Can You Really Get Hi-Res Audio and ANC at this Price?

The Edifier ES850NB pack more features into their frame than headphones costing twice as much. With a battery life that'll last you through a fortnight of commutes, Hi-Res Audio certification, and ANC performing well beyond its price bracket, these cans deliver where it matters

by James Day full review on TrustedReviews

When it comes to wireless headphones, audiophiles and frequent travellers often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of premium models. Can they get Hi-Res Audio and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) without breaking the bank? The Edifier ES850NB offers an answer to this question, delivering impressive features at an affordable $169.99 (CA$199.99) price tag. In this post, we’ll dive into the Edifier ES850NB’s key features, highlight customer reviews, and see how it stacks up against premium competitors.

Edifier ES850NB in carry case — Img credit Trusted Reviews

Key Features of the Edifier ES850NB

1. Marathon Battery Life: More Playtime, Less Charging

One of the most praised features of the Edifier ES850NB is its outstanding battery life. According to the Trusted Reviews review, these headphones offer 92 hours of playback with ANC off and 53 hours with ANC on. This is far superior to many flagship competitors. For instance, the Sony WH-1000XM6 only provides 30 hours with ANC activated.

Many users have echoed the review's sentiments, noting how the long battery life has made the ES850NB their go-to headphones for long-haul flights, road trips, and even extended work-from-home sessions. One customer mentioned, "I didn’t have to charge them for nearly two weeks—perfect for my daily commute and travel.”
Additionally, fast charging provides 11.5 hours of playback with just 15 minutes of charging, which users have found incredibly convenient, especially when in a rush.

2. Audio Quality: Hi-Res Audio for Audiophiles

The ES850NB is Hi-Res Audio certified and uses 40mm titanium-coated composite drivers, delivering clearer highs and deeper bass. This, coupled with support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC Bluetooth codecs, offers high-quality wireless audio.

Audiophiles have been especially impressed by the LDAC codec, with one reviewer commenting, "When LDAC is enabled, you can really hear the difference in detail and clarity—well beyond what I expected from a pair at this price point.”
The sound signature is described as balanced and accurate, which many users prefer over the overemphasised bass found in cheaper headphones. One customer said, "The sound is crisp and natural, and I really appreciate the accuracy across all genres of music.”

3. Effective ANC: Noise Cancellation Without the Price Tag

The ES850NB comes equipped with hybrid ANC technology, providing up to -45dB of noise reduction. While it may not reach the levels of flagship models like the Sony WH-1000XM6, it’s still highly effective at blocking out background noise, especially in everyday environments.

Users have shared positive experiences with the ANC performance, particularly on public transportation and during travel. One reviewer mentioned, "It blocks out the hum of the train perfectly. It’s not the absolute best, but it’s impressive for the price.”
Another user added, "I can actually enjoy podcasts while walking in the city without being distracted by street noise.”

4. Usability: Features That Simplify Your Life

The multipoint pairing allows the ES850NB to connect to two devices simultaneously—perfect for users who often switch between their laptop and phone. The touch-to-chat feature, which activates ambient mode when you cover the right ear cup, is another neat addition, though a bit laggy.

The multipoint pairing feature has been particularly popular among remote workers and students, with users saying, "I can listen to my computer during work and switch to my phone for a call without disconnecting or re-pairing—super convenient.”
However, the touch-to-chat feature has received some mixed reviews. While it’s appreciated for its hands-free functionality, some users find the activation a bit slow. One reviewer noted, "It’s a cool feature, but the response time can be annoying when I’m in a rush.”

5. Comfort and Design: Designed for Long Listening Sessions

Weighing only 265 grams, the ES850NB is lightweight, comfortable, and features plush ear cups, making them suitable for extended wear. The foldable design and hard-shell travel case make them easy to pack and carry, especially for frequent travellers.

Comfort has been a standout feature in most reviews. Many users have praised the generously padded ear cups for long listening sessions. One customer mentioned, "I can wear them for hours without discomfort, which is important for my flights.”
However, after prolonged use, the ear cups can become warm, which could be a minor issue during hot weather.

What’s Missing? Notable Compromises

While the ES850NB packs plenty of features, there are a few compromises to consider:

No 3.5mm Jack for Wired Listening: The ES850NB lacks a traditional 3.5mm jack, which might be disappointing for audiophiles who prefer wired connections. Instead, you can use a USB-C connection for wired listening.
App Management for Firmware Updates: Firmware updates require the use of the TempoHub desktop app with a wired USB connection. This has been described as "genuinely baffling" by the Trusted Reviews team.
Limited EQ Customization: The EQ mode allows for a four-band adjustment with a Q Factor feature, but it’s still more limited compared to the customisation options available in higher-end models.

Why the Edifier ES850NB is a Great Choice for Value-Conscious Audiophiles and Frequent Travellers

The Edifier ES850NB brings premium features like Hi-Res Audio and ANC to a budget-friendly price. For value-conscious audiophiles and frequent travelers, the ES850NB offers exceptional performance in terms of sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation, all while keeping costs down.

Edifier ES850NB – A Smart Buy for Audiophiles and Travellers

In conclusion, the Edifier ES850NB is a great option for those who want premium features like Hi-Res Audio, ANC, and long battery life without spending a fortune. While it may not completely match the flagship models in all areas, it remains a fantastic choice for users looking for high-quality performance without breaking the bank.

Whether you're a frequent traveller looking for a reliable pair of headphones for long flights, or an audiophile who doesn’t want to spend a fortune, the Edifier ES850NB offers a compelling mix of value and performance.

Ready to experience Hi-Res Audio and ANC without the high price tag? Check out the Edifier ES850NB today and enjoy premium sound for a fraction of the cost.