Edifier’s bookshelf speakers are a solid pick if you want decent sound without breaking the bank, but choosing between the R990BT and R1280T can feel like splitting hairs. Both pack a punch for their price, but they’re not twins—one’s got modern wireless tricks, the other’s a wired workhorse.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick look at their key differences:
| Feature | R990BT | R1280T |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Brown/White |
| Photo |  |
 |
| Price | $109.99 | $149.99 |
| Power Output | 24W RMS (12W + 12W) | 42W RMS (21W + 21W) |
| Drivers | 1" tweeter, 4" mid-low | 13mm tweeter, 4" bass |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Dual RCA | Dual RCA |
| Bluetooth Version | V5.4 | - |
| Remote Control | - | Yes |
| Mobile APP | EDIFIER ConneX | - |
| Controls | Rear knob, EDIFIER ConneX app | Side dials, wireless remote |
| Size (Each) | 140 x 226 x 197mm | 146 x 234 x 196mm |
| Net Weight | 3.44kg | 4.9kg |
Their Other Differences
1. Sound: Clean vs Chunky
Both speakers use a 4-inch woofer and silk dome tweeter setup, but don’t let that fool you—they don’t sound the same. The R990BT’s got 24W RMS (12W each side) and a 60Hz-18kHz range. Out of the box, it’s clean and crisp, especially with vocals or acoustic stuff. The MDF cabinet keeps resonance in check, but the bass can get a touch muddy at high volumes.
The R1280T, with 42W RMS (21W per side) and a 52Hz-20kHz range, brings more muscle. Its bass is chunkier, giving rock tracks like Nirvana a real kick. Watching John Wick 4, the gunfights had a satisfying rumble that the R990BT couldn’t match. The R1280T’s side dials make that tweak easy; the R990BT only has a rear-mounted control knob, but you can also control it via the app or your audio source.
2. Connectivity: Wireless Versatility vs Wired Reliability
Connectivity sets these speakers apart. The R990BT’s Bluetooth 5.4 is a standout, dual RCA inputs mean you can hook up, say, your PC and your phone without unplugging anything. The EDIFIER ConneX app is a nice touch—gaming mode made DOOM Eternal’s soundtrack pop.
The R1280T? It’s in the wired world with dual RCA inputs, great for a turntable or desktop setup. No Bluetooth’s. The wireless remote saves it, letting you tweak volume or mute from the couch during a Netflix binge.
R990BT’s Bluetooth and app make it a no-brainer for wireless fans. R1280T’s fine for wired purists who dig the remote.
3. Build: Light vs Sturdy
The R990BT (3.44kg total, 140 x 226 x 197mm each) is lighter and more compact, squeezing onto any desk with no problem. The black finish is sleek, but the rear-mounted controls are hard to reach compared to side knob controls, especially if your desk’s against a wall.
The R1280T (4.9kg, 146 x 234 x 196mm) is heftier, with a wood-grain finish that screams retro cool—perfect for a vinyl setup. Its woofer’s got a thicker rubber surround, and the cabinet feels sturdier, cutting down on vibration. Side dials for bass, treble, and volume are perfect for quick tweaks, way better than the R990BT’s back knob.
4. Value: Bargain vs Worth the Splurge
The R990BT’s $109.99 price tag is a steal for what you get: Bluetooth, dual inputs, and app control. It comes with RCA-to-RCA and 3.5mm-to-RCA cables, so you’re set from the jump. It’s great for a dorm or small office, but if you’re into bass-heavy music, you might need a subwoofer.
The R1280T, at $149.99, costs $40 more for better sound and a sturdier build. Audiophiles rave about it for turntables, and the remote’s a nice perk. But no Bluetooth means it’s less versatile, making it a better fit for those who prioritize audio quality over wireless convenience.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Edifier R990BT if:
- You want wireless freedom – Bluetooth 5.4 and the EDIFIER ConneX app make streaming seamless.
- You need a budget-friendly option – At $109.99, it’s $40 cheaper than the R1280T.
- You prefer a compact, lightweight design – Better for tight spaces like dorm rooms or small desks.
- You like modern controls – The app lets you tweak EQ and switch inputs without reaching for knobs.
- You mostly listen to vocals or acoustic music – Its clean, crisp sound profile suits podcasts and lighter genres.
Choose the Edifier R1280T if:
- You prioritize sound quality – More power (42W vs. 24W) and deeper bass make it better for movies and rock music.
- You hate reaching for controls – The included remote and side dials are way more convenient than the R990BT’s rear knob.
- You want a sturdier, retro look – The wood-grain finish and solid build fit vinyl setups and home theaters.
- You use wired sources (turntable, PC, TV) – No Bluetooth? No problem—it excels as a wired speaker.
- You don’t mind paying extra for better bass – The R1280T’s chunkier low-end is worth the $40 premium for bass lovers.
Whichever you pick, you'll get solid Edifier quality. Get one, crank up the volume and enjoy!
