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The Sony WH-CH520 is the likely match for the “$68 Sony headphones” claim: an on-ear Bluetooth model that one Australian review listed at an A$68 recommended retail price in December 2024. That figure is neither a current price nor a U.S. price. Reviews.org’s reviewer found the sound impressive for the category, but the WH-CH520’s lack of active noise cancellation, weak passive isolation and on-ear fit make it a better choice for everyday listening in quieter places than for blocking noise. The evidence supports a promising budget option—not a general rule that cheaper headphones sound better.
Which Sony headphones does the $68 claim refer to?
It most likely refers to the Sony WH-CH520, a wireless on-ear headphone. Reviews.org’s Australian review listed an RRP of A$68 on December 17, 2024. That is a historical Australian price reference, not a verified price today or in another country. Check local retailers for the price where you live.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone, Blue | $33.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Mic, Cappuccino | $33.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The model is easy to confuse with the WH-CH720N, which is a separate, over-ear headphone with active noise cancellation (ANC). A March 2026 What Hi-Fi? article’s £68 deal was for the CH720N, not the CH520. Sony’s March 2023 announcement describes the two models and their different designs and specifications: Sony Announces Two New Headphone Models. The separate deal is reported here: What Hi-Fi? on the WH-CH720N deal.
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How does the WH-CH520 sound for the price?
Sound quality is subjective, and the cited reviews do not establish that budget headphones generally outperform more expensive ones. They do offer a more specific case: Reviews.org’s Nathan Lawrence described the CH520 as impressive for its category and reported that it compared favorably with the Belkin SoundForm Adapt in the review’s listening comparison. Lawrence wrote, “The Sony WH-CH520s were the clear winners, thanks mostly to commendable bass and Sony’s decades-long dedication to audio balance.” That is his assessment of that comparison, not a universal ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends.(USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
Lawrence also noted that some details were less clear in certain listening examples. RTINGS describes the sound as having a balanced bass and midrange, while noting treble and distortion caveats. Its review says the sound can be adjusted using app EQ. Taken together, those findings suggest a listenable, adjustable sound that may satisfy casual listeners, rather than a promise of flawless detail or a fit for every preference.
Read the individual assessments in Reviews.org’s WH-CH520 review and RTINGS’ WH-CH520 review.
What do you give up at this price?
No active noise cancellation
The WH-CH520 does not have ANC. Its on-ear design also provides weak passive isolation, according to the independent reviews. That means it is not the right pick if reducing aircraft cabin noise, office chatter or other steady background sound is a priority. Raising the volume is not a substitute for noise cancellation, and can make listening less comfortable.
An on-ear fit, not an over-ear seal
The earcups rest on the ears rather than surrounding them. RTINGS notes that this style can affect comfort and stability for some people and situations; fit is personal, so a try-on or a retailer with a suitable return policy can matter. Reviews.org says the headphones are not foldable, which may also make them less convenient to pack than a collapsible travel pair.
Rank #2
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends. (USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
No 3.5 mm audio jack
Reviews.org reports that the CH520 lacks a 3.5 mm audio input. If you need a wired fallback for an in-flight entertainment system, a device without Bluetooth, or listening after the battery runs out, this model does not provide that option.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What features does it offer?
Sony lists DSEE audio processing, app-based equalization and multipoint connectivity for the WH-CH520. Multipoint lets the headphones connect to two devices, useful when switching between a phone and a computer. Sony rates battery life at up to 50 hours; this is the manufacturer’s specification, not an independently verified runtime result in the cited material. See Sony’s March 2023 announcement for its stated features and battery figure.
WH-CH520 or WH-CH720N: which should you choose?
| Feature | WH-CH520 | WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | On-ear | Over-ear |
| Active noise cancellation | No | Yes |
| Manufacturer-stated battery life | Up to 50 hours; Sony specification | Up to 35 hours with noise cancelling on; Sony specification |
| Price reference in the cited sources | A$68 RRP in Reviews.org’s Australian review, December 17, 2024; not a current-price check | £68 deal reported by What Hi-Fi? on March 18, 2026; a separate model and time-limited deal context |
Choose the CH520 if you want an on-ear wireless headphone, value its stated long battery life and multipoint, and mostly listen where noise isolation is not essential. Consider the CH720N if you want an over-ear design and ANC. The cited sources do not establish which is currently cheaper in your market, so compare local prices before buying.
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They can be a sensible budget buy if their sound suits you and you do not need ANC, strong isolation, a foldable design or wired listening. The favorable sound assessment is meaningful as one reviewer’s comparison, but it does not prove that spending more never improves sound. Treat A$68 as a dated Australian RRP reference, then decide based on the current price and the features you actually need.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
