TLDR Review: Sony WH-CH520 Headphones
Verdict
The Sony WH-CH520 headphones deliver surprisingly good sound quality and long battery life in a lightweight, comfortable package for just about $60. They’re a smart pick for anyone who values solid audio performance and comfort over fancy features like noise cancellation or premium build materials. If you’re looking for active noise cancelling or a foldable design for easy travel, you might want to explore other Sony models or brands that offer those extras. For budget-conscious listeners who prioritize sound and battery life, these headphones are a dependable choice.
- Top pro:
- Great sound quality with well-balanced bass, mids, and trebles, providing good detail and depth for the price.
- Top con:
- No active noise cancellation, and only basic noise isolation, so ambient noise can be distracting.
Pros
- •Great sound quality with well-balanced bass, mids, and trebles, providing good detail and depth for the price.
- •Lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, making them suitable for all-day use.
- •Impressive battery life of up to 50 hours on a single quick charge.
- •Built-in microphone works well for calls, delivering clear and undistorted sound.
- •Easy Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with multi-point pairing for switching between devices (though some manual disconnection may be needed).
- •Sound customization is available through a companion app, allowing for personalized EQ settings.
- •Attractive blue color option adds a bit of style.
- •Controls for volume and playback are straightforward and intuitive.
Cons
- •No active noise cancellation, and only basic noise isolation, so ambient noise can be distracting.
- •On-ear design can press too hard on the head, causing discomfort, headaches, or soreness during long use.
- •Material feels plasticy and cheap, which might disappoint users looking for a premium build.
- •Non-foldable design makes them less convenient for compact storage or travel.
- •The microphone can be quieter than expected and is not exceptionally clear in noisy environments.
- •Lack of a 3.5mm audio jack means wired use isn’t an option, relying solely on Bluetooth and USB-C charging.
- •Button placement and tactile feedback could be improved for easier control.
- •Some users reported irritation to ear piercings due to the pressure of the on-ear pads.
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. How ShopSavvy makes money
How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from 3 retailers in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Feb 25, 2025.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| $38.00 | Feb 25, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $46.71 | Oct 15, 2024 may have changed | ||
| $67.99 | Oct 15, 2024 may have changed |
Download ShopSavvy App
Compare prices across tens of thousands of stores, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more.
Install ShopSavvy Browser Extension
Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.
