Compare Sony WF-C510 Earbuds vs OnePlus Buds 3

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 performance is good for the price but not unanimous: several reviews call it strong in Max/Smart modes, while others describe it as average or clearly behind key rivals. Expect solid low-frequency reduction, with more variance on mid/high chatter and wind. Most reviewers note multiple ANC strength options (Mild/Moderate/Max plus Smart/adaptive). Smart can be handy, but lower settings may feel much weaker than Max and the adaptive shifts are not always obvious.

Android support is strong thanks to Fast Pair, broad feature access in HeyMelody, and LHDC availability on compatible phones. Non-OnePlus Android devices may need the app for full control.

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.

The HeyMelody app (or OnePlus system settings) delivers broad control over modes, EQ, and features. Experiences range from polished and fast to occasionally glitchy, especially when the app fails to detect the buds reliably.

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.

Video lip-sync and general A/V timing are typically good, and low-latency/game modes help in demanding scenarios. Some gaming use can still show slight delay in fast shooters depending on device and settings.

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 defining trait: often described as powerful and punchy, sometimes even thunderous. Whether it is a plus or a minus depends on your taste, and several reviews suggest using EQ/BassWave to moderate it.

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.

Real-world battery is usually around 6.5 to 7 hours with ANC on and closer to 10 hours with ANC off, matching most manufacturer claims. Heavy feature stacking (ANC + LHDC + spatial) can noticeably reduce runtime.

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

Baseline Bluetooth stability is generally solid in everyday use, with rare reports of app-connection hiccups or slower initial pairing rather than persistent dropouts.

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 quality is generally good for the price, with solid fit and finish and durable day-to-day handling. A few reviewers flag that the buds are not especially rugged or that glossy parts show wear like fingerprints.

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.

Control mapping is flexible in the app and most gestures work reliably. A few reviews dislike the lack of pressure-squeeze controls or note that default mappings may require customization to feel complete.

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 is typically described as compact and pocketable with a decent hinge and finish. A few reviews call the plastic feel less premium or note it can be a bit slippery when removing buds.

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.

Charging is fast and generally reliable, with quick-charge behavior repeatedly mentioned. The main downside is the lack of wireless charging on the case.

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.

Codec support is strong for the tier (SBC/AAC plus LHDC 5.0) and generally works well. However, some testing suggests very high LHDC bitrates can be unstable and can cost battery.

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 a consistent strength: the buds are lightweight and many reviewers report long-session comfort. Fit can feel slightly loose for some ears, so tip selection matters.

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

The box typically includes three tip sizes, which covers most ears but not all; some reviewers wish for extra-large tips or more varied options.

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 support is a major strength: multiple presets plus a custom multi-band EQ are widely praised for meaningful tuning, though a minority say changes can feel subtle depending on the preset and listening habits.

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.

Find My features are typically audio-based (playing a sound) rather than full location tracking. Useful for nearby couch-cushion situations, less helpful for true lost-and-gone scenarios.

Frequency response out of the box is commonly described as V-shaped rather than neutral. With the right preset or custom EQ, several reviewers say it can get much closer to balanced listening.

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.

Instrument separation is often praised for this class, helped by the dual-driver design and tuning tools. Not every review calls it exceptional, but most agree it is above average at the price.

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

LDAC is not supported; multiple reviews point to LHDC as the hi-res option instead. If you specifically want LDAC, this model is a mismatch.

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

Clarity at high volume is good overall, though several reviews warn that treble can get harsh or sibilant when pushed toward the top end of the volume range.

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.

Background-noise handling on calls is frequently praised, with several reviews noting strong suppression of chatter and environmental sounds. Wind handling is good but not universally perfect across all reports.

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 often rated very good for the price, with voices coming through clearly. A minority describe it as merely adequate rather than class-leading.

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

Midrange presence is generally decent but can feel recessed compared to the bass and treble in the default tuning. Some reviewers find vocals clear, while others want more natural mid emphasis.

Cross-platform support is better than many budget buds: iOS users get the app and most core features, but hi-res codec advantages and some behaviors may vary by device ecosystem.

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

Multipoint is frequently highlighted as a standout convenience feature, with several reviewers calling it excellent or flawless for switching between two devices. Using multipoint can reduce available hi-res bandwidth on some setups.

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.

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.

Preset profiles are generally useful (with some reviewers preferring certain presets as closer to balanced). Bass-leaning presets and BassWave can be fun but may not satisfy listeners chasing a reference curve.

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

Wear detection and other sensors generally work as expected for pausing, mode toggles, and personalization tests, though performance can vary by ear fit and configuration.

Glossy or chrome-like surfaces tend to pick up fingerprints and smudges, which multiple reviewers call out. The case finish is often less prone to marks than the earbuds.

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 is usually straightforward with Fast Pair on Android, but a few reviewers report slower pairing or extra friction when installing/using HeyMelody on non-OnePlus phones.

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.

Overall sound quality is widely considered strong for the price, with an energetic, consumer-friendly tuning and plenty of detail for casual listening. A few reviewers still categorize it as merely good-not-great versus flagship sets.

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.

Soundstage is generally moderate with a sense of space that improves with spatial modes, but it is not universally described as wide or holographic in standard stereo playback.

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 or 3D audio is polarizing: some reviewers find it immersive and a big value add, while others call it underwhelming or artificial, and it may not behave consistently across apps/devices.

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.

Stability in the ear is good for most users and workouts, but not perfect: a handful of reviews mention needing occasional readjustment, especially with sweat or a looser seal.

Touch and swipe controls are generally responsive and feature-rich (including volume gestures). Some users report occasional mis-taps or finicky behavior when moving or when the touch area is hard to locate.

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.

Transparency generally sounds natural and usable, but quality varies: some find it close to best-in-class for conversations, while others say it still muffles speech or is not clearly better than ANC.

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 is usually described as lively and detailed, though it can become sharp, sibilant, or fatiguing at higher volumes for some listeners.

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

USB-C charging is standard and consistently present across reviews, with no major complaints about the port itself.

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.

Maximum loudness is a frequent positive: many reviewers note it gets very loud without needing to push the volume far. This helps in noisy environments but can tempt unsafe listening levels.

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

The IP55 dust and water rating is a meaningful plus for rain and sweat, and reviewers generally treat it as dependable for everyday exercise. It is not intended for submersion.

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.