Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen and Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 serve entirely different use cases, making direct comparison challenging. AirPods 2 excel as portable true wireless earbuds at 4 grams each, offering seamless Apple ecosystem integration through the H1 chip, automatic device switching, and Siri support. Their 5-hour earbud battery with 24-hour total case capacity suits commutes and daily use. However, they lack active noise cancellation and water resistance, which limits versatility. Crusher ANC 2 are over-ear headphones providing 50 hours of battery life with ANC enabled, USB-C fast charging (10 minutes yields 4 hours), and 40 mm drivers with adjustable haptic bass feedback. At 313 grams, they're substantially heavier but deliver immersive sound for extended listening sessions. The Crusher ANC 2's adjustable sensory bass, hearing profile customization, and Tile integration add functional value beyond pure audio. Price difference is minimal at $20 ($129 vs $149). Choose AirPods 2 if you prioritize portability, Apple device integration, and everyday convenience. Select Crusher ANC 2 if you need active noise cancellation, extended battery life, customizable sound, and are comfortable with larger form factor. These aren't direct competitors; your preference depends on lifestyle and listening environment.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen if…
- →Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- →H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- →Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Buy the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 if…
- →Adjustable haptic bass is unique — physically feels the bass vibration
- →50-hour battery with ANC is exceptional for $149
- →Built-in Tile tracker means you can always find them
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen
Pros
- Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Quick and reliable pairing with all Apple devices
- Affordable entry point into the AirPods lineup
Cons
- No water or sweat resistance rating — risky for workouts
- 5-hour battery life is below average by modern standards
- No noise cancellation or transparency mode
- One-size-fits-all design doesn't suit every ear shape
- Lightning charging only — no USB-C
Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
Pros
- Adjustable haptic bass is unique — physically feels the bass vibration
- 50-hour battery with ANC is exceptional for $149
- Built-in Tile tracker means you can always find them
- Personal Sound hearing profile customizes audio to your ears
- ANC at this price point is competitive
Cons
- Heavy at 313 g — noticeably heavier than all competitors
- No LDAC, aptX, or multipoint Bluetooth
- Haptic bass is a gimmick for some — feels odd to others
- Sound quality prioritizes bass over accuracy
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 313 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 50 hrs (ANC on) |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | 40 mm + Adjustable Sensory Bass |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | Adjustable Sensory Bass with haptic feedback slider, Skull-iQ Smart Feature technology, Active Noise Cancellation, Personal Sound with hearing profile, Built-in Tile tracker for finding lost headphones, Stay-Aware mode for transparency |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Skullcandy products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen or the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2.
