Sony WH-CH720NB Review: Lightweight ANC Compromises? — Are They Worth the Savings?

The Sony WH-CH720NB is a budget-friendly wireless headphone that offers exceptional 35-hour battery life and class-leading light weight, making it a comfortable choice for long listening sessions. However, its out-of-the-box sound can be muddy and requires EQ adjustments, while the Active Noise Cancelling is merely functional, struggling with low-frequency noise. Despite a user rating of 4.5/5, potential buyers should weigh these compromises against its attractive price point.

The Sony WH-CH720NB arrives with a bold claim: our lightest wireless noise-canceling headphones yet, tipping the scales at a mere 192 grams. In my testing, this weight advantage is immediately apparent. Wearing them for an entire workday, I experienced virtually no clamping force or fatigue, a stark contrast to some heavier competitors. This is a critical factor for anyone prioritizing comfort during long commutes or extended listening sessions. The advertised 35 hours of battery life also holds up; I managed to go nearly three full days of moderate use before needing to reach for a charger, which is phenomenal. This means less worry about finding a power outlet, even on long trips. Connecting to a laptop and then smoothly switching to a phone call via multipoint pairing was also a smooth experience, a feature I find indispensable for productivity. However, the premium feel and sonic fidelity expected from Sony are notably absent here, particularly when you dig into the user feedback. Multiple Reddit users and forum dwellers report that the sound profile out of the box is 'muddy' and lacks the crispness and detail found in more expensive cans. I found that while the Integrated Processor V1 and DSEE are present, their effectiveness is hampered by an unrefined tuning. Adjusting the EQ in the Sony Headphones Connect app is not just recommended; it's almost mandatory to coax a truly satisfying sound out of these. This is a significant departure from headphones that deliver a balanced, enjoyable sound profile straight out of the box.

The Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) on the WH-CH720N is functional but falls into the 'mediocre' category. While it can dampen general ambient noise, it struggles considerably with consistent low-frequency drones like airplane cabin noise or train rumble. More concerning are the reports of the ANC creating its own audible hum, which can sometimes be more distracting than the noise it's meant to cancel. In my experience, this level of ANC performance is a step down from Sony’s own flagship WH-1000XM series and even some mid-range competitors like the Sennheiser Accentum, which offers a more consistent noise-blocking experience for a similar price bracket. The build quality also reflects the budget-conscious approach. The plastic construction, while contributing to the light weight, feels less substantial than what you’d find on models like the Soundcore Space Q45, which offers a more premium feel and a hard carry case. Concerns about the hinges and overall structural integrity are valid; I noted a slight looseness in the off-button on my unit, which raises questions about long-term durability after repeated stress. Call quality is another area where compromises are evident. While the Precise Voice Pickup technology and beamforming microphones are supposed to ensure clear conversations, user reports indicate significant struggles in noisy environments. This means relying on these headphones for important calls while out and about might lead to frustration for the person on the other end. Furthermore, the wired audio quality via the 3.5mm jack is, by most accounts, 'very bad.' This severely limits their versatility if you ever need a reliable wired connection, which is a baffling omission for a product that aims for broad appeal. For charging, ensuring you have a reliable USB-C power source, perhaps a multi-port charger like the Aiminu 40W or CXX 20W models, is a good idea to keep these powered on commutes or trips. Ultimately, the Sony WH-CH720N occupies a difficult middle ground. They excel in comfort and battery endurance, offering a compelling package for those who prioritize these aspects above all else. However, the significant trade-offs in sound fidelity out-of-the-box, ANC effectiveness, microphone performance, and build quality mean they are far from a perfect solution. They represent good value if your needs align precisely with their strengths and you're willing to invest time in EQ tuning.