Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones Review Exceptional Battery Life and Crystal-Clear Sound Quality

Description

Exceptional Sound Quality and Customization Options

I’ve tested a lot of headphones, but the Sony WH-CH520 delivers an audio experience that’s surprisingly rich for its compact, on-ear design. The Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) really does make a difference, especially on tracks that lack depth. High frequencies feel crisp, while the overall sound remains balanced without getting tinny or overwhelming in bass. What makes this even better is the Sony Headphones Connect app, which allows you to tweak the EQ settings to match your personal preferences. Whether I was listening to bass-heavy playlists or lighter acoustic tracks, the ability to customize the sound made a noticeable improvement.

The 12-millimeter drivers ensure a robust sound output, and the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz delivers a solid spectrum of audio detail. However, audiophiles who are super picky about nuances might find the soundstage slightly narrower compared to higher-end over-ear models.

Comfortable Build for Prolonged Use

Comfort can make or break headphones for me, and I’m happy to say that these lightweight headphones excel in this area. With an adjustable headband and soft ear pads, wearing them for extended periods didn’t result in any discomfort or fatigue. While the on-ear design isn’t as immersive as over-ear options, it strikes a nice balance between portability and comfort.

I’ve used these during workouts, long gaming sessions, and casual listening, and they stayed snug without feeling restrictive. However, since the material is plastic, it doesn’t feel as premium as some pricier models. That said, the lightweight build is a big plus for portability.

Battery That Just Keeps Going

The up to 50 hours of battery life is no joke. I’ve pushed these headphones through gaming, music, and calls, and I didn’t have to think about charging them often. Even better, the quick charge feature is a lifesaver – just 3 minutes of charging gave me 1.5 hours of use. This feature came in handy during those moments when I forgot to charge them overnight.

However, while the battery life is stellar, it’s worth noting that these headphones don’t support water resistance. So, if you’re planning to use them outdoors in unpredictable weather, it’s something to keep in mind.

Convenient Controls and Connectivity

Using the Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, pairing the device was fast and seamless. The inclusion of Swift Pair and Fast Pair technology made it even easier to connect these headphones to my laptop and phone without any issues. What stood out to me the most was the Bluetooth multipoint connection, which allowed me to switch between devices without the hassle of disconnecting and reconnecting.

The voice control capabilities, compatible with assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, added an extra layer of convenience. I could control music playback, check the weather, and even make calls without touching my phone. Touch and button controls are well-placed on the ear cups, and I never found myself fumbling to adjust volume or skip tracks.

Key Benefits

• Incredible battery life, with 50 hours of runtime and quick charge capabilities.
• Customizable audio using the Sony Headphones Connect app for tailored sound.
• Lightweight and comfortable design, perfect for prolonged wear.
• Easy pairing and multipoint Bluetooth connection, ideal for multitasking.

Areas of Concern

• The plastic build, while lightweight, doesn’t feel as premium as other models.
• No water resistance, which limits outdoor usability in unpredictable weather.
• On-ear design may not isolate noise as effectively as over-ear headphones.

Market Rivals

Comparing the Sony WH-CH520 to other options like the JBL Tune 510BT and Anker Soundcore Life Q20, there are some clear distinctions. The JBL model offers similar sound quality but falls short in battery life, clocking in at around 40 hours compared to Sony’s 50. The Anker Soundcore Life Q20, on the other hand, provides active noise cancellation, which the WH-CH520 lacks, but its design is bulkier and less portable.

Where Sony’s headphones outshine their competitors is in the swift connectivity features and customizable audio settings via the app. While the JBL model might appeal to those looking for a slightly lower price point, the Sony WH-CH520 feels like a more well-rounded choice for daily use.

Affordable Quality

From my perspective, these headphones deliver solid value for their price. They’re not trying to compete with high-end, studio-level equipment, but they bring practical features like excellent battery life and customizable sound to the table. Compared to other models in this range, these feel like a well-thought-out investment for casual listeners, gamers, and even those taking long calls.

The lack of water resistance and the plastic build might be slight downsides, but they don’t overshadow the practicality and comfort these headphones deliver. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that can keep up with your daily routine without breaking the bank, these are worth considering.

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