Samsung Galaxy Buds Live vs Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Buds Live and Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 serve completely different use cases, making direct comparison challenging. The Galaxy Buds Live are true wireless earbuds weighing just 5.6g each, featuring AKG-tuned 12mm drivers and open-type ANC suitable for casual listening and calls. Battery life reaches 6 hours with ANC enabled, expanding to 21 hours with the Qi wireless charging case. Sound quality benefits from Samsung's proprietary Scalable Codec and the Bass Duct design for low-end presence. The Crusher ANC 2 are over-ear headphones with 40mm drivers and a distinctive adjustable Sensory Bass slider offering haptic feedback for immersive bass customization. Battery performance dramatically exceeds the buds at 50 hours with ANC on, plus a convenient 10-minute quick charge delivers 4 hours of playback. The Crusher includes Tile tracking and Personal Sound hearing profiles. Samsung suits portability and everyday convenience at $169, while Skullcandy targets bass enthusiasts and extended listening sessions at $149. Choose Buds Live for mobility and seamless integration with Samsung devices; select Crusher ANC 2 if you prioritize battery longevity, bass customization, and don't mind carrying larger headphones.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live if…
- →Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- →Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- →AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
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
Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
Pros
- Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
- 6-hour battery with ANC is decent for the form factor
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Open design means ANC effectiveness is very limited
- Sound leakage at higher volumes is noticeable to others
- IPX2 is barely splash-proof — not workout-friendly
- Fit can be insecure without ear tips — prone to falling out
- No wing tips or ear hooks for active use
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 | Samsung Galaxy Buds Live | Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 5.6 g (each) | 313 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs ANC on (8 hrs off), 21 hrs total with case | 50 hrs (ANC on) |
| Charging | USB-C or Qi wireless | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs |
| Drivers | 12mm driver with Bass Duct | 40 mm + Adjustable Sensory Bass |
| Features | Open-type Active Noise Cancellation, 12mm speaker with AKG tuning, Bass Duct for deep low-end, 3 microphones per bud for calls, Qi wireless charging case | 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 | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | 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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Samsung products or all Skullcandy products. View full details for the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live or the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2.
