Sony’s WH-CH520 wireless headphones, now available at an affordable $38 on Amazon, delivers impressive 50-hour battery life by forgoing ANC features, appealing to budget-conscious listeners who prioritise battery longevity over noise cancellation.
Sony’s WH-CH520 has become a recurring value pick for buyers who want long battery life without paying for active noise cancellation. Amazon has listed the wireless headphones at $38 in multiple colours, including Cappuccino, which is well below the $69.99 list price and leaves the model firmly in budget territory. What makes the price notable is not just the discount but the design choice behind it: Sony has left out ANC hardware, and that omission helps explain how the WH-CH520 can reach a rated 50 hours of playback.
That trade-off is central to the product. The WH-CH520 and the more expensive WH-CH720N both use 30mm dynamic drivers, so the price gap is not about larger drivers or a fundamentally different sound architecture. Instead, the WH-CH720N’s premium buys ANC, extra microphones and the processor required to cancel background noise. Multiple reviews have noted that the WH-CH520’s appeal lies in the basics done well: simple controls, stable Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, USB-C charging and enough battery to last through long stretches of daily use. What it does not offer is the extra layer of isolation that commuters or office workers in noisy spaces may want.
Audio performance is broadly well regarded for the class. What Hi-Fi described the WH-CH520 as a strong entry-level option with balanced sound and a lightweight 147g build, while Tom’s Guide and SoundGuys both pointed to solid battery life and generally good audio as the main strengths. Sony also includes its Headphones Connect app, which allows users to adjust EQ settings and activate DSEE, the company’s digital sound enhancement feature for compressed audio. RTINGS noted the app support, multipoint pairing and modern connectivity as practical additions that make the headphones feel more complete than many low-cost rivals.
The compromises are just as clear. Tom’s Guide and SoundGuys both highlighted the lack of ANC and the microphone quality as weaknesses, with the mic described as thin or tinny in calls. That makes the WH-CH520 a better fit for music, podcasts and quiet-room calls than for open-plan offices or regular travel. Reviewers also generally agree that the on-ear design is comfortable for hours at a time, but not always ideal for those who dislike pressure on the ears. At 147g, the headphone is light enough for extended use, but its comfort profile will depend heavily on the wearer.
For buyers deciding between this model and the WH-CH720N, the question is whether noise cancelling is worth paying significantly more for. If you listen at home, in a library or in other low-noise settings, the WH-CH520’s long battery life and low price make a strong case. If you commute frequently or work around constant background noise, the ANC-equipped sibling is the more suitable choice. Sony’s cheaper model is not trying to be everything; it is a stripped-down headphone that keeps the features many listeners use most and removes the ones that cost more power and money.
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.
