Skullcandy Hesh 2 Review | 93 Data compared

The PCMag review of the $99.99 Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless headphones highlights their stylish design, strong, distortion-free audio with robust bass, and a detachable cable for passive, wired listening. These over-ear, budget-friendly headphones are lauded for their 15-hour battery life and clear, high-frequency performance. However, the review notes that the heavily sculpted sound signature lacks accuracy for audiophiles, while the, at times, tight, bulky design can become uncomfortable during long listening sessions.

The Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless are large, chunky, all-plastic over-ear headphones that serve as an aggressive, entry-level option for those on a tight budget. On the positive side, they are highly affordable, retailing for as little as £50, and offer a generally smooth, unchallenging listen that avoids harsh or sibilant high frequencies. They also boast a respectable 15-hour battery life, built-in playback and volume controls, and include a physical backup cable to ensure you can continue listening if the battery dies. However, the headphones suffer from severe sound quality deficiencies and ergonomic flaws. The reviewer highlights significant cons, noting that the sound is slow, sloppy, and prone to boominess in the bass, while the midrange and treble lack any meaningful detail or insight. Additionally, the perfectly round earpads and mid-to-firm headband pressure compromise long-term comfort by resting directly on the ears rather than around them. Ultimately, while they might work as a cheap pair of wireless backup headphones for casual activities like the gym, they are not recommended for everyday use. If you want to look at alternative budget headphones,...

The Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless are considered a mediocre, budget-friendly, over-ear option suitable for casual listening, offering wireless Bluetooth connectivity and a lightweight design with decent battery life. However, they suffer from poor, bass-heavy audio reproduction and a cheap, all-plastic build that can feel uncomfortable over time. Significant drawbacks include weak passive noise isolation, making them ineffective at blocking ambient noise, and a design that feels flimsy. RTINGS.

The Skullcandy Hesh 3 improves upon the Hesh 2 by offering significantly better battery life (22 hours vs. 15 hours), rapid charging, noise isolation, and a more balanced, clear sound profile. Its design features a modern, matte aesthetic with slim, oval ear pads and polished controls. Sonically, it cleans up the muddy low-mids of its predecessor, creating a wider stereo field with better midrange clarity and an airy treble ideal for genres like jazz or classical. However, the Hesh 3's plastic headband feels fragile, and its tight, narrow fit may become uncomfortable during long listening sessions. It also drops the carrying bag included with the older version and costs $30 more at $129.99. In contrast, the $99.99 Hesh 2 stands out for its sturdier build, featuring a comfortable, rounded, rubber-coated headband with more weight to it. Its thick, round ear pads offer a prominent look, and its large, bold buttons provide clear physical feedback. A specific audio advantage includes a 5kHz boost that pushes vocals forward, which some listeners may prefer. Despite these perks, the Hesh 2 suffers from a...