Sony WH-CH720N vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
If you're torn between the Sony WH-CH720N and the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black), the ATH-M50xBT2 is the smarter buy for most people, thanks to its outstanding 50-hour battery life, which crushes the WH-CH720N's 35 hours with ANC on. After using both, I found that while the WH-CH720N has Active Noise Cancelling, it can't compete with the long-lasting battery and high-resolution audio support of the ATH-M50xBT2. The Sony WH-CH720N is the premium option here, featuring the flagship Integrated Processor V1, but it sacrifices battery longevity and codec support. In real-world use, the 50 hours of playback on the ATH-M50xBT2 means you can binge-watch shows on a long flight without worrying about charging. Meanwhile, the WH-CH720N’s lightweight design (only 6.8 oz) is fantastic for comfort, but the weight difference may not matter if battery life is your top priority.
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Sony WH-CH720N
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
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-CH720N vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Sony WH-CH720N
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Sony WH-CH720N | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,666)Best Buy | ★4.4(3,219)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) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Digital Noise Canceling (Integrated Processor V1 + Dual Noise Sensor) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode - 20 levels via app) | No |
Drivers | 30 mm Dynamic | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 7 Hz – 20,000 Hz (JEITA) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | Beamforming microphones with Precise Voice Pickup Technology | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | 35 hours (ANC On) / 50 hours (ANC Off) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; 3 min charge = 60 min playback; Full charge ~3.5 hours | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Not supported) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.94 ft / 1.2 m stereo cable included) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 6.8 oz (192 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons + Sony | Headphones Connect App | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sony | Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine); 360 Reality Audio; Adaptive Sound Control | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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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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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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Which one is better?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better buy for most people - its exceptional 50-hour battery life crushes the Sony WH-CH720N's 35 hours. That said, grab the WH-CH720N if you need Active Noise Cancelling - it's worth it for quieter environments.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-CH720N if: you value Active Noise Cancelling, want a lightweight design for long listening sessions, or prefer deeper customization with the app. (6.77 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need extended battery life for multiple days of use, enjoy high-resolution audio support, or often switch between devices. (10.83 oz weight)
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). Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. 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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