The launch of the Edifier ES60 Bluetooth speaker in March 2025 has positioned it as a contender in the competitive audio market. Priced at $199.99 across various regions, including the US, UK, and Australia, the speaker aims to combine retro aesthetics with sound quality. While the design is appealing, the ES60 faces challenges in performance compared to rivals like the JBL Flip 7 and Marshall Emberton III.
Design and Features
The Edifier ES60 boasts a distinctive retro-style design, characterized by golden accents, a faux-leather casing, and an attractive speaker grille. This aesthetic choice clearly draws inspiration from Marshall’s iconic speakers, successfully capturing a vintage appeal. Weighing in at 2.3 pounds (1 kilogram) and measuring 7.5 x 3.6 x 3.9 inches (190 x 92 x 98 mm), the ES60 is portable enough for short trips, although it is not the lightest in its category.
In addition to its looks, the ES60 offers a range of features, such as customizable ambient lighting and a USB-C audio passthrough for improved sound quality. However, the EQ options are basic, lacking customization, which could limit users wanting a tailored audio experience. The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls, but the speaker’s nine hours of battery life is underwhelming when compared to competitors like the JBL Flip 7, which offers up to 16 hours.
Audio Performance
When evaluating sound quality, the Edifier ES60 provides a decent audio output. It includes a single 18W mid-bass driver and two 8W tweeters, delivering a total power output of 34W. While the speaker performs reasonably well at moderate volumes, it struggles with nuance and instrument separation. Vocals can feel muddled, and the treble tends to be overly pronounced at higher volumes, leading to an unpleasant listening experience.
In comparison tests, the ES60 was pitted against the JBL Flip 7. The latter demonstrated superior vocal clarity and instrument separation, providing a richer overall sound. Tracks like “I’ve Got Your Number” by Ned Doheny showcased the Flip 7’s ability to balance vocals and instruments more effectively than the ES60, which offered a more one-dimensional audio experience.
While the bass performance of the ES60 is commendable, producing a solid low-end output, it lacks the clarity and depth found in more refined speakers. For instance, in tracks featuring heavy bass lines, the ES60 struggles to maintain a full-bodied sound, especially at elevated volumes.
Value and Market Position
At its price point of $199.99, the Edifier ES60 faces stiff competition. The JBL Flip 7, often available for under $150, outperforms the ES60 in key areas, including sound quality and battery life. Even the Marshall Emberton III, known for its impressive audio and design, offers greater value for money while delivering superior performance.
While the Edifier ES60 is visually striking and includes features like customizable lighting, its audio performance and value proposition leave much to be desired. Until the price drops significantly or improvements are made, it may struggle to compete effectively in a crowded market.
In summary, while the Edifier ES60 presents an attractive option for those prioritizing design, potential buyers should consider the audio performance and battery life against competing models. The need for enhanced sound quality and a more robust feature set remains a critical area for improvement if Edifier aims to secure a stronger foothold in the Bluetooth speaker landscape.
