Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Sony WH-CH720N
The Verdict
AirPods 3rd Gen excel in seamless Apple ecosystem integration with Spatial Audio, compact design, and quick charging, making them ideal for iPhone users prioritizing convenience. Sony WH-CH720N deliver superior all-day stamina with 35-hour battery life on ANC, true noise cancellation, multipoint connectivity, and LDAC codec support for audiophiles. AirPods lack ANC and offer only 6-hour earbud runtime, limiting long-distance travel use. Sony's over-ear design provides better comfort for extended sessions despite weighing 192g. Connectivity differs significantly: AirPods restrict multipoint to Apple devices, while Sony's Bluetooth 5.2 enables dual device pairing with any brand. Budget-conscious Android users and those needing ANC should choose Sony. Apple loyalists valuing portability and ecosystem features should select AirPods 3. For serious audio quality and battery longevity, Sony wins decisively.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
Buy the Sony WH-CH720N if…
- →Exceptional 35-hour battery life with ANC is class-leading
- →Ultra-lightweight at 192 g for comfortable all-day wear
- →LDAC codec support for high-resolution wireless audio
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
Sony WH-CH720N
Pros
- Exceptional 35-hour battery life with ANC is class-leading
- Ultra-lightweight at 192 g for comfortable all-day wear
- LDAC codec support for high-resolution wireless audio
- Multipoint Bluetooth for seamless dual-device switching
- Solid noise cancellation at a very competitive $149 price
Cons
- ANC is noticeably weaker than premium XM5 headphones
- 30mm drivers produce smaller, less dynamic soundstage
- Plastic build feels cheap compared to premium Sony models
- No water resistance for gym or outdoor use
- Ear cushions are thinner and less comfortable than XM5
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 192 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 35 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off), 3 min = 1 hr playback |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 30mm |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat automatic pause, DSEE upscaling for compressed audio, Multipoint Bluetooth, Sony Headphones Connect app with EQ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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