Philips Wireless Headphones TAH8856 Review: Are These Budget ANC Headphones Worth It?

Looking for high-quality wireless headphones without breaking the bank? The Philips TAH8856 Wireless Headphones might be what you’re after. With active noise canceling (ANC), Bluetooth multipoint, up to 60 hours of playtime, and Hi-Res Audio certification, these headphones offer a surprisingly rich feature set for their price point.

But how do they compare to competitors in the same range? Are they the right pick for your listening needs? Let’s dive in.

Key Features at a Glance

• Active Noise Canceling (ANC) with Awareness Mode

• Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity

• Hi-Res Audio Certified

• Up to 60 Hours of Playtime (45 hours with ANC on)

• Fast Charging via USB-C (15 mins = 6 hours playtime)

• Touch Controls

• Foldable Design for Portability

First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

The Philips TAH8856 looks sleek and minimalist, with matte black finishing and soft, cushioned ear cups. The design is foldable and includes a compact carrying case, making it easy to travel with. Despite being mostly plastic, the build feels durable and well-constructed.

The comfort level is excellent for long listening sessions. The memory foam padding and lightweight frame keep pressure off the ears — ideal for daily commuters or binge-watchers.

Sound Quality and Performance

Highs, Mids, and Lows

For the price, sound quality is a strong point. The headphones deliver clear treble, balanced mids, and deep bass that doesn’t overpower vocals. Whether you’re listening to classical, rock, or hip-hop, the TAH8856 performs reliably across genres.

Hi-Res Audio Certification

This certification ensures you get a more detailed sound experience, especially when using wired mode. Audiophiles may not consider these “studio-grade,” but they’re definitely a step above most budget wireless headphones.

Active Noise Canceling (ANC) vs. Awareness Mode

ANC on these headphones effectively reduces background noise like fans, engines, and chatter. While it doesn’t match Sony or Bose’s premium models, it still blocks out distractions well in offices, trains, or cafes.

Awareness Mode is handy for moments when you need to stay alert — such as crossing streets or having a quick conversation without removing the headphones.

Bluetooth and Connectivity

One standout feature is Bluetooth multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices at once — for example, switching between your phone and laptop seamlessly.

The Bluetooth connection is stable and lag-free, with very low latency for videos or games. Pairing is quick, and the headphones remember previously connected devices.

Battery Life and Charging

Philips claims 60 hours of playtime (or 45 hours with ANC), and real-world usage supports this claim. For occasional users, that means charging just once or twice a week.

The USB-C fast charging is impressive — a 15-minute charge gives you 6 hours of playback, making it a perfect travel companion.

How It Compares to Competitors

Overall, the TAH8856 punches above its weight in sound and features, though ANC quality may fall just slightly behind Sony’s option.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great battery life with fast charging

• Clear, balanced audio with Hi-Res support

• Bluetooth multipoint for multitaskers

• Comfortable, travel-friendly design

• Affordable price point for ANC headphones

Cons:

• ANC isn’t as strong as premium competitors

• Mostly plastic construction

• Touch controls can be hit or miss at times

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

If you’re seeking budget-friendly wireless headphones with ANC, excellent battery life, and multipoint Bluetooth, the Philips TAH8856 is a fantastic option. While not the most advanced in noise canceling, it offers a balanced package for casual listeners, remote workers, and travelers.

At under $100, you should buy it right away.