Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 vs Sony WH-1000XM3
The Verdict
Skullcandy's Crusher ANC 2 and Sony's WH-1000XM3 target different priorities, making this more nuanced than raw specs suggest. The Crusher ANC 2 delivers exceptional value at $149, offering 50 hours of battery life with ANC enabled versus Sony's 30 hours, plus a unique selling point: adjustable haptic bass feedback through a physical slider. Its Tile integration helps locate lost headphones, and Skull-iQ software provides hearing profile customization. The 313g weight is noticeable but acceptable for its feature set. Sony's WH-1000XM3, priced at $349, commands a premium justified by superior codec support (LDAC, aptX, aptX HD), multi-point connectivity, and their legendary QN1 noise cancellation processor. The lighter 255g design and faster charging (10 minutes yields 5 hours versus 4 hours) improve practicality. Sony's touch controls and Speak-to-Chat functionality enhance daily usability, while DSEE HX audio upscaling benefits streaming content. The Crusher excels for budget-conscious listeners prioritizing battery longevity and bass customization, while the WH-1000XM3 justifies its higher cost for those valuing superior ANC quality, wireless codec flexibility, and refined connectivity features. Budget buyers should choose Crusher; serious audiophiles seeking the best ANC technology should invest in Sony.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM3 if…
- →Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- →Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- →30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Sony WH-1000XM3
Pros
- Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- 30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
- Wide codec support including LDAC and aptX HD
- 10-minute quick charge gives 5 hours — great for travel
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks the stability and range of newer versions
- No water resistance — not suitable for workouts
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- Creaks and pressure can build on larger heads over time
Full Specifications
| Spec | Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 | Sony WH-1000XM3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 313 g | 255 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 50 hrs (ANC on) | 30 hrs with ANC |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs | USB-C, 10 min = 5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40 mm + Adjustable Sensory Bass | 40mm Liquid Crystal Polymer dome |
| Features | 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 | HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, Adaptive Sound Control, Touch controls on ear cup, Quick Attention mode, Speak-to-Chat (via update), DSEE HX upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 4.2 |
| 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 Skullcandy products or all Sony products. View full details for the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 or the Sony WH-1000XM3.