When we first encountered the Edifier ES20 Portable Bluetooth Speaker, we were immediately struck by its clean, modern design. It’s compact without feeling insubstantial, with a sturdy build that suggests Edifier has paid attention to both form and function.
The combination of sleek lines, subtle branding, and a tactile finish gives it a premium aesthetic, making it a welcome addition to both our living space and outdoor adventures. The ES20 feels like a device designed to complement our lifestyle rather than dominate it.
In terms of sound performance, the ES20 delivers an impressive experience for its size. The audio output is clear, with a surprisingly full midrange and crisp highs that make vocals and acoustic tracks shine. When we tested it with a range of genres—from mellow jazz to bass-heavy electronic tracks—the balance remained consistent, though the bass does lean slightly toward the lighter side. For those of us who appreciate deep, thumping lows, the ES20 might not hit every note as powerfully as a larger unit would. However, we found that the bass remains tight and controlled, never muddying the overall sound profile.
The Bluetooth connectivity is another area where the ES20 performs reliably. Pairing it with our devices was seamless, and the connection stayed stable even at a reasonable distance. We didn’t experience the signal dropouts or lag that sometimes plague portable speakers in this price range. The built-in microphone for hands-free calls also adds convenience, though we noticed that voice clarity can depend on background noise levels. For quick calls or voice assistant commands, it serves its purpose well.
Battery life is solid, offering several hours of continuous playback on a full charge. We appreciated that it charges via USB-C, making it compatible with most modern chargers we already use. The charging time is relatively short, meaning we can get back to our music quickly after a session. While it may not last an entire weekend of heavy use without recharging, it performs well enough for day trips, picnics, and around-the-house listening.
One of the ES20’s strengths is its portability. It’s lightweight yet feels durable, and the compact shape fits easily into our bags. The water resistance rating provides some peace of mind when using it outdoors or near a pool, though it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. For those of us who enjoy listening to music while traveling or relaxing outdoors, this combination of convenience and resilience makes it a dependable companion.
That said, the Edifier ES20 is not without its limitations. Audiophiles might find the soundstage somewhat narrow compared to larger, multi-driver speakers. Additionally, while the controls are simple and intuitive, they could be slightly more tactile for easier use in low light. Still, for its price point and portability, these are minor drawbacks rather than dealbreakers.
Overall, the Edifier ES20 strikes a satisfying balance between portability, design, and performance. It’s a speaker that fits comfortably into our daily routines—powerful enough to fill a room, light enough to take anywhere, and refined enough to please most casual listeners. While it won’t replace a high-end home audio setup, it excels as a reliable, stylish, and enjoyable portable speaker for everyday use.
£49.99
Available from amazon.co.uk