Audio T Verdict
The Sony WF-C510 concentrate on the features that make the biggest difference during everyday listening. They are compact, light and easy to operate, with useful battery life, dependable Bluetooth connectivity and a charging case small enough to carry without giving it much thought.
Sony's 6mm drivers and well-balanced tuning are supported by DSEE processing, which is designed to recover some of the detail lost from compressed music. The Sony Sound Connect app adds EQ customisation, while Multipoint Connection allows the earbuds to remain paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
They do not include active noise cancellation, but Ambient Sound Mode and Voice Focus can help you remain aware of your surroundings. For music, calls, commuting, exercise and general portable listening, the WF-C510 offer a strong collection of genuinely useful features without making everyday operation unnecessarily complicated.
Ambient Sound Mode Is Not Noise Cancellation
The WF-C510 include Ambient Sound Mode to help you hear more of your surroundings. They do not include active noise cancellation, so they are better suited to listeners who value awareness and simplicity rather than maximum isolation from external noise.
Sony WF-C510 Truly Wireless Earbuds
The Sony WF-C510 are compact closed-type true wireless earbuds designed for music, calls, commuting, exercise and everyday portable listening.
Each earbud weighs approximately 4.6g with the medium ear tip fitted. Their rounded shape and reduced surface area are designed to provide a comfortable fit, while the small cylindrical charging case slips easily into a pocket or bag.
Bluetooth 5.3 provides wireless connectivity, with support for SBC and AAC audio formats. Sony also includes Multipoint Connection, Ambient Sound Mode, hands-free calling, app-based EQ adjustment and compatibility with 360 Reality Audio.
- Compact true wireless earbuds
- Closed acoustic design
- 6mm dynamic drivers
- 20Hz to 20kHz Bluetooth frequency response
- Sony DSEE processing
- Well-balanced sound tuning
- Sony Sound Connect app compatibility
- Customisable EQ presets
- 360 Reality Audio certified
- Bluetooth 5.3
- SBC and AAC audio support
- Multipoint Connection
- Ambient Sound Mode
- Voice Focus
- Hands-free calling
- Google and Siri voice-assistant access
- Google Fast Pair
- Microsoft Swift Pair
- Spotify Tap through Quick Access
- Single-earbud operation
- IPX4 water resistance
- Up to 11 hours of earbud playback
- Up to 22 hours with the charging case
- Five-minute quick charging
- Approximately 4.6g per earbud
- Approximately 31g charging case
- Black, White, Blue and Yellow finishes
Compact and Lightweight Design
The WF-C510 have been designed to occupy less space within and around the ear than a larger true wireless design.
Each earbud weighs approximately 4.6g when fitted with the medium ear tip. Reducing weight and surface area helps make the earbuds less intrusive during longer listening sessions, commuting, exercise and calls.
The matching charging case weighs approximately 31g and uses a small cylindrical design intended to fit comfortably inside a pocket or bag.
Finding the Right Fit
Fit has a direct effect on the comfort and sound of any in-ear headphone. A suitable ear tip should create a secure seal without producing uncomfortable pressure.
If the seal is too loose, bass response can be reduced and the earbuds may move during use. If it is too tight, the earbuds may become uncomfortable during longer listening sessions.
Take Time to Check the Ear Tips
Try the supplied ear tips and check both ears independently. It is perfectly normal to need a different ear-tip size in each ear if that provides a more secure and comfortable fit.
6mm Dynamic Drivers
Each WF-C510 earbud contains a 6mm dynamic driver.
Sony specifies a Bluetooth frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz at 44.1kHz sampling and describes the tuning as well balanced across low and high frequencies, with a particular emphasis on natural and clear vocals.
The final balance will also depend on ear-tip fit, listening volume, EQ settings and the quality of the connected source.
Digital Sound Enhancement Engine
Compressed music files can lose some of the high-frequency information present in the original recording.
Sony's Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, or DSEE, is designed to restore some of this lost information during playback, helping compressed music sound closer to the original source.
DSEE is particularly relevant when listening to compressed streamed music, downloaded files and other everyday digital sources.
Sony Sound Connect App
The WF-C510 can be used with the Sony Sound Connect app on compatible smartphones.
The app provides access to sound and shortcut settings, customisable EQ presets and recent listening information. This allows the tonal balance to be adjusted without relying entirely on the factory setting.
Listeners can keep the original Sony tuning or experiment with the EQ options to suit different music, hearing preferences and ear-tip fits.
360 Reality Audio Certified
The WF-C510 are certified for Sony's 360 Reality Audio format.
When used with the Sony Sound Connect app, compatible services and suitable content, the system can analyse the shape of the listener's ears to create a more personalised immersive presentation.
Standard stereo music remains fully compatible and does not require 360 Reality Audio.
Up to 11 Hours from the Earbuds
Sony specifies up to 11 hours of continuous music playback with Ambient Sound Mode switched off.
With Ambient Sound Mode operating, the specified maximum falls to approximately eight hours. Continuous communication time is rated at up to five hours.
Actual battery life will vary according to listening volume, Bluetooth conditions, sound settings, call use and other operating factors.
Up to 22 Hours with the Charging Case
The charging case provides another 11 hours of listening under Sony's stated conditions, taking the maximum combined listening time to approximately 22 hours.
Returning the earbuds to the case between listening sessions allows their batteries to recharge without connecting the case to mains power each time.
Earbuds and Case Battery Life
The quoted 22-hour figure combines up to 11 hours from the fully charged earbuds with another 11 hours supplied by the charging case. It does not mean the earbuds themselves will play continuously for 22 hours without being returned to the case.
Five-Minute Quick Charging
If the battery is running low, a five-minute quick charge can provide up to one hour of additional playback.
This can be particularly useful before leaving home, starting a commute or joining a call when there is not enough time for a complete recharge.
Sony specifies an approximate earbud charging time of 1.5 hours and an approximate USB charging time of three hours for the case.
Multipoint Connection
Multipoint Connection allows the WF-C510 to be paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
For example, the earbuds can be connected to a computer for music or video while remaining ready to receive a call from a smartphone. Music on the first device can pause when a call arrives on the second, before resuming once the call has ended.
This can be especially useful when working from home or regularly moving between a personal phone, work phone, tablet and computer.
Ambient Sound Mode
Ambient Sound Mode uses the earbuds' microphones to capture and pass through more external sound.
It can be helpful when you need to remain aware of traffic, announcements, conversations or other activity around you without continually removing the earbuds.
The amount of environmental awareness still depends on the selected settings, listening volume, ear-tip seal and surrounding conditions.
Voice Focus
Voice Focus works alongside Ambient Sound Mode and is intended to make human voices easier to hear while reducing some other background sound.
This can be useful when listening for an announcement or briefly speaking to somebody without removing both earbuds.
Physical Button Controls
The WF-C510 use physical buttons rather than relying entirely on touch-sensitive surfaces.
The buttons provide control over common functions including:
- Playing and pausing music
- Skipping tracks
- Adjusting volume
- Answering calls
- Ending calls
- Accessing a compatible voice assistant
- Using supported Quick Access functions
Physical controls can be easier to locate by touch and can help reduce accidental commands when adjusting the position of an earbud.
Quick Access and Spotify Tap
Quick Access provides a shortcut to compatible music services without requiring you to navigate through the app on your smartphone first.
The WF-C510 support Spotify Tap, allowing compatible Spotify playback to be accessed using the earbud controls.
Hands-Free Calling
A built-in microphone supports compatible hands-free telephone and online calls.
Calls can be answered using the earbud controls without taking the connected phone from a pocket or bag. Call clarity will depend on the Bluetooth connection, network quality, surrounding noise and microphone position.
Voice Assistant Access
The WF-C510 can provide button-operated access to Google or Siri on compatible connected devices.
This allows supported voice commands to be used for music playback, calls, messages, questions, calendar functions and reminders without navigating through the phone manually.
Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is handled by Bluetooth 5.3, with a specified effective range of approximately 10 metres under suitable conditions.
Sony's transmission system sends audio to the left and right earbuds simultaneously rather than relaying the signal from one earbud to the other. Combined with the optimised antenna design, this is intended to provide a stable and reliable connection.
Walls, wireless congestion, the connected device and other environmental factors can reduce the effective range.
SBC and AAC Audio Support
The WF-C510 support SBC and AAC Bluetooth audio formats.
This provides broad compatibility with smartphones, tablets, computers and other common Bluetooth sources. The codec used during playback will depend on the capabilities and settings of the connected device.
Google Fast Pair
Google Fast Pair is designed to simplify the connection process with compatible Android devices.
The earbuds can be paired through an on-screen prompt, while supported finding functions can help locate an earbud by making it ring when it is nearby.
Microsoft Swift Pair
Swift Pair provides similarly straightforward pairing with compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers and tablets.
When pairing mode is selected, nearby compatible Windows devices can display an on-screen prompt to complete the connection.
Use Either Earbud Independently
Either earbud can be removed from the charging case and used independently.
Single-earbud operation is useful when listening to a call, podcast or other content while keeping one ear completely free to hear the surrounding environment.
IPX4 Water Resistance
The earbuds carry an IPX4 water-resistance rating, providing protection against splashes and sweat during normal use.
This makes them suitable for everyday exercise and use in light rain, provided they are handled in accordance with Sony's instructions.
Water Resistant Does Not Mean Waterproof
An IPX4 rating protects against splashes and sweat. The WF-C510 should not be submerged, used while swimming or treated as fully waterproof.
Recycled Materials and Plastic-Free Packaging
Sony uses recycled plastic within the WF-C510 earbuds and states that no plastic is included in the individual product packaging.
The WF-C510 are available in Black, White, Blue and Yellow finishes.
Who Are the Sony WF-C510 For?
The WF-C510 are particularly well suited to listeners looking for:
- Compact and lightweight true wireless earbuds
- Everyday music and podcast listening
- Wireless calls and online meetings
- Earbuds for commuting and travel
- IPX4 protection for exercise
- Long earbud battery life
- Quick charging
- Connection to two Bluetooth devices
- Awareness of surrounding sound
- App-based EQ adjustment
- Simple physical button controls
- Broad Android, Apple and Windows compatibility
Who Might Need a Different Model?
The WF-C510 may not be the right choice if active noise cancellation is a priority, if you require higher-resolution Bluetooth formats such as LDAC or aptX, or if you prefer an over-ear design rather than earbuds that sit inside the ear.
Fit is also personal. Anyone who finds conventional in-ear headphones uncomfortable may prefer to consider an alternative earbud shape or a lightweight on-ear or over-ear model.
Key Features
- True wireless design
- Closed headphone type
- 6mm dynamic drivers
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- DSEE processing
- Sony Sound Connect app
- Customisable EQ presets
- 360 Reality Audio certified
- Bluetooth 5.3
- SBC audio support
- AAC audio support
- Multipoint Connection
- Ambient Sound Mode
- Voice Focus
- Physical button controls
- Hands-free calling
- Voice-assistant access
- Spotify Tap support
- Google Fast Pair
- Microsoft Swift Pair
- Single-earbud operation
- IPX4 water resistance
- Up to 11 hours of earbud playback
- Up to 22 hours with the charging case
- Five-minute quick charging
- Approximately 4.6g per earbud
- Approximately 31g charging case
- Four available colours
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Sony WF-C510?
The Sony WF-C510 are compact true wireless in-ear headphones designed for music, calls, commuting, exercise and everyday portable listening.
Do the Sony WF-C510 have active noise cancellation?
No. The WF-C510 do not include active noise cancellation. They instead provide Ambient Sound Mode, which is designed to help you hear more of your surroundings.
What is Ambient Sound Mode?
Ambient Sound Mode uses the earbuds' microphones to pass through more external sound. It can help you remain aware of traffic, announcements, conversations and other activity without removing the earbuds.
What is Voice Focus?
Voice Focus works with Ambient Sound Mode and is designed to make nearby human voices easier to hear while reducing some other surrounding sound.
How long does the Sony WF-C510 battery last?
Sony specifies up to 11 hours of music playback with Ambient Sound Mode switched off or up to eight hours with Ambient Sound Mode operating.
How much total listening time does the charging case provide?
The earbuds provide up to 11 hours of playback, with another 11 hours available from the charging case. This gives a maximum combined listening time of approximately 22 hours under Sony's stated conditions.
Do the Sony WF-C510 support quick charging?
Yes. A five-minute quick charge can provide up to one hour of additional music playback.
How long do the Sony WF-C510 take to charge?
The earbuds take approximately 1.5 hours to charge. Sony specifies an approximate USB charging time of three hours for the charging case.
What is Multipoint Connection?
Multipoint Connection allows the WF-C510 to remain paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. For example, you can listen to music from a computer while remaining ready to receive a call from your smartphone.
Can the Sony WF-C510 connect to two devices at once?
Yes. The WF-C510 support Multipoint Connection for simultaneous pairing with two compatible Bluetooth devices.
Which Bluetooth version do the Sony WF-C510 use?
The WF-C510 use Bluetooth 5.3 and have a specified effective wireless range of approximately 10 metres under suitable conditions.
Which Bluetooth audio formats do the WF-C510 support?
Sony lists support for SBC and AAC Bluetooth audio. LDAC and aptX are not listed as supported formats for the WF-C510.
What is Sony DSEE?
Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, or DSEE, is designed to restore some of the high-frequency information lost when music is compressed, helping compatible digital music sound closer to the original source.
Can the sound of the WF-C510 be adjusted?
Yes. The Sony Sound Connect app provides access to sound settings and customisable EQ presets, allowing the tonal balance to be adjusted to suit your preferences.
Do the Sony WF-C510 support 360 Reality Audio?
Yes. The WF-C510 are certified for 360 Reality Audio and can provide a personalised experience with the Sony Sound Connect app, compatible services and suitable content.
Can the Sony WF-C510 be used with an iPhone?
Yes. The WF-C510 can connect to compatible iPhones through Bluetooth and support the AAC audio format commonly used by Apple devices.
Can the Sony WF-C510 be used with Android devices?
Yes. The WF-C510 support standard Bluetooth connectivity and Google Fast Pair for quicker pairing with compatible Android devices.
Can the Sony WF-C510 connect to a Windows computer?
Yes. The earbuds can connect to a compatible Windows computer through Bluetooth. Microsoft Swift Pair provides on-screen pairing assistance with compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.
Can either Sony WF-C510 earbud be used independently?
Yes. Either earbud can be removed from the charging case and used independently, allowing you to keep one ear completely free.
Are the Sony WF-C510 suitable for phone calls?
Yes. The earbuds include a built-in microphone and support compatible hands-free telephone and online calls.
Do the Sony WF-C510 support voice assistants?
Yes. The earbud buttons can provide access to Google or Siri on compatible connected devices.
Do the Sony WF-C510 have touch controls?
No. The WF-C510 use physical buttons for music playback, track selection, volume, calls, voice-assistant access and other compatible functions.
Do the Sony WF-C510 support Spotify Tap?
Yes. Spotify Tap can be accessed through the WF-C510's Quick Access feature when used with a compatible device and Spotify account.
Are the Sony WF-C510 waterproof?
The earbuds have an IPX4 water-resistance rating, providing protection against splashes and sweat. They are not designed for swimming, submersion or use as fully waterproof headphones.
Are the Sony WF-C510 suitable for exercise?
The lightweight design and IPX4 resistance make them suitable for many forms of everyday exercise, provided the earbuds fit securely and are not exposed to submersion or excessive water.
How much do the Sony WF-C510 weigh?
Each earbud weighs approximately 4.6g with the medium ear tip fitted. The charging case weighs approximately 31g.
Which colours are available?
The Sony WF-C510 are available in Black, White, Blue and Yellow finishes.
What is included with the Sony WF-C510?
Sony lists the WF-C510 earbuds, charging case, hybrid silicone rubber ear tips, reference guide and warranty card as included items.
Related Sony Products and Audio T Pages
Why Buy the Sony WF-C510 From Audio T?
Choosing wireless earbuds involves more than comparing battery figures. Fit, comfort, sound balance, phone compatibility, control preferences and the amount of surrounding sound you want to hear can all affect which model is right for you.
Audio T can help you understand the WF-C510's features, compare them with alternative wireless headphones and get the earbuds connected and configured correctly.
- Friendly and straightforward headphone advice
- Earbud fit and ear-tip guidance
- Wireless earbud comparisons
- Bluetooth compatibility advice
- Android, Apple and Windows guidance
- Multipoint Connection setup
- Ambient Sound Mode guidance
- Sony Sound Connect app assistance
- EQ setup advice
- Hands-free calling guidance
- Battery and charging advice
- Ongoing setup and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store if you would like help deciding whether the Sony WF-C510 are the right wireless earbuds for you.