Edifier ES850NB Headphones – Review
By Steve Crabtree, August 2025
When I listen to music, watch a film or TV show, or work on a video edit, I want the sound to do more than just play. I want to do more than just listen. I want to feel the sound. Rich, balanced, and immersive audio isn’t just a bonus – it’s the bit that makes the whole experience worthwhile. So whether it’s a decent soundbar or a reliable pair of headphones, I always want a setup that makes my ears warm.
And since I spend a fair bit of time at my desk – either with playlists on rotation, enjoying a band I’m due to see live, or getting the sound mix right on one of my videos – a solid pair of headphones is a must.
The latest set to arrive in front of me is the Edifier ES850NB, and after a solid week of daily use, I’ve got a lot of good things to say.
What’s in the box?
- Edifier ES850NB headphones
- USB-C charging cable
- Carry case
- Instruction manual
Straight out of the box, the Edifier ES850NB headphones feel like a premium bit of kit. The all-black finish looks smart and understated, and the build feels solid in hand. Thick padding across the headband adds a level of comfort you really appreciate after a few hours’ use, and the earcups have a nice, plush feel to them.
It’s not just about comfort though – the headphones look great too. They fold neatly, feel durable, and have a bit of weight behind them in the best way. There’s clearly been some thought put into the design and practicality, and for something you’re going to be wearing on and off all day, that makes a difference.
“Working, editing or just listening”
Most of my time with the Edifier ES850NB has been at my desk – either working, editing, or just listening. I’ve used them while making video content, where I need to get voiceover levels, audio balancing and music beds just right, and they’ve made that process smoother. In technical terms, they’ve helped with accurate monitoring and clarity across frequencies – and just generally made the job easier.
But when it comes to music? That’s where they really come in to their own. From the groaning, atmospheric vocal and shiny sounds on ‘Bring On the Dancing Horses’ by Echo and the Bunnymen, to the clean guitar and vocal interplay on ‘Rein Me In’ by Sam Fender and Olivia Dean, the ES850NB headphones gave me a genuinely enjoyable listening experience. Everything sounds crisp, defined and textured – whether it’s a low-end rumble or delicate high-end sound.
Techs and Specs
- Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC, AAC & SBC codec support
- ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with High/Low/Wind/Off modes
- Multi-directional folding design with memory foam earcups
- 92 hours battery life (ANC off), 53 hours (ANC on)
- Fast charging: 15 mins = 11.5 hours playback
- Customisable EQ via Edifier Connect App (not required for great sound)
- Weight: 265g
- Supports multipoint connection and wired use via USB-C
Real-world ANC and battery life
At work, I’m in a team who bounce ideas off each other, chat about new work and, of course, we gossip! We’ve usually got the radio on too – and while I enjoy Greatest Hits Radio, the other option we choose is the endless loop of Capital’s daytime plastic playlist – and that can wear thin. When I need it, the Active Noise Cancellation on the Edifier ES850NB headphones has made a noticeable difference, especially in dampening out background chatter and those higher-pitched distractions. As someone who’s used Edifier products before, I expected the ANC to be decent – and I wasn’t let down.
Battery-wise, I charged them overnight when they first arrived and haven’t plugged them in since. That’s a full week of use – probably 3–6 hours a day, and they’re still going. I might be a bit disappointed when I have to top them up again, but with Edifier promising 11.5 hours of playback from a 15-minute fast charge, I’m confident they’ll still come through when needed. Previous headphones from Edifier have also come with a decent battery life so I’m not surprised these follow suit.
However, my NeoBuds Pro 2 earphones also had a great battery – though recently they’ve started to dip a bit after a few hours. Hopefully the ES850NBs keep their charge over time, but early signs are good.
What Edifier say
“Elevate your creative flow with the Edifier ES850NB wireless over-ear headphones. Featuring Hi-Res Audio, 40mm titanium drivers, LDAC support, and powerful ANC (-45dB), they deliver crisp, studio-grade sound. Enjoy up to 92 hours of battery life, AI mic clarity, and all-day comfort in a lightweight, foldable design. With smart features like Touch-to-Chat, multipoint connectivity, app control, and a stylish travel case, they’re perfect for work or play. Available in Black, Ivory, Brown, or Pink.”
The verdict
Well, once again I’m really happy with an Edifier product. So much so that I haven’t felt the need to bring the Edifier Connect app into play and that says a lot. Out of the box, these sound great. No tinkering needed. I haven’t used them for calls or Zooms yet, but that’s not what I wanted them for.
They look good, they perform well, and they’ve got the right levels of sound and richness that I’ve come to expect from Edifier. And the carry case is decent too…I never use them, so sorry for the lack of mention! But if they’re essential to you, you’ve got your headphones protected with this…much better than a drawstring bag.
I’m a real fan of the brand as I have often stated, and the Edifier ES850NB has only strengthened that opinion. With premium sound, strong ANC, and a ridiculous battery life, they’ve absolutely nailed it again with these.
Buy the Edifier ES850NB headphones for £149.99 from amazon.co.uk
Give Steve music, give him food, give him theatre, tech or travel… and he’s a happy man. He’s been writing professionally since 2003, turning to journalism in 2017 when it offered him the chance to enjoy a lot of his existing passions, and learn some new ones at the same time. Steve can be found spending many of his summer nights watching bands at The Piece Hall in his hometown of Halifax, or enjoying a bite to eat and a drink with his wife anywhere in Yorkshire at any time of year. Random fact: He does the best impression of Zippy and George from Rainbow that anyone has ever heard.
