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Sony WH CH500 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£35
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 20 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony WH CH500 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.4

Poor

3.2

Poor

9.3

Exceptional

5.8
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
9.0
Audio latency
25.0%
1.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
3.1
Battery life
2.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
3.1
Battery life
18.0%
7.1
Weight
16.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
3.5
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
3.1
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
4.7
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.1
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
3.1
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#43 in Best Sony Wireless Headphones
#99 in Best Sony Headphones
#427 in Best Cheap Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
#741 in Best Wireless Headphones
#1278 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The Sony WH-CH500 is a lightweight, on-ear wireless headset featuring 30mm dome drivers and a frequency response of 20Hz–20,000Hz. It offers up to 20 hours of battery life with a 4.5-hour full charge time via micro-USB, and includes NFC one-touch pairing for quick connectivity with compatible devices. Main pros include its impressive wireless range, portable swivel design, and reliable 20-hour battery performance for its price point. However, notable cons include a lack of headband padding that can cause discomfort during long listening sessions, a relatively cheap all-plastic build, and the absence of a 3.5mm jack for wired use.

Technical Specifications of Sony WH CH500

Overall score

4.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.5

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

5.2

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

3.9

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

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Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Features

2.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

3.3

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

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Design

6.8

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sony

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

on-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Sony WH CH500 vs the average headphone

Why is Sony WH CH500 better than the average headphone?

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More flexible connectivity
Sony WH CH500 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.
Importance: HIGH
Sony WH CH500 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
35.8% lower weight
Sony WH CH500 is lighter than the average headphone (140 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Sony WH CH500 is lighter than the average headphone (140 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.140 g vs 218 g
On-device controls
Sony WH CH500 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony WH CH500 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Sidetone support
Sony WH CH500 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
What it is: Lets users hear their own voice during calls
When it matters: When long calls matter and you do not want to sound unnaturally loud in your own ears while speaking.
Importance: LOW
Sony WH CH500 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
15.8% higher user score
Sony WH CH500 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.26 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Sony WH CH500 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.26 vs 8.000).9.26 vs 8
Rechargeable battery
Sony WH CH500 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones rely on an internal rechargeable battery instead of replaceable disposable cells.
When it matters: When you expect regular wireless use and want charging convenience instead of buying and replacing disposable batteries.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony WH CH500 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
2.57x cheaper
Sony WH CH500 is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).
Sony WH CH500 is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).£35 vs £90
2.15x more popular
Sony WH CH500 is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
Sony WH CH500 is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
35.8% lower weight
Sony WH CH500 is lighter than the average headphone (140 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Rechargeable battery
Sony WH CH500 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Sony WH CH500 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
On-device controls
Sony WH CH500 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Sidetone support
Sony WH CH500 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony WH CH500 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sony WH CH500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Tangle-prone cable
Sony WH CH500 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
no tangle-free listening cable is present or specified.
No travel bag
Sony WH CH500 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No passive noise reduction
Sony WH CH500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
Sony WH CH500 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Sony WH CH500 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
0.2 % higher distortion
Sony WH CH500 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
No neodymium magnet
Sony WH CH500 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
2.5 hours longer charging time
Sony WH CH500 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
10 hours shorter battery life
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
53.3% lower battery capacity
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (280 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
No passive noise reduction
Sony WH CH500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony WH CH500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
2.5 hours longer charging time
Sony WH CH500 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=2 hours
Sony WH CH500 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.4.5 hours vs 2 hours
10 mm smaller driver size
Sony WH CH500 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony WH CH500 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.30 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Sony WH CH500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony WH CH500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Sony WH CH500 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Sony WH CH500 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
53.3% lower battery capacity
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (280 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=720 mAh
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (280 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.280 mAh vs 600 mAh
10 hours shorter battery life
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >45 hours
Sony WH CH500 has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.20 hours vs 30 hours
0.2 % higher distortion
Sony WH CH500 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Sony WH CH500 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.5 % vs 0.3 %

Graphic comparison of Sony WH CH500 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony WH CH500?

Excellent battery life (up to 20 hours on a single charge)
Impressive wireless range and stable Bluetooth connection
Lightweight and portable design with swivel-flat earcups
Easy pairing via NFC (One-touch) for compatible devices
Good value for money at its budget price point
Simple, tactile physical controls for volume and playback
Stable enough fit for casual sports and running

What customers dislike about Sony WH CH500?

On-ear design can cause ear fatigue/discomfort during long sessions
Cheap, all-plastic build quality that can feel fragile or 'toy-like'
Poor noise isolation; ambient sounds easily leak in
Micro-USB charging is outdated and takes a long time (approx. 4.5 hours)
No auxiliary port (3.5mm jack) for wired listening if the battery dies
High latency makes them unsuitable for gaming or watching videos on PCs
Audio can sound muddy or lack deep bass impact for some genres

Expert reviews

nerdtechy.com

11/03/2018

Sony WH-CH500 Stamina Wireless Headphones Review - Nerd Techy

The Sony WH-CH500 is a lightweight, closed-back wireless headphone model that strikes a balance between portability and full-sized audio features. Its primary pros include an impressive battery life—boasting a manufacturer-rated 20 hours of continuous playback (around 18 to 19 hours in real-world testing) and 200 hours of standby time—alongside an integrated electret microphone...Read more

gizmomaniacs.com

07/03/2026

Sony WH-CH500 Wireless Headset Review - GizmoManiacs

The Sony WH-CH500 is an affordable, entry-level wireless headset priced at Rs 3999 that delivers a balanced audio experience with notable convenience features. On the positive side, it stands out for its highly lightweight, minimal design featuring swivel flat earcups that make it easy to pack into a bag. It offers seamless connectivity options via Bluetooth 4.2 and instant NFC...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

16/11/2019

Sony WH-CH500 headphone review: A lot of music for little money

The Sony WH-CH500 wireless headphones offer clean, dynamic, and balanced neutral audio that performs remarkably well across various music genres, movies, and video games for an affordable price of 690 CZK. Equipped with 30mm speakers, a stable Bluetooth 4.2 connection, an NFC chip, and a highly responsive built-in microphone, these lightweight headphones provide a secure,...Read more

majorhifi.com

17/03/2018

Sony WH-CH500 Wireless On-Ear Headphones Review - Major HiFi

The Major HiFi Review highlights the Sony WH-CH500 as an exceptionally lightweight, budget-friendly pair of wireless on-ear headphones that punch well above their $80 price tag. On the design front, the pros include durable rubber-sealed control buttons, flat-swiveling ear cups for easy portability, and a strong 20-hour battery life. Additionally, its incredibly snug fit delivers...Read more

rtings.com

20/11/2018

Sony WH-CH500 Wireless Headphones Review - RTINGS.com

The Sony WH-CH500 are lightweight, budget-friendly on-ear headphones offering over 20 hours of continuous battery life, a stable wireless range, and convenient NFC pairing. Their breathable design provides a secure fit, while the sound profile is generally balanced, though they are limited by a cheap, squeaky plastic build and poor passive noise isolation. Performance is hindered by...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

16/11/2019

Sony WH-CH500 Headphones Review: A Lot of Music for Little Money

Review Summary The Sony WH-CH500 is an affordable, lightweight pair of wireless on-ear headphones that delivers highly balanced, neutral sound across most music genres, movies, and games, with a durable external finish and an impressive 20-hour battery life. The setup process is quick and user-friendly via Bluetooth 4.2 or NFC, while the physically textured buttons on the right ear...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

16/11/2019

Sony WH-CH500 Headphones Review: Great Music for Little Money", "Sony WH-CH500 Review: A Lot of Music for Very Little Cash

Review Summary The Sony WH-CH500 is a lightweight, budget-friendly pair of wireless headphones that offers an elegant black design with a highly durable, easy-to-clean exterior. It features 30mm drivers, Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, an NFC chip, and a built-in microphone. It delivers an impressively balanced, neutral sound profile that manages highs and lows well without excessive...Read more

ct.nl

17/01/2019

Cheap bluetooth headphones under 60 euros: 9 models tested

This review from c't magazine evaluates nine budget Bluetooth headphones priced under €60, evaluating their sound quality, battery performance, and daily usability. Top-performing models include the Skullcandy Grind and JBL T450BT, praised for satisfying bass response, spacious imaging, and balanced acoustics across various music genres. The Philips Flite SHB4805DC offers an...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

16/11/2019

Sony WH-CH500 headphone review: great sound for little money

The Letem svetem Applem review of the Sony WH-CH500Go to product viewer dialog for this item. wireless headphones describes them as an exceptional, budget-friendly option that delivers high value for ordinary listeners. Prominent pros highlighted by the reviewer include their remarkably lightweight and comfortable design, which prevents head or ear fatigue even after hours of...Read more

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