When it comes to affordable wireless headphones, finding a pair that strikes the right balance between cost, performance, and comfort can be challenging. Sony, known for its reliable audio products, presents the WH-CH520 headphones, aiming to provide consumers with a practical, high-quality listening experience without breaking the bank. I've extensively tested the Sony WH-CH520 headphones to see if they deliver on these promises. Here's my comprehensive take on their design, sound quality, battery life, connectivity, and overall performance.
Design and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the Sony WH-CH520 headphones impress with their sleek, minimalist design. Available in multiple colors including classic black, blue, beige, and white, they cater to various tastes. The matte finish not only looks modern but effectively resists fingerprints and smudges. These headphones are crafted primarily from sturdy plastic, significantly reducing their weight, making them exceptionally comfortable for prolonged use. At only 147 grams, I barely noticed them even after several hours of continuous wear.
The on-ear design features plush padding on both the earcups and the headband. Although some might prefer an over-ear design for better passive noise isolation, the cushioning on the WH-CH520 ensures comfort without causing excessive ear fatigue or clamping force. The adjustable headband is easy to manage, providing a snug fit for various head sizes.
Comfort for Daily Use
Comfort is vital for daily headphones, and the WH-CH520 excels in this area. During extended testing sessions, I found the headphones remarkably gentle on the ears, thanks to their lightweight construction and soft ear cushions. Even while wearing glasses, I experienced minimal discomfort, an essential feature for users who need headphones for extensive periods, such as students, commuters, or remote workers.
One downside of the on-ear design, however, is limited passive noise isolation. Ambient sounds easily seeped in during commutes and in crowded areas, so these headphones might not be ideal for noisy environments unless you're willing to raise the volume significantly.
Sound Quality
Sony equipped the WH-CH520 headphones with 30mm dynamic drivers, which deliver a surprisingly balanced audio performance for their price range. The default sound profile leans slightly towards the bass, adding depth to pop, hip-hop, and electronic music tracks. The bass response is punchy without overpowering the mids and highs, which remain clear and well-articulated.
Vocal clarity is notably impressive, making these headphones excellent for podcast listeners and audiobook enthusiasts. The treble is bright enough to enhance details without becoming harsh or fatiguing during longer listening sessions. For audiophiles or listeners who prefer a more personalized audio experience, Sony’s companion app—Sony Headphones Connect—offers customizable EQ settings. Using the app, I easily tailored the sound profile to my personal preferences, significantly enhancing my listening enjoyment.
Battery Life and Charging
Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Sony WH-CH520 headphones is their extraordinary battery life. Sony advertises up to 50 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, and during my testing period, I found this claim to be accurate. The headphones lasted through several days of extensive use without requiring frequent recharging.
Charging convenience is another advantage. The WH-CH520 supports USB-C fast charging, providing approximately 1.5 hours of playback after just a 3-minute quick charge—a lifesaver during busy days when I needed to head out quickly.
Connectivity and Features
Connectivity is streamlined and reliable thanks to Bluetooth 5.2. Pairing with devices is swift and hassle-free, particularly on Android smartphones with Google’s Fast Pair functionality. I also appreciated the multipoint connection feature, which allowed seamless switching between two devices, such as my phone and laptop, greatly enhancing productivity and convenience.
A notable omission, however, is the lack of a wired connection option. The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack means the WH-CH520 can only be used wirelessly, which might be inconvenient for some users who prefer a wired backup option, especially in situations where Bluetooth is unreliable or unavailable.
Call Quality and Microphone Performance
The WH-CH520 headphones include a built-in microphone suitable for calls in quiet or moderately noisy environments. During my tests, voices sounded clear and natural, and callers reported that my voice came through distinctly without noticeable distortion. However, in louder settings, background noises occasionally interfered with the microphone performance, making these headphones less ideal for calls in bustling urban areas or noisy cafés.
Usability and Controls
The headphones feature easy-to-access control buttons on the right earcup, allowing for convenient management of playback, volume adjustments, and call handling. The buttons provide a reassuring tactile response, reducing accidental presses during use. The inclusion of voice assistant compatibility (Google Assistant or Siri) adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing for hands-free control of various smartphone functions.
Who Should Buy the Sony WH-CH520?
The Sony WH-CH520 headphones are best suited for budget-conscious listeners who prioritize battery longevity, comfort, and customizable audio settings over advanced features like active noise cancellation. These headphones are ideal for students, commuters, and remote workers who require dependable everyday audio gear capable of handling extended use without frequent charging.
However, users who frequently find themselves in noisy environments or prefer a wired audio option might find some limitations with this particular model.
Conclusion: Are the Sony WH-CH520 Worth It?
Overall, the Sony WH-CH520 headphones provide excellent value, combining superb battery performance, customizable sound, and reliable comfort in an affordable package. While they lack some premium features, their strengths far outweigh these shortcomings, making them an outstanding choice in their price category.
If you’re seeking reliable wireless headphones that offer substantial battery life, a comfortable design, and customizable audio quality without stretching your budget, the Sony WH-CH520 should certainly be on your shortlist.