Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Sony WH-CH720N
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 4 and Sony WH-CH720N serve different purposes and user preferences. AirPods 4 deliver Apple's ecosystem integration with Spatial Audio, H2 chip processing, and the convenience of an open-fit design that lets ambient sound through naturally. Battery life reaches 5 hours per charge with ANC enabled, totaling 30 hours with the case. The IP54 rating suits active users. Sony's WH-CH720N are over-ear headphones with dramatically superior battery endurance: 35 hours with ANC on, or 50 hours with it off. The 30mm drivers and LDAC codec support provide richer audio for music enthusiasts, plus multipoint connectivity allows seamless switching between devices. At 192 grams, they're heavier but designed for extended listening sessions. AirPods 4 excel for Apple users wanting portability and call quality through Voice Isolation. WH-CH720N win for anyone prioritizing audio fidelity, battery longevity, and multi-device connectivity at a lower price point. Choose AirPods 4 if you value seamless Apple integration and lightweight design; pick Sony if extended playtime, superior sound quality, and wired fallback capability matter most.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) if…
- →First open-fit AirPods with active noise cancellation
- →Much more comfortable than Pro for users who dislike silicone tips
- →Smaller, lighter case with USB-C and wireless charging
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 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)
Pros
- First open-fit AirPods with active noise cancellation
- Much more comfortable than Pro for users who dislike silicone tips
- Smaller, lighter case with USB-C and wireless charging
- Adaptive Audio, Spatial Audio, and Conversation Awareness
- Cheaper than AirPods Pro 2
Cons
- ANC is weaker than tip-sealed earbuds like AirPods Pro 2
- No swappable ear tips means fit may not suit everyone
- AAC only — no hi-res or lossless codecs
- No Precision Finding (no U1 chip in case)
- No wireless charging on the cheaper non-ANC variant (this model has it)
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 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 192 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 35 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off), 3 min = 1 hr playback |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 30mm |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation in an open-fit (non-tip) design, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, H2 chip, Find My (case speaker, no Precision Finding U1), Voice Isolation for calls | 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 | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | None |
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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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