Got good and bad stuff coming out from big brands, Sony including. Their first earbuds the XM1 was rubbish, same goes for the SP700.
The 1000XM3 is good for music though, but music is subjective so if a pair of cheaper buds work for u, why not?
I am in the same situation as u. Currently looking for a pair which isn't too expensive ($100+/-), has IP rating, BT 5.0 and got some ambient pass though mode (for awareness). Still looking around.
Yep. Its really subjective.
And I think the only earpiece that meet your price and ambient mode requirement is galaxy bud plus, or the old galaxy buds. Lots of people selling them at cheaper prices in carousell. But it has pretty poor IPX2 rating..... but still, an IP rating.



