Exceptional ANC Headphones Under £200: Edifier WH950NB Review
Written on
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Edifier WH950NB
I want to kick off this review with a simple but impactful statement: WOW! These headphones are truly impressive! While that might seem brief, it's a genuine reflection of my experience. For over six months, my go-to earbuds were the Google Pixel Buds Pro, but that changed a month ago when I received the Edifier WH950NB headphones for evaluation. (Note: this is not a sponsored review.) Priced at £179.99 on Amazon UK, I believe they offer excellent value for money. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive deeper into my thoughts since my initial impressions.
Section 1.1: Design and Comfort
Let’s begin with the aesthetics and comfort of these headphones. They are undeniably attractive, boasting a luxurious leather-like finish and a premium feel. Edifier has also included a stylish carrying case that not only looks robust on the outside but feels soft within, ensuring your headphones are well-protected.
From a comfort perspective, these headphones truly shine, even for someone who wears glasses. The ear cups are plush, with no pressure on my ears or head. Additionally, the headband is cushioned for extra comfort—a feature that sets Edifier apart from some competitors, such as Microsoft, who could improve their headband design in future models.
Section 1.2: Sound Quality
Next, let’s discuss sound quality, which is paramount when investing in headphones. Everyone has unique preferences; I enjoy a solid bass while still being able to discern all instruments clearly. Overall, I find the sound quality of the WH950NB remarkable. The clarity of the instruments is excellent, and when paired with the bass, it creates a perfect listening experience. However, the headphones aren’t overly bass-heavy by default, which might be a consideration for some users. The vocal clarity is impressive as well, making them ideal for audiobooks and podcasts. For a more in-depth audio analysis, you can check out my YouTube video.
Section 1.3: Additional Features
Comfort and sound quality are crucial, but the Edifier WH950NB offers much more than just those aspects. They are loaded with features that distinguish them from other headphones available.
Subsection 1.3.1: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Let’s start with the remarkable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). As someone who frequently travels via public transport, I often find myself in noisy environments, like busy trains or cafés. During my tests, the WH950NB performed exceptionally well in blocking out noise. For instance, my local train station is frequented by loud diesel trains, and these headphones managed to minimize that disruptive sound impressively.
They feature two ANC modes: low and high. I find low ANC suitable for office environments or when I need to stay alert for announcements, while high ANC is perfect for when I want to eliminate distractions completely. There’s even a wind reduction feature, great for outdoor use.
Subsection 1.3.2: Ambient Mode
Another noteworthy feature is the Ambient Mode, which is essential for headphones equipped with ANC. With just a few clicks, you can activate ambient sound without removing your headphones—an invaluable feature when you’re on the go, like carrying a coffee. I frequently use this mode in busy settings, such as streets or cafes, and it has consistently performed well. It's particularly beneficial during meetings or phone calls, allowing you to maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Subsection 1.3.3: Multipoint Bluetooth
Multipoint Bluetooth is another excellent feature that I believe more headphones should incorporate. This allows for simultaneous connectivity to two devices, which is incredibly useful at work. Personally, I connect my headphones to both my phone and laptop, enabling me to listen to music while easily switching to phone calls without the hassle of disconnecting.
The Edifier WH950NB’s multipoint functionality works seamlessly, and I’ve yet to encounter any issues with it.
Chapter 2: The Edifier Connect App and More
The Edifier WH950NB is compatible with the Edifier Connect app, which enhances the user experience. The app allows you to toggle between ANC modes easily. Swiping through its pages reveals options for Classic and Dynamic modes, as well as a customizable EQ. Additionally, it includes different modes for music, gaming, and theater. For Android users, there’s a convenient widget for quick mode switching.
Other than the features mentioned, the headphones support the LDAC codec for high-resolution audio, enhancing sound quality significantly. They also feature Google’s fast pair technology, which is particularly beneficial for Android users.
When it comes to battery life, the WH950NB excels. I’ve never had to recharge them unexpectedly during outings or travels. The manufacturer claims that a 1.5-hour charge provides around 34 hours of playback with ANC on and 55 hours with it off, which aligns with my experiences.
Chapter 3: Final Thoughts
After a month of using the Edifier WH950NB as my daily headphones, I can confidently say they are a fantastic option worth their price. They are ideal for anyone seeking reliable headphones for work or long commutes. With impressive sound quality and exceptional comfort—especially for glasses wearers—these headphones stand out. Packed with features like Multipoint Bluetooth, they cater to a wide range of needs.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Edifier WH950NB!
Before You Leave!
Consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter for exclusive content, tips, and more! If you enjoy my posts, there's plenty more to explore on Medium! Click here to join and gain access to all stories from Tech With Dom and countless other writers. Your membership fee directly supports Tech With Dom and other creators.
Check out my other social media channels here.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains Amazon Affiliate links, which help me earn from linking to products. I only include affiliate links for products I genuinely use and recommend. You can read more about my affiliate policy here.