Buying guide for best Skullcandy headphones
Anyone who likes listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and other audio on the go definitely needs a high-quality pair of headphones. Skullcandy offers headphones with plenty of useful features at a more affordable price point than many of its competitors.
Skullcandy headphones are available in both on-ear and over-the-ear styles, making it easy to find a comfortable pair. The brand also offers both wired and wireless models, so you don’t have to worry about wires getting in your way during exercise or running out of battery power on a long trip. All Skullcandy headphones offer top-notch audio and features that make using them easier and more convenient, which means you can find a pair to suit your needs and budget.
But with such a wide array of options to choose from, selecting the right Skullcandy headphones can be a challenge. In our buying guide, we’ve gathered plenty of tips to help you find the best Skullcandy headphones for your audio needs. And to get your shopping started as soon as possible, check out our product recommendations above.
Key considerations
On-ear vs. over-the-ear
Skullcandy offers two main styles of headphones: on-ear and over-the-ear.
On-ear headphones sit on your ears and are lighter than over-the-ear headphones. Your ears don’t get as hot, and that can make them more comfortable to wear. On-ear headphones are also more portable, and some models fold to make them easier to pack. These headphones don’t form a seal around your ear like over-the-ear models, so they don’t isolate sound as effectively.
Over-the-ear headphones are larger and heavier than on-ear headphones, but they typically offer the best sound quality. The cups completely cover the ears, which means they isolate sound extremely well. However, your ears can get overly warm when wearing over-the-ear headphones, and these models aren’t the most portable option because of their size. But if you want the highest-quality audio, over-the-ear headphones are the way to go.
Wired vs. wireless
Skullcandy also offers both wired and wireless headphones. Both types have their advantages, so it’s really a matter of personal preference.
Wired headphones are the classic option and usually more affordable than wireless. Also, they typically offer better sound quality because they use an analog signal that supports more data than a Bluetooth connection. They don’t require a battery, so you never have to worry about running out of power while listening to your favorite music.
However, some users aren’t fans of wired headphones because of the cable that you have to plug into your phone, tablet, or other device. If you’re exercising or doing chores around the house, the headphone cable can definitely inhibit your movement.
Wireless headphones connect to your smartphone, tablet, or other device via a Bluetooth connection, so there’s no cable to plug in. That means you don’t have to worry about a wire getting in the way when you’re moving around. Keep in mind that you sacrifice some sound quality for the convenience of a wireless connection.
DID YOU KNOW?
For the most comfort, make sure to wear your headphones in the proper orientation. The cups are usually labeled L and R for left and right, so you know which ear to wear them on.
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Features
Personal Sound
Some Skullcandy headphones offer Personal Sound to help tailor your listening experience. You take a real-time audio test on the Skullcandy app to create a personalized sound profile based on your hearing, which is then stored on the headphones. That allows the headphones to use the best audio levels that let you hear layers and optimal sound quality in your music and other audio.
Noise cancellation
If you don’t want to be disturbed when listening to your favorite music, podcast, or audiobook, choose Skullcandy headphones with an active noise cancellation. They have a microphone to measure the ambient noise around you and then produce an opposite sound wave to counter it. That means you only hear your audio without any disruptions.
Built-in technology
Microphone: Many Skullcandy headphones have a built-in microphone, so you can take phone calls or use voice commands while wearing them. That makes it much more convenient to switch between your music and a phone call.
Locator: Some high-end Skullcandy headphones offer built-in finding technology. If you misplace your headphones, you can just “ring” them from the connected app. That gives many users peace of mind when traveling with their headphones.
Controls
Skullcandy headphones with a built-in microphone usually have on-cord or headphone controls for volume and phone calls. That makes it easier to adjust the volume on your smartphone, tablet, computer, or other device. You usually only have to tap a single button to answer or disconnect a call and raise or lower the volume.
Travel
Foldable: If you travel frequently, you’ll want Skullcandy headphones that are easy to pack. Some styles collapse and fold flat, so you can easily tuck them in your carry-on or suitcase.
Storage: Most Skullcandy headphones include some sort of travel accessory to make sure they’re safe during transport. Some come with a storage bag, while others include a case. A case typically offers more protection, so it’s the best option if you travel frequently with your headphones.
Battery
If you opt for wireless Skullcandy headphones, it’s important to consider the battery life. Some headphones offer up to 10 hours of battery life before they require recharging. However, some high-end models provide up to 40 hours of listening time. On average, Skullcandy wireless headphones can run for about 24 hours on a charge.
Auxiliary cord: Some Skullcandy wireless headphones come with a backup auxiliary cord that allows you to plug in a cable so you can connect the headphones to your device if the battery runs out of power.
Color
One fun thing about Skullcandy headphones is that most pairs are available in multiple colors. Black is the most common shade, but many models also come in white and gray. However, you can also find options in red, blue, green, yellow, and purple. Some specialty pairs feature unique color combinations, such as a tie-dyed pattern or colorful Skullcandy logos.
It’s not a good idea to share your headphones with others. They can harbor bacteria that you don’t want to spread around.
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Skullcandy headphone prices
Skullcandy headphones vary in price based on style, type, and special features. Most cost between $20 and $320.
Inexpensive: The most affordable Skullcandy headphones are usually on-ear models. You can find both wired and wireless pairs in this price range, but they typically don’t offer special features like noise cancellation or a personalized sound profile. These headphones generally cost between $20 and $80.
Mid-range: These Skullcandy headphones are typically over-the-ear models. They’re nearly all wireless with a battery life of up to 24 hours. Some models have noise cancellation, while others simply have a noise-isolating design. You can also find some models that provide a personalized sound profile. These headphones usually cost between $100 and $180.
Expensive: The most expensive Skullcandy headphones are typically wireless over-the-ear models. They offer a generous battery life of up to 40 hours, as well as a personalized sound profile. Some models also provide a noise-cancelling feature and/or built-in finding technology. These headphones usually cost between $200 and $320.
FOR YOUR SAFETY
Most audiologists recommend taking a break after 60 minutes of listening to music through headphones to prevent long-term hearing damage.
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Tips
- Don’t crank up the volume. To protect your hearing, don’t listen to audio on your headphones at full volume. Stick to about 60% of the maximum when setting the volume level. If people around you can hear your music, it’s too loud.
- Be careful with the cable on wired headphones. Wind up the cable for storage rather than wadding it up. Twisting the cable can cause kinks that break the internal components, shortening the lifespan of your headphones.
- Clean your headphones. Headphones can get sweaty and dirty, so it's essential to keep them clean. Wipe down the cups after each use to remove any residue.
- Store your headphones in a case. It’s always best to keep your headphones in a storage case. If your Skullcandy model came with a bag, you might want to upgrade to a semihard case that can protect your headphones more effectively.
FAQ
Q. Which headphones are the most comfortable to wear?
A. That’s really a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer on-ear models because they aren’t as heavy and don’t get as hot. However, others find that the cup sitting on the ear can start to pinch after a while, so they prefer over-the-ear headphones. You might want to try both types to see which you like better.
Q. Can I use Skullcandy noise-cancelling headphones to block noise even when I’m not listening to audio?
A. While the headphones may not fully block out all sound when you’re not listening to audio, they can certainly dampen the outside noise. That can make them a good option if you don’t want to be disturbed while studying, working, or traveling by plane.
Q. Do Skullcandy headphones come with warranty protection?
A. Skullcandy does offer warranty protection for its headphones. All pairs come with a 24-month limited warranty for any issues resulting from manufacturing defects. You must buy your headphones from a Skullcandy authorized seller or the Skullcandy website to take advantage of this warranty.
