Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Sony WH-CH720N
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the premium choice here, boasting market-leading noise cancellation and superior sound quality. In real-world usage, you'll appreciate its notable 30-hour battery life with ANC on, perfect for long flights or commutes. While it lacks some high-end features like LDAC support, it's a smart pick for casual listeners or those on a budget in 2026. Key specs: Weight: 8.82 oz vs 6.77 oz and Battery: 30h vs 35h (ANC On).
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones (premium flagship) and Sony WH-CH720N (mid-range) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | ✓4.4★ (14,116 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | Integrated Processor V1 (same chip as flagship WH-1000XM5) |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | No carrying case included (only cables) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Mid-range |
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Sony WH-CH720N
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (wired)
5.2
SBC, AAC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Sony WH-CH720N
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Sony WH-CH720N
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.4(14,116)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (wired) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.2 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Digital Noise Canceling (Integrated Processor V1 + Dual Noise Sensor) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode - 20 levels via app) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 30 mm Dynamic |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 7 Hz – 20,000 Hz (JEITA) |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | Beamforming microphones with Precise Voice Pickup Technology |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | 35 hours (ANC On) / 50 hours (ANC Off) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) | USB-C; 3 min charge = 60 min playback; Full charge ~3.5 hours |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | No (Not supported) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (3.94 ft / 1.2 m stereo cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 6.8 oz (192 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical buttons + Sony | Headphones Connect App |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Sony | Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine); 360 Reality Audio; Adaptive Sound Control |
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Ambient Sound Mode)
Pros
- Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Excellent call quality with 8-microphone system
Cons
- Non-foldable design reduces portability
- Price increase compared to previous generation
Sony WH-CH720N
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (wired)
5.2
SBC, AAC
Digital Noise Canceling (Integrated Processor V1 + Dual Noise Sensor)
Yes (Ambient Sound Mode - 20 levels via app)
Pros
- Integrated Processor V1 (same chip as flagship WH-1000XM5)
- Extremely lightweight design (6.8 oz) for all-day comfort
Cons
- No carrying case included (only cables)
- No LDAC codec support (SBC/AAC only)
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its top-tier ANC crushes the WH-CH720N.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you want the best active noise cancellation, you prioritize call quality with 8 microphones, or you need superior sound performance for music.
Choose the Sony WH-CH720N if: you want a lightweight headphone for all-day comfort, you need longer battery life at 35 hours with ANC on, or you're looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.4★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Sony WH-CH720N
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Sony WH-CH720N
Market-leading active noise Priority
Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Conclusion
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Sony WH-CH720N are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Sony WH-CH720N leads with a 4.4★ rating versus 4.2★. That said, Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones or Sony WH-CH720N?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Sony WH-CH720N wins if you value integrated processor v1 (same chip as flagship wh-1000xm5). Both are rated highly (4.2★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Sony WH-CH720N?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Sony WH-CH720N stands out with integrated processor v1 (same chip as flagship wh-1000xm5). Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Sony WH-CH720N no carrying case included (only cables). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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