A Review of the Sony WH-CH520 Headphones, One Month After Use

The world of technology is ever-evolving, with tech companies constantly coming up with cutting-edge devices that enhance our daily lives. This 2023, Sony has done a sweet job of expanding its offerings to accommodate both those who are willing to invest in high-end products and those searching for more budget-friendly options. And yes, if you identify yourself in the latter category, the WH-CH520 is up your alley.

Launched in April 2023, the WH-CH520 headphones are designed for entry-level audiophiles who are looking for a high-quality listening experience without breaking the bank. Sony asserts that these headphones feature soft earpads for all-day comfort, crystal clear sound quality, and a 50-hour battery life. To validate these claims, The Beat Asia tested out the WH-CH520 headphones for one month. Here’s our straightforward, no-bull review.

Built, Appearance, and Comfort

From the get-go, it’s evident that the WH-CH520 headphones were designed with young tech users in mind. It features a minimalist look and lightweight build, making it a perfect choice for those who want to veer away from heavy and bulky headphones.

We specifically chose the beige option to test for discoloration. After one month of use, we were pleased to find out that it only accumulated very little dirt. While it’s too early to say the WH-CH520 is stain-resistant, we’re glad that it stayed relatively clean.

In terms of comfort, the WH-CH520 features plush earpads that are easy on the ears, living up to Sony’s claim of delivering all-day comfort. Even with hours of usage, it never caused discomfort and headaches, which is a common issue with bulky headphones.

Sound and Call Quality

Wireless gadgets often struggle with connectivity, making wired earphones seem like a better choice. The WH-CH520 addresses this problem by delivering crisp sound quality that makes you feel like you’re inside a theater with a surround sound system.

Our favorite feature is the ability to adjust the music quality from the Sony app. While not exactly groundbreaking, as we’ve already seen this feature in Apple Music and Spotify, it’s definitely a valuable addition for an entry-level device.

When it comes to call quality, the WH-CH520 didn’t quite meet our expectations as it resembled the occasional choppiness typically associated with wireless devices. However, we don’t solely attribute the issue to the gadget, as we believe the signal of the cellular network we used also played a part.

Battery Life

The WH-CH520 takes the crown with its impressive 50-hour battery life, an improvement from its predecessor, the WH-CH510, which only lasts for up to 35 hours on a single charge.

Initially, we were skeptical about the 50-hour claim for such an affordable device. After using the WH-CH520 for six to seven hours a day for four weeks, we observed that the battery actually lasted for 47-48 hours. It’s worth noting that the actual duration varies depending on factors such as volume levels and usage patterns. 

Nevertheless, the 47-48-hour battery life came close to Sony’s 50-hour claim, making the WH-CH520 a great choice for audiophiles who want to enjoy music for long periods of time.

Verdict

While Sony is usually synonymous with pricier headphones, the WH-CH520 is a wallet-friendly alternative that offers features on par with high-end models. If you’re on the hunt for stylish headphones that effortlessly match any outfit, provide hours of uninterrupted listening experience, and deliver crystal clear sound quality, the WH-CH520 is the ideal device to express your hankering for music.

The Sony WH-CH520 starts from US$58. Price is accurate at the time of writing.