Sony WH-CH510 Review: First Impressions and Who It’s For

The Sony WH CH510 has gone on to be one of the best selling low-end wireless headphones in the year 2025. This model is targeted at people who like to sound impressive without paying a fortune and it remains one of the leaders in the budget headphone category.

The purpose of the WH CH510 aimed by Sony was straightforward, comfort, long battery duration, and reliable performance to everyday users.

For a student studying online courses, a person who travels and wants to listen to music at the same time or even a person who needs a good wireless audio to use in everyday life, the WH CH510 is a good option at its price.

It is a good entry level product that can be enjoyed by individuals who desire the sony sound but are willing to pay the extra price that the expensive models cost them.

Design, Comfort and Build: What to Expect from the WH CH510

At the very sight of the Sony WH CH510, the design is plain but contemporary. The headset is made of lightweight plastic in a minimalist matte finish, and it is very comfortable even when one has to use it over long periods of time. It is one of the lightest on-ear wireless headphones, weighing just 132 grams in 2025.

The removable headband and cushions on the ears make the headband fit most efficiently. Although the plastic body may not classify as high-end material as the WH 1000XM series, it still feels robust and solid given that it is inexpensive.

Another significant advantage of the 2025 batch is an enhanced headband, which is a little bit stronger and will therefore resist bending and everyday use.

The WH CH510 is also foldable and thus can be carried around and fitted in compact bags. The design comes in three colors; black, blue, and white and suits casual as well as professional appearance. These are the control buttons which are on the right ear cup, and enable the user to control the volume, playback and even calls with ease.

Sound Quality, Battery Life and Real World Performance 

Sony has never compromised sound, and the WH CH510 demonstrates that the sound quality of a product does not necessarily need to be costly. It has 30mm dome-style drivers, which provide a well-balanced audio profile with clear vocals and strong bass. It is not harsh but crisp, and sounds suitable for different music genres.

Sony improved the Bluetooth tuning in the 2025 firmware update so that it can achieve improved sound consistency, particularly in busy wireless regions. Listening to music on such services as Spotify or Apple Music is no longer distorted. The headphones also have AAC codec, which provides high-quality wireless audio on both Android and iOS devices.

The best part of WH CH510 is its unbelievable battery life, which is up to 35 hours on a single charge. That is to say that you can spend a few days without having to charge it, even when you are using it heavily. A 10-minute charge through USB-C will provide approximately 90 minutes of playback time, which is just in time to satisfy the end user who is constantly on the go.

Call quality is another strong point. The built-in microphone offers clear voice pickup for phone calls or virtual meetings. Noise isolation is decent for an on-ear model, though it does not have active noise cancellation. Still, for the price range, it performs beyond expectations.

Connectivity, Features and Firmware: Latest Changes in 2024 and 2025

The Sony WH-CH510 continues to improve in connectivity and usability. It uses Bluetooth 5.2 in the latest 2025 version, which means faster pairing, improved range, and more stable connections.

It can easily connect to laptops, smartphones, tablets, and even smart TVs. The multi-point connection feature is not officially supported, but the quick pairing process makes switching between devices easy.

Another advantage is the integration of voice assistant support. By pressing the middle button, you can activate Google Assistant or Siri to check notifications, play music, or control smart devices without touching your phone. This makes it a convenient option for users who prefer hands-free control.

The USB-C charging port, introduced a few years ago, remains a major plus point. It charges faster and is compatible with most modern chargers. The only thing missing is a 3.5mm audio jack, which means it can only be used wirelessly. However, Sony’s efficient Bluetooth performance compensates for this limitation.

Here’s a quick overview of the WH CH510’s 2025 key specifications:

FeatureSpecification
Driver Unit30mm Dome Type
Bluetooth Version5.2
Supported CodecsAAC, SBC
Battery LifeUp to 35 Hours
Charging PortUSB-C
Weight132 grams
Charging TimeAround 4.5 Hours
Quick Charge10 mins = 90 mins playback
Voice AssistantGoogle Assistant, Siri
ColorsBlack, Blue, White

WH CH510 vs Competitors: Best Cheap Bluetooth Headphones in 2025

In 2025, the budget headphone market has become very competitive. Models like JBL Tune 510BT, Anker Soundcore Q20i, and Skullcandy Hesh Evo are all strong rivals. However, the Sony WH CH510 continues to stand out for its sound quality and battery efficiency.

Compared to the JBL Tune 510BT, the WH CH510 offers slightly better midrange clarity and a more natural vocal tone. It also beats Anker’s Q20i in portability and weight. Although the WH CH510 lacks active noise cancellation, its sound tuning and comfort make it more enjoyable for casual listening.

The biggest reason people still choose the WH CH510 in 2025 is reliability. Sony’s long-term firmware support ensures that older units continue to receive performance improvements, something rare in this price segment. At an average retail price of $59 to $69, it remains one of the most balanced wireless headphones under $70.

Final Verdict

After several years on the market, the Sony WH CH510 continues to be one of the smartest headphone purchases for under $70. Its long battery life, lightweight design, and impressive audio performance make it perfect for students, commuters, and anyone who wants dependable wireless sound without breaking the bank.

Pros:

  • Excellent 35-hour battery life
  • USB-C fast charging support
  • Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Clear sound quality with balanced bass and vocals
  • Affordable price for Sony audio quality

Cons:

  • No active noise cancellation
  • Plastic build feels less premium
  • No wired audio option

Overall, the Sony WH CH510 offers a reliable mix of quality and convenience that’s hard to beat in its price range. It may not have the luxury features of Sony’s WH 1000XM5, but it delivers 80 percent of the experience at a fraction of the cost.

If you want budget-friendly wireless headphones that simply work and sound great, the Sony WH CH510 remains one of the best choices in 2025.

FAQs

1. Is the Sony WH CH510 waterproof?

No, the Sony WH CH510 is not waterproof or sweat resistant. It is designed for regular indoor and light outdoor use. Avoid wearing it during workouts or in rainy weather, as exposure to moisture can damage the internal components.

2. Can the Sony WH CH510 connect to iPhone?

Yes, it connects easily to all iPhone models using Bluetooth 5.2. You can pair it through your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings just like any other wireless headset. It supports the AAC codec, ensuring high-quality audio streaming on Apple devices.

3. Does the Sony WH CH510 have a microphone for calls?

Yes, the WH CH510 includes a built-in microphone for clear hands-free calls and online meetings. While it does not offer active noise cancellation for the mic, it performs well for regular conversations and video calls.

4. Can I use the Sony WH CH510 while charging?

No, the WH CH510 cannot be used while charging. You need to disconnect the USB-C cable once it’s charged before you can use it wirelessly. However, with 35 hours of battery life, this rarely becomes an issue.

5. Does the Sony WH CH510 support fast charging?

Yes, it supports quick charging. A short 10-minute charge provides around 90 minutes of playback, which is ideal if you are in a hurry or traveling.

6. Does the Sony WH CH510 have noise cancellation?

No, the WH CH510 does not have active noise cancellation (ANC). However, its on-ear design provides basic passive noise isolation, which helps reduce background sounds to some extent.

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