By Lauren HollandUpdated November 2026
Skullcandy makes several different types of headphones, and they do not all serve the same listener. Some are wireless over-ear models built around bass and battery life, others are on-ear designs meant for travel, and a few are simple wired earbuds that cost less to replace when they get lost. Choosing the right style starts with how you plan to use them. This guide compares five current Skullcandy models across fit, connection type, battery, portability and sound character. The selection method is research-based: we looked at manufacturer specifications, brand reputation within the audio category, and recurring themes in owner feedback about comfort, durability and connectivity. None of these products were tested in a lab or used by our staff.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallSkullcandy Crusher Evo WirelessView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for gym and fitness sessionsSkullcandy Next Gen Crusher EvoView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for long battery life on the goSkullcandy Icon 180 WirelessView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pick for wired listeningSkullcandy Riff On-Ear WiredView on Amazon - 5
Best for wired earbud usersSkullcandy Jib Wired EarbudsView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless | All-around wireless listening | Multi-sensory bass with a wide wireless profile |
| Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo | Gym and fitness sessions | Over-ear fit with THX Spatial Audio and long battery |
| Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless | Travel and everyday commuting | Foldable on-ear design with sweat and water resistance |
| Skullcandy Riff On-Ear Wired | Budget wired listening | Wired 3.5mm connection with built-in microphone |
| Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds | Wired earbud users | In-line microphone and track control |
Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless
SkullcandyBluetooth, Noise Isolating Over-Ear Fit, 40 Hours Battery, Microphone, Working Out, Gym, Travel, Studying, Music Crusher Evo Wireless Multi-Sensory Bass Headphones – True Black
Best for: All-around wireless listening with a bass-forward sound
This is a good fit for listeners who want a single pair of wireless over-ear headphones for music, calls, studying and workouts. Its design sits between a casual listening set and a dedicated fitness model.
Key specs
- Bluetooth wireless connection
- Over-ear, noise isolating fit
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Rated battery life of around 40 hours per the listing
Pros
- Strong, adjustable bass response that owners often describe as the main draw
- Noise isolating fit helps in busy environments
- Works across a range of activities, not just one
Cons
- Bass-heavy tuning may not suit listeners who prefer a flat, neutral sound
- Over-ear cups can feel warm during long sessions
Bottom line: A strong default choice for someone who wants one wireless pair for mixed daily use and does not mind a bass-forward signature.
Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo
SkullcandyNext Gen Crusher Evo, Intense Bass, Over-Ear, THX Spatial Audio, Comfortable Fit, 65 Hours Battery, Microphone, Gym, Fitness Crusher 720 Wireless Sensory Bass Headphones – True Black
Best for: Gym and fitness sessions where long battery life matters
This model is aimed at active listeners who want a secure over-ear fit and a battery that can last through several training weeks of use. The over-ear design keeps the earcups seated during movement better than many lightweight on-ear models.
Key specs
- Over-ear design with a wireless connection
- THX Spatial Audio support
- Battery life listed at up to 65 hours
- Built-in microphone
Pros
- Very long listed battery life for multi-day use between charges
- THX Spatial Audio adds a wider soundstage for film and games
- Secure fit suits workouts and movement
Cons
- Larger than on-ear models, which reduces packability
- Heavier bass tuning may mask detail in acoustic recordings
Bottom line: Best for people who train regularly and want an over-ear pair that holds up to sweat and movement while lasting a long time between charges.
Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless
Skullcandy50 Hours Battery, Lightweight and Travel Ready, Secure Fit, Sweat and Water Resistant, Microphone iPhone Android, Foldable Icon 180 Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones – True Black
Best for: Travel and everyday commuting
This on-ear design folds flat and is built to be carried daily. It suits commuters, travelers and anyone who needs headphones that fit in a bag without much thought.
Key specs
- Bluetooth wireless on-ear design
- Foldable, lightweight frame
- Listed battery life of around 50 hours
- Sweat and water resistant rating for light exposure
Pros
- Folds compactly for bags and backpacks
- Long listed battery life reduces charging frequency
- Sweat and water resistance adds versatility for outdoor use
Cons
- On-ear pressure can cause discomfort over several hours for some wearers
- Passive isolation is lighter than over-ear models, so busy environments leak more sound in
Bottom line: A practical pick for travelers and commuters who value portability and battery life over maximum isolation.
Skullcandy Riff On-Ear Wired
SkullcandyTravel Ready with 3.5mm Wired Connection, Built-In Microphone, Foldable Lightweight Comfortable Design, Durable Headband Riff On-Ear Wired Headphones with 3.5mm AUX Plug – Black
Best for: Budget wired listening
This model skips Bluetooth entirely, which means no charging and no battery to manage. It suits listeners who use a phone, laptop or media player with a standard headphone jack, or who want a dependable backup pair.
Key specs
- Wired 3.5mm AUX connection
- On-ear, foldable design
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Lightweight frame
Pros
- No battery to charge, so it works whenever it is plugged in
- Simple, durable headband design owners often praise
- Built-in microphone supports basic phone calls
Cons
- Cable can snag during movement
- Requires a headphone jack or adapter on newer devices
Bottom line: Ideal for anyone who wants a no-frills wired pair, or a spare set that never runs out of charge.
Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds
Skullcandy3.5mm Wired Earbuds, In-Ear Headphones, Noise Isolating Fit, In-Line Microphone Call and Track Control, Travel Ready Jib Wired Earbuds with 3.5mm AUX Plug – Black
Best for: Wired earbud users who want inline controls
These are in-ear models with a wired connection, suited to listeners who prefer earbuds over headbands and want playback control directly on the cable.
Key specs
- Wired 3.5mm AUX connection
- In-ear, noise isolating fit
- In-line microphone with call and track control
Pros
- In-line controls handle calls and track skipping without a phone
- Noise isolating fit blocks some ambient noise
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- Cable can tangle and may need periodic untangling
- Fit depends on ear tip size, so some users need to try different tips
Bottom line: A good match for people who want wired earbuds with basic controls and do not need wireless freedom.
Buying Guide
Connection type: wired or wireless
Wireless models use Bluetooth and need charging, while wired models use a 3.5mm cable and run without a battery. Wireless suits people who move around or dislike cables. Wired suits people who want no charging and predictable audio from a device with a jack.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless, Skullcandy Riff On-Ear Wired
Form factor: over-ear, on-ear or in-ear
Over-ear cups enclose the ear and usually isolate better. On-ear pads rest on the outer ear and fold more easily. In-ear earbuds sit inside the ear canal and are the most compact. Choose based on whether you want isolation, portability or comfort during long sessions.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless, Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds
Battery life and charging
Check the listed battery life in hours, and remember that real-world results vary with volume, codec and temperature. Manufacturers typically specify figures at moderate volume. If you travel or train often, a longer listed battery reduces how often you need to plug in.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo, Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless
Fit and comfort
Clamping force and pad material determine comfort. On-ear designs apply pressure to the outer ear, which some wearers find tiring after a few hours. Over-ear models distribute weight across the head. In-ear models depend on ear tip size, so trying different tips is worth the time.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo, Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds
Sweat and water resistance
Look for a sweat or water resistance rating if you plan to use headphones at the gym or outdoors. These ratings describe light exposure, not submersion. Rinse with fresh water after sweaty sessions and let them dry before storing.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless, Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo
Microphone and call controls
If you take calls, check for a built-in microphone. Wired earbuds with an in-line mic can handle calls and track skipping without your phone, which is useful during a workout or commute.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Riff On-Ear Wired, Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds
Sound signature
Many Skullcandy models are tuned for strong bass. This suits pop, hip-hop and electronic music, but listeners who prefer detailed acoustic or classical recordings may want a flatter tuning. Read sound descriptions as tendencies rather than measured results.
Good picks for this: Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless, Skullcandy Next Gen Crusher Evo
FAQ
What are the main types of Skullcandy headphones?
Skullcandy sells wireless over-ear headphones, wireless on-ear headphones, wired on-ear headphones and wired in-ear earbuds. The right type depends on whether you need wireless freedom, portability or isolation.
Are Skullcandy wired headphones still useful?
Yes. Wired models do not need charging, and they can be a reliable backup or a choice for listeners who use devices with a standard headphone jack.
Which Skullcandy type is best for the gym?
Over-ear wireless models with a secure fit tend to suit workouts better than lightweight on-ear designs, because they stay in place during movement. Check the sweat or water resistance rating before use.
Do Skullcandy headphones have noise cancelling?
Most of the models in this guide rely on passive noise isolation from their fit and ear cushions rather than active noise cancellation. Confirm the specific feature in the product listing before buying if active cancelling matters to you.
How do I connect wired Skullcandy headphones to a newer phone?
Many newer phones lack a 3.5mm jack. In that case, use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. Choose a reputable adapter and check that it supports audio output on your device.
How long do Skullcandy headphones last?
Lifespan depends on use, charging habits and care. Owners often report that battery capacity declines over time, while wired cables are more prone to fraying at the connector. Store them carefully and avoid pulling on the cable.
Conclusion
Different types of Skullcandy headphones serve different listeners. The Crusher Evo Wireless is a strong all-around wireless choice with bass-forward tuning. The Next Gen Crusher Evo suits gym use and long battery needs. The Icon 180 Wireless fits commuters who want a foldable, long-lasting on-ear set. The Riff On-Ear Wired offers a budget wired option with no charging, and the Jib Wired Earbuds suit anyone who prefers inline controls on earbuds. Match your choice to your connection needs, fit preference and daily activities. If you are unsure, check the battery, fit and resistance specifications against how you actually plan to use them.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on product labeling, battery handling and recall information (cpsc.gov)
- Information on hearing health and safe listening volume levels (nidcd.nih.gov)
- Overview of audio and electronics standards that inform product specifications
Related reading
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- Usb Type C to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter: 6 Best Picks for 2026
- Types of Wireless Headphones for TV: 5 Best Picks Compared for 2026
- Types of Studio Headphones: 7 Best Picks Compared for 2026
About Lauren Holland
Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our headphone tech & types guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
