ElectronicsRanker
Menu

Review

Edifier R1700BTS Review and Ranking

The Edifier R1700BTS is a pair of active Bluetooth bookshelf speakers for desktop, music, TV, and compact home-audio use. It is strongest for buyers who want clear two-channel sound, easy setup, and a separate-amplifier-free design. Its main compromise is limited deep bass from the 4-inch woofers unless a compatible subwoofer is added.
Expert reviewed
86
Overall score
Data-driven scoring Expert reviewed Updated analysis

Why we ranked it highly

The Edifier R1700BTS is an active two-channel bookshelf speaker system designed for wired and wireless listening. It supports Bluetooth alongside AUX IN and PC IN, and the supplied compatibility information includes laptops, smartphones, tablets, and televisions. Because amplification is built in, it can simplify a desktop or living-room stereo setup compared with passive speakers that need a separate amp. The wood enclosure, angled cabinet face, remote control, and 4-inch woofer format make it a conventional shelf-based home-audio product rather than a portable speaker. Its scores are consistently solid in performance, build quality, connectivity, reliability, and value. Customer reviews especially praise sound clarity, Bluetooth operation, appearance, and ease of use. However, the compact drivers make a subwoofer a relevant consideration for listeners who prioritize deeper bass.
90-day review Expert reviewed User feedback Data scoring

Key specs

Additional details

Audio Output Mode
Wired and Wireless
Mounting Type
Shelf Mount
Enclosure Material
Wood
Speaker Type
Bookshelf, Tweeter
Additional Features
Bass Boost, Hi Res Audio
Antenna Location
Volume
Subwoofer Diameter
4 Inches
Color
Brown
Is Waterproof
FALSE
Maximum Range
10 Meters
Control Method
Remote
Speaker Size
4 Inches
Woofer Diameter
4 Inches
Tweeter Diameter
19 Millimeters
Bluetooth Range
10 Meters
Specific Uses For Product
Home Theatre
MP3 player
No
Controller Type
Corded Electric

Measurements

Unit Count
1 Count
Item Dimensions D x W x H
6.06"D x 8.43"W x 10"H
Item Weight
6600 Grams

Compatibility

Compatible Devices
Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet, Television

Power Source

Power Source
AC adapter or DC power supply

Audio Hardware

Audio Driver Type
Dynamic Driver
Audio Driver Size
19 Millimeters
Number Of Circuits
1

Item details

Brand
Edifier
Model Number
R1700BTS
Model Name
R1700BTs
Built-In Media
Item
Number of Items
1
Customer Package Type
FFP
Series Number
1700
UPC
875674004971
Manufacturer
Edifier
Age Range Description
Adult

Power

Speaker Maximum Output Power
18 Watts
Number of Power Levels
1

Sound Quality

Frequency Response
52000 Hz
Number of Audio Channels
2.1
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
85 dB

Connectivity

Connectivity Technology
AUX IN/PC IN, Bluetooth
Wireless Technology
Bluetooth
Subwoofer Connectivity Technology
Wired
Connectivity Protocol
Bluetooth

Scores breakdown

86 /100

Performance

84 /100

Features

87 /100

Usability

86 /100

Design

100 /100

App experience

100 /100

Display quality

87 /100

Audio quality

100 /100

Camera quality

Strengths

  • Powered bookshelf design removes the need for a separate amplifier or receiver for simple two-channel setups.
  • Customer feedback frequently praises clear sound, stereo separation, and satisfying output for music, TV, and desktop listening.
  • Bluetooth, AUX IN, and PC IN provide practical wired and wireless connection options for common devices.
  • A subwoofer connection supports a later bass upgrade, which several reviewers found beneficial.
  • Wood cabinets, an angled front design, and strong build-quality feedback support a more substantial home-audio feel.
  • Setup, compatibility, and customer-satisfaction scores are all strong, at 91, 88, and 91 respectively.

Limitations

  • The 4-inch woofers have limited deep-bass capability on their own; multiple reviews suggest adding a subwoofer for fuller low end.
  • The remote receives mixed feedback, with some buyers finding its construction inexpensive.
  • Speaker-cable length can restrict widely spaced placement, according to review feedback.
  • The speakers are relatively substantial at 6.6 kg and are not a highly portable option.
  • Input controls may be less convenient for users who prefer a dedicated source-selection knob.
  • There is no supplied evidence of digital inputs, app controls, waterproofing, or advanced smart-speaker features.

Ideal user profiles

  • Listeners wanting a simple powered stereo system for a desk, bedroom, living room, or small-to-medium room.
  • Buyers connecting a laptop, smartphone, tablet, or television through Bluetooth or analogue inputs.
  • Users who value wood-cabinet styling and do not want to buy a separate amplifier.
  • Music and TV listeners open to adding a compatible subwoofer for stronger bass.
  • First-time stereo buyers seeking a well-reviewed, relatively straightforward active-speaker setup.

Use cases

  • Bluetooth music streaming from a smartphone or tablet.
  • Desktop audio for a computer or laptop.
  • TV sound in a compact living room or family room.
  • Two-channel playback in a bedroom, office, or small home-theatre setup.
  • Analogue-source listening through AUX IN or PC IN.
  • Building a 2.1 setup by adding a wired subwoofer.

Fit and positioning

Who this works for

Category positioning

The R1700BTS sits as a value-focused active bookshelf option for buyers who want a more traditional stereo layout than a single-box Bluetooth speaker. It combines Bluetooth convenience with analogue inputs and a subwoofer connection, making it suitable for simple desktop and room-based systems. The wood cabinets and 88 build-quality score give it a more substantial presentation than many basic computer speakers. It is not positioned as a highly portable product, and its compact-driver bass limits mean it is better viewed as a flexible two-channel starting point than a full-range party system.

Best for

The R1700BTS is best for listeners building an uncomplicated stereo setup around a laptop, phone, tablet, or TV. Its 91 setup score, 87 connectivity score, and positive customer feedback favor buyers who want simple Bluetooth use and powered operation. It also suits users who appreciate shelf-mounted wood speakers and may add a wired subwoofer later. For desk, bedroom, and small-to-medium room listening, the balance of practicality, sound, and price is compelling.

Not best for

These speakers are less suitable for buyers who need strong deep bass without adding another component, as reviews consistently note the limits of the 4-inch drivers. They are also not ideal for frequent travel or easy room-to-room movement because the pair weighs 6.6 kg. Users needing numerous sources, digital inputs, app features, or fully flexible wide speaker placement should confirm their requirements, as review feedback notes cabling and control-layout constraints.

Performance analysis

How it performs in practice

Each scoring dimension is separated into a compact card so the strengths and tradeoffs are easier to compare without reading one long block.

Performance analysis

The R1700BTS earns an 86 performance score and appears well suited to everyday stereo listening rather than very large-room or high-output use. Customer reviews commonly praise clear reproduction, defined stereo separation, and enough volume for typical home listening. The active layout keeps the system straightforward, and reviewers found it effective for music, TV, and computer audio. Performance is more balanced than bass-heavy: the compact 4-inch woofer design is a practical limitation, with several owners reporting a fuller and more three-dimensional presentation after adding a subwoofer.

Feature analysis

The feature score of 84 reflects a practical rather than elaborate specification. Bluetooth, AUX IN, PC IN, remote control, bass boost, wood cabinets, and a wired subwoofer connection cover the core needs of a compact active stereo system. The ability to expand with a subwoofer is particularly useful given the speaker size. There is no supplied evidence of app control, voice-assistant functions, waterproofing, or digital-input support, so buyers should assess whether its traditional wired-and-Bluetooth approach matches their sources.

Usability analysis

With an 87 usability score and a 91 setup score, the R1700BTS is designed for low-friction daily operation. Buyers can use Bluetooth for convenient streaming or connect compatible equipment through its analogue inputs. Reviews describe setup and Bluetooth pairing positively, while the included remote can make operation easier from a distance. Usability is not flawless: the remote has mixed quality feedback, and one reviewer preferred a dedicated input-selection control instead of multifunction button behavior.

Design

The R1700BTS has a conventional bookshelf form with brown wood cabinets and an angled front profile. That design is suited to shelf, TV-stand, and desktop placement, and customer feedback indicates that the retro wood-grain look can fit room decor well. The 86 design score reflects this practical, home-oriented approach. At 6.06 by 8.43 by 10 inches per supplied dimensions and 6.6 kg overall, it is compact enough for fixed spaces but not an unobtrusive travel speaker.

How it compares

Within the active bookshelf category, the R1700BTS stands out for balancing traditional speaker styling with Bluetooth convenience and analogue connectivity. Compared with basic computer speakers, its wood cabinets, 88 build-quality score, and customer feedback around stereo separation suggest a more substantial home-audio experience. Its subwoofer connection is an important advantage for buyers who want room to improve bass later. In contrast, buyers comparing more feature-rich systems should note the lack of supplied evidence for app control, smart functions, waterproofing, or digital inputs. It is also less portable than compact wireless speakers and less suited to bass-heavy listening when used alone.

Ranking summary

The Edifier R1700BTS earns an overall score of 86 because it performs strongly across the fundamentals of an active bookshelf system. Its best areas include setup at 91, customer satisfaction at 91, build quality and reliability at 88, plus audio quality, connectivity, and value at 87. These results fit the positive review pattern around clear stereo sound, reliable Bluetooth, attractive cabinets, and easy ownership. The ranking is held back from a higher tier by expected bass limitations from its 4-inch woofers, mixed remote feedback, and modest portability at 64. It is a well-rounded choice for stationary two-channel listening rather than a bass-first or feature-heavy system.

Buying advice

Consider the R1700BTS if you want a fixed, powered stereo pair for music streaming, desktop audio, or TV use and prefer not to buy a separate amplifier. Confirm that Bluetooth, AUX IN, or PC IN matches your source devices, especially if your TV or console relies on a digital-only output. Make space for two shelf speakers and plan their cable run before installation. If you enjoy bass-led music, cinematic effects, or larger-room playback, consider whether a wired subwoofer should be part of the purchase. Also check current warranty and return terms, as specific support details are not included here.
86
Overall score

Final verdict

The Edifier R1700BTS is a strong active bookshelf-speaker option for straightforward home, TV, and computer listening. Its main strengths are clear two-channel sound, useful Bluetooth and analogue connectivity, easy setup, solid construction, and very positive customer satisfaction. The system is particularly appealing for buyers who want traditional stereo speakers without the complexity of a separate amplifier. Its main limitation is predictable but important: the compact 4-inch woofers do not provide the deepest bass alone. For buyers comfortable with that trade-off, or willing to add a subwoofer, it offers balanced and practical value.
Back to review

Key topics

Edifier R1700BTS review, Edifier R1700BTS speakers, Edifier bookshelf speakers, active Bluetooth bookshelf speakers, powered computer speakers, Edifier R1700BTS comparison, best Bluetooth bookshelf speakers, stereo speakers with subwoofer output

Frequently asked questions

Is the Edifier R1700BTS worth buying?
The R1700BTS is a strong option for buyers who want powered bookshelf speakers with Bluetooth and analogue inputs without adding a separate amplifier. Its 86 overall score, 4.6/5 Amazon rating from 2,426 reviews, and strong setup and satisfaction scores support its value. Buyers wanting substantial deep bass should budget for a subwoofer.
Is the Edifier R1700BTS good for music?
Customer feedback is generally positive about clarity, stereo separation, and enjoyable music playback. The audio-quality score is 87, and reviewers describe the speakers as effective for everyday listening. Bass expectations should remain realistic with 4-inch woofers; several owners report a more room-filling result after adding a compatible subwoofer.
Can the Edifier R1700BTS connect to a TV and computer?
The supplied compatibility information lists televisions, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Connectivity includes Bluetooth plus AUX IN and PC IN, giving it flexible options for common home and desktop devices. Check the outputs available on a specific TV or computer before purchase, as the provided information does not list every cable or adapter scenario.
Does the Edifier R1700BTS need an amplifier?
No separate amplifier is normally needed for a basic setup because these are active, powered speakers. This is one of their practical advantages over passive bookshelf speakers, which require external amplification. The simplified approach suits users with a small number of sources, while more complex multi-source systems may need additional connection planning.
Does the Edifier R1700BTS have enough bass without a subwoofer?
It can be suitable for casual music, TV, and background listening, but reviews repeatedly identify limited bass as the main trade-off of the compact 4-inch drivers. Several reviewers found that adding a subwoofer improved depth and room-filling impact. It is a sensible choice for buyers who may add bass support later.
Is the Edifier R1700BTS easy to set up?
Setup is a notable strength, with a 91 setup score and customer feedback describing the speakers as easy to install and use. Bluetooth connection is also positively mentioned in the review summary. Placement should be considered in advance, since review feedback notes that inter-speaker cabling can limit very wide spacing.
What are the main limitations of the Edifier R1700BTS?
The most consistent limitation is modest low-frequency output without a subwoofer. The remote has mixed feedback, and some users may find the input-control arrangement less direct than a dedicated selector. These are shelf-mounted speakers weighing 6.6 kg, so they are better suited to a fixed desk or room setup than travel or frequent relocation.
Is the Edifier R1700BTS good value for money?
The value score is 87, supported by the active design, Bluetooth connectivity, analogue inputs, wood enclosure, and optional subwoofer expansion. Reviews frequently call the speakers good value, particularly for straightforward home or computer audio. Value is less compelling for buyers who need very deep bass immediately or a more extensive set of inputs.

Related Guides & Rankings