Sony WH-CH720N vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Time to compare Sony WH-CH720N with Apple AirPods Max (USB-C). We will cover the essentials so you can buy with confidence.
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Sony WH-CH720N
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: Sony WH-CH720N vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Sony WH-CH720N
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Sony WH-CH720N | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,666)Best Buy | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (wired) | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Digital Noise Canceling (Integrated Processor V1 + Dual Noise Sensor) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode - 20 levels via app) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 30 mm Dynamic | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 7 Hz – 20,000 Hz (JEITA) | Not officially specified |
Microphones | Beamforming microphones with Precise Voice Pickup Technology | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | 35 hours (ANC On) / 50 hours (ANC Off) | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C; 3 min charge = 60 min playback; Full charge ~3.5 hours | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Not supported) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.94 ft / 1.2 m stereo cable included) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None |
Weight | 6.8 oz (192 g) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons + Sony | Headphones Connect App | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Sony | Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine); 360 Reality Audio; Adaptive Sound Control | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
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Sony WH-CH720N
✓ Pros:
- • Integrated Processor V1 (same chip as flagship WH-1000XM5)
- • Extremely lightweight design (6.8 oz) for all-day comfort
- • Solid battery life (35H ANC / 50H Standard)
- • Multipoint connection support
- • Excellent app support with customizable EQ and DSEE
✗ Cons:
- • No carrying case included (only cables)
- • No LDAC codec support (SBC/AAC only)
- • No official IP water-resistance rating
- • Build quality feels plasticky compared to premium tiers
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- • Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- • Native Lossless Audio support via USB-C cable
- • Premium build quality with breathable mesh canopy
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- • Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
- • Retains older H1 chip (misses Adaptive Audio/Conversation Awareness)
- • Expensive MSRP ($549) unchanged
- • No official water resistance rating
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Which one is better?
Based on ratings and feature balance, Sony WH-CH720N has a slight edge for specific features. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) remains a strong alternative if its strengths match your needs.
Who should buy each?
For performance and polish: Sony WH-CH720N (Integrated Processor V1 (same chip as flagship WH-1000XM5), Extremely lightweight design (6.8 oz) for all-day comfort)
For value or versatility: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) (Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes)
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Sony WH-CH720N excels if you value integrated processor v1 (same chip as flagship wh-1000xm5). Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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