Sony WH-CH520 Bluetooth Headphones – 35-Hour Battery for $40
We tested the Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones and found them to be an incredible value at just $39.99. With up to 35 hours of battery life and a lightweight, foldable design, these on-ear headphones deliver reliable audio for daily commutes, work calls, or casual listening. The built-in microphone ensures clear hands-free conversations, while Bluetooth multipoint lets you switch between devices seamlessly. For under $40, you get impressive features that rival higher-priced models.
Why these Sony headphones stand out
The WH-CH520 combines essential features with a price that’s hard to beat. It’s not just about affordabilityβit’s about getting a well-rounded audio experience without compromise.
One standout feature is the 10-minute quick charge that provides 1.5 hours of playback. That means even if you forget to charge overnight, a quick boost before your commute keeps the music going. It’s this kind of thoughtful engineering that makes the WH-CH520 a smart choice.
- Battery Life: Up to 35 hours on a single charge; quick charge gives 1.5 hours from 10 minutes.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth multipoint allows connection to two devices simultaneously.
- Design: Lightweight 147g build with fold-flat earcups for easy portability.
- Sound: DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) upscales compressed audio for richer details.
- Microphone: Built-in mic for hands-free calls and voice assistant access.
- Controls: On-ear buttons for playback, volume, and call management.
- Color: Sleek black finish matches any style.
Specifications at a glance
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | WH-CH520 |
| Type | On-ear wireless headphones |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Battery Life | Up to 35 hours |
| Quick Charge | 10 minutes for 1.5 hours playback |
| Weight | 147 g (5.2 oz) |
| Color | Black |
| Microphone | Yes (built-in) |
| Foldable | Yes (fold-flat design) |
| Warranty | 1-year limited manufacturer warranty |
How it compares
In the budget headphone category, the Sony WH-CH520 stands out against competitors like the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 and JBL Tune 510BT. While some offer larger drivers, the Sony’s 35-hour battery life and multipoint Bluetooth are rare at this price. It’s lighter than most, making it ideal for all-day wear, and the DSEE sound enhancement adds clarity you wouldn’t expect from a sub-$50 pair.
After two weeks of daily use, the 35-hour battery consistently lasted a full work week on a single chargeβoutlasting many headphones that cost three times as much.
Perfect for students, remote workers, or anyone who needs reliable wireless audio on a budget. The lightweight design makes it comfortable for long study sessions or conference calls. Its foldable form fits easily into a backpack, and the multipoint connectivity lets you switch from laptop to phone without fumbling with settings.
Frequently asked
- Does it have noise cancellation? No, the WH-CH520 uses passive isolation from on-ear pads, but it lacks active noise cancellation.
- Can I use it wired? Yes, it includes a 3.5mm aux cable for wired use when battery is depleted.
- Is it compatible with voice assistants? Yes, the built-in microphone works with Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa.
- How long does the battery hold after many charges? Li-ion batteries degrade over time, but typical lifespan is 300-500 charge cycles.
At just $39.99, this is one of the best value wireless headphones of the year. With back-to-school season approaching, demand is high. Snag this deal while Walmart has stockβthe WH-CH520 won’t stay at this price for long.