Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Sony WH-CH720N
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE deliver excellent value for budget-conscious listeners seeking portable audio with active noise cancellation. Six-hour ANC battery life and dual-driver configuration provide solid sound, though they're best suited for Galaxy ecosystem users benefiting from Samsung Scalable Codec optimization. Sony WH-CH720N over-ears target different listeners prioritizing comfort and endurance, offering exceptional 35-hour ANC battery life and multipoint connectivity across devices. Sony's LDAC codec and DSEE audio upscaling enhance sound quality, while wired connectivity provides backup reliability. At different price points and form factors, these serve distinct needs: choose Buds FE for portability and Samsung integration, or WH-CH720N for all-day comfort and superior battery longevity.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE if…
- →ANC earbuds for just $99 — best value in active noise cancellation
- →Wireless charging case is rare at this price
- →Dual-driver setup delivers detailed, balanced sound
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
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
Pros
- ANC earbuds for just $99 — best value in active noise cancellation
- Wireless charging case is rare at this price
- Dual-driver setup delivers detailed, balanced sound
- 360 Audio with head tracking for Galaxy phone users
- Compact and lightweight at 5.6 g per bud
Cons
- IPX2 water resistance is minimal — barely sweat-proof
- Best features locked to Samsung Galaxy devices
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- ANC is good but not competitive with AirPods Pro or Sony
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 | Samsung Galaxy Buds FE | Sony WH-CH720N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 5.6 g (each) | 192 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (ANC on), 8.5 hrs (ANC off), 21 hrs with case | 35 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off), 3 min = 1 hr playback |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C |
| Drivers | 6.5 mm (woofer) + 5.4 mm (tweeter) | 30mm |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient mode, Samsung Scalable Codec for Galaxy devices, 360 Audio with head tracking, Touch controls, Wireless charging case | 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 | Samsung Scalable, AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | 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 Samsung products or all Sony products. View full details for the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE or the Sony WH-CH720N.

