Sony WH-CH720N headphones see steep discount as successor looms

Sony’s WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones are back at about $88 on Amazon, offering strong value for those prioritising comfort and battery life, despite limited noise isolation and codec support amid reports of a future successor.

Sony’s WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones are back at about $88 on Amazon, a level that makes them one of the sharper mid-range audio buys in the current market. The discount is steep against the model’s $179.99 list price, but the appeal is not universal. Independent testing from Rtings and other reviewers suggests the WH-CH720N offers strong value only if buyers understand where Sony kept costs down.

The headphones remain notable for their light build. Sony says the WH-CH720N weighs 192 grams and uses Dual Noise Sensor technology with the Integrated Processor V1 to manage active noise cancellation. That combination gives the model a clear advantage over basic budget headphones, especially for commuters and office users who want to cut low-frequency noise without carrying a heavier flagship design. Sony also rates battery life at up to 35 hours with noise cancellation on and 50 hours with it off, while multipoint pairing allows two devices to stay connected at once.

Still, the Rtings score tells a more cautious story. The site gave the WH-CH720N a noise isolation rating of 6.3 out of 10, far below Sony’s WH-1000XM6, which sits at 9.7 on the same scale. In practice, that means the CH720N handles engine rumble, HVAC hiss and other low-end noise well enough, but it is less effective against voices, keyboards and other higher-frequency sound. Its Bluetooth latency is also high enough to matter for video or gaming unless users switch to the wired connection.

There are also clear audio-format limits. The WH-CH720N supports SBC and AAC over Bluetooth, but not LDAC or aptX. Sony’s DSEE processing can help restore some detail from compressed music, though it does not replace a higher-bandwidth codec. For most listeners using standard streaming services, that will not be a deal-breaker. For users who want true wireless hi-res playback, it is.

The price may also reflect a model nearing the end of its run. What Hi-Fi reported that Sony is preparing a successor, likely called the WH-CH730N, with a possible launch window in October 2026. Sony has not confirmed the new model, and its current product pages continue to position the WH-CH720N as a lightweight, comfortable, long-battery-life option with multipoint support and a choice of colours. For now, the current deal makes sense for buyers who value comfort, travel-friendly ANC and strong day-to-day convenience more than premium isolation or codec support.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.