a strength. Reviewers repeatedly call them easy to locate, responsive, and customizable, with the flatter stem helping usability.

Transparency/ambient mode is usually described as usable and fairly natural for situational awareness, though strength varies by reviewer and may be limited for full conversations in louder settings.

Treble is commonly characterized as clear and sometimes forward or bright, with some reviewers noting a bit of crunch or reduced sparkle depending on track and settings.

Treble comes through cleanly with good detail and vocal presence. Reviewers do not describe it as harsh or thin, which helps the Buds 4 avoid sounding brittle despite their lively tuning.

USB-C charging is repeatedly confirmed. Wireless charging is commonly noted as missing.

Voice assistant support is solid on paper, with access to Bixby and Gemini plus Galaxy-focused conveniences. It adds real hands-free utility, even if reviewers do not treat it as the product's main selling point.

Overall loudness is usually described as sufficient, though a few reviewers note a low default volume behavior or a need to raise app-level volume settings, especially in noisy environments.

Water resistance is consistently listed as IPX4, generally positioned as enough for sweat and light rain but not for submersion.

IP54 is enough for sweat and light splashes, making the Buds 4 workable for everyday workouts and commuting. Still, the rating is not especially rugged and is a downgrade from tougher earlier protection.

Weight is repeatedly called out as a key advantage, with multiple reviews emphasizing how light the buds feel in-ear and how that supports long sessions.