Edifier is always toying about with different sound profiles in a bid to have something that appeals to every type of listener. And that’s exactly how it should be. Rather than pumping out the same spec sheet in different plastic cases, Edifier is all about choice.
That’s where the GX05 comes in. It may be sacrilege to admit this, but not every situation requires a varied, ear-rattling sound profile, especially when it comes to gaming. The GX05 doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel or push boundaries, but it does offer up something very specific for a specific type of gamer. If that’s you, you’re going to be in for a treat. If not, then there are myriad other options out there to check out instead.
Audio Quality
Image credit: Wesley Copeland for RetroResolve.
Although coming with hi-res certification, the GX05 lacks any real sense of oomph when it comes to music. Vocals are clear, but bass lacks explosive prowess. Even with bass-heavy tracks, the GX05 fails to permeate in a way that seasons the surrounding dish. Mids aren’t quite as lacking, but vocals really are where the GX05 hits its peak.
If the GX05 was purely geared towards audiophiles looking to blast hi-res tunes, the varied sound profile Edifier is known for isn’t there. If it’s music you’re after earbuds for, then I’d suggest checking out the NeoBuds Pro 2, which remains the go-to for high-level audio output.
For music, the GX05 underwhelms, but that’s not the full picture. The GX05 isn’t being aimed towards audiophiles, it’s aimed at gamers first and foremost. And it’s here where the GX05 shines its brightest.
That flatter audio profile means in-game music may sound a little less pronounced, but the trade-off is different elements – be it gunshots, footsteps, floorboards creaking – all have a level playing field to grab your attention. Too much bass and a distant shotgun blast could overpower the sound of someone right next to you entering the room, for example.
That’s what the GX05 has been designed for. They’re a set of gaming earbuds meant for gaming rather than listening to music. At that, the GX05 makes its case much more clearly.
Specs
Image credit: Wesley Copeland for RetroResolve.
The 10mm dynamic driver inside the GX05 paired with SBC and LDHC5.0 codecs results in a frequency response of 20Hz – 40kHz. The earbuds also make use of Bluetooth 5.3, which at the time of writing is the most up-to-date version.
There’s also the standard tap X amount of times to skip tracks or change modes functionality. And in a rare twist, those functions actually work rather well compared with some other brands where I found myself constantly poking the earbud in vain attempts to pause the music.
As mentioned, the GX05 does work over Bluetooth, but the connection is at its strongest and clearest when the included 2.4 GHz dongle is used. Also of importance is that not every games console out there lets users hook up headphones or earbuds via Bluetooth, so the dongle is a must on those systems.
Battery life clocks in at around four hours while the charging case packs in 16 hours on backup. The case also includes fast charging for when you’re in a rush or forget to charge them. Compared with the NeoBuds Pro 2, that’s around one hour less in the earbuds, and four hours less in the charging case. How much of a difference does that make? Not enough to be a problem. Earbuds are notorious for having poor batteries due to their size. So while around four hours isn’t great, the important thing here is that it’s balanced out with a solid charging case that includes fast charging.
Features
Image credit: Wesley Copeland for RetroResolve.
If there was an award for the most stylish charging case, Edifier would win it hands-down. This sci-fi triangle boasts three pulsating lights and a y-shaped spinning guard. As someone on the spectrum, it’s like a futuristic fidget spinner.
Normally I find charging case to be lacking any kind of inspiration. And it’s something I’ve criticized multiple brands for in the past. But this thing? It’s so over-the-top, so geeky, that I kind of love it. It’s got the fun and style factor down. Granted this gaudy approach won’t impress everyone, especially those who like simplicity. But for me, I want companies to break the mold and take more risks, and Edifier has done just that.
Should You Buy It?
If hi-res music is your preference, go with the NeoBuds Pro 2. The difference in the sound profile is night and day. But if you’re after something to game with that comes in a ridiculously geeky changing case, then the GX05 is the better choice.
Verdict
If you’re after a set of earbuds to use while gaming, in a case that quite literally looks like it was invented by aliens, the GX05 comes easy to recommend. The fact they’re not the best when it comes to music does make them a harder sell over other Edifier offerings, but it’s balanced out by the flatter gaming profile.
Not everyone will want a flat profile while gaming, and finding out what works for you personally is key. Me, though? I prefer to have my audio leveled out so I can hear everything at a similar volume without one sound drowning out the rest. Not everyone will agree with that, and that’s fine! But it’s important to know what it is you’re getting. And given the NeoBuds Pro 2 exists in a very similar price bracket, the choice between wide open hi-res audio and flat hi-res audio means you can pick up whichever is your preferred option.
Disclosure: Review unit provided by PR on behalf of Edifier | To learn more about our review policy click here. | Alternatively, click here to find out why you can trust me.
