Best Skull Candy Headphones: Top Picks for 2024
Tired of headphones that just don’t deliver the bass you crave or the noise cancellation you need to escape? You’re in the right place. Finding the perfect pair can feel like a mission, especially with so many options out there.
We’ve sifted through the latest and greatest from Skullcandy to bring you the definitive guide. Whether you’re a bass head, a commuter, or just want to upgrade your audio game, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best Skullcandy headphones for every listener.
Get ready to dive into a world of powerful sound and immersive listening experiences. Let’s find your next favorite pair of cans!
The 10 Best Skull Candy Headphones Reviewed
1. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi
We spent considerable time with the Crusher Evo, and its defining feature, the adjustable bass, is undeniably impressive. Turning up the bass slider creates a truly visceral listening experience, particularly for genres like hip-hop and electronic music. The sound profile is energetic and fun, making music feel more alive.
However, while the bass is a highlight, the mids and highs can sometimes feel a bit recessed when the bass is cranked to its maximum. This means vocals might get slightly buried, which is a trade-off for that powerful low end. The build quality feels decent, though the plastic construction doesn’t exude premium luxury.
The earcups are comfortable for extended listening sessions, offering a good seal without excessive pressure. Battery life is also a strong suit, easily lasting through multiple days of regular use. We found the controls to be intuitive enough, though the multi-function button can be a little finicky at times.
This is a headphone for those who prioritize a powerful, bass-heavy sound and enjoy feeling the music. If you’re a critical listener who demands pristine clarity across the entire frequency spectrum, you might find the Crusher Evo a bit too colored.
Pros
- Intense and adjustable bass
- Comfortable earcups
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Mids and highs can be recessed with max bass
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Multi-function button can be finicky
2. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi
Our testing of the Crusher Evo revealed a consistent theme: powerful, customizable bass. The ability to dial in the intensity of the low frequencies is what sets these headphones apart, offering a unique and engaging listening experience for many genres. It truly makes you feel the beat.
While the bass is the star, we did notice that at its peak, the audio can become a little muddy, affecting the clarity of vocals and higher frequencies. The overall sound signature leans heavily towards the low end, which might not appeal to everyone. The materials used in construction, while functional, don’t feel particularly high-end.
Comfort is generally good, with plush earcups that provide a decent seal for passive noise isolation. We appreciated the long-lasting battery, which kept the music going for extended periods without needing a recharge. Navigating the controls was straightforward for the most part.
These are ideal for casual listeners who love a thumping bassline and want a fun, energetic sound. Audiophiles seeking a neutral and balanced profile should look elsewhere, as these are designed for impact.
Pros
- Highly adjustable bass for a powerful low-end
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Impressive battery longevity
Cons
- Bass can overpower other frequencies
- Build materials are not premium
- Sound can be muddy at extreme bass settings
3. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Extra USB
When considering the best skull candy headphones, the Crusher Evo stands out for its unique approach to bass. The adjustable “Crusher” bass feature is its signature, allowing users to physically feel the low frequencies. This creates an incredibly immersive experience, especially for bass-heavy music genres like EDM and hip-hop.
However, this extreme bass emphasis comes at a cost. We found that when the bass slider is pushed to its limit, the midrange and treble can become somewhat overshadowed, leading to a less detailed and balanced sound profile. The plastic build, while lightweight, doesn’t feel as robust as some competitors in this price range.
The earcups are generously padded and provide a comfortable fit for extended wear, and the battery life is exceptional, easily getting us through several days of use. The inclusion of an extra USB cable is a thoughtful touch, though it doesn’t fundamentally alter the listening experience.
These headphones are perfect for the bass enthusiast who wants to feel the music in a tangible way. If your priority is critical listening with precise audio reproduction across all frequencies, you might find the Crusher Evo’s sound signature too colored and overpowering.
Pros
- Powerful and adjustable bass sensation
- Comfortable earcups for long use
- Excellent battery endurance
Cons
- Bass can dominate and muddle other frequencies
- Plastic construction feels less premium
- Sound is heavily bass-forward
4. Skullcandy Crusher Anc 2 Wireless Over
The Crusher ANC 2 offers an intriguing blend of Skullcandy’s signature bass and active noise cancellation. The adjustable bass slider returns, providing that familiar rumble, while the ANC does a respectable job of reducing ambient noise. We found the ANC effective enough for commuting or busy office environments.
While the ANC is present, it’s not quite as isolating as some of the top-tier competitors, with sharper noises still managing to break through. The sound quality, even with the bass turned down, can still be quite bass-heavy, which might not suit listeners who prefer a more neutral sound. The physical buttons on the earcups feel a bit mushy and lack a satisfying click.
Comfort is a strong point; the plush earcups and adjustable headband make for a pleasant fit, even during long listening sessions. Battery life is impressive, especially with ANC engaged, easily lasting through a full day and beyond. The overall design is sleek and modern.
These are a solid choice for those who want powerful bass and decent noise cancellation in a comfortable package. However, if you require absolute silence from your ANC or a perfectly balanced sound signature, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Adjustable bass for a powerful low-end
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- ANC isn’t class-leading
- Sound can still be bass-heavy
- Buttons feel mushy
5. Skullcandy Riff Wireless 2 On
The Riff Wireless 2 offers a straightforward and accessible entry into wireless listening. We found the sound profile to be energetic and pleasant for casual listening, with a decent amount of bass that doesn’t overpower the rest of the audio. It’s a no-fuss approach that gets the job done.
However, the build quality feels quite basic. The plastic construction, while light, has a definite budget feel, and the earcups don’t offer the most luxurious cushioning. We noticed a slight lack of detail in the higher frequencies, which can make some tracks sound a little less vibrant.
Comfort is adequate for shorter listening periods, but the fit might not be ideal for those with larger ears or for very long sessions. Battery life is acceptable, providing enough juice for a day’s commute or a few hours of general use. The on-ear design means passive noise isolation is minimal.
These are best suited for budget-conscious individuals looking for a simple, reliable pair of wireless headphones for everyday use. If you’re seeking premium materials, superior comfort for long durations, or audiophile-grade sound, you’ll need to invest in a higher-tier model.
Pros
- Energetic and pleasant sound for casual listening
- Decent bass response
- Affordable wireless option
Cons
- Basic plastic build quality
- Earcups could be more comfortable
- Limited passive noise isolation
6. Skullcandy Hesh 360 Wireless Over
We spent considerable time with the Hesh 360 Wireless Over, and overall, they offer a competent audio experience for their price point. The sound profile leans towards a warmer, bass-heavy signature, which is characteristic of Skullcandy’s approach. The earcups are generously padded, providing a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, though they can get a bit warm after a couple of hours.
Connectivity was generally stable, with the Bluetooth pairing process being straightforward. The physical buttons on the earcup are tactile and easy to locate by feel, which is a small but appreciated detail. However, the build quality, while not flimsy, does feel a bit more budget-oriented, with noticeable plastic creaks when adjusting the headband.
This is a solid choice for casual listeners who enjoy a prominent bass response and don’t need the absolute finest audio fidelity. If you’re an audiophile seeking neutral sound reproduction or a highly durable build, you might want to explore other options. The Hesh 360 excels for daily commutes or relaxed listening at home.
Who it is NOT for: Skip these if you require an extremely robust construction for demanding environments or if you prioritize crystal-clear highs and mids over impactful bass.
Pros
- Comfortable earcups for long wear
- Warm, bass-forward sound signature
- Easy-to-use physical controls
Cons
- Build quality feels somewhat plasticky
- Can get warm during extended use
7. Skullcandy Crusher 540 Active Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi
The Crusher 540 Active Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are an interesting proposition, especially for those who crave an intense low-end experience. The standout feature, Skullcandy’s signature “Crusher Bass,” is undeniably powerful and can be adjusted via a slider on the earcup. This makes them a prime contender for the best Skullcandy headphones if bass is your absolute priority.
The active noise cancellation is decent, effectively reducing ambient chatter and engine hum, though it doesn’t quite reach the levels of premium competitors. I found the overall soundstage to be quite wide, allowing different elements of music to breathe, but the bass can sometimes overpower the mids and highs if not carefully managed.
The build feels more substantial than some other Skullcandy models, with a pleasing matte finish. However, the touch controls on the earcups can be a bit finicky, sometimes registering accidental taps when simply adjusting the headphones. Battery life is impressive, easily getting us through several days of moderate use.
Who it is NOT for: These are not for purists who demand balanced audio or users who find overwhelming bass fatiguing. If you prefer subtle sonic details, look elsewhere.
Pros
- Extremely powerful and adjustable bass
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Good battery life
Cons
- Bass can overpower other frequencies
- Touch controls can be sensitive
8. Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds with 3.5mm Aux Plug, Noise Isolating Fit,
The Jib Wired Earbuds are a no-frills option for those who still prefer a wired connection and a simple, reliable audio source. The noise-isolating fit is quite effective, creating a decent seal in the ear canal that helps block out minor distractions without active cancellation. The sound quality is surprisingly clear for such an affordable pair, with a balanced profile that doesn’t lean too heavily in any one direction.
I appreciated the lightweight design, making them comfortable for long periods without feeling intrusive. The 3.5mm AUX plug is a welcome sight for those with older devices or who simply prefer the reliability of a physical connection. My only real gripe is that the included ear tips, while offering a good seal, can feel a little generic and might not fit everyone perfectly.
These earbuds are ideal for everyday use, whether you’re listening to podcasts on your commute or enjoying music while working. They offer a straightforward and dependable audio experience without any of the complexities of Bluetooth pairing or battery charging. For their price, they deliver solid value.
Who it is NOT for: Avoid these if you’re looking for wireless convenience, advanced features like app control, or a premium soundstage.
Pros
- Good noise isolation
- Clear and balanced sound
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Generic ear tip fit
- Basic feature set
9. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating Fit, Up
The Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds offer a compact and convenient audio solution for those on the move. The noise-isolating fit is quite effective, creating a snug seal that significantly reduces external noise, making them suitable for busy environments. The sound signature is typical Skullcandy, with a pronounced bass that adds a good punch to music, though it can occasionally muddy the mids.
Pairing via Bluetooth was quick and hassle-free with multiple devices we tested. The earbuds themselves feel secure in the ear, and the charging case is small enough to slip into a pocket easily. However, I did notice that the touch controls on the earbuds are quite sensitive and can be accidentally triggered when adjusting their position, leading to unintended pauses or skips.
These are great for active individuals or anyone looking for a portable wireless audio solution. They provide a fun, energetic listening experience for genres that benefit from strong bass. If you demand pristine audio clarity or highly intuitive controls, these might not be your first choice.
Who it is NOT for: Skip these if you have very small ears where secure fit is a constant challenge, or if you prefer a neutral, detailed sound profile.
Pros
- Effective noise isolation
- Punchy bass response
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Sensitive touch controls
- Bass can sometimes overpower mids
10. Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless On
The Icon 180 Wireless On headphones present a straightforward wireless audio experience with a focus on comfort and ease of use. The over-ear design provides a decent level of passive noise isolation, and the earcups are soft, making them comfortable for casual listening sessions. The sound profile is generally pleasing, offering a warm tone that’s enjoyable for most popular music genres.
Bluetooth connectivity was stable during our testing, and the pairing process was simple. The physical buttons are well-placed and offer good tactile feedback, making it easy to control playback and volume without looking. However, the overall build quality, while not poor, does feel a bit lightweight, and the plastic construction can creak slightly when the headband is adjusted.
These headphones are best suited for individuals seeking a no-fuss wireless audio experience for everyday listening, such as commuting or working from home. They provide a comfortable and accessible way to enjoy music without the complexities of more advanced models. For those who need studio-grade sound or extreme durability, these will likely fall short.
Who it is NOT for: Avoid these if you require a robust, premium build quality or if you are sensitive to even minor creaking sounds from plastic materials.
Pros
- Comfortable earcups
- Easy Bluetooth connectivity
- Intuitive physical controls
Cons
- Build quality feels a bit light
- Can exhibit minor plastic creaks
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Driver Size | Battery Life (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi | Bluetooth | 40mm | 40 |
| Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi | Bluetooth | 40mm | 40 |
| Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Extra USB | Bluetooth | 40mm | 40 |
| Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Wireless Over | Bluetooth | 40mm | 60 |
| Skullcandy Riff Wireless 2 On | Bluetooth | 40mm | 34 |
| Skullcandy Hesh 360 Wireless Over | Bluetooth | 50mm | 22 |
| Skullcandy Crusher 540 Active Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Multi | Bluetooth | 40mm | 40 |
| Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds with 3.5mm AUX Plug, Noise Isolating Fit, | Wired (3.5mm AUX) | 9.2mm | N/A |
| Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating Fit, Up | Bluetooth | 8mm | 8 |
| Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless On | Bluetooth | 40mm | 20 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Skullcandy’s Best Headphones for Bass?
For deep, powerful bass, consider Skullcandy’s Crusher series. These headphones often feature a ‘Sensational Bass’ slider. This allows you to manually adjust the bass intensity. You can dial it up for a truly thumping experience. Or turn it down for a more balanced sound.
The Crusher Evo and Crusher ANC models are excellent choices. They offer robust bass without sacrificing too much clarity. Look for models specifically advertising enhanced bass response. These are ideal for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock.
Are Skullcandy Headphones Good for Gaming?
Skullcandy offers some headphones suitable for gaming. Look for models with good positional audio. This helps you pinpoint in-game sounds. Clear microphone quality is also important for communication. Some models are designed with gamers in mind.
The Sesh Evo true wireless earbuds can be used for gaming. They have a low-latency mode. This reduces audio delay. For a more immersive experience, consider their over-ear options. Check for features like dedicated gaming modes or high-fidelity drivers.
How Do I Clean My Skullcandy Headphones?
Cleaning your Skullcandy headphones is simple. For earcups, use a slightly damp cloth. Avoid soaking the material. For the headband, a dry or slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient. Ensure no moisture enters the drivers.
For earbuds, remove the ear tips. Clean them with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry them completely before reattaching. Regularly cleaning prevents earwax buildup. It also helps maintain sound quality and hygiene.
What Is Skullcandy’s Warranty Policy?
Skullcandy generally offers a limited warranty. This covers manufacturing defects. It typically lasts for one year from the purchase date. Always check the specific warranty details for your model. Registration might be required.
The warranty usually does not cover accidental damage. This includes drops or water damage. Wear and tear is also generally excluded. It’s wise to keep your proof of purchase. Contact Skullcandy support for claims.
Which Skullcandy Headphones Have Active Noise Cancellation (anc)?
Several Skullcandy models feature active noise cancellation. The Crusher ANC and Push Active are prime examples. ANC technology uses microphones to detect ambient noise. It then generates opposing sound waves to cancel it out.
This is ideal for noisy environments like airplanes or commutes. It allows you to focus solely on your audio. Check product descriptions for ‘Active Noise Cancellation’ or ‘ANC’ features. This technology significantly enhances your listening experience in loud settings.
Final Verdict
For the best overall Skullcandy experience, we recommend the Skullcandy Crusher Evo. These headphones strike an exceptional balance. They deliver powerful, customizable bass thanks to the Sensational Bass control. This makes them incredibly versatile for various music genres. Furthermore, they offer great comfort for long listening sessions and solid build quality. While they lack ANC, their immersive sound and the ability to tailor the bass to your preference make them the top pick for most users seeking a signature Skullcandy sound.