When it comes to headphones, most people want a combination of comfort, great sound, and the ability to block out unwanted noise without spending a fortune. That’s where the Sony WH-CH720N comes into the picture. Positioned as a mid-tier option, these headphones borrow some features from Sony’s premium lineup while keeping the price more accessible. But how well do they actually perform? Let’s dive into a detailed review covering design, sound quality, features, strengths, weaknesses, and whether they are worth buying in 2025.
Design and Comfort
The first thing you’ll notice about the WH-CH720N is just how light they feel. Weighing only around 192 grams, these headphones are far lighter than most over-ear models in the same category. This makes them perfect for long listening sessions—whether you’re working from home, attending online classes, or traveling.
The headband and earcups are padded with soft materials that feel comfortable against the skin. While the build is mostly plastic, which might not feel very premium, the lightweight nature and ergonomic fit more than make up for it. You can wear them for hours without experiencing ear fatigue, which is a big plus for binge-watchers and long-haul commuters.
Features and Technology
Despite being a mid-range option, the WH-CH720N is packed with features that enhance everyday use:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Uses dual-noise sensor technology to reduce external distractions.
- Ambient Sound Mode: Lets in outside noise when needed, useful for conversations or staying aware in public.
- Multipoint Bluetooth Connection: Allows you to connect two devices at once, like your phone and laptop.
- Battery Life: Up to 35 hours with ANC turned on, and even more without it. Quick charging gives hours of playback with just a few minutes of charge.
- DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine): Improves the quality of compressed audio files.
- Voice Pickup Technology: Optimised for clearer calls and virtual meetings.
Overall, the feature set is impressive for the price, especially multipoint connectivity, which is often reserved for higher-end models.
Sound Quality
The WH-CH720N delivers a balanced sound signature with a slight emphasis on bass, making them suitable for modern pop, EDM, hip-hop, and even movies. Vocals come through clearly, and the mid-range is well-represented, though audiophiles might find the treble occasionally sharp.
Using the companion app, you can customise the sound through EQ presets or manual adjustments, which is great if you want more control. For everyday listeners, the sound profile is more than satisfying—punchy enough for music yet clear enough for podcasts and video calls.
Noise Cancelling Performance
Noise cancellation is one of the headline features, but it’s important to set expectations. While the WH-CH720N does a decent job of cutting out background chatter, office noise, or household sounds, it struggles more with deep, low-frequency noises like airplane engines or heavy traffic.
In quiet to moderately noisy environments, the ANC works well, creating a more immersive listening experience. But if you travel frequently and want top-tier cancellation, you’ll need to look at premium models.
Battery Life
Battery life is another strong point. With ANC on, you get around 35 hours of playback. In real-world tests, some users even report closer to 38 hours. This is excellent compared to other headphones in the same category. Quick charging is a lifesaver too—just 10 minutes of charging provides around an hour of playback, which is perfect when you’re in a rush.
Performance in Calls
The microphone performance is good enough for indoor calls, online meetings, and classes. Thanks to Sony’s Precise Voice Pickup technology, voices come across clearly in most cases. However, in very noisy or windy outdoor environments, performance drops a little. Still, for work-from-home and casual use, it’s more than sufficient.
Pros
- Lightweight and extremely comfortable – ideal for long listening sessions.
- Strong battery life – up to 35 hours with ANC.
- Customizable sound – EQ and presets allow you to tailor audio.
- Multipoint connectivity – great for switching between phone and laptop.
- Good value for money – feature-rich for the price.
Cons
- Noise cancellation is not top-tier – struggles with deep, rumbling sounds.
- Build feels a bit plasticky – doesn’t have the premium touch of high-end models.
- No wear detection or touch controls – lacks some premium features.
- Treble can get sharp in some tracks without EQ adjustments.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Sony WH-CH720N | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Bose QC45 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Approx) | ₹9,990 | ₹29,990 | ₹29,000 |
| Weight | 192g | 250g | 238g |
| ANC Performance | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Battery Life (ANC On) | 35 hrs | 30 hrs | 24 hrs |
| Battery Life (ANC Off) | 50 hrs | 40 hrs | 24 hrs |
| Multipoint Connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| App Support | Yes (EQ, DSEE) | Yes (Advanced EQ) | Yes (Limited EQ) |
| Build Quality | Lightweight Plastic | Premium Plastic/Metal | Premium Plastic |
| Best For | Budget ANC users | Audiophiles, Travelers | Travellers, Professionals |
Ratings from Users and Experts
- User Reviews: The WH-CH720N consistently earns around 4.2 out of 5 stars from thousands of users. Most highlight the comfort and battery life, while criticisms focus on average ANC and plastic build.
- Expert Opinions:
- Digit India: Rated it 7.5/10, praising comfort and sound quality while noting an average build.
- RTINGS: Noted excellent comfort and long battery life but average noise cancellation.
- Independent Tech Blogs: Called it “a budget beast,” perfect for casual listeners and travellers who don’t need flagship ANC.
My Opinion
The WH-CH720N strikes an impressive balance between affordability and features. For students, remote workers, or everyday commuters, it’s an excellent choice. The comfort is outstanding, battery life is class-leading, and the sound quality is enjoyable for most genres.
That said, if you’re a frequent flyer or someone who requires industry-leading ANC to block out constant rumbling noise, this may not fully meet your needs. In that case, stepping up to Sony’s WH-1000XM4 or XM5 would be worth the extra investment.
Final Verdict
The Sony WH-CH720N is one of the best mid-range headphones available right now. It doesn’t try to compete directly with premium models but instead focuses on delivering great everyday performance at a reasonable price. For most people—especially those who want comfort, long battery life, and solid sound without breaking the bank—it’s a fantastic choice.
Overall Rating:
7.8 / 10
Who Should Buy
- Anyone looking for comfortable over-ear headphones for long use.
- Students, professionals, and remote workers who need multipoint connectivity.
- Music lovers who enjoy bass-forward, customizable sound.
- Listeners who want good ANC at a mid-range price.
Who Should Skip
- Frequent travellers need the best-in-class noise cancellation.
- Audiophiles looking for high-resolution sound and wide soundstage.
- Users who prefer premium build quality with metal and luxury finishes.
In summary: The WH-CH720N proves that you don’t always need to spend a fortune to get a satisfying mix of comfort, features, and enjoyable sound. It may not replace high-end models for professional or travel use, but for daily listening and work, it delivers excellent value.
