Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) vs Sony WH-CH720N
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods Pro 2 deliver premium in-ear audio with exceptional active noise cancellation, personalized spatial audio, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, though their 6-hour battery life requires frequent charging. Sony's WH-CH720N offer over-ear comfort with outstanding 35-hour ANC battery life, multipoint connectivity, and superior codec support including LDAC at nearly 40% less cost. Sound quality favors Apple's custom drivers for spatial precision, while Sony excels in raw longevity and versatility across devices. AirPods Pro 2 suit Apple users prioritizing portability and features; WH-CH720N better serve listeners needing extended wear time and cross-device flexibility. For most buyers, Sony's exceptional battery life and lower price point make it the smarter choice.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) if…
- →Class-leading active noise cancellation for in-ear earbuds
- →Seamless integration and instant pairing across the Apple ecosystem
- →Excellent Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking
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 Pro 2 (USB-C)
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation for in-ear earbuds
- Seamless integration and instant pairing across the Apple ecosystem
- Excellent Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking
- USB-C case adds Find My speaker and Precision Finding
- Adaptive Audio dynamically blends ANC and Transparency
Cons
- No lossless or hi-res Bluetooth codecs (AAC only)
- No Bluetooth multipoint between non-Apple devices
- Limited functionality on Android and Windows
- Stem-style design is not for everyone
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 Pro 2 (USB-C) | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 5.3 g (per bud) | 192 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 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, MagSafe wireless, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C |
| Drivers | Custom Apple high-excursion driver with custom amplifier | 30mm |
| Features | Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Conversation Awareness, Hearing Aid and hearing test (iOS 18), Find My with Precision Finding on case, H2 chip | 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 |
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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Sony products. View full details for the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) or the Sony WH-CH720N.