Two years since its launch, the Sony WH-CH520 continues to be a standout audio bargain in 2025, delivering signature Sony sound and functionalities at a budget-friendly price. After reassessing these headphones, my view remains the same: they are arguably the best headphones available for under $100, certainly the top choice under $50, and a must-have for cost-conscious consumers looking for economical Sony headphones, listed at $38.95 at the time of this writing. Before making a purchase on Amazon, be sure to check out my comprehensive Sony WH-CH520 review.
**Sony WH-CH520 Headphones Specs and Setup**
Unboxing and configuring the Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones is a breeze. They boast remarkable specifications for the price:
– **Speaker Driver Unit:** 30mm
– **Frequency Response:** 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
– **Battery:** Up to 50 hours with wireless charging case
– **Quick Charge:** 3 minutes for 1.5 hours of listening
– **Colors:** Black, blue, cappuccino, pink, white, yellow
– **Sony’s Proprietary Technologies:** 360 Reality Audio, DSEE
– **App Supported:** Compatible with Sony Sound Connect app (Android/iOS)
– **Google Fast Pair and Find My Device Support**
All Sony headphones, including the WH-CH520, seamlessly connect with Android and iOS/macOS devices. Android users enjoy Google Fast Pair and Find My Device features. The Sony Sound Connect app enhances functionality. The WH-CH520’s controls consist of physical buttons and voice commands, featuring responsive buttons on the right earcup and efficient microphones for Google Assistant and Siri commands. The wireless distance extends up to 45 feet, and the headphones support multipoint technology for pairing with two Bluetooth audio sources simultaneously.
**Strengths of the Sony WH-CH520 Headphones**
Although the drivers are smaller and there are no hi-res audio codecs, the WH-CH520 offers a well-balanced sound profile with rich lows, clear mids, and bright highs. DSEE improves sound clarity and depth, providing near-hi-res quality. Sony’s 360 Reality Audio delivers decent 3D audio for music and films. A complete charge allows for up to 50 hours of playback, with special features reducing this by 5 to 8 hours. Quick charging grants 1.5 hours of playback from a mere 3-minute charge. The WH-CH520 serves well as a calling headset, with proficient microphones picking up vocals amidst background noise.
**Weaknesses of the Sony WH-CH520 Headphones**
The design of the WH-CH520 leaves much to be desired, featuring average build quality primarily made of plastic. It lacks intelligent controls such as Quick Attention and Speak-to-Chat, active noise cancellation, and a 3.5mm jack for wired listening. The USB-C port does not facilitate USB-C audio play.
**Are the Sony WH-CH520 Headphones Worth It?**
Sony provides these headphones with proprietary sound features at an attractive price. The WH-CH520 offers excellent audio quality, with enhancements like 360 Reality Audio and DSEE elevating content. The battery performance surpasses many noise-canceling headphones. Strong microphones and versatile wireless capabilities further add to the value. Despite aesthetic shortcomings, the WH-CH520 shines in numerous other aspects.
The Sony WH-CH520 can be found on Sony’s official website or at retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy.