Sony WH-CH520 Review

Our Verdict

The Sony WH-CH520 is Sony’s entry-level wireless on-ear headphones. It is built for daily casual listening and voice calls, and competes directly with the JBL Tune 510BT and the boAt Rockerz 450. Overall, it is a highly capable option with exceptional battery life, though it lacks an auxiliary port for wired backup and active noise cancellation.

Audio Performance & Customization

These headphones are equipped with 30mm drivers. Unlike competitor models from boAt or JBL that offer larger 40mm drivers tuned for heavily boosted bass, the WH-CH520 targets a more balanced and neutral sound profile out of the box. Vocal clarity is defined, making these headphones well-suited for podcasts, virtual meetings, and acoustic tracks. However, the default tuning can feel flat for users accustomed to bass-heavy audio.

To address this, the manufacturer provides EQ customization through the Sony Headphones Connect companion app. Users can select manual settings or pick presets (like “Clear Bass”) to increase low-end punch without muddying the vocal frequencies. The Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) feature is also included to upscale compressed audio streams. One limitation noted in buyer reviews is sound leakage: at high volume settings, sound leaks noticeably, allowing people nearby to hear the audio.

Comfort & Daily Usability

The WH-CH520 weighs 147 grams and features an adjustable padded headband with soft ear cushions. While its lightweight frame makes it easy to wear, the on-ear design rests directly on the outer ear rather than surrounding it. Multiple buyers report mixed comfort over long sessions; the cups apply direct physical pressure, leading to ear fatigue or discomfort after 2 to 2.5 hours of continuous use.

The headphone construction is primarily plastic but is reported as sturdy without creaking joints. The earcups swivel flat for neck wear, but they do not fold inward. This design makes the unit somewhat bulky to pack into travel bags without purchasing a separate hard-shell carrying case. Additionally, the headset lacks sweat resistance and will slip off the head during vigorous running, meaning it is not suitable for active gym use.

Battery Life & Connectivity

Battery performance is the primary strength of this model. The manufacturer rates the battery life at up to 50 hours of playback. User feedback confirms this claim, with heavy users (averaging 12 hours of daily use) reporting 3 to 4 days of battery backup, and casual users getting close to two weeks on a single charge. Recharging is handled via USB-C, and a quick 3-minute charge yields approximately 90 minutes of playback.

For connectivity, the headphones use Bluetooth 5.2 and support multipoint pairing. This allows the headset to maintain active connections to both a phone and a laptop simultaneously, switching audio feeds automatically when a call comes in. The physical control buttons are located on the right earcup. Because the buttons are flat and close together, users note they require a brief learning period to locate by touch in dark environments.

Should You Buy It?

The Sony WH-CH520 is a good choice for daily office work, virtual meetings, and casual music listeners who prioritize clean vocals and long battery life. It handles multipoint switching and calls well, and the 50-hour battery life is better than most options at this price. The main limitations are the lack of a backup AUX port and the pressure exerted by the on-ear design over long sessions. If those are not concerns for your use, it is worth considering. If you need wired backup or active noise cancellation, look at the JBL Tune 760NC instead.