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Sennheiser HD 560S vs Sony WF-C700N

Updated Apr 2026headphones
Sennheiser HD 560S
Sennheiser
Sennheiser HD 560S
$199
8.4/10
VS
Sony WF-C700N
Sony
Sony WF-C700N
$119
7.8/10

The Verdict

These headphones serve fundamentally different needs despite both being excellent at their respective purposes. The Sennheiser HD 560S is a wired reference monitor designed for critical listening, music production, and audiophile enjoyment. Its 38mm drivers deliver a wide 6 Hz to 38,000 Hz frequency response with flat, accurate sound signature ideal for mixing or detailed music appreciation. The open-back design creates a spacious soundstage without isolation. At 240g, it's heavier but comfortable for long studio sessions with velour pads. Being wired means zero battery concerns and consistent performance from any source. The Sony WF-C700N takes the opposite approach: lightweight 4.6g earbuds optimized for active lifestyle use. Active noise cancellation effectively blocks commute noise, ANC provides 7.5 hours playback per charge (15 total with case), and IPX4 water resistance handles sweat. Multipoint connection lets you switch between two devices seamlessly. The 5mm driver won't match the Sennheiser's detail, but DSEE digital enhancement and EQ customization via app add versatility. Choose the Sennheiser if you value sound accuracy, mixing capability, or don't need portability. Pick Sony if you prioritize convenience, wireless freedom, noise isolation, and on-the-go use. They're genuinely different products for different lifestyles rather than direct competitors.

ancSony WF-C700N
ValueSony WF-C700N
BatteryHD 560S
comfortHD 560S
sound_qualityHD 560S

Who Should Buy

Buy the Sennheiser HD 560S if…

  • Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
  • 120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
  • Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening

Buy the Sony WF-C700N if…

  • ANC at $119 is exceptional value — best noise cancellation under $150
  • Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
  • Multipoint connection handles phone and laptop simultaneously

Category Scores

Sennheiser HD 560S
Sony WF-C700N
anc
0.0
8.0
Value
8.0
8.5
Battery
9.5
7.5
comfort
8.5
8.0
sound_quality
9.0
7.5

Pros & Cons

Sennheiser HD 560S

Pros

  • Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
  • 120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
  • Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening
  • Lightweight and comfortable for marathon listening sessions
  • Excellent value as an entry into open-back audiophile headphones

Cons

  • Open-back design leaks sound heavily — no isolation
  • Wired only — no wireless option
  • Bass can sound lean for casual listeners who prefer warmth
  • Plastic build feels less premium than metal-bodied competitors

Sony WF-C700N

Pros

  • ANC at $119 is exceptional value — best noise cancellation under $150
  • Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
  • Multipoint connection handles phone and laptop simultaneously
  • IPX4 water resistance for workouts and commuting
  • 7.5-hour battery with ANC is competitive at this price

Cons

  • No LDAC — limited to SBC and AAC codecs
  • ANC is effective but not as strong as WF-1000XM5
  • No wireless charging on the case
  • Bass can sound slightly thin compared to pricier Sony models

Full Specifications

SpecSennheiser HD 560SSony WF-C700N
Active Noise Cancelling
Typeover-earin-ear
Weight240 g4.6 g (each)
Battery
Battery lifeN/A (wired)7.5 hrs ANC on (15 hrs total with case)
ChargingN/AUSB-C, 10 min = 1 hr playback
Drivers38mm dynamic transducer, 120 ohm impedance5mm driver
FeaturesOpen-back reference design, 120-ohm impedance — can be driven by most sources, Detachable cable, Velour ear pads for comfort, Wide frequency response (6 Hz – 38,000 Hz)Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound mode, DSEE digital sound enhancement, Multipoint connection, Sony Headphones Connect app EQ customization
Connectivity
Wired option
CodecsSBC, AAC
BluetoothNone (wired only)5.2
Multipoint
Water ResistanceNoneIPX4

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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.

Explore more in headphones, see all Sennheiser products or all Sony products. View full details for the Sennheiser HD 560S or the Sony WF-C700N.