When it comes to wireless headphones, Sony has long been a leader in blending superior sound quality with cutting-edge noise cancellation technology. The Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones are a mid-range model that deliver much of the company’s premium performance at a significantly more accessible price. Lightweight, feature-rich, and packed with intelligent noise-cancelling tech, these headphones are ideal for music lovers, remote workers, commuters, and casual listeners alike.
In this in-depth review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Sony WH-CH720N—from design and comfort to audio performance, battery life, and whether they’re worth the buy.
Enjoy immersive sound with advanced noise cancellation, lightweight comfort, and up to 35 hours of battery life. Perfect for travel, work, and everyday listening with crystal-clear audio and Bluetooth connectivity.
First Impressions: Sleek, Lightweight, and Modern
Right out of the box, the Sony WH-CH720N headphones make a strong first impression with their minimalist aesthetic. Available in multiple colors, including classic black, white, and a subtle blue, the design is clean and modern without feeling overly flashy. They feature a matte plastic finish that feels durable yet incredibly light.
Weighing just 192 grams, these are some of the lightest over-ear headphones in Sony’s lineup—noticeably lighter than the WH-1000XM5s. This makes them perfect for long listening sessions without causing fatigue or pressure on the head or ears.
Key Design Features:
- Adjustable headband and soft oval ear cups for a custom fit
- Swivel earcups for flat storage and portability
- Minimal external buttons for a clean look and intuitive control
Comfort & Fit: Built for All-Day Wear
Comfort is one of the most important factors in choosing headphones, and the CH720Ns score high here. The memory foam ear cushions are soft and breathable, with enough depth to avoid ear fatigue during extended use. The lightweight build and well-balanced headband distribute weight evenly, ensuring that even after hours of wear, you barely notice they’re on.
Whether you’re wearing them during work calls, Netflix binges, or flights, these headphones provide a secure yet gentle fit that works for a variety of head sizes.
Audio Performance: Balanced and Enjoyable
While these headphones don’t offer the audiophile-grade tuning of Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM5s, they deliver a well-rounded, balanced sound that will satisfy most listeners.
Sound Highlights:
- Clear mids and highs: Vocals, podcasts, and acoustic instruments sound clean and precise.
- Controlled bass: The low end is present and punchy without being overwhelming—ideal for genres like pop, rock, R&B, and indie.
- Soundstage: Decent spatial separation for the price range, though not quite as wide as higher-end models.
The sound signature is customizable using the Sony Headphones Connect app, where you can adjust EQ settings and choose presets that enhance bass, treble, or vocal clarity.
Noise Cancellation: Impressive for the Price
Perhaps the standout feature of the WH-CH720N is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), powered by Sony’s Integrated Processor V1—the same chip used in their flagship headphones. While the ANC on the CH720Ns isn’t quite as powerful as the top-tier WH-1000XM5, it’s still very effective at reducing ambient noise such as:
- Office chatter
- Airplane engine hum
- Street traffic
- Low-frequency background noise
Combined with the passive noise isolation from the snug-fitting ear cups, you get a surprisingly immersive listening experience that allows you to focus or relax wherever you are.
Additionally, the Ambient Sound Mode lets in outside sounds when needed, so you can stay aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones—ideal for public transport, walking, or quick conversations.
Battery Life: Long-Lasting and Reliable
Battery life is another major win for the CH720N. Sony claims up to 35 hours of playback with noise cancelling on, and up to 50 hours without ANC—and real-world usage comes close to these numbers.
Charging Features:
- USB-C charging
- 3-minute quick charge = 1 hour of playback
- Fully charges in about 3.5 hours
This makes the headphones perfect for daily use, extended travel, or binge-listening without constantly hunting for a charger.
Connectivity & Features: Modern and Smart
The CH720N includes a full suite of modern wireless features, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
Key Features:
- Bluetooth 5.2 for fast, stable connections
- Multipoint pairing – Connect to two devices at once (e.g., laptop + phone)
- Voice assistant support (Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri)
- Built-in microphone for clear calls
- Sony Headphones Connect app integration for full control
- Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) – Restores compressed audio quality
The microphone quality is respectable for Zoom calls or mobile conversations. It includes noise suppression features that reduce ambient sounds, helping your voice come through clearly even in busy environments.
Controls: Simple and Intuitive
Physical buttons on the right earcup control volume, playback, power, and ANC modes. While touch controls are becoming common, many users prefer the tactile feedback of physical buttons for reliability and precision.
They’re easy to locate and operate by feel, making these headphones accessible for users of all experience levels.
Who Are These Headphones Best For?
The Sony WH-CH720N is ideal for:
- Remote workers and students – Long battery life, clear mic, and comfort
- Commuters and travelers – Lightweight build with effective ANC
- Casual music lovers – Balanced sound and EQ customizability
- Budget-conscious shoppers – Premium Sony features at a mid-range price
They may not offer the extreme depth of studio-grade headphones or the ultra-luxury materials of flagship models, but for most everyday users, they hit a sweet spot of value, quality, and performance.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Lightweight and very comfortable for extended wear
- Excellent battery life (up to 50 hours)
- Effective ANC for the price point
- Balanced, customizable sound profile
- Multipoint connectivity and app support
- USB-C fast charging
- Affordable compared to premium models
❌ Cons:
- Plastic build may not feel as premium
- No carry case included
- ANC not as strong as higher-end Sony headphones
- No water or sweat resistance (not ideal for workouts)
Final Verdict: A Feature-Rich Mid-Range Headphone Worth the Investment
The Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones offer an impressive mix of comfort, sound quality, smart features, and long-lasting battery—all in a lightweight, stylish package. For anyone seeking a reliable pair of over-ear headphones with strong ANC, customizable sound, and multipoint Bluetooth pairing without breaking the bank, the CH720Ns are a top contender.
Sony has struck an excellent balance between affordability and performance here, making the WH-CH720N a perfect everyday companion for work, travel, or casual listening.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the Sony WH-CH720N at:
- Amazon
- Best Buy
- Sony’s official website
- Walmart and major electronics retailers
Prices range around $149–$179, depending on sales and bundles. Be sure to check for seasonal deals or student discounts!
