The Sony WH-CH720N combines a light over-ear frame with noise cancellation, two-device connection and a wired listening option. Those are useful everyday features, especially for someone who wants one pair for a phone, computer and occasional analog source. The savings come with a simpler physical package and more limited noise reduction than a flagship label might suggest.
Its 192g manufacturer weight is a practical attraction, but lightness alone does not establish comfort or durability. Consider the frame, fit and carrying arrangement alongside the feature list. There is no included case.
Sound and Noise Cancellation
- 30 mm dynamic drivers
- ANC and ambient mode
- App equalizer
RTINGS’ original sample reduced higher-frequency noise more effectively than deep engine rumble, and its bass presentation changed with fit.1 That is a reason to set realistic expectations for flights and buses. The CH720N provides active cancellation, but the presence of Sony’s V1 processor is not proof that it performs like every more expensive Sony model.
The app equalizer lets you adjust the balance for familiar music. Establish a consistent seal first, especially with glasses, because a changing physical fit can make an EQ decision less reliable. Ambient mode allows more of the surroundings through when needed, without requiring the headphone to become a permanently open design.
Design and Comfort
- Approximately 192 g
- Over-ear fit
- Nonfolding frame
The low weight may be attractive for long work sessions, provided the cups and headband suit the wearer. Check whether the pads surround the ears comfortably and whether pressure remains acceptable after a normal session. A light specification does not guarantee a good fit for every head.
The cups turn, but the frame does not fold inward into a small bundle. Add an appropriate case if the headphones will travel regularly; the supplied package contains cables rather than protective luggage. They are not waterproof, so keep wet exercise and exposure to rain outside the intended use.
Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.2
- SBC and AAC
- 3.5 mm analog
Two-device connection supports switching between a phone and computer while keeping both paired. The codec list is SBC and AAC, with no LDAC option. For routine calls and streaming, connection convenience may matter more than a premium codec that the source cannot use anyway.
A detachable analog cable allows listening with power off and powered listening with processing available. It does not carry the built-in microphones for wired calls. The USB-C port is also limited to charging, so this is not a USB audio headset. Confirm the source has a suitable analog output or use a compatible audio adapter.
Battery Life
- Up to 35 hours with ANC
- Up to 50 hours without ANC
- Approximately 3.5-hour charge
Sony rates playback at up to 35 hours with noise cancellation and 50 hours without it. Those are maximum figures rather than a guarantee for every volume and processing setting. Choose the ANC figure for a noisy commute rather than budgeting the whole trip around the larger number.
A three-minute top-up is rated for up to an hour of listening, and ten minutes for up to four and a half hours. The passive cable is useful if charging has been overlooked, although it cannot preserve active cancellation with an empty battery. Keep that distinction in mind when packing for travel.
Alternatives
The WH-CH710N is the earlier model. The CH720N reduces the documented weight from roughly 223g to 192g and offers the current app and multipoint workflow, while the headline ANC runtime remains 35 hours. Those are practical changes, not an across-the-board battery upgrade.
The WH-CH520 is lighter still but uses on-ear pads and omits ANC and analog playback. The WH-1000XM4 adds a folding frame, carrying case and LDAC. Choose the model according to the room, bag and source devices before deciding how much a current discount is worth.
Verdict
The WH-CH720N is a useful middle option when light weight, ANC and analog backup all matter. Its modest travel package and limited deep-noise cancellation are the main reasons to spend more. If those compromises are acceptable, compare the available finishes on price rather than expecting different hardware.