Overview

The Edifier W855BT Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones arrived on the scene in early 2017, and while the wireless headphone market has grown considerably crowded since then, these Edifier cans have held their ground as a dependable everyday option. The warm brown colorway sets them apart from the usual sea of matte-black choices — a detail that appeals to buyers who want something that looks a bit more considered on the commute. Don't expect active noise cancellation or audiophile-grade tuning here. What you do get is a well-rounded daily driver that thoughtfully includes a clamshell carry case, which feels like a genuine bonus at this price point.

Features & Benefits

The W855BT runs on Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX support, which in practical terms means audio that sounds noticeably cleaner and less compressed than standard Bluetooth — particularly with music that has a lot of dynamic range. Battery life is a genuine strong suit: up to 20 hours of playback is enough to cover a full work week of commuting before you need to charge. When the battery does run dry, the 3.5mm jack means you can plug in and keep listening. The dynamic driver delivers a warm, bass-forward sound across a 20Hz–20kHz range, and the inline remote handles volume, tracks, and calls without fishing for your phone.

Best For

This wireless headset is a natural fit for daily commuters and remote workers who need a headphone that lasts the entire day without a lunchtime top-up. The wired fallback is a quiet but useful feature — on long flights or when the battery inevitably runs low, you're never left in silence. Style-wise, the brown finish attracts buyers who are tired of headphones that look identical. It won't satisfy anyone hunting for active noise cancellation, and it isn't tuned for critical listening. For casual music, podcasts, and video calls across phones, laptops, or tablets, though, the W855BT hits a practical sweet spot between functionality and affordability that's hard to argue with.

User Feedback

Owners of these Edifier cans tend to praise the comfort during extended wear and the warm sound tuning, which suits genres like jazz, R&B, and acoustic music well. Bluetooth pairing consistently gets positive marks for reliability. On the critical side, several users mention the clamping force feels quite firm out of the box — it can ease with break-in time, but it's worth noting for those with larger heads. The plastic build polarizes opinion: some find it acceptably lightweight, others feel it doesn't inspire confidence over the long term. Call quality through the mic is serviceable but rarely impresses. Most users treat the carry case as genuinely protective, not just decorative.

Pros

  • Up to 20 hours of playback handles even the longest travel days without needing a charge.
  • aptX Bluetooth support delivers noticeably cleaner audio than standard Bluetooth connections.
  • The 3.5mm wired fallback means you can keep listening even after the battery runs out.
  • Inline remote makes adjusting volume and skipping tracks genuinely effortless during commutes.
  • The included clamshell hard case offers real protection, not just a flimsy pouch.
  • Warm, dynamic sound tuning works especially well for casual music genres like R&B, pop, and jazz.
  • The distinctive brown colorway stands out for buyers tired of identical-looking headphones.
  • Reliable Bluetooth pairing gets consistently positive marks from long-term users.
  • Over-ear circumaural fit distributes pressure well, making extended wear comfortable for most listeners.
  • Wide device compatibility means the W855BT works across phones, laptops, tablets, and more without fuss.

Cons

  • Bluetooth 4.1 is noticeably dated compared to the newer standards found in current competitors.
  • Clamping force is quite firm out of the box and may cause discomfort for those with larger heads.
  • Microphone quality is average at best and does not hold up well on professional or video calls.
  • All-plastic construction feels noticeably lightweight in a way that reads as fragile rather than portable-friendly.
  • No active noise cancellation limits usefulness in genuinely loud or open-plan environments.
  • Bluetooth range can drop off sooner than expected, particularly through walls or in crowded wireless environments.
  • The warm sound signature boosts bass in a way that muddies detail for listeners who prefer a neutral or analytical response.
  • At over two pounds, these Edifier cans are on the heavier side for extended wear during physical activity.

Ratings

The scores below are generated by AI after analyzing verified global user reviews for the Edifier W855BT Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones, with spam, bot submissions, and incentivized feedback actively filtered out to ensure the ratings reflect genuine buyer experiences. Each category is scored based on real usage patterns reported across multiple markets and purchase contexts. Both the strengths that earn consistent praise and the friction points that drive complaints are transparently reflected in every number below.

Sound Quality
78%
22%
The warm, bass-forward tuning wins consistent praise from listeners who gravitate toward R&B, hip-hop, and pop — genres that benefit from a fuller low end. With aptX active on a compatible source, the wireless audio is noticeably cleaner than basic Bluetooth, and the dynamic driver delivers a satisfying fullness for casual everyday listening.
Critical listeners and fans of flat, neutral sound will find the bass emphasis pulls focus away from midrange detail. The tuning is not well-suited to complex orchestral or acoustic recordings, and side-by-side comparisons with more neutral headphones at similar prices reveal the coloration clearly.
Battery Life
91%
Twenty hours of real-world playback is one of the W855BT's most praised attributes, and users consistently report hitting numbers very close to the rated figure during daily commutes and long work-from-home sessions. The 400-hour standby means leaving it powered on overnight almost never results in a dead battery the next morning.
Charging time is not prominently communicated in product materials, which frustrates buyers trying to plan around a low battery. There is also no battery percentage readout — users rely on an audio cue when power runs low, which some report catches them off guard mid-session.
Comfort & Fit
72%
28%
The over-ear circumaural design distributes pressure around the full ear rather than pressing on it, which most users find tolerable during two to three hour sessions. The ear pad softness holds up reasonably well, and the headband padding is adequate for the kind of extended commutes these Edifier cans are built for.
The initial clamping force is a recurring complaint, particularly from users with wider heads who describe it as uncomfortably firm during the first couple of weeks of use. Glasses wearers also note that the firm clamp pushes their frames into the side of the head over longer listening sessions.
Build Quality
63%
37%
The lightweight plastic frame keeps the headset comfortable during longer wear and avoids the neck fatigue that heavier metal-framed headphones can cause over a full commute. For buyers who handle their gear carefully, the construction proves functional enough day to day, and the included clamshell case helps protect the unit from bag-related wear.
The all-plastic build is where buyer opinion splits most sharply — the hinge and headband articulation points feel noticeably less robust than metal-reinforced designs at comparable prices. Some users report frame creaking and flex that raises legitimate concerns about how the W855BT holds up under sustained daily use over a year or more.
Value for Money
84%
Few headsets in this price tier bundle a hard clamshell carry case, aptX Bluetooth, a wired fallback jack, and 20-hour battery life into a single package. Buyers consistently rate their overall satisfaction as high relative to what they paid, especially those upgrading from cheaper single-feature wireless options.
The plastic construction and aging Bluetooth standard make the purchase harder to justify now that competitors have caught up or surpassed the feature set at similar prices. Some buyers feel the microphone quality and build materials sit below what the rest of the package implies, creating a mild expectation gap.
Bluetooth Connectivity
76%
24%
Pairing is quick and reliable across the majority of user reports, and the connection holds steady during typical commutes without frequent dropouts. The aptX codec adds genuine audio clarity over a compatible source device, making the wireless experience noticeably better than what standard SBC Bluetooth delivers.
Bluetooth 4.1 is showing its age, and buyers comparing these Edifier cans to newer headphones notice the gap in range stability and codec flexibility. There is no multipoint pairing support for switching between two devices, and range stability in congested wireless environments falls short of newer implementations.
Passive Noise Isolation
67%
33%
The over-ear circumaural fit provides a reasonable degree of ambient sound reduction that works well in moderate environments like quiet offices, buses, and indoor commutes. For listeners who just need to take the edge off background noise without requiring active cancellation, it handles the job adequately.
In genuinely loud settings — subway platforms, busy streets, or open-plan offices — the passive isolation falls short of what many buyers hope for from a sealed over-ear design. With no active noise cancellation to compensate, this wireless headset is a limited choice for buyers prioritizing isolation in harsh acoustic environments.
Microphone Quality
58%
42%
For quick, casual voice calls in a quiet room, the built-in microphone is adequate — callers on the other end report hearing the speaker clearly without significant distortion. It handles light phone call use and simple voice messages without requiring a separate headset.
On professional video calls or in any environment with ambient noise, the microphone falls noticeably short. Users frequently report that background sounds bleed through to callers, and call quality degrades meaningfully in open offices or outdoor settings, making this a poor primary choice for anyone who spends significant time on calls.
Portability & Storage
88%
The included clamshell hard case is among the most consistently praised aspects in user reviews, offering genuine crush protection that commuter bags and overstuffed laptop compartments would otherwise threaten. Receiving a proper protective case in the box rather than as a paid accessory is a meaningful differentiator at this price point.
The folded dimensions are on the larger side compared to more compact travel-focused competitors, so the case claims a meaningful slice of bag space. Users who need a truly slim carry solution may find the overall footprint slightly inconvenient despite the case doing its protective job well.
Inline Controls
83%
The on-ear remote handles volume, track skipping, and call answering intuitively, and users consistently appreciate being able to manage playback without unlocking their phone mid-commute. The button layout is simple enough that most buyers use it confidently without ever consulting the manual.
The controls work well but lack functions that have become standard elsewhere — there is no voice assistant trigger, no EQ toggle, and no fast-forward hold function. A small portion of users also report that the buttons occasionally require a firmer press than expected before they register a command.
Design & Aesthetics
81%
19%
The brown colorway is a genuine point of difference in a market dominated by identical-looking black and white options, and buyers who specifically choose the W855BT for its retro styling consistently express satisfaction with the visual result. The look has held up reasonably well since the 2017 launch.
The aesthetic is subjective, and buyers who prefer modern minimal styling may find the retro brown finish polarizing. The plastic surface also picks up scuffs and surface wear more visibly than matte rubberized alternatives, which can affect how the headset looks after a year of daily bag use.
Wired Mode
77%
23%
The 3.5mm fallback turns this wireless headset into a genuinely versatile headphone — particularly useful on flights where Bluetooth is restricted or when the battery runs out at an inconvenient moment. Users report the wired sound quality is consistent and clean, with no unexpected degradation at this performance tier.
The wired cable is easy to misplace and feels thinner and less durable than the rest of the package. Audio quality through the jack is solid but represents no meaningful upgrade over the wireless mode, so the wired option functions more as a safety net than a genuine performance alternative.
Wireless Range
69%
31%
In open environments like a home or quiet commute, the Bluetooth range holds comfortably at around 10 meters — enough to move between rooms or step away from a desk without the connection cutting out. In standard low-interference conditions, dropouts are rare and connection stability earns solid marks.
In densely packed wireless environments — offices, apartment buildings, or crowded transit — the connection becomes less reliable, with dropouts occurring more frequently than users expect. The limitation is partly structural to the older Bluetooth 4.1 standard, and newer headphones at similar prices generally outperform it in range consistency.

Suitable for:

The Edifier W855BT Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones are a strong match for commuters, remote workers, and students who need a reliable all-day listening option without the stress of hunting for a charger mid-afternoon. If your typical day involves a train ride, a few hours of focused work, and maybe a podcast on the way home, the 20-hour battery handles all of it comfortably. The wired fallback via the 3.5mm jack is a genuine practical plus — useful on flights where Bluetooth isn't an option or when the battery finally runs out after a long stretch. Buyers who appreciate a warmer, more vintage aesthetic will find the brown colorway a welcome change from the endless parade of generic black headphones. The included clamshell case makes it a sensible travel companion for anyone who tosses their bag around without much ceremony.

Not suitable for:

The Edifier W855BT Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones are not the right call for buyers who need active noise cancellation for open-plan offices or loud commutes, since there is simply no ANC on offer here. Audiophiles or critical listeners who prioritize flat, accurate sound reproduction will find the warm, bass-leaning tuning at odds with their needs. The Bluetooth 4.1 standard, while functional, is a generation or two behind what newer headphones in this space offer, which may matter to buyers pairing with the latest devices and wanting the most stable, low-latency connection possible. People who regularly take long calls for work should temper expectations around microphone quality — it handles casual calls, but it won't impress on professional video conferences. Those who place a high premium on premium build materials will notice the plastic construction fairly quickly, and it does not inspire the same confidence as a metal-reinforced frame would.

Specifications

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX A2DP codec support enables higher-quality wireless audio transmission compared to standard SBC Bluetooth.
  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of continuous playback is available on a full charge under typical listening conditions.
  • Standby Time: The headset supports up to 400 hours of standby time when powered on but not actively streaming audio.
  • Driver Type: A single dynamic driver per ear cup handles full-range audio reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
  • Frequency Range: The frequency response spans 20Hz to 20kHz, covering the full range of human hearing.
  • Impedance: At 32 ohms, the headset is well-matched for direct use with smartphones, tablets, and other portable sources.
  • Wired Input: A 3.5mm audio jack allows passive wired listening when Bluetooth is unavailable or the battery is fully depleted.
  • Inline Controls: The on-ear remote supports volume adjustment, track skipping, and call answering without interacting with the source device.
  • Ear Design: Over-ear circumaural ear cups fully enclose the ear, providing a degree of passive noise isolation during use.
  • Build Material: The headband and ear cup housings are constructed primarily from plastic, keeping overall weight low.
  • Weight: The unit weighs 2.07 pounds including the headband and ear cups.
  • Dimensions: Overall dimensions measure 10.39 × 8.86 × 4.13 inches when folded for storage or transport.
  • Included Items: The package includes a clamshell hard carry case, a charging cable, and an audio cable for wired use.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktops, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and car audio systems via Bluetooth or 3.5mm input.
  • Microphone: A built-in microphone supports hands-free calling and is accessible through the inline remote control.
  • Color Variant: Available in a brown and black colorway with a retro-influenced aesthetic design.
  • Warranty: Covered by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for buyers in the United States.

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FAQ

In typical daily use — a mix of commuting, desk listening, and occasional calls — most users get close to the advertised 20 hours. At higher volumes or with heavy call use, expect something closer to 16–18 hours. Either way, it comfortably covers several days of normal use before needing a charge.

Yes. The W855BT includes a 3.5mm wired input, so you can plug in a standard audio cable and keep listening even with a fully depleted battery. It is a genuinely useful backup for long flights or travel days when charging is not an option.

It does. The clamping force is notably firm initially, which some people find uncomfortable during longer sessions. Most users find it eases noticeably after a week or two of regular wear. If you have a wider head, the break-in period may take a bit longer, but comfort generally improves.

It handles casual voice and video calls well enough for everyday use — your voice comes through clearly in a reasonably quiet environment. That said, it is not on the same level as a dedicated headset microphone, and background noise pickup is average. For professional calls or meetings, a standalone mic would serve you better.

The Edifier W855BT Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones support aptX, a Bluetooth audio codec that reduces the compression applied to music during wireless transmission. In real listening terms, you get less muddiness and noticeably better clarity compared to standard Bluetooth — especially apparent with complex, layered music. Keep in mind that your source device also needs to support aptX for both sides to benefit.

Yes, provided your console or TV has standard Bluetooth support. These Edifier cans connect to most modern smart TVs and gaming consoles without needing an adapter. Be aware that some TVs and older consoles have limited Bluetooth audio implementations, which can introduce audio latency, so it may not be ideal for fast-paced gaming.

It is genuinely protective. The hard shell resists compression and prevents the headset from being crushed inside a packed bag. It is not waterproof or rated for extreme conditions, but for daily commuting and travel use it does a reliable job of keeping the headset in good shape.

The all-plastic construction is the most common durability concern raised by long-term owners. It keeps the unit lightweight, which helps with comfort, but the hinges and headband feel less confidence-inspiring than a metal-reinforced alternative. With careful daily handling it holds up well; it is simply not built for rough or careless treatment.

In open space, this wireless headset typically maintains a stable connection at around 10 meters, which is standard for Bluetooth 4.1. Through walls or in environments with heavy wireless interference — like a crowded office or apartment building — the range and connection stability can drop noticeably, so keeping your source device relatively close is advisable.

It is a mixed experience. The over-ear design fits around most glasses frames rather than pressing directly on them, which helps. However, the firm initial clamping force can push the arms of glasses into the side of your head during extended sessions. This tends to ease as the headband loosens up with regular use, but glasses wearers with thin or sensitive frames may want to try them on before committing.

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