Sony WH-CH720N vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
The Sony WH-CH720N crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi for battery life, offering 35 hours with ANC on compared to only 30 hours with the Bathys. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the WH-CH720N excels with its lightweight 6.8 oz design, making it perfect for all-day use. In real-world testing, I found the WH-CH720N to be incredibly comfortable and easy to wear for long periods. The Focal Bathys, while delivering unmatched audio quality through its USB-DAC mode, weighs 12.3 oz, which can feel bulky during extended listening sessions. If you need audiophile-level sound, the Bathys wins with its dynamic range, but the WH-CH720N is perfect for everyday use without breaking the bank.
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Sony WH-CH720N
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sony WH-CH720N
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Sony WH-CH720N | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,666)Best Buy | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (wired) | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Digital Noise Canceling (Integrated Processor V1 + Dual Noise Sensor) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode - 20 levels via app) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 30 mm Dynamic | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 7 Hz – 20,000 Hz (JEITA) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | Beamforming microphones with Precise Voice Pickup Technology | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | 35 hours (ANC On) / 50 hours (ANC Off) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
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 Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Not supported) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.94 ft / 1.2 m stereo cable included) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 6.8 oz (192 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons + Sony | Headphones Connect App | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sony | Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine); 360 Reality Audio; Adaptive Sound Control | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The Sony WH-CH720N is the better buy for most people - its 35-hour battery life crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 30 hours. That said, grab the Focal Bathys if you seek top-tier audio quality with 24-bit/192kHz support - it's worth the extra weight for serious audiophiles.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-CH720N if: you need long battery life for travel, prefer lightweight headphones for extended wear, or want a budget-friendly option without compromising on sound quality. (6.77 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you crave audiophile-level sound for music production, need a headphone that connects easily to your computer, or value premium materials and construction. (12.35 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). Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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