Is the Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Yes—the 50-hour battery life and app support make it a no-brainer for budget-conscious buyers.
Is Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones worth it? Yes, especially with 50-hour battery life and multipoint connectivity, making it ideal for those on a budget. These headphones are perfect for casual listeners who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. However, if you're an audiophile or need premium features, you might want to look elsewhere. PageBen believes the value proposition here is strong for everyday users seeking reliable headphones at a budget price.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The price-to-performance ratio is outstanding with the Sony WH-CH520, especially considering the 50-hour battery life. This means you can listen all week without needing to recharge, making it an impressive investment for daily commuters or casual listeners. Competitors in this price range often offer less impressive battery life, so you're getting a lot for your money here. Moreover, the multipoint connection lets you pair with two devices simultaneously, which is a significant advantage for multitaskers. This feature is often reserved for higher-end models, making the WH-CH520 a smart buy for those who juggle multiple devices. Additionally, the DSEE audio upscaling technology enhances your listening experience, ensuring music sounds richer and clearer, which is a rarity for budget headphones. Overall, the combination of impressive specs at a competitive price means this model stands out in the crowded market.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Unmatched Battery Life
The 50-hour battery life is a game-changer for budget headphones, allowing for days of listening without recharging. This is particularly useful for commuters or travelers who want uninterrupted audio without constantly seeking a charging outlet. With just a 3-minute charge providing 1.5 hours of playback, you can quickly top off the battery before heading out.
2. Convenient Multipoint Connectivity
The multipoint pairing feature allows you to connect two devices simultaneously—great for anyone who wants to switch between a laptop and smartphone without hassle. This is especially beneficial in a work-from-home environment or for those who frequently take calls while listening to music. No more fumbling around with Bluetooth settings every time you want to switch devices.
3. Customizable Sound Experience
With app support through the Sony Headphones Connect app, users can customize their audio experience with a 5-band EQ and DSEE upscaling. This allows you to tailor the sound to your taste, making them versatile for various music genres. Few budget headphones offer such a level of customization, meaning you can enjoy your favorite tracks as intended.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Lack of Active Noise Cancelling
The WH-CH520 lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), relying only on passive noise isolation. This can be a dealbreaker for users who frequently find themselves in noisy environments, like public transport or crowded offices. Without ANC, outside noise can seep in, diminishing the overall listening experience, especially for genres that benefit from a more immersive sound.
Build Quality Feels Plasticky
The build quality of the WH-CH520 can feel somewhat plasticky, which may not inspire confidence in durability. While lightweight can be a plus, it also raises concerns about longevity, especially if you plan to use them daily. Users looking for rugged headphones might find this aspect frustrating.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The battery life is a standout feature at 50 hours for continuous playback, easily outpacing many competitors that struggle to last over 30 hours. This endurance ensures you won’t be scrambling for a charger mid-week, making it a practical choice for regular use. On the connectivity front, Bluetooth 5.2 ensures a strong and stable connection with low latency, which is crucial for seamless audio playback. While it lacks low-latency mode, the Bluetooth version is still ahead of many budget headphones that use older technologies. The 30 mm dynamic drivers produce decent sound quality, although not audiophile-grade, they are more than sufficient for casual listening. The lightweight design at 5.2 oz makes them comfortable for extended use, but be aware that on-ear headphones can sometimes lead to ear fatigue during long sessions. Finally, the absence of an IP rating means you should keep them away from moisture, which could be a drawback for those looking for workout headphones.
Compare with similar options:
Who Is This For?
Best for casual listeners who need a budget-friendly option with long battery life and basic sound customization. The 50-hour battery life and multipoint connectivity make them ideal for commuters or multitaskers who want to switch between devices seamlessly. Not ideal for audiophiles or users who require high-end features like ANC or wired options, as they may find the sound quality lacking.
📊 How It Stacks Up Against Alternatives
Ranks in the top tier of budget options, placing #2 out of 5 products we track.
Direct Competitors:
Worth the Upgrade? Premium Alternatives:
🔮 What to Expect Long-Term
Beyond the initial purchase, here's what to consider about owning the Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones:
🛡️ Durability
Standard materials should last 2-4 years with regular use. Budget options may show wear sooner.
🔧 Support & Warranty
Most brands offer 1-2 year warranties. Sony and Bose have strong service networks in the US.
⬆️ Upgrade Path
Headphone technology evolves every 2-3 years. ANC and Bluetooth codecs see the most improvements.
💵 Resale Value
Mid-range and budget options depreciate faster, retaining 20-40% value after 2 years.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You need headphones for daily commuting with long battery life.
- •You want to easily switch between multiple devices without hassle.
- •You appreciate customizable sound settings to enhance your listening experience.
✗ Skip if:
- •You require active noise cancelling for better isolation.
- •You prefer durable headphones and are concerned about build quality.
The Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones earns its price tag. That 50-hour battery life alone makes it worth it for casual listeners and multitaskers. PageBen recommends these headphones for those seeking functionality and affordability, offering reliable performance at a budget price.
Quick Questions
+ Is the Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones worth buying in 2026?
Yes—the 50-hour battery life and app support make it a no-brainer for budget-conscious buyers.
+ What are the main pros of Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones?
Key advantages: Outstanding 50-hour battery life; Multipoint connection allows pairing with two devices; Extremely lightweight (5.2 oz) for reduced listening fatigue. These make it a strong choice in the headphones market.
+ What are the downsides of Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones?
Main considerations: No 3.5 mm audio jack (cannot use wired); No Active Noise Cancelling (ANC); On-ear fit can cause ear fatigue over long sessions. Consider whether these affect your specific use case.
+ How long will the Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones last?
Standard materials should last 2-4 years with regular use. Budget options may show wear sooner.
+ What warranty does Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones come with?
Most brands offer 1-2 year warranties. Sony and Bose have strong service networks in the US.
+ How does Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones compare to alternatives?
Ranks in the top tier of budget options, placing #2 out of 5 products we track. Direct competitors include Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, 1MORE SonoFlow, Soundcore Life Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. Check our detailed comparison pages for head-to-head analysis.
+ Where can US buyers get Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones?
For US buyers, Amazon offers competitive pricing, fast Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. Use our link above to check current availability and pricing—prices can fluctuate frequently.