Sony WF-C700N earphones bring comfortable cancellation
Top-tier WH-1000XM5 also get a splash of colour
Sony knows a thing or two about effective ANC and stunning sound quality, so any new pair of earphones are worth getting excited about. That’s especially true of the new WF-C700N: these true wireless in-ears supply the firm’s noise cancelling tech at a much more wallet-friendly price than premium models like the WF-1000XM4.
They arrive this month alongside a new Midnight Blue version of the fantastic Sony WH-1000XM5 over-ear headphones, which make regular appearances on best headphones lists across the web.
The WF-C700N buds are moulded to perfectly match the average human ear, so you can listen for longer without any discomfort, and the cylindrical charging case they slip into is svelte enough to slip into even small pockets. They use multiple microphones to monitor outside audio and Sony’s bespoke ANC algorithms to strip it out, with an ambient sound transparency mode for staying aware of your surroundings. There’s also adaptive adjustment, which switches ANC strength based on frequently visited locations.
5mm dynamic drivers promise “powerful bass and stunningly clear vocals”, according to Sony, and play nicely with the firm’s DSEE audio upscaling tech. The Headphones Connect companion app adds customisable EQ into the mix, too. They’re IPX4 resistant, so will work just fine as workout ‘buds, and Multipoint Bluetooth supports dual device connectivity.
You should expect 15 hours of total listening time with ANC enabled, the buds managing seven and a half hours by themselves and the case containing one full charge in reserve.
You’ll be able to pick up a pair later this month in a choice of black, white, lavender and sage green colours. Prices are set to start from £100/€119.
If you’re all about over-ear cans, the new Midnight Blue WH-1000XM5 might be more your speed. Previously only available in black and white colours, Sony has given its top-tier headphones a more distinctive look for 2023. They come in a matching blue protective case, with contrasting gold zipper to match the gold Sony lettering on the headband, but otherwise stick to the same formula.
That means stellar noise cancellation and sound quality for the cash, streamlined looks and a comfort-focused fit. The combo comfortably traded blows with the very best over-ear headphones when we reviewed it late last year, and continues to be top of our list today.
The Midnight Blue WH-1000XM5 is on sale this month for £349/ €399.
Tom Morgan-Freelander
Deputy Editor 
