
Published 2018-08-16 - 10:29 am
Element: 12 mm
Bluetooth: yes, NFC
Frequency range: 4 Hz–24 kHz
Battery life: 9 hours
Remote control/microphone: yes/yes
Certified: –
Weight: 43 grams
Website: sony.no
Compared to the other earbuds in the test that also have a collar, you cannot help but notice how big the XB70B is. The battery and electronics boxes at the ends of the neck collar are twice the size of certain competitors. Despite this, the battery life is not better, quite the opposite. It also makes the neck collar thick so it is quite noticeable that you have something around your neck. The cords of the earbuds are long, and they hang far down when not being used.
Thanks to NFC capability you can easily connect them with your phone. However, the handling is not as easy, since the buttons on the collar are hard to find with your fingers. The earbuds are quite lightweight though, and thanks to the angled shape they sit comfortably in the ear. The silicone tips come in four sizes, but some form of storage for transport is not included.
This model is part of Sony’s “Extra Bass” assortment, and it is therefore no surprise that they have a thundering bass. It’s certainly entertaining when listening to certain genres, but it dominates so much that other genres almost become annoying to listen to. It’s too bad, because the sound is otherwise warm, appealing and quite charming. If you listen at a low volume, you notice a rather prominent background noise that might become irritating.

Conclusion
We tend to associate Sony with smart solutions, neat designs and the latest technology. We almost wondered if XB70BT was really made by someone else. The earbuds are large and cumbersome, and gives the impression of anything but elegance. Despite this, battery time is far from the best. The last straw is nonetheless the sound, with the thundering bass drowning out nearly everything, making sure that only real bass buffs will be interested. But even then there are options with better sound.
Also in this test
Urbanears Jakan
Uncomfortable and boxy
Even though everything else was perfect, the uncomfortable shape tipped the scales.
Supra Nero-X
More sporty and affordable
The low budget alternative to the award-winning Nitro-X is better for workouts and still sounds good.
Sol Republic Shadow Wireless
Entertaining bass cannon
If you want the right heavy bass without completely destroying the music, Shadow is the answer.
RHA MA650 Wireless
Neat and appealing
Practical earbuds where the sound is as attractive as the luxurious exterior.
Jays A-six Wireless
Large bass in small packaging
For the bass buff, they are a bargain, but they are less suited for a varied music taste.
Marley Uplift 2 Wireless
Environmentally friendly but dull
An alternative for the one who wants to sit back with light music and a good conscience.
OnePlus Bullet Wireless
Magical first attempt
OnePlus does everything right with Bullet Wireless, their first wireless earbuds.
Audiofly AF45W
Nice and bass heavy
Gorgeous earbuds with rock-hard bass, but disappointing battery life and treble.