The original Edifier W820NB has quietly disappeared from store shelves. That creates a problem: if you loved those headphones and want to recommend them to a friend, you cannot anymore. The good news is Edifier has launched the W820NB Plus, and it improves on the formula in meaningful ways.
CodeWithMike recently spent quality time with the Plus model, and his findings are worth noting if you are hunting for reliable over-ear headphones to pair with your Android phone or tablet.
What Changed in the Plus Model
Visually, the two generations look nearly identical. The logos, earcups, and ANC microphone placement differ slightly, but you would need to place them side by side to spot the changes. The real upgrades live beneath the surface.
The Plus version feels noticeably more solid in hand. The plastic is thicker, which eliminates the cheap squeaking sometimes heard when squeezing budget headphones. The hinges operate smoothly without any wobble, and the adjustable headband glides without catching. In short, these feel like they can handle daily commute abuse and still perform months down the line.
Battery endurance jumped significantly. CodeWithMike measured around 86 percent charge after just over an hour from nearly empty. The claimed figures hold up: 49 hours of playback normally, with 33 hours remaining when ANC is active. A quick 10-minute charge delivers roughly 7 hours of listening, which matters when you forget to charge overnight.
The matte finish on the Ivory color option looks premium. It does pick up light scuffs from everyday handling, though deeper scratches proved harder to create in testing. The lighter shade might show dirt more readily than classic black, so factor that into your decision.
Comfort for Extended Android Sessions
Comfort makes or breaks headphones for most users. The W820NB Plus excels here. The full-sized ear cups completely enclose average ears, and the cushioned headband distributes weight without creating pressure points. CodeWithMike wore them through a full workday and called them the most comfortable pair he had tested, rivaling the higher-end Edifier WH950NB.
Walking around with these feels safe too. The ambient mode lets external sound filter through, which is essential for navigating streets or keeping aware in an office. Android users who juggle video calls, podcasts, and music throughout the day will appreciate this flexibility.
The ear cup buttons provide satisfying tactile feedback. That might seem minor, but imprecise buttons frustrate daily users. Here, you get clear confirmation that your command registered.
What Edifier Left Out
No travel case ships in the box. CodeWithMike flagged this as a genuine oversight, especially given the "Plus" branding that suggests added value. Most competing models at this price point include some form of carry solution. You will need to budget for a separate case if portability matters to you.
The packaging also relies heavily on single-use plastic. A molded plastic tray protects the headphones during shipping, and reviewers questioned whether stiff cardboard inserts serve any real purpose. Environmentally conscious buyers might find this disappointing, since cardboard alternatives exist and reduce waste.
The USB-A to USB-C charging cable works fine, but you will not find an audio cable for wired listening. These omissions keep the price down but feel like cost-cutting on a model positioned as an upgrade.
Our Analysis
For Android users specifically, these headphones check most practical boxes. The long battery life means fewer charging interruptions during commutes or workdays. The comfortable fit handles extended listening sessions without fatigue. Bluetooth connectivity with Android devices works smoothly in typical usage scenarios.
The build quality improvements over the original make a real difference in longevity. That thicker plastic and tighter hinge construction should age better than the standard model, which matters when you are spending this much money.
The missing travel case hurts portability, though third-party alternatives exist. The environmental concerns with packaging will not affect sound quality but reflect choices that increasingly matter to buyers.
Price-wise, the Plus commands a premium over the original. Whether that premium buys enough improvement depends on how much you value the sturdier construction and extended battery. For users coming from budget earbuds or older worn headphones, the upgrade will feel dramatic.
Bottom Line
The Edifier W820NB Plus addresses the original's main weaknesses while keeping what worked. Build quality and battery life stand out as the meaningful upgrades. Android users seeking comfortable, long-lasting ANC headphones at a reasonable price should add this to their shortlist, assuming they factor in a separate case purchase.
Key takeaways
- The Plus model genuinely outperforms the original in build quality and battery endurance
- Comfort levels rank among the best in this price range, suitable for full workdays
- Missing travel case is a notable omission; budget for a third-party option
- Matte finish looks sharp but requires light maintenance to stay clean
- ANC performance remains strong at 33 hours per charge cycle
Frequently asked questions
How long does the battery last on the Edifier W820NB Plus?
The headphones deliver up to 49 hours of playback with ANC off, dropping to 33 hours when ANC is active.
Are these headphones comfortable for all-day wear?
Reviewers found them exceptionally comfortable, with soft ear cushions and a cushioned headband that distribute weight evenly without causing pressure.
Do these work well with Android devices?
The headphones connect via Bluetooth and function as standard audio devices with Android phones and tablets.
What accessories come included?
Buyers receive only a charging cable and quick-start guide. Edifier does not bundle a travel case or auxiliary cord.
How do they compare to the standard W820NB model?
The Plus version uses thicker plastic materials, feels heavier and more solid, and offers significantly longer battery life. The design remains visually similar.
Source: codewithmike.com