Edifier es850nh ANC Headphones: Worth It?

The Edifier es850nh is a feature-packed pair of active noise cancelling (ANC) over-ear headphones, and whether it’s worth it depends on your priorities: for the price, you get solid ANC, a comfortable fit, and balanced sound, but it’s not the absolute best in any single category. If you want a versatile, everyday pair of wireless headphones with good noise cancellation and a neutral sound signature, the es850nh is a strong contender. This article breaks down the features, performance, and potential drawbacks to help you decide.

Background: Who Is Edifier and Where Does the es850nh Fit?

Edifier is a Chinese audio company that has been around since 1996, known primarily for affordable speakers and, more recently, a growing line of headphones. The es850nh is part of their mid-range lineup, positioned below their premium flagships but above their budget offerings. It competes with popular models from Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser, but at a lower price point. The es850nh was released around 2021 and has since become a popular choice for those seeking ANC on a budget.

Key Features and Specifications

The es850nh is packed with features that are typically found in more expensive headphones:

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Uses dual microphones to cancel ambient noise, with two modes: ANC On and Ambient (Transparency) mode.
• Bluetooth 5.0: Supports AAC and SBC codecs (not aptX or LDAC).
• Battery Life: Up to 25 hours with ANC on, 35 hours with ANC off. Charging via USB-C, with a quick charge feature (10 minutes gives about 3 hours of playback).
• Comfort: Plush memory foam ear cushions and a padded headband, designed for long listening sessions.
• Controls: Physical buttons on the ear cups for power, volume, and ANC toggle, plus a built-in microphone for calls.
• Connectivity: Can be used wired via the included 3.5mm audio cable, even when the battery is dead.
• Weight: Approximately 250 grams, making them relatively light for over-ear ANC headphones.

How ANC Works (and What the es850nh Does Differently)

Active noise cancellation works by using microphones to pick up ambient sound, then generating an inverse sound wave to cancel it out. The es850nh uses feedforward and feedback ANC, which means it has mics both outside and inside the ear cups. This helps cancel a wider range of frequencies, especially low-frequency noise like engine rumble or air conditioning hum. However, it’s not as effective as the adaptive ANC found in premium models, which adjusts to your surroundings in real time. The es850nh’s ANC is fixed, so it doesn’t adapt to different environments, but it’s still quite good at reducing constant low-frequency sounds.

Sound Quality and Performance

In terms of sound, the es850nh has a neutral, balanced sound signature. The bass is present but not overpowering, mids are clear, and highs are crisp without being harsh. This makes them versatile across genres, from classical to hip-hop. The soundstage is decent for closed-back headphones, though not as wide as some open-back models. The ANC performance is effective for a budget pair, reducing about 80-85% of ambient noise, which is comparable to mid-range Sony or Bose models. However, it doesn’t completely silence noise, and you may still hear higher-pitched sounds like voices or keyboard clicks.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

Like any product, the es850nh has a few known issues that users report:

• Comfort with glasses: The ear cushions are snug, and some users with glasses find them uncomfortable after a few hours. Solution: adjust the headband to reduce clamping force.
• ANC hiss: Some users notice a faint hiss when ANC is on, especially in quiet environments. This is common in budget ANC headphones and not a defect.
• Microphone quality: The built-in mic is okay for calls but not great for recording or video conferencing. It picks up background noise.
• No app support: Unlike many competitors, the es850nh does not have a companion app, so you can’t adjust the EQ or update firmware. You get the default sound signature only.

How to Choose: Is the es850nh Right for You?

Consider the es850nh if you:

• Want ANC without spending a fortune.
• Prefer a neutral sound signature.
• Need a comfortable pair for long flights or commutes.
• Don’t care about app support or custom EQ.
• Want a lightweight pair that’s easy to carry.

Look elsewhere if you:

• Need the absolute best ANC (consider Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose QC45).
• Want to customize the sound with an EQ.
• Need a mic for professional calls (get a separate mic).
• Prefer a bass-heavy sound (look for V-shaped headphones).

Alternatives to Consider

In the same price range, you might also consider:

• Anker Soundcore Life Q20: Similar ANC, but with a more bass-heavy sound and a companion app.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT: No ANC, but great sound for the price, with a more neutral signature.
• JBL Tune 760NC: Lighter and more portable, but with less effective ANC.
• Refurbished Sony WH-CH710N: Sometimes available at a similar price, with better ANC but less comfortable.

Cost and Value

The es850nh typically retails for around $80-100, but prices vary. Given the features (ANC, 35-hour battery, comfort), it offers good value for the price. However, if you can find a deal on a higher-end model, it might be worth spending a bit more for better ANC and app support. The es850nh is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable, everyday ANC headphone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Edifier es850nh good for gaming?

Yes, for casual gaming. The low latency Bluetooth is fine for most games, but there’s no dedicated low-latency mode. For competitive gaming, a wired connection is recommended to avoid any delay. The sound is balanced, so you can hear footsteps and gunshots clearly.

Can I use the es850nh with a wired connection?

Yes, the headphones come with a 3.5mm audio cable. When connected via cable, the ANC still works if the battery is charged, but if the battery is dead, you can still use them as passive headphones (without ANC).

How do I charge the es850nh?

The headphones have a USB-C port. Use the included cable or any USB-C charger. A full charge takes about 2 hours. The quick charge feature gives you about 3 hours of playback with a 10-minute charge.

Do the es850nh have a microphone for phone calls?

Yes, they have a built-in mic. It’s decent for phone calls, but not great for professional use. Background noise is picked up, so it’s best for quiet environments.

Are the es850nh comfortable for all-day wear?

Most users find them comfortable for several hours, thanks to the memory foam ear cushions. However, if you wear glasses, you might experience some pressure. Adjusting the headband to reduce clamping force can help.

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