Compare Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Headphones vs Nothing Headphone (1)

ANC is generally rated as strong for the price and especially helpful against low-frequency hum/rumble, but it is not consistently described as flagship-grade and can let in some noise (notably on flights or distant traffic). Some reviews highlight granular ambient/ANC controls in the app and adaptive behaviors, while others focus on simple mode toggling. Overall adjustability is viewed as good for the price.

ANC is broadly considered strong for the price and effective for travel/commuting, but it is usually ranked a step behind the best from Sony/Bose/Apple, especially for voices or tougher scenarios. Noise control modes and adjustability are a highlight: reviews repeatedly mention multiple ANC levels/adaptive behavior and the ability to map controls to switch modes.

Compatibility is framed as mainstream-friendly across phones and computers via Bluetooth and a 3.5mm jack; Android-specific advantages are primarily discussed in the context of codec support in one source.

The Sony companion app is repeatedly cited as a major value add, offering EQ, feature toggles, and adaptive behaviors; one review notes account requirements for full access.

The Nothing X app is repeatedly described as one of the best parts of the experience, with feature access, customization, and settings that help compensate for default tuning.

Multiple reviews explicitly call out that aptX (including low-latency variants) is not supported, positioning these as more mainstream than enthusiast-focused for codecs.

Several sources imply this is not a gaming/low-latency-focused headset, noting missing low-latency modes/codecs. At least one review says video sync issues are minimal for most people, but latency could be better.

Several reviews mention low-latency or gaming modes and head-tracking features; real-world A/V performance is generally positioned as competent, not a class-leading differentiator.

Bass is frequently emphasized: some praise punch and warmth, while others describe it as boomy/loose or overwhelming without EQ, and not as controlled as higher-end options.

Bass is usually described as controlled and textured rather than skull-rattling, with bass-enhancer tools available; some reviewers still want tighter tuning out of the box.

Battery life is a consistent strength. Multiple reviews cite around 35 hours with ANC on, and at least one measured test lands near 40 hours.

Battery life is a consistent highlight, with many reviews citing long runtime (often around 35 hours with ANC and far more without) and strong real-world endurance. Replaceable battery support is generally weak, with at least one review calling out a non-user-friendly internal battery design.

Once paired, Bluetooth stability is generally reported as solid, with stable connections across typical use; a few note initial pairing quirks on some devices.

Bluetooth stability is generally good with modern pairing features, though a few reviews mention occasional dropouts depending on environment or device.

Build is the most common compromise: many describe a plasticky, budget feel (sometimes even 'toy-like'), while others find it sturdy enough with minimal creaks. Durability concerns come up often.

Build quality is generally seen as solid and premium-feeling for $299, though some reviews note more plastic than expected or worry about long-term cosmetic wear.

Physical buttons are broadly seen as reliable and easy to use. Multiple reviewers note the buttons can feel similar, causing occasional mis-presses until you learn them.

Physical controls (roller + paddle + buttons + power switch) are a major highlight for tactility, but a few reviews mention learning curve, finicky behavior, or coarse volume steps.

Cables are generally considered usable, though at least one review calls out the included cables as short for some desk/PC setups.

Included cables are generally viewed as fine, though at least one review notes limitations (such as a 3-pole 3.5mm cable that does not carry mic).

A recurring complaint is the lack of an included carrying case/pouch, pushing buyers toward aftermarket protection if traveling.

The case is usually described as sturdy and protective with space for cables, but multiple reviewers call it large or mention zipper/material quirks.

Fast top-ups are a highlight across several sources, commonly described as roughly an hour of playback from a very short charge. Full recharge times are described as reasonable for the class.

Fast charging is frequently praised, with multiple reviews citing a short top-up delivering hours of playback; full-charge times are generally described as typical.

Most describe a secure but not crushing clamp that stays put; a minority warn glasses wearers may feel pressure.

Clamping force is commonly described as secure without being overly tight, though individual fit can vary and some users still feel pressure over time.

Codec support is commonly described as limited at this price tier (often AAC/SBC), with repeated mentions that premium/low-latency options are missing.

Codec and connection support is repeatedly highlighted as a strength, with common mentions of SBC/AAC/LDAC and both USB-C and 3.5mm wired options.

Comfort is widely praised, especially for all-day desk use and commuting. A few note heat/stickiness over time or fit sensitivity (glasses pressure, ear contact for some).

Comfort is often rated good-to-very-good for long sessions, but the weight and occasional headband/pad pressure points mean not everyone finds it as effortless as the lightest competitors.

Design is generally described as minimalist and attractive enough for everyday wear, with common color options and a clean look that reads more understated than flashy.

Design is consistently described as distinctive and polarizing, with many praising the transparent, cassette-like aesthetic and premium look for the price.

Having both USB-C audio and a 3.5mm option is repeatedly praised for flexibility, especially for laptops, planes, and modern phones.

Padding is generally described as decent for the price, though several reviews call it thinner/less plush than premium models and some mention it can feel sticky with longer wear.

Ear pad comfort and seal are regularly praised, though some reviews mention thinner cushioning than expected, heat buildup, or pressure on certain ear shapes/accessories.

No summary yet.

Cups generally rotate to lie flat, which helps neck-wear and packing, but the design can cause the squared corners to bump or rattle against each other.

EQ control is frequently praised as effective, with several reviewers recommending EQ tweaks to reduce treble fatigue or rebalance bass/mids.

EQ customization is a defining strength: multiple reviews highlight an advanced, multi-band/parametric-style EQ (often with Q control) plus shareable presets/QR codes.

Find My-style features are generally limited to making the headphones play a sound, which helps for nearby locating but is not a full tracker replacement.

Measured and subjective impressions frequently point to a non-neutral stock response (often described as dark), with EQ being the practical path to a more accurate balance.

Headband adjustment works smoothly for most, but at least one review dislikes the adjustment ergonomics and others wish for more headband padding.

Hinge/long-term durability is frequently treated as a watch-out due to light plastics and the non-folding design; at least one review warns pressure on the swivel/hinge could risk breakage.

In-box accessories are usually described as basic: commonly a USB-C charging cable and a 3.5mm audio cable, with no case included.

Instrument separation is generally framed as good for casual listening but not class-leading; several reviews explicitly say separation/resolution trails more expensive models.

Instrument separation is often praised as solid or good once the tonal balance is corrected, though some reviewers still find complex mixes can feel crowded compared to top rivals.

Most reviews state there is no LDAC/hi-res support, but one review explicitly lists LDAC among available codecs. Treat LDAC support as inconsistent across sources and confirm if it matters to you.

LDAC support is consistently called out across reviews and is a core part of the product’s high-res pitch for compatible Android devices.

At higher volumes, several reviewers report low distortion and clear playback, though ultimate refinement and dynamics are not always on par with premium flagships.

Noise reduction for calls is described as above average for the class (including some wind handling), but multiple sources say it can struggle in very noisy settings like loud cafes or heavy traffic.

Mic noise reduction is usually strong for steady noise and wind, but some reviews report aggressive noise gating or weaker handling of echo/reverberant rooms.

Call mic quality is generally reported as good for a built-in headphone mic, with clear speech in typical environments.

Call quality is often described as clear and workable, with some reviews praising voice pickup in noisy streets; others call it merely average or slightly robotic compared with top rivals.

Midrange is a mixed bag: several say vocals can be strong or pleasant (especially after EQ), while others report recessed or slightly muffled mids in the default tuning.

Midrange performance varies by tuning: vocals can sound clear and forward after tweaks, but several reviews note too much lower-mid presence or a dull/veiled midrange on default settings.

Multipoint is repeatedly mentioned as a key convenience feature and usually works well, though some report occasional switching wobbles that resolve on a second try or after enabling it in-app.

Multipoint is commonly cited as supported and functional, enabling quick switching between two devices; reliability feedback is mostly positive.

Passive isolation is typically described as decent but limited by lighter padding versus premium models, making ANC do more of the heavy lifting.

Passive isolation is consistently strong thanks to a good seal and memory-foam style pads, meaning ANC has a solid foundation in many real-world environments.

Most sources emphasize the headphones do not fold, typically only swiveling flat, which hurts packability even though the low weight makes them easy to carry.

Portability is a weak spot versus foldable rivals: cups rotate flat but the headphones do not fold up, making the carry footprint and case bulkier.

Preset EQ profiles are described as useful but can be taste-dependent; at least one review notes a preset can make bass or treble feel overcooked until adjusted.

Preset profiles and simpler EQ tools are generally helpful, but several reviewers still prefer custom EQ to get the best tonal balance.

Replaceable earpad support is mixed: some sources mention pads can be removed or obtained via customer service, while others say replacement availability is unclear.

Wear-detection sensors are repeatedly called out as missing, and auto-pause features are often described as reserved for higher-end Sony models.

Wear-detection and other sensors work well for many users, but some reports mention inconsistent behavior on specific devices (for example, desktop pairing scenarios).

Finish-related notes vary: some mention a matte texture that helps with fingerprints, while at least one review warns lighter colorways can pick up dirt and need cleaning.

Surface oils and cosmetic marks can show up on the materials, with some reviewers noting it wipes off easily but is not especially resistant to smudging.

Setup is usually straightforward thanks to modern pairing features, though a few reviews note hidden settings or small/hard-to-find pairing controls.

Overall sound is described as enjoyable and competitive for the price, often bass-forward and lively. Many recommend using EQ to refine balance; multiple reviews still note limits in dynamics, resolution, or naturalism versus premium models. Wired listening via 3.5mm is supported and generally works well when powered. Some notes suggest passive/off listening changes the sound and is less impressive.

Sound quality is widely seen as good hardware with polarizing default tuning: some hear clean, balanced clarity, while many describe the stock sound as dark/flat or a bit compressed until EQ is applied. Wired listening over USB-C and/or 3.5mm is frequently mentioned; some reviewers note slightly improved clarity when wired, but not a dramatic transformation.

Soundstage impressions vary: some call it wider than expected for the price, while others describe it as narrower/compact compared to Sony flagships, with depth often the weaker dimension.

Soundstage is generally not class-leading; multiple reviews call it narrower or less expansive than Sony/Apple competitors, even if separation can be decent after tuning.

No summary yet.

Spatial audio is included and often paired with head tracking, but opinions on its usefulness vary widely; several reviews call it mediocre or not worth using for music.

Sustainability signals are limited in reviews: some note repairability steps (like pad access) but also a lack of recycled materials or overt eco focus.

Transparency/ambient mode is often described as effective and natural for the price, though a few mention mild hiss or a slightly processed effect.

Transparency mode is generally usable and fairly natural, but a recurring complaint is that the wearer’s own voice can sound boomy and/or the passthrough can be less airy than the best implementations.

Treble is often described as clear but can be boosted/peaky and fatiguing for some listeners until EQ adjustments tame it; others find it smooth enough for longer sessions.

Treble is a common critique in default mode, with multiple reviewers calling it muted or lacking sparkle; EQ can restore more air and bite for cymbals and vocals.

USB-C charging is repeatedly noted and treated as the expected modern standard for this model.

USB-C is a frequently praised feature because it supports charging and USB-C audio, adding modern wired flexibility.

Voice assistant support is mentioned across reviews (e.g., triggering assistants via button hold), and is treated as a standard convenience feature rather than a headline differentiator.

Voice assistant hooks and programmable button behavior are widely mentioned, with extra integrations for Nothing phones and more basic assistant triggering on other devices.

Volume output is generally adequate, but at least one review notes limited headroom and less precise volume stepping than some competitors.

Water/sweat resistance is described as absent (no waterproof rating), and at least one review cautions against heavy sweat, making them a fair-weather choice.

IP52 is a standout feature in this category and is repeatedly praised as practical for sweat and light splashes, even if it is not a high waterproof rating.

A consistent standout: reviewers repeatedly call these exceptionally light for over-ears (around the ~190g range) and easy to wear for long sessions.

At ~329g, weight is noticeable: reviewers often say it’s lighter than AirPods Max but heavier than Sony/Bose alternatives, which can affect long-wear comfort.