Sony WF-C500 vs Sony WF-C700N
The Verdict
Sony's WF-C700N ($119) edges out the WF-C500 ($99) by adding active noise cancellation, multipoint connectivity, and Bluetooth 5.2, though it sacrifices 2.5 hours of battery life with ANC enabled (7.5 hrs vs 10 hrs). Both feature IPX4 water resistance, DSEE enhancement, and USB-C charging, but the C700N's lighter 4.6g design and quick-charge capability (10 minutes yields 1 hour playback) provide practical advantages. Sound quality between the 5.8mm and 5mm drivers is negligible for typical listeners. If noise cancellation and multi-device connectivity matter to you, the C700N justifies its $20 premium. However, the WF-C500 remains excellent for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing all-day battery life without ANC compromises. Choose the C700N for versatility and active features.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Sony WF-C500 if…
- →10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- →Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- →DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
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
Pros & Cons
Sony WF-C500
Pros
- 10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
- IPX4 sweat resistance handles workouts
- Reliable Sony sound quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- No ANC or ambient sound mode
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- No wireless charging case
- Basic microphone quality — not ideal for calls
- SBC/AAC only — no high-resolution codecs
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
| Spec | Sony WF-C500 | Sony WF-C700N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.5 g (each) | 4.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 10 hrs (20 hrs total with case) | 7.5 hrs ANC on (15 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C, 10 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | 5.8mm driver | 5mm driver |
| Features | DSEE digital sound enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, Sony Headphones Connect app, Fast Pair for Android | Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound mode, DSEE digital sound enhancement, Multipoint connection, Sony Headphones Connect app EQ customization |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
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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