Sony NW-WS623 Review & Unboxing | Best Waterproof Sports Headphones
What if you could swim, paddle board, run, or hit the beach without carrying your phone—yet still enjoy your music? That’s exactly what the Sony NW-WS623 Waterproof Sports Headphones deliver. Over the past few weeks, I tested these across ocean swims, pool laps, paddle boarding, and running trails around Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Here’s the full breakdown of why these might just be the best waterproof sports headphones for 2025.
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Unboxing & Design – Rugged Yet Lightweight
Right out of the box, the Sony NW-WS623 feels purpose-built for active users. The packaging includes:
- Sony NW-WS623 Walkman headset
- Two sets of earbuds – standard tips for land use and sealed swim tips for waterproof listening
- USB charging cradle and cable
- Adjustable headband clip
Weighing just 32 grams, the headset wraps securely around the back of your neck with no slipping—even while diving or sprinting on wet sand. The IPX8 rating with swim tips installed ensures full waterproofing for pool and ocean training. The rugged build balances durability with comfort, making long sessions pain-free.
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Setup & Features – Simple, Functional, and Phone-Free
Setup is refreshingly straightforward. Just clip the headset into the included USB cradle, connect to your computer, and drag-and-drop your music files—MP3, AAC, or playlists. No special software required.
Features include:
- 4GB onboard storage – enough for hundreds of tracks or multiple playlists
- One-touch NFC & Bluetooth – for pairing when you want phone connectivity on land
- Ambient Sound Mode – allows external noise in, perfect for road safety or quick conversations mid-workout
- Physical button controls – volume, play/pause, track skip, shuffle/repeat
Real-World Testing & Performance
I tested the NW-WS623 across multiple environments, from swimming pools to paddle boarding and trail running. Here’s how it performed:
Sound Quality
Underwater, the sound is naturally more muted, but the sealed swim tips keep audio crisp and rhythmic. On land, the dual-driver system delivers a surprisingly full profile: punchy bass, clear mids, and sharp but non-fatiguing highs. Music feels energetic and immersive, making long workouts less monotonous.
Battery Life
Battery performance is outstanding. Expect up to 12 hours in MP3 mode and 4–6 hours via Bluetooth. Quick charge is another huge plus: 3 minutes of charging = 60 minutes of playback. Perfect for last-minute sessions.
Durability & Controls
The headset stayed locked in place during freestyle swims, paddle boarding, and even surf entries. Buttons remain responsive even when submerged—no mushy feedback or lag. The rugged design withstood saltwater exposure, drops, and sand without issue.
Call Quality
Although not its primary function, call quality is surprisingly good. Two quick calls during a run came through clearly, even with wind noise. Ideal if you want to remain reachable while training solo.
Who Is the Sony NW-WS623 For?
This headset is perfect for:
- Swimmers & triathletes – full waterproofing + secure fit
- Runners & paddle boarders – lightweight, no phone required
- Fitness enthusiasts – long battery life for extended training sessions
- Beachgoers – durable, saltwater-friendly build
Final Verdict – Freedom to Train Without a Phone
The Sony NW-WS623 Waterproof Sports Headphones deliver on their promise: freeing you from your phone while keeping your music alive in even the harshest environments. With excellent waterproofing, reliable fit, strong sound quality, and battery life that keeps up with training, these are the ideal companion for swimmers, paddle boarders, and outdoor athletes. The only trade-off? Limited onboard storage and no app-based EQ. But for under $150, the performance is exceptional.
Product & Giveaway Links
🛒 Purchase the Sony NW-WS623 here from Amazon: Click here to buy
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