Sony WH CH520 Review | 93 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£25
  • Form factor: on-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 50 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony WH CH520 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

4.6

Technical Score

20.0%

9.4

User score

Good
4.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.0

Sound

20.0%

6.0

Features

10.0%

7.0

Design

8.0%

5.9

Connectivity

6.0%

6.8

Battery

4.0%

8.0

Calls & Controls

Poor
9.4

User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(42629)
amazon
4.3
(1022)
amazon
4.5
(325)
amazon
4.4
(321)
amazon
4.3
(289)
amazon
4.6
(175)
amazon
4.5
(10)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(42629)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(1022)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(325)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(321)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(289)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(175)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(10)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 7.3
    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%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    8.3

    Battery life

  • 5.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    8.3

    Battery life

    18.0%

    6.9

    Weight

    16.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 9.7
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    8.3

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 5.5
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    6.9

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    8.3

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
  • sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520
sony-wh-ch520

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony WH-CH520 are lightweight on-ear wireless headphones weighing approximately 147g and featuring 30mm drivers with a frequency response of 20Hz–20,000Hz. Key characteristics include an exceptional battery life of up to 50 hours, Bluetooth 5.2 with multipoint connection for dual-device pairing, and DSEE upscaling to enhance compressed audio quality. Main pros include a comfortable adjustable headband, clear hands-free call performance via a beamforming microphone, and a fast-charge feature that provides 1.5 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging. However, notable cons include the lack of active noise cancellation (ANC), the absence of a 3.5mm jack for wired listening, and an on-ear design that offers poor passive noise isolation.

Technical Specifications of Sony WH CH520

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.0

Sound

20.0%

6.0

Features

10.0%

7.0

Design

8.0%

5.9

Connectivity

6.0%

6.8

Battery

4.0%

8.0

Calls & Controls

4.6
Sony WH CH520 has a technical score of 4.63 points, which is lower than that of 64.4% of products in this category.
User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(42629)
amazon
4.3
(1022)
amazon
4.5
(325)
amazon
4.4
(321)
amazon
4.3
(289)
amazon
4.6
(175)
amazon
4.5
(10)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(42629)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(1022)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(325)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(321)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(289)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(175)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(10)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.4
Sony WH CH520 has a user score of 9.42 points, which is higher than that of 97.9% of products in this category.
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.
10
Sony WH CH520 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.6

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.9
Sony WH CH520 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.9 points, which is higher than 57% of products in this category.
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

no
Sony WH CH520 does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
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

30 mm
Sony WH CH520 uses a driver size of 30 mm, smaller driver size than 77.7% of headphones and equal to 4.1% of headphones.
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

1
Sony WH CH520 uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
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

20 Hz
Sony WH CH520 reaches a lowest frequency of 20 Hz, higher lowest frequency than 50.6% of headphones and equal to 47.5% of headphones.
Show more
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 supports a noise-canceling microphone. 54.5% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
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

1
Sony WH CH520 has 1 microphones, more microphones than 25.9% of headphones and equal to 52.2% of headphones.
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

no
Sony WH CH520 does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
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

?
Show more
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

wireless
Sony WH CH520 supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
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

5.2
Sony WH CH520 uses Bluetooth version 5.2, newer Bluetooth version than 85.6% of headphones and equal to 3% of headphones.
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

10 m
Sony WH CH520 offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m, higher Bluetooth range than 2.6% of headphones and equal to 79.9% of headphones.
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

?
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 supports multipoint. 35% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
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

50 hours
Sony WH CH520 offers battery life of 50 hours, higher battery life than 71.5% of headphones and equal to 5.7% of headphones.
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

3 hours
Sony WH CH520 needs 3 hours to charge, higher charging time than 66% of headphones and equal to 21.3% of headphones.
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

yes
Sony WH CH520 supports quick charge. 31% of headphones support quick charge.
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

300 mAh
Sony WH CH520 has a battery capacity of 300 mAh, lower battery capacity than 84% of headphones and equal to 6.3% of headphones.
Show more
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

147 g
Sony WH CH520 weighs 147 g, lighter than 71.1% of headphones and equal to 0.1% of headphones.
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

2.7
Sony WH CH520 has a clamp force of 2.7, lower clamp force than 86.1% of headphones and equal to 2.4% of headphones.
Show more

Sony WH CH520 vs the average headphone

  • EQ customization
    Sony WH CH520 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
    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

    Sony WH CH520 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony WH CH520 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
    What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
    When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony WH CH520 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony WH CH520 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 CH520 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • Clear call microphone
    Sony WH CH520 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
    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

    Sony WH CH520 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Sony WH CH520 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 CH520 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 32.6% lower weight
    Sony WH CH520 is lighter than the average headphone (147 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 CH520 is lighter than the average headphone (147 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.147 g vs 218 g
  • 20 hours longer battery life
    Sony WH CH520 has a higher battery life than the average headphone (50 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 CH520 has a higher battery life than the average headphone (50 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.50 hours vs 30 hours
  • 1.6 lower clamp force
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
    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

    Sony WH CH520 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.2.7 vs 4.3
  • 32.6% lower weight
    Sony WH CH520 is lighter than the average headphone (147 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 1.6 lower clamp force
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony WH CH520 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 20 hours longer battery life
    Sony WH CH520 has a higher battery life than the average headphone (50 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • USB-C charging
    Sony WH CH520 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Sony WH CH520 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony WH CH520 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • Clear call microphone
    Sony WH CH520 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Sony WH CH520 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • Wind noise reduction
    Sony WH CH520 reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Sidetone support
    Sony WH CH520 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • EQ customization
    Sony WH CH520 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Fixed cable
    Sony WH CH520 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • No travel bag
    Sony WH CH520 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Sony WH CH520 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 CH520 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 CH520 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • No neodymium magnet
    Sony WH CH520 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Sony WH CH520 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 50% lower battery capacity
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (300 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Sony WH CH520 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 CH520 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 CH520 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 CH520 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
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Sony WH CH520 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 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 CH520 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3 hours vs 2 hours
  • Fixed cable
    Sony WH CH520 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 CH520 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 CH520 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 CH520 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
  • 50% lower battery capacity
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (300 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 CH520 has a lower battery capacity than the average headphone (300 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.300 mAh vs 600 mAh
  • No travel bag
    Sony WH CH520 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
    What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
    When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony WH CH520 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • 2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Sony WH CH520 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    Sony WH CH520 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW

Graphic comparison of Sony WH CH520 and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony WH CH520?

  • Exceptional battery life of up to 50 hours with a fast-charging feature
  • Lightweight and portable design weighing approximately 147 grams
  • Balanced sound quality that can be customized via the Sony Headphones Connect app
  • Supports multipoint connection for pairing with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously
  • Reliable microphone performance for clear hands-free calling
  • High value for money, often cited as one of the best budget options

What customers dislike about Sony WH CH520?

  • Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), relying solely on passive isolation
  • On-ear design can cause ear fatigue or physical discomfort during long listening sessions
  • No 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening when the battery is depleted
  • Plastic build quality may feel basic or less premium to some users
  • Poor passive noise isolation due to the on-ear fit
  • Noticeable sound leakage at higher volumes

Expert reviews

S
soundguys.com
12/09/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones offer a budget-friendly, highly competent, and lightweight design boasting over 55 hours of battery life and practical features like Bluetooth Multipoint. While the sound profile is decent for the price, the on-ear design provides poor passive noise isolation, lacking Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and high-bitrate codec support. Key trade-offs...Read more

T
techradar.com
21/02/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 are highly affordable, wireless on-ear headphones priced at $60 / £60 / AU$99, serving as a replacement for the older CH510 model. They deliver a remarkably well-balanced, clear sound with tight bass and clear mids that can be extensively customized using the Sony Headphones app. A major standout feature is the outstanding 50-hour battery life, alongside Bluetooth...Read more

W
whathifi.com
28/10/2024

Sony WH-CH520 Review Overview The Sony WH-CH520 on-ear wireless headphones offer exceptional value, delivering a balanced, neutral, and highly engaging sound signature that manages bass frequencies with impressive control and definition. Despite an incredibly lightweight 147g build that can feel a bit cheap and plasticky, they are sturdy, comfortable, and packed with features like...Read more

R
rtings.com
09/04/2024

The Sony WH-CH520 Wireless are budget on-ear headphones featuring over 50 hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and customizable sound via the Sony Headphones Connect app. Pros include a well-balanced mid-range, punchy bass, and multi-device pairing capabilities. However, significant cons include a lack of active noise cancellation (ANC), resulting in poor isolation for...Read more

A
audiopick.in
14/12/2025

The Sony WH-CH520 is an affordable, lightweight wireless on-ear headset engineered specifically for reliable everyday utility across study, work, and casual listening environments. The headphones deliver Sony’s signature, non-fatiguing audio profile characterized by exceptionally clean mid-range vocals, crisp trebles, and a balanced, non-overpowering bass response. They feature an...Read more

T
tomsguide.com
19/04/2024

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones are an impressive, budget-friendly option priced at $59, making them a great choice for casual but regular listeners at home or in the office. Weighing just 5.1 ounces, the headset features a sleek matte finish, an extendable headband, and comfortable padding on both the headband and earcups that prevents slipping. Its standout feature is an...Read more

H
headphonecheck.com
06/01/2024

The Sony WH-CH520 are stylish and lightweight on-ear wireless headphones that offer exceptional value for money, retailing at an attractive starting price of 59.99 euros. Weighing under 150 grams, they feature a modern, robust plastic design with a padded, adjustable headband and rotating earcups that sit comfortably around the neck when not in use. The headphones boast an...Read more

M
medium.com
05/12/2024

The Medium review of the blue Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones highlights improvements in design, including added padding and a simplified aesthetic, along with comprehensive app integration for EQ, 360-degree sound, and an impressive 50-hour battery life. The reviewer praises the Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and straightforward physical controls. However, the analysis identifies...Read more

T
techgearlab.com
12/12/2025

Sony WHCH520 Review Summary The Sony WHCH520 is an entry-level pair of on-ear wireless headphones that scores a below-average 43 out of 100, ranking near the bottom of its category. Its standout features include a phenomenal battery life of over 50 hours, quick charging capabilities, and exceptional call quality driven by impressive voice isolation technology even in noisy...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
22/03/2023

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Sony WH-CH520Go to product viewer dialog for this item. highlights these entry-level, on-ear headphones as a competitive, lightweight option featuring robust Bluetooth performance, clear call quality, and app-supported customization. Key strengths include a 50-hour battery life and useful, budget-defying features such as multipoint connectivity...Read more

H
hifi.de
22/02/2026

The Sony WH-CH520 is an ultra-budget, on-ear wireless headphone that offers excellent value for money, frequently retailing for under €30. Weighing a mere 147 grams, it features a very lightweight plastic design that sits directly on the ears, providing a comfortable yet firm fit, though it lacks the ability to fold and does not include a protective carrying case. In terms of...Read more

K
kopfhoerer.de
31/03/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 is a lightweight, budget-friendly wireless on-ear headphone weighing just 147 grams and priced around €30 to €60. It features Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity supporting SBC and AAC codecs, a stable wireless range, and convenient three-button controls on the right ear cup for volume, tracking, calls, and voice assistants. A major standout feature is its exceptional...Read more

N
netzwelt.de
08/05/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 on-ear wireless headphonesGo to product viewer dialog for this item. are highlighted as an exceptional budget-friendly option, offering massive value at a low retail price between €50 and €60. The reviewer strongly praises the impressive sound signature, featuring highly prominent treble, distinct vocals, and balanced mid and bass ranges. The audio quality is...Read more

G
gamestar.de
11/04/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N are lightweight, feature-packed wireless headphones designed to offer strong value at budget-friendly price points (around €50 and €100 respectively). Both models excel with impressive battery lives—50 hours for the CH520 on-ears and up to 35 hours with active noise-canceling (ANC) enabled for the CH720N over-ears—alongside rapid charging...Read more

S
stereoguide.de
17/06/2023

Review Summary The Sony WH-CH520 is an affordable, ultra-lightweight Bluetooth on-ear headphone that stands out for its exceptional 50-hour battery life and robust technical features. Equipped with 30-mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.2, it supports stable multipoint connections, seamless device switching, and standard SBC/AAC codecs. A major highlight is its compatibility with the highly...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
15/03/2023

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is hailed as the new benchmark for wireless noise-canceling headphones, earning a perfect 5/5 score by refining the design and audio missteps of its predecessor, the XM5. It is highly praised for offering the most versatile active noise cancellation (ANC) on the market, paired with a highly precise sound signature featuring accurate midranges and natural highs....Read more

S
sitegeek.fr
29/03/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 is a lightweight, entry-level on-ear (supra-aural) wireless headphone priced under €70, designed to offer high-quality sound and solid manufacturing without the premium price tag of high-end models. Weighing just 147 grams, it features an eco-friendly plastic design with plastic-free packaging, adjustable notched headbands, and 90-degree swiveling ear cups for...Read more

T
test-achats.be
01/07/2026

The Sony WH-CH520 is an on-ear wireless headphone model weighing 143 grams, offering high physical portability despite not having a folding design. Key positive features include built-in device buttons, an integrated microphone for call control, voice assistant compatibility, and charging functionality over a modern USB-C connection. Furthermore, the device utilizes Bluetooth...Read more

F
frandroid.com
31/12/2023

The Sony WH-CH520Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is an exceptionally affordable, lightweight (147g) on-ear wireless headset that delivers surprisingly powerful and dynamic sound for its sub-50€ price point. Its standout features include a gargantuan battery life—measured at over 46 hours of continuous playback with active equalization—and convenient Bluetooth multipoint...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
15/03/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 is an entry-level on-ear Bluetooth headset that improves upon its predecessor, the WH-CH510, by introducing a more modern design, better comfort, and useful new features. Its standout features include a lightweight body weighing only 147 grams, a cushioned headband that reduces painful pressure points, and compatibility with the Sony Headphones Connect app. It also...Read more

H
hippiesconflow.com
08/09/2025

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless on-ear headphones are highly recommended for digital nomads, travelers, and professionals looking for an affordable, high-performing audio companion. The reviewer emphasizes their exceptional 35-hour battery life paired with quick charging, ensuring continuous power during long journeys without relying on scarce power outlets. Designed with a lightweight,...Read more

T
topesdegama.com
24/03/2025

The Sony WH-CH520 are highly popular, budget-friendly wireless on-ear headphones that deliver balanced, clear sound across mid and high tones, which can be further customized using the Sony Headphones Connect app's equalizer. A standout feature is the exceptional battery life, offering up to 50 hours of playback along with a fast-charge capability that provides 1.5 hours of use from...Read more

L
lavanguardia.com
14/04/2026

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless on-ear headphones provide an immersive, lightweight, and highly ergonomic listening experience tailored for long daily use. Weighing just 147 grams, these headphones feature comfortable ear cushions and an adjustable headband that perfectly contours to the user's head shape without causing pinching or pressure. One of their biggest highlights is the...Read more

G
global.techradar.com
21/02/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 is a pair of budget-friendly, on-ear wireless Bluetooth headphones launched on February 21, 2023, priced at approximately €70. Weighing just 137 grams, they feature 30mm drivers and offer an impressive 50 hours of battery life alongside Bluetooth 5.2 multi-point connectivity for seamless device switching. While the physical build is constructed from good-quality...Read more

A
altroconsumo.it
01/07/2026

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones deliver excellent overall performance for their budget-friendly price point, which starts as low as €31.56 on Prezzoforte. Weighing just 143 grams, these circumaural (over-ear) headphones feature updated Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and come equipped with an integrated microphone, allowing users to seamlessly answer phone calls and control...Read more

G
global.techradar.com
27/02/2023

The Sony WH-CH520 is a super-affordable, on-ear wireless Bluetooth headset priced at around 70 euros that prioritizes well-balanced audio performance over extensive extra features. The audio profile delivers clean details and an evenly distributed balance between bass, mid-range, and high frequencies, which can be further customized via the excellent EQ presets and manual settings...Read more

Video reviews

Compare Sony WH CH520 with

VS
VS

Compare