Beats Studio Buds + | True vs Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones

Design and build quality

The Beats Studio Buds + are designed as true wireless earbuds, featuring a pocket-sized charging case that enhances portability. They include four pairs of silicone tip sizes to fit a wider range of ears, ensuring a secure seal. In contrast, the Sony WH-CH520 utilizes a lightweight build with swivel earcups that gently slip on and off. The Sony model features an adjustable headband, cushion, and soft ear pads designed for all-day comfort. While the Beats offer an IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance, the Sony headphones focus on a durable plastic construction available in six distinct colors.

Sound quality and audio features

Beats employs a custom acoustic platform designed to deliver rich, immersive sound for both music and calls. A standout feature for the Beats Studio Buds + is the support for spatial audio, which provides an immersive listening experience compatible with supported devices. The Sony WH-CH520 focuses on high-quality sound that is customizable to user preferences via EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App. Additionally, Sony includes DSEE technology to boost the quality of compressed music files and enjoy streaming music with high quality sound. Both brands prioritize audio fidelity but approach customization differently.

Noise control capabilities

Noise management is a key differentiator between these two models. The Beats Studio Buds + offer two distinct listening modes: personalized Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. This allows users to hear what they want by blocking out external noise or letting it in when necessary. The Sony WH-CH520 product data does not specify active noise cancelling capabilities. Instead, it relies on the physical seal of the ear pads and passive isolation. For users prioritizing silence in noisy environments, the active features on the Beats model provide a distinct functional advantage.

Comfort and wearability

Comfort is subjective and depends heavily on the form factor. The Beats Studio Buds + are designed to fit inside the ear canal, using silicone tips to create a comfortable seal for the best acoustic performance while keeping noise out. This design is ideal for active use due to the IPX4 rating. The Sony WH-CH520 headphones rest on the ears with soft ear pads and an adjustable headband. The lightweight build and swivel earcups are engineered to give you all-day comfort without the pressure of in-ear tips. Users who dislike in-ear sensations may prefer the over-ear design of the Sony option.

Battery life and efficiency

Battery performance is a major strength for the Sony WH-CH520. It boasts up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, providing enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends. A USB Type-C Cable is included for charging purposes. The Beats Studio Buds + offer up to 36 hours of listening time, which includes the charge from the pocket-sized charging case. While 36 hours is substantial for true wireless earbuds, the Sony headphones provide a significant advantage in total runtime, reducing the frequency of charging cycles for heavy users.

Connectivity and compatibility

Both devices offer robust wireless connectivity options. The Beats Studio Buds + feature industry-leading wireless Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts. They also provide enhanced compatibility with one-touch pairing and a robust set of native Apple and Android features. The Sony WH-CH520 supports Multipoint Connection, allowing users to quickly switch between two devices at once. It also includes Fast Pair functionality to easily find your missing headphones. While Beats focuses on range and ecosystem integration, Sony emphasizes multi-device utility.

Price and value

The price difference between these two products is significant. The Beats Studio Buds + are listed at $99.95, reflecting their premium features like ANC and spatial audio. The Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones are priced at $54.00, making them a highly accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. When evaluating value, the Sony model offers longer battery life and multipoint connectivity at nearly half the cost. However, the Beats model provides water resistance and active noise cancellation, which are typically premium features. The better value depends on whether the user prioritizes cost or advanced audio features.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these models depends on your specific listening habits and environment. If you require active noise cancellation for commuting or travel, and need water resistance for workouts, the Beats Studio Buds + are the superior choice despite the higher cost. They are also better suited for those who prefer the compact form factor of true wireless earbuds. Conversely, if battery life is your primary concern and you prefer over-ear comfort without in-ear tips, the Sony WH-CH520 is the logical selection. Its lower price and 50-hour battery life make it an excellent everyday headphone for general use.