Sony WH-CH720N Review: Solid Mid-Range Noise Canceling Headphones

Sony's WH-CH720N headphones occupy an interesting middle ground in the wireless headphone market, offering active noise cancellation and premium features at a more accessible price point than flagship models. After spending several weeks with these headphones, I can confidently say they deliver solid performance for their category.

Design and Comfort

The WH-CH720N sports a clean, minimalist design that feels both modern and understated. The black finish resists fingerprints well, and the build quality feels sturdy without being overly heavy. The adjustable headband and well-padded ear cups provide comfortable wear for extended listening sessions, though users with larger heads might find the fit slightly snug.

The controls are intuitive, with physical buttons for power, noise cancellation, and playback controls. The inclusion of a 3.5mm jack is a welcome touch for wired connectivity when needed.

Sound Quality

Sony has tuned these headphones with a balanced sound signature that works well across various genres. The bass response is present without being overwhelming, making them suitable for both pop music and podcasts. Mids are clear and well-defined, ensuring vocals come through distinctly. The treble is smooth, avoiding the harshness that can plague some budget-friendly options.

While they won't satisfy audiophiles seeking reference-quality sound, the WH-CH720N delivers a pleasant listening experience that most casual users will appreciate. The Sony Headphones Connect app offers EQ customization for those wanting to fine-tune their sound preferences.

Noise Cancellation Performance

The active noise cancellation is surprisingly effective for this price range. It successfully dampens consistent low-frequency sounds like air conditioning, traffic noise, and airplane engines. However, it's less effective against sudden, sharp sounds or human voices compared to Sony's premium WH-1000XM series.

The ambient sound mode works well for staying aware of your surroundings when needed, with adjustable levels of transparency.

Battery Life and Connectivity

One of the standout features is the exceptional battery life. Sony claims up to 35 hours with noise cancellation off, and real-world usage consistently delivered over 30 hours of mixed listening. Even with ANC enabled, you can expect around 20-25 hours of playback, which easily covers several days of typical use.

Bluetooth connectivity is stable with support for multiple codecs including AAC and SBC. The quick charge feature provides several hours of playback from just a few minutes of charging, which is invaluable for travel.

Call Quality and Smart Features

The built-in microphone performs adequately for phone calls, though voice pickup can be inconsistent in noisy environments. Alexa integration works as advertised, allowing voice commands when connected to compatible devices.

The multipoint Bluetooth connection lets you seamlessly switch between two devices, though the implementation isn't as smooth as some competitors.

Value Proposition

At their current price point, the WH-CH720N represents solid value for money. They deliver many of the features found in more expensive models while maintaining good build quality and performance. They're particularly appealing for students, commuters, and anyone seeking reliable wireless headphones without premium pricing.

These headphones excel as daily drivers for casual listening, work calls, and media consumption. However, critical listeners or frequent travelers might want to consider stepping up to Sony's higher-end models for improved noise cancellation and sound quality.