Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth On-Ear Headset with Microphone
Quick take
The Sony WH-CH520 are lightweight on-ear Bluetooth headphones built for everyday listening, with up to 50 hours of battery life and quick USB-C charging. They also add practical extras like multipoint switching for two devices, a microphone for calls, and EQ customization through the Sony | Headphones Connect app. The main caveat is that they are not noise-canceling, and the on-ear fit may feel snug for some people (especially during warm or longer sessions).
Pros and cons
Pros
- Up to 50-hour battery life, plus quick charging for shorter recharges.
- Multipoint connection so you can switch between two devices.
- Comfortable, lightweight on-ear design with adjustable headband and soft pads.
- App-based EQ options (Sony | Headphones Connect) for tuning your sound.
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calling.
Cons
- Not noise-canceling, so expect outside sound to come through.
- On-ear comfort is subjective, with some buyers noting snug fit or ear warmth during longer use.
- Some features require the phone app, so set-up and advanced controls can feel more “mobile-first.”
- Ear cup size can be a factor (a few buyers mention the ear openings feel small depending on ear size).
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is generally strong around value, comfort, and everyday usability. Many shoppers describe the WH-CH520 as lightweight and comfortable for long periods, with easy Bluetooth pairing across devices. Sound quality is commonly framed as satisfying for the price, especially once EQ settings are adjusted in the Sony app. A recurring practical theme is reliability for daily use, with buyers specifically calling out long-lasting battery performance. On the limitations side, review evidence consistently points to non-noise-canceling behavior, and comfort appears to vary based on fit preference and ear size, with some mentioning snugness, small ear openings, or warmth during extended sessions.
Who these headphones are best for
- Budget-minded listeners who want a mainstream on-ear Bluetooth option without paying for premium noise-canceling features.
- People who switch devices often, since multipoint lets you connect to two devices and swap quickly.
- Buyers who like to customize sound, because EQ settings are available through the Sony | Headphones Connect app.
- Anyone who needs hands-free calling, thanks to the built-in microphone.
- Travellers and long-session users, given the headline up-to-50-hour battery life and quick charging support.
Who should skip them
- Noise-canceling shoppers who want to reduce background sound. These do not offer active noise control.
- People who dislike on-ear pressure. The headphones sit on the ear, and fit comfort is not universal.
- Those who want all advanced features on desktop immediately. Some functions are easier to manage via a compatible phone and the Sony app.
Sound and controls, explained simply
For a budget on-ear model, the WH-CH520 are positioned around everyday listening and customizable audio. The Sony | Headphones Connect app enables EQ Custom, so you can shape the sound to your music preference rather than relying on a single fixed profile. There is also support for enhancing compressed audio, aimed at improving streaming playback quality when your source files are less than ideal.
On-device controls are straightforward for switching playback and basic functions, but review feedback suggests the app is where buyers get the most customization. If you want the simplest “pair and play” experience, the headphones can still function as standard Bluetooth audio without app involvement.
Battery life and charging
The headline strength of the WH-CH520 is endurance, with up to 50 hours of battery life for multi-day listening. Quick charging is designed for shorter top-ups, including the option to get additional playback after a brief charge. For most shoppers, this combination matters most in daily life, commuting, and travel, where you do not want to think about charging constantly.
Comfort and fit (the on-ear tradeoff)
The WH-CH520 use a lightweight on-ear form factor, with an adjustable headband and soft ear pads intended for long listening comfort. Buyers generally like the lightweight feel and a secure fit, but fit is not identical for everyone. Some shoppers report a snug initial feel, and a few mention ear cup sizing or warmth during warmer conditions.
If you have larger ears or you prefer deeper ear coverage, it is worth paying attention to these fit-related reviews, since on-ear models can feel more intrusive than over-ear designs.
Multipoint and call quality
Multipoint connection is included, letting you pair the headphones with two devices and switch quickly. That is particularly helpful for people moving between a phone and a laptop, or between a work device and personal device.
For calls, the built-in microphone supports hands-free communication. Real-world call experiences are typically best when you use the mic as intended and keep voice volume and background noise in mind, but overall the feature set is aimed at everyday communication needs.
Bluetooth range and daily convenience
With Bluetooth 5.2 and an advertised range of up to about 10 meters, the WH-CH520 are made for typical home and commuting movement. Pairing is also repeatedly described as easy across devices, which helps reduce friction when you want to use the headphones across phone, tablet, and computer setups.
Price and availability
These are positioned as an affordable on-ear Bluetooth option. For the most up-to-date pricing and color availability, check the current listing.
Verdict
If you want lightweight on-ear Bluetooth headphones with long battery life, simple everyday controls, multipoint switching, and app-based EQ customization, the Sony WH-CH520 are a sensible pick. They are not for you if you need noise canceling, and fit comfort may vary because they press on the ears. For budget shoppers who are okay with the on-ear tradeoff, the combination of battery life, practical features, and customizable sound makes them worth considering.
FAQ
Do the sony WH-CH520 have noise-canceling?
No, they do not include noise control. They are designed for regular wireless listening rather than active noise cancellation.
How long does the battery last on the Sony WH-CH520?
The WH-CH520 are rated for up to 50 hours of battery life, with quick charging support for shorter recharges.
Do they support multipoint connection?
Yes. They support multipoint, letting you connect to two devices and switch between them.
Is the Sony Headphones Connect app required?
The headphones can work as basic Bluetooth headphones without the app, but the app is used for features like EQ customization and completing certain setup steps.
Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
Many buyers find them lightweight and comfortable for everyday use, but comfort is subjective for on-ear models. Some shoppers mention snug fit or warmth during longer sessions, so fit preference matters.
Can you use them with a computer?
They connect via Bluetooth, so they can be used with Bluetooth-enabled devices. If you want app-based features, a compatible phone is typically the better route.
Specifications
| Product Title | Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth On-Ear Headset with Microphone and up to 50 Hours Battery Life with Quick Charging, Black |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Headphones, Earbuds & Accessories > Headphones & Earbuds > On-Ear Headphones |
| Brand | Sony |
| Manufacturer | SONY |
| Model Name | WH-CH520 |
| Model Number | WHCH520/B |
| Form Factor | On Ear |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Noise Control | None |
| Item Weight | 5.1 Ounces |
| Color | Black |
| Brand Name | Sony |
| Built-In Media | Headphones, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C) (approx. 20 cm (7.88 in.)) |
| Age Range Description | Adult, kid, teen |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Series Number | 520 |
| UPC | 027242925205 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00027242925205 |
| Is Autographed | No |
| Headphone Jack | No Jack |
| Wireless Technology | Bluetooth |
| Bluetooth Range | 10 Meters |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 |
| Control Type | Media Control |
| Control Method | App |
| Carrying Case Weight | 5.1 Ounces |
Available variants
Color
- Black
- Pink
- Blue
- White
- Yellow
- Cappuccino
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