The Sony WH-CH520 and JBL Tune 520BT are two popular wireless on-ear headphones designed for budget-conscious users seeking quality audio and comfort.
While Sony excels with a lightweight build, app support, and balanced sound, JBL offers deeper bass, extended 57-hour battery life, and a foldable design for portability.
Both models provide Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, on-device controls, and impressive comfort for extended use.
Ideal for casual listeners, each headphone offers unique strengths to cater to varying user preferences and needs.
Dimensional Value
Sony WH-CH520:
With a compact design, this model is easy to handle, lightweight, and convenient for storage.
Its small size makes it portable, ideal for everyday use, and fits comfortably without adding bulk during extended listening sessions.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Slightly larger than Sony’s WH-CH520 due to the enhanced 33 mm driver, yet remains compact enough for daily portability.
Its slightly larger build accommodates better sound features without compromising on ease of handling or comfortable wear.
Available Colors
Sony WH-CH520:
Comes in Black, White, and Blue, offering users a range of stylish but basic color choices.
These colors allow for a sleek, understated look that fits various personal styles without compromising on a professional appearance.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Available in Black, White, Blue, and Pink, offering an extra pop of color for added personalization.
This variety caters to both bold and neutral color preferences, making it easy for users to select a matching style.
Sound Quality
Sony WH-CH520:
Provides clear, balanced sound with well-defined bass thanks to Sony’s audio tuning.
This model delivers a smooth listening experience across genres, especially suited for users who prefer a detailed sound profile with enhanced mid and high tones.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Known for a sound profile that emphasizes deeper bass, offering richer, immersive audio quality.
Ideal for music lovers seeking punchier bass, the 520BT provides a full-bodied sound experience suited for genres like pop, electronic, and hip-hop.
Comfortability
Sony WH-CH520:
Lightweight and equipped with soft ear cushions, this model is designed for long wear without causing fatigue.
Its cushioned build ensures added comfort, making it ideal for users who wear headphones throughout the day.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Features improved padding and an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable for extended listening sessions.
The cushioned fit is soft on the ears, providing prolonged comfort, even for those who listen to music for several hours.
Fit
Sony WH-CH520:
An on-ear design that fits snugly, offering decent passive noise isolation by creating a natural seal around the ears.
This secure fit is comfortable and works well for low-to-moderate noise environments like offices or home listening.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similar on-ear design with additional padding, providing an extra layer of comfort around the ears.
It offers a secure yet gentle fit that sits comfortably, making it ideal for extended listening without ear pressure or discomfort.
Foldable
Sony WH-CH520:
Does not have a foldable design, making it less compact for portability but still lightweight and convenient.
While it’s easy to handle, the inability to fold may require slightly more storage space in bags.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Foldable, enhancing portability and making it easier to carry in bags for travel or storage.
This feature makes it especially convenient for users on the go who need compact and space-saving options for transportation.
Noise Cancellation
Sony WH-CH520:
Lacks active noise cancellation, though its snug fit provides adequate passive isolation for typical environments.
While it won’t block all background noise, the on-ear design minimizes ambient sounds reasonably well for casual listening.
JBL Tune 520BT:
No active noise cancellation, but improved passive isolation due to its padded fit, reducing external noise naturally.
It offers a quiet listening experience in moderate settings, though it may not fully block out loud noises.
Compare Here: JBL Tune 510BT vs JBL 520BT
Battery Life
Sony WH-CH520:
Offers up to 50 hours of battery life on a full charge, providing long-lasting use without needing frequent recharging.
This extended battery makes it suitable for daily listening, especially for users who travel or work remotely.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Slightly surpasses Sony’s model with up to 57 hours of battery life, allowing for even longer playback.
This extended battery life makes it ideal for heavy users who want to avoid daily recharging and enjoy music for days.
Battery Indicator
Sony WH-CH520:
Lacks a visible battery level indicator, though users can monitor battery status on their connected devices.
The absence of an indicator on the headphones might require more attention to charge levels to avoid unexpected shutdowns.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Equipped with a battery level indicator, providing users with clear visual feedback on remaining power.
This feature allows for easy monitoring, ensuring users can keep track of battery life and avoid sudden power loss.
Charge Time
Sony WH-CH520:
Takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge, which provides a long-lasting battery for extended use.
Although it takes longer to charge, the battery duration compensates, making it efficient for overnight or less frequent charging needs.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Requires only 2 hours for a full charge, allowing for quicker recharges compared to Sony’s model.
The faster charge time offers added convenience for users who need to power up quickly and enjoy extended playback without waiting long.
Charging Type
Sony WH-CH520:
Features USB Type-C charging, a modern standard that offers quick and easy connectivity.
This widely compatible charging option ensures that users can conveniently use common chargers without needing proprietary cables or adapters.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also utilizes USB Type-C for charging, matching Sony’s convenience and compatibility with contemporary devices.
The fast-charging capability and reversible plug add to the user-friendly experience, ideal for quick, reliable power-ups.
Weight
Sony WH-CH520:
Weighs about 147 grams, making it lighter and more comfortable for extended use.
This lightweight design reduces strain on the head and ears, providing a comfortable fit for users who frequently wear headphones throughout the day.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Weighs approximately 157 grams, slightly heavier than the WH-CH520 but still comfortable for prolonged listening.
The minimal weight difference is barely noticeable, and the padding adds to a comfortable, balanced wear experience.
Cable
Sony WH-CH520:
Comes with a detachable cable, providing users the flexibility to use alternative cables if needed.
This detachable design adds convenience and reduces damage risks, making it versatile for wired and wireless usage preferences.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Features a tangle-free cable, which minimizes tangling issues and enhances ease of storage.
Although non-detachable, the cable’s design helps maintain neatness, ideal for users who prioritize ease of handling and organization.
IP Rating
Sony WH-CH520:
Does not have an official IP rating, making it more suitable for indoor or dry environments.
This model is not water- or dust-resistant, so it’s best used in settings without exposure to excessive moisture or dust.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Lacks an IP rating as well, similar to Sony’s model, making it more suitable for indoor or dry-use environments.
It’s not water-resistant, so it should be kept away from moisture to prevent potential damage.
Stereo Speakers
Sony WH-CH520:
Equipped with stereo speakers that deliver a well-balanced, immersive audio experience.
This feature ensures that users can enjoy depth in their audio, providing a clear and rich sound for music, movies, and various listening activities.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also includes stereo speakers, offering a similar immersive listening experience with a full-bodied sound profile.
The stereo speakers provide clarity and depth across different audio genres, ideal for users seeking an engaging listening experience.
Microphone
Sony WH-CH520:
Features a single built-in microphone that supports basic calls and voice commands.
The microphone is sufficient for hands-free calling, though it may not be as clear as multi-microphone setups in premium models.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Includes a single microphone, providing comparable functionality for calls and voice commands.
This feature is well-suited for users needing standard call quality, though it may not match the clarity of more advanced microphone systems.
Lowest Frequency
Sony WH-CH520:
Reaches a low frequency of 20 Hz, allowing it to produce deep bass tones within the standard hearing range.
This range makes it suitable for bass-heavy genres, providing depth without losing clarity in lower audio frequencies.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also covers a low frequency of 20 Hz, delivering a similar deep bass experience.
This frequency range supports a full-bodied sound profile, ensuring rich, clear bass that enhances the listening experience, especially for music enthusiasts.
Highest Frequency
Sony WH-CH520:
Has a maximum frequency range of 20,000 Hz, delivering crisp high notes in the standard hearing range.
This high-frequency response enables detailed audio output, ensuring treble clarity across different genres for a balanced listening experience.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Matches with a maximum frequency of 20,000 Hz, providing clear treble across audio types.
This upper range allows for a balanced sound experience, ensuring that high notes remain well-defined and contribute to overall audio quality.
Driver
Sony WH-CH520:
Equipped with a 30 mm driver, which emphasizes mids and highs for clear sound.
The driver size supports a balanced audio profile, though it may lack some of the bass depth found in larger driver models.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Features a slightly larger 33 mm driver, enhancing bass and providing a fuller sound.
This driver size is better suited for users who enjoy a richer, more impactful sound experience, especially with bass-heavy genres.
Magnet Type
Sony WH-CH520:
No specific magnet type is mentioned, though sound quality remains clear and consistent.
The choice of magnet does not heavily impact audio quality in this model, ensuring reliable performance without premium magnet technology.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Does not utilize neodymium magnets, focusing instead on standard magnet technology to provide balanced audio.
While neodymium magnets might enhance bass, the 520BT maintains satisfactory audio quality with its existing setup.
Control Method
Sony WH-CH520:
Control buttons on the device provide easy access to playback, volume, and call functions.
This setup makes it convenient for quick adjustments without needing to interact directly with a connected device, enhancing user experience.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also features on-device control buttons, allowing users to manage playback, volume, and other settings effortlessly.
This design keeps control within reach, ideal for adjusting music or calls during workouts or commutes.
Connectivity Type
Sony WH-CH520:
Offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to enjoy a cable-free experience while maintaining stable device pairing.
This connection type is ideal for users who prefer the convenience of wireless headphones during activities or everyday use.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similar Bluetooth connectivity, providing a wireless, hassle-free listening experience.
It’s particularly suitable for users seeking freedom from cables, allowing seamless pairing with multiple devices for a versatile, on-the-go audio solution.
Bluetooth Version
Sony WH-CH520:
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, which ensures a stable connection and compatibility with most modern devices.
This version supports efficient data transfer and minimizes connectivity issues, offering smooth performance for typical wireless audio needs.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Uses Bluetooth 5.3, providing a slight upgrade over Sony’s model in terms of stability and efficiency.
This newer version supports low-latency connections and power efficiency, allowing for smoother and longer-lasting connectivity.
Bluetooth Range
Sony WH-CH520:
Standard Bluetooth range of approximately 10 meters, sufficient for everyday use in typical environments.
This range supports a stable connection within reasonable distances, making it suitable for home or office use without frequent disconnection.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Provides a similar 10-meter range, delivering consistent Bluetooth connectivity across average distances.
This range allows for freedom of movement around the room without compromising audio quality or requiring constant reconnection.
Multipoint Connection
Sony WH-CH520:
Supports multipoint connection, allowing users to connect to two devices simultaneously for easy switching.
This feature is useful for multitaskers, enabling smooth transitions between devices like a phone and laptop.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also supports multipoint connectivity, making it convenient for users with multiple devices.
This feature allows effortless switching between devices, ideal for those who need continuous audio across different connected sources.
Warranty
Sony WH-CH520:
Typically includes a 1-year warranty, covering potential manufacturing defects and offering basic protection.
This coverage provides users with peace of mind, ensuring they are protected against any unexpected issues within the warranty period.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Comes with a similar 1-year warranty, ensuring users are covered for any manufacturing defects.
This warranty offers reassurance and protection, allowing users to enjoy their headphones with confidence in case of technical issues.
APTX Adaptive
Sony WH-CH520:
Does not support APTX Adaptive, limiting its capability for high-quality Bluetooth audio streaming.
While it lacks this codec, it’s still suitable for standard audio streaming, offering satisfactory quality for everyday listening.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also lacks APTX Adaptive support, focusing on regular Bluetooth audio quality.
This absence makes it ideal for general listening rather than high-definition streaming, providing a simpler audio experience without codec complexity.
APTX
Sony WH-CH520:
Not supported, which limits its potential for high-quality wireless audio but makes it well-suited for basic streaming needs.
This model remains ideal for casual listening with satisfactory audio quality across various genres.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similarly does not support APTX, keeping its Bluetooth codec capabilities simple for casual listening needs.
This absence of APTX makes the 520BT suitable for general audio rather than premium quality streaming requirements.
LDAC
Sony WH-CH520:
Does not support LDAC, Sony’s high-resolution codec, though it still provides good audio with standard Bluetooth codecs.
This model maintains decent sound quality, ideal for users who do not require high-resolution audio.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Lacks LDAC support as well, providing standard audio quality suited to casual listeners.
This absence means it’s designed more for general use rather than high-resolution streaming, offering good quality without advanced codecs.
In/On Ear Detection
Sony WH-CH520:
Lacks in/on-ear detection, so playback doesn’t automatically pause when removed.
This straightforward design simplifies the user experience, though it may require manual pause and play adjustments for optimized battery use.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also does not include in/on-ear detection, providing a simple, direct listening experience without auto-pause functionality.
Users may need to pause manually, making it suitable for those who prefer straightforward, no-fuss controls.
APP Supported
Sony WH-CH520:
Supported by the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing users to customize equalizer settings and sound adjustments.
This feature provides greater control over audio quality, tailoring the experience based on personal preferences and listening styles.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Does not support an app, offering a more straightforward experience with out-of-the-box sound settings.
This setup is ideal for users who prefer simplicity and don’t need additional customization, focusing on plug-and-play convenience.