Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Multi-Sensory Bass, Active Noise Cancelling, Up to 60 Hours Battery, Microphone for iPhone Android - True Black vs Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth, 40H Long ANC Playtime, Hi-Res Audio, Big Bass, Customize via an App, Transparency Mode (White)

Price & Value

Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 is about 275% more expensive than Soundcore Q20i, priced at $149.99 compared to $39.98. This represents a significant price gap—$110.01 more for the Skullcandy model. Despite this, the Soundcore Q20i holds a much stronger bestseller rank (18) versus Skullcandy’s 426, suggesting broader consumer preference at a lower price point. The Soundcore Q20i delivers core features like hybrid ANC, 40 hours of battery life with ANC on, and multi-device pairing at less than a third of the cost. For budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable performance without premium pricing, the value proposition of the Q20i is far more compelling.

Battery Life & Charging Speed

The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 offers up to 60 hours of battery life when active noise cancellation (ANC) is turned off, while the Soundcore Q20i provides 40 hours of playback time with ANC enabled. Although the Skullcandy model has a longer total runtime in passive mode, both headphones feature rapid charging: just 10 minutes of charging gives 4 hours of listening for Skullcandy, and 5 minutes delivers the same for Soundcore. This means the Soundcore Q20i charges twice as fast per minute of input, offering greater convenience during short breaks. The 40-hour claim from Soundcore is also specific to ANC-on usage, making it more realistic for daily commuters who rely on noise cancellation throughout their day.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Both headphones offer adjustable active noise cancellation, but they differ in implementation. Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 uses a 4-mic system designed for “adjustable” ANC that adapts to your environment, allowing users to mute background noise or stay aware. Soundcore Q20i employs hybrid ANC with four built-in mics that filter out ambient sound across various settings, including busy offices and commutes. While both systems are effective, the Soundcore model explicitly mentions functionality in “AUX-in mode,” which Skullcandy does not address. Additionally, Soundcore includes transparency mode, enabling users to hear surroundings without removing the headphones—a practical feature for public spaces and conversations.

Audio Quality & Customization

Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 boasts patented Multi-Sensory Bass Technology with dual full-range 40mm drivers and additional bass drivers, promising a physically immersive sound experience. It also integrates Personal Sound by Mimi via the Skull-iQ app, allowing users to tailor audio based on individual hearing profiles. In contrast, Soundcore Q20i features BassUp technology for deep bass and crisp highs in wireless mode, and supports Hi-Res certified audio through its included AUX cable. Both models allow EQ customization via their respective apps—Skullcandy through Skull-iQ, Soundcore through the soundcore app—with preset options and manual adjustments. However, only Soundcore specifies studio-level clarity via wired connection, giving audiophiles an edge when using the AUX cable.

Connectivity & Multi-Device Use

Both Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 and Soundcore Q20i support multi-point pairing, enabling simultaneous connections to two devices. This allows seamless switching between a phone and laptop, ideal for remote workers and multitaskers. The Skullcandy model emphasizes “seamless transitions,” while Soundcore highlights automatic audio switching to whichever device needs attention. Neither product specifies Bluetooth version, but both operate wirelessly via Bluetooth. The Soundcore Q20i’s ability to maintain connectivity during calls and media playback without interruption aligns with its strong bestseller ranking, indicating reliability in real-world use. The shared feature set ensures flexibility, though Soundcore’s higher sales rank suggests better user satisfaction with the implementation.

App Integration & Features

Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 comes with the Skull-iQ app, which enables personalized sound tuning via Mimi’s hearing profile, customizable EQ settings, and button function assignment. Users can adjust hearing modes such as Active Noise Canceling, Stay-Aware, and fine-tune equalization. Soundcore Q20i uses the soundcore app to control EQ presets, switch between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes, and access built-in white noise for relaxation. Both apps provide comprehensive control over audio experience, but Soundcore’s inclusion of white noise and transparency mode directly within the app enhances usability for travelers and office users. The Skullcandy app focuses more on personalization through hearing profiles, while Soundcore prioritizes ease-of-use and situational adaptability.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Soundcore by Anker Q20i if you want a high-performing, affordable headphone with 40 hours of ANC-enabled battery life, rapid 5-minute charging, hybrid noise cancellation, and robust app-based controls—all at $39.98. Its bestseller rank of 18 reflects strong market acceptance. Opt for the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 only if you prioritize a longer 60-hour battery life (when ANC is off), patented Multi-Sensory Bass, and advanced personalization via the Skull-iQ app, despite paying nearly four times more. For most users, the Soundcore Q20i delivers superior value, performance, and affordability.