Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
The Verdict
These headphones serve fundamentally different purposes at the same price point. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a professional studio monitor with a 45mm driver, rare earth magnets, and three detachable cables, delivering accurate, flat frequency response ideal for mixing and critical listening. Its wired-only design eliminates battery concerns, and the foldable construction with 90-degree swiveling cups provides practical studio flexibility. The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 takes a consumer entertainment approach with active noise cancellation, 50-hour battery life, Bluetooth 5.2, and adjustable sensory bass with haptic feedback. The haptic slider and hearing profile personalization cater to casual listeners seeking customization. Both weigh similarly (285g vs 313g), though the Crusher is slightly heavier. For studio professionals, engineers, or anyone prioritizing accuracy and wired reliability, the ATH-M50x wins decisively. For commuters, travelers, or listeners wanting ANC and wireless convenience with fun features like the Tile tracker integration, the Crusher ANC 2 is the clear choice. Your use case determines the winner here, not product quality alone.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x if…
- →Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- →Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- →Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
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
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
- Foldable with swiveling cups for single-ear monitoring
- Exceptional value — professional quality at a consumer price
Cons
- Wired only — no Bluetooth option (ATH-M50xBT2 exists separately)
- Ear pads can get warm and sweaty during long sessions
- Clamping force is tight on larger heads out of the box
- Sound isolation is passive only — no ANC
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 | Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 285 g | 313 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 50 hrs (ANC on) |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs |
| Drivers | 45mm large-aperture dynamic driver | 40 mm + Adjustable Sensory Bass |
| Features | Professional studio monitoring, 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets, 90-degree swiveling ear cups for one-ear monitoring, 3 detachable cables included, Foldable design for portability, Circumaural design for sound isolation | 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 | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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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.
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