Compare Edifier NeoBuds Planar Earbuds vs Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds

ANC is widely described as effective or better than expected, though most reviewers stop short of calling it class-leading.

ANC performance ranges from average to solid-for-the-price: it reduces low-frequency rumble well but is not class-leading versus premium models. Noise control is adjustable in the app with ANC on/off and hear-through options, making it easy to tailor for different environments.

Android setup is straightforward, with Android recognition and Fast Pair both mentioned.

Android support is strong thanks to features like Google Fast Pair and aptX/aptX Adaptive compatibility.

The ConneX app is widely described as useful and feature-rich, even if not every reviewer liked its look or behavior.

The Connect app is feature-rich (EQ, noise modes, codec selection, updates, extras like soundscapes and ear-profile tools) and is generally reported as stable.

aptX family support is explicitly confirmed, including aptX Adaptive.

aptX/aptX Adaptive support makes these particularly attractive for Android users seeking higher-quality Bluetooth audio.

Where tested, video and gaming latency are described positively, with low-latency use called fine or strong.

Low-latency mode delivers good audio-video sync, with most reviewers reporting minimal lip-sync delay for video and casual gaming.

Bass is the main dividing line: several reviews hear limited punch or body, while others report strong or satisfying bass once fit or tuning is dialed in.

Bass is the headline: deep extension and punch are repeatedly praised, though it can sound forward on bass-heavy mixes.

Battery life is usually judged average or mediocre for the price, though some reviews report acceptable day-to-day runtime.

Battery life is repeatedly described as best-in-class, commonly around 20 hours in the buds (about 15 with ANC) plus roughly 30 more from the case.

Reviews note Bluetooth 5.4 support and solid wireless basics.

Bluetooth stability is typically strong (including longer-range anecdotes), but a few users report occasional dropouts, especially in multipoint or obstructed scenarios.

Build quality gets mixed-to-positive feedback, with some reviews calling the buds well-made and others criticizing cheap-looking materials.

Build quality is widely seen as robust for the price, though a few note the silicone tips feel thin and may wear over time.

Reviews repeatedly confirm hi-res playback support, though they focus on playback capability rather than DAC specifics.

Squeeze, pinch, and pressure controls are often described as deliberate and more reliable than typical touch inputs.

Physical buttons help avoid accidental touches, but their placement and size can be fiddly; some find multi-tap actions or locating the buttons frustrating.

Case impressions are mixed, ranging from ugly or cheap-looking to robust and well-made.

The case is generally sturdy with clear battery indicators and secure retention, but its large footprint is a common complaint.

Charging is a clear strength thanks to wireless support and quick top-ups.

Charging is USB-C with strong fast-charge results (about 10 minutes for roughly 90 minutes playback); most reviews note no wireless charging on the CKS50TW.

Codec support is a major strength, with repeated praise for the unusually broad hi-res codec list.

Codec support is a strength, with SBC/AAC plus aptX and aptX Adaptive mentioned often, and some app control over codec selection.

Comfort is consistently strong, with several reviewers saying they could wear the earbuds for hours or all day.

Comfort is generally good once the right tips are found, but the larger housings can feel bulky or less secure for smaller ears.

Design is divisive: some reviewers call the earbuds modern or futuristic, while others simply do not like the look.

Design is functional but plain, and the size is frequently called bulky compared to sleeker rivals.

With the right tip size, reviewers report an excellent seal and secure fit.

Multiple reviews confirm a wide ear-tip selection, typically spanning extra small through extra large.

Multiple ear tip sizes are included (often four), helping with fit and seal, even if durability concerns pop up in a few reviews.

The EQ offers real customization, but several reviews say it is limited, technical, or less effective than expected.

EQ customization is a highlight, offering a five-band EQ and useful adjustments to tailor bass/vocals and overall balance.

One review confirms a find-my feature that makes the earbuds beep when misplaced.

The app includes a locate/find function for the earbuds, which is useful if you misplace them.

One review says the tuning stays reasonably close to the Harman curve.

Tuning trends warm rather than strictly neutral, but multiple reviews call it well-balanced across the range with good overall coherence.

Reviews confirm a generous bundle that can include multiple ear tips, a charging cable, manuals, and a pouch or carrying case.

Instrument separation and layering are a standout, with reviewers repeatedly calling the presentation clean and highly detailed.

Separation and imaging are strong for the class, keeping transient details in context, but it does not match higher-end audiophile flagships.

Multiple reviews explicitly mention a six-mic or three-per-side microphone setup.

LDAC support is repeatedly confirmed across reviews.

Lossless support is explicitly cited through aptX Lossless and related hi-res codec support.

At very loud listening levels, some note dynamics can feel slightly compressed or squashed, even if clarity remains decent.

Microphone noise reduction is mixed: some reviewers hear background suppression struggle, while others say it helps keep calls usable outdoors.

Noise reduction on calls is inconsistent, with wind and busy-street noise sometimes bleeding through and degrading intelligibility.

Call quality ranges from decent to very good, with clear pickup in good conditions but not universal best-in-class performance.

Call quality is mostly clear in quiet settings, with mixed results outdoors or in noisy rooms; some experiences are excellent while others report average performance.

Midrange performance is generally clear and natural, but one review says vocals can dip back in the mix on some material.

Midrange is generally clear, but the stock tuning can let bass mask lower mids and push vocals back; the Clear Vocal/EQ options help restore presence.

Reviews describe straightforward use across Apple devices and Android, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.

Multipoint support is present and often works well, though some reviews report occasional sluggish or manual switching.

Multipoint is widely appreciated for switching between phone and computer, though there can be slight delays and occasional reliability quirks.

One review says the earbuds provide decent passive isolation with a proper fit.

The seal provides solid passive isolation, sometimes good enough to reduce noise even before ANC is enabled.

One review calls the case very pocketable and easy to carry.

Portability is the main physical downside: the case is chunky and the buds are large, so jeans-pocket carry can be awkward even if bags and jacket pockets are fine.

Presets such as Dynamic or Electrostatic are often useful, with reviewers finding modes that better suit their tastes.

Preset EQ modes (such as Bass Boost and Clear Vocal) are frequently cited as helpful and can meaningfully change the listening profile.

Several reviews note customizable case lighting with multiple color options.

Wear detection and other onboard sensors are present, but wear-detection behavior is not consistently praised.

Wear-detection sensors are a notable omission in multiple reviews, so playback does not auto-pause when you remove a bud.

Sidetone/side-talk features help you hear your own voice more naturally during calls, which several reviewers appreciate.

One review says the matte case finish helps prevent fingerprints.

Setup and pairing are often easy, but one review notes awkward app behavior across devices.

Reviews repeatedly praise the NeoBuds Planar for detailed, high-fidelity sound, though one review found the tuning inconsistent from track to track.

Across reviews, sound is described as warm and engaging with strong detail for the price, especially after EQ tweaks; a minority find it merely average without tuning.

One review explicitly says the presentation has width but lacks depth.

Multiple reviews describe an open, spacious presentation with a large soundstage.

Soundstage is often called convincing and well-staged for true wireless, though a few impressions place it closer to average rather than expansive.

One review explicitly notes that spatial audio is not included.

Spatial audio/360 Reality Audio is a mixed bag: some find it immersive, others dismiss it, and it is limited by supported services.

Fit security is generally good, including for workouts and movement.

Stability is generally strong once fitted, with multiple workout and head-movement anecdotes indicating the buds stay put.

Controls are generally usable, but responsiveness and refinement are not universally praised.

Transparency mode is usable and sometimes helpful, but most feedback stops short of calling it natural or fully open-sounding.

Hear-through/transparency is generally usable and fairly natural, but it can be mild and is not on the level of the best implementations.

Treble clarity is a recurring strength, with reviewers highlighting clean, precise highs and strong upper-frequency detail.

Treble is usually smooth and non-fatiguing; some reviewers want more sparkle or sharpness, while others note it stays crisp at higher volumes.

USB-C charging is explicitly confirmed in multiple reviews.

USB-C charging is consistently included and straightforward.

Value is the main weakness, with frequent pushback on the $299 price even from reviewers who liked the sound.

One review says native voice assistant commands are acted on swiftly.

Voice assistant support is limited in some coverage, with at least one review noting a lack of built-in voice-assistant control compared with certain rivals.

Volume output is usable but not exceptional, with some reviewers saying the buds are not especially loud.

Reviews cite IP54 or IP55 protection for sweat, dust, and light weather exposure.

Water resistance is consistently positioned as workout-friendly (commonly IPX4, with some coverage citing higher ratings on newer variants).

One review notes the 5.6g weight keeps them from feeling heavy.

Weight is noticeable for some (and a few describe the fit as unbalanced), but others find the buds comfortable for long sessions.