Skullcandy delivers genuine value in the mid-range audio market, particularly if you want noise cancellation and durability without premium brand pricing. Their current lineup balances performance, comfort, and affordability—though not every product is right for every use case.
Why Skullcandy?
Skullcandy launched in 2003 and built its reputation on audio gear designed for action sports and casual listeners, not audiophiles chasing studio-grade sound. They specialise in wireless headphones and earbuds with accessible prices (typically £50–£200) and colourful, durable designs. What sets them apart: aggressive warranty policies (sometimes covering water damage and accidental breakage), frequent noise-cancelling models at lower price points than Sony or Bose, and a consistent focus on active lifestyle use cases. They're not boutique, but they're reliable.
Top Picks
Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones (True Black) — £179.99
Best for: Daily commuters and office workers who prioritise comfort over portability. The Aviator 900 ANC is Skullcandy's flagship headphone. It delivers active noise cancellation, 40-hour battery life (claimed), over-ear design with memory foam cups, and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The noise cancellation doesn't match Bose QuietComfort levels, but it's competitive for the price. The real standout: these are genuinely comfortable for 8+ hour days. If you spend half your life on commutes or working from cafés, the comfort and battery justify the £180 investment. The over-ear form factor also feels more premium than budget earbuds, which matters if you care about perceived quality.
Push® Active True Wireless Sport Earbuds — £89.99
Best for: Gym-goers and runners who need durability and secure fit without ANC. These are stripped-down sport earbuds: no noise cancellation, but IP67 water/dust resistance (submersible to 1 metre), secure ear hooks, and a 24-hour total battery (8 hours + 16 in case). They're built for sweat and moisture, not commute noise reduction. At £90, they're the middle ground—more rugged than standard earbuds, cheaper than the ANC version. Pick these if you're primarily exercising and want confidence that water won't kill them.
Skullcandy Push ANC Active Noise Canceling True Wireless Earbuds (Black) — £77.99
Best for: Budget-conscious listeners who want ANC in a compact earbud form. These are the value pick: ANC, 6-hour battery per charge (24-hour total with case), IP55 water resistance (splash-proof but not sweat-proof), and true wireless convenience. You're sacrificing comfort (smaller earbud design fits some ears poorly) and battery longevity compared to the Aviator, but you get noise cancellation in your pocket for under £80. If you commute by bus or train and don't want over-ear headphones, this is the honest choice.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Aviator 900 ANC | £179.99 | All-day comfort, office workers | 40-hour battery, memory foam cups | | Push Active | £89.99 | Gym, running, water exposure | IP67 rating, secure ear hooks | | Push ANC | £77.99 | Commuters, compact ANC | Most affordable ANC option |
What to Look For
- Battery life matters more than you think. The Aviator lasts 40 hours; the Push ANC lasts 24 total. If you forget to charge frequently, the bigger number wins. Check if you'll realistically recharge weekly or monthly.
- Water resistance rating determines durability. IP67 (Push Active) survives dunking; IP55 (Push ANC) handles sweat and rain. IP67 is essential for pool use or heavy sweat; IP55 is fine for gym workouts and outdoor runs in drizzle.
- Comfort isn't universal. Over-ear headphones feel bulkier but rest weight on your head, not your ears. True wireless earbuds are discrete but can create ear fatigue after 4+ hours. Try both styles before deciding.
- Noise cancellation quality varies. Neither Skullcandy model matches premium ANC (Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QC45), but both block consistent background noise (plane engines, traffic hum) effectively. Both struggle with sporadic sounds (conversation, door slams).
The Bottom Line
The Aviator 900 ANC at £179.99 is Skullcandy's strongest all-rounder—it delivers the longest battery, best comfort, and noise cancellation in one package. If you can't stretch to £180, the Push ANC at £77.99 gives you ANC in earbuds at genuine budget pricing, though with shorter battery life and smaller sound stage. Skip to Push Active at £89.99 only if gym durability and water resistance matter more than noise cancellation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skullcandy good value for money?
Yes, particularly in the £70–£180 price band. Skullcandy headphones and earbuds deliver solid noise cancellation, long battery life, and durable builds at prices 30–40% below premium brands (Sony, Bose, Apple). You're trading some audio refinement and ANC power for accessibility and value. If you want audiophile sound, you'll hear limits; if you want reliable, comfortable everyday audio, they're genuinely competitive.
How long do Skullcandy products last?
Most Skullcandy earbuds and headphones survive 2–3 years of regular use before battery degradation becomes noticeable. The build quality is solid—plastic feels robust, hinges don't crack easily—but they're not rugged like purpose-built sports brands. Water resistance (on most models) extends lifespan against moisture damage. Skullcandy's warranty often covers accidental damage for the first year, which is generous.
Are Skullcandy headphones comfortable for extended wear?
The Aviator 900 ANC is exceptionally comfortable for 8+ hours thanks to memory foam ear cups and weight distribution across your head. True wireless earbuds (Push ANC, Push Active) cause ear fatigue for some users after 4 hours; comfort depends heavily on ear shape and fit. Try them in-store or use a retailer with a return window if you're unsure.
Do Skullcandy's noise cancelling earbuds actually work?
Yes, but they're effective for steady background noise (engines, traffic, air conditioning) rather than speech or sporadic sounds. The Push ANC at £77.99 and Aviator 900 ANC at £179.99 both filter ambient noise by 15–25dB, which feels noticeable on commutes and flights. They won't match £300+ ANC models, but they're far better than passive earbuds in noisy environments.
