Beats vs Skullcandy Earbuds: Which Brand Fits You?
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Choosing between the beats vs skullcandy earbud options depends on your specific needs. Both brands offer wireless earbuds with IPX4 water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and daily use. The main difference lies in their features and battery life. Beats provides active noise cancellation and advanced health tracking, while Skullcandy focuses on basic noise isolation and preset equalizer modes. You should select the model that aligns with your audio and fitness priorities.
Key differences
| Aspect | Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Earhooks | Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Noise-isolating |
| Total Battery Life | Up to 45 hours | Up to 20 hours |
| Audio Features | Adaptive EQ, Personalized Spatial Audio | 3 Preset EQ Modes |
| Special Sensors | Built-in heart rate sensor | Not listed |
| Microphones | Six total microphones | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Earhooks if
- You want active noise cancellation to block gym noise.
- You need up to 45 hours of total listening time.
- You want real-time heart rate tracking from your ears.
Choose Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds if
- You prefer simple preset EQ modes for different content.
- You want a lighter product weighing 2.4 ounces.
- You need earbuds made with 50% certified recyclable plastics.
Verdict: Choose Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 if you need active noise cancellation, longer battery life, and integrated health sensors for serious training. Choose Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds if you prefer a lighter, sustainably made option with basic noise isolation and preset sound profiles.
Beats vs Skullcandy Earbuds Comparison
Noise cancellation type
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 offers Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) specifically tuned for gym environments, filtering out background noise while allowing Transparency mode for awareness. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds rely on noise-isolating design, which physically blocks sound without electronic cancellation. If you need to actively suppress ambient noise, Beats has the advantage. Skullcandy provides passive isolation only. This makes Beats better for noisy commutes or gyms, while Skullcandy is sufficient for quiet settings.
Battery life
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 delivers up to 45 hours of total listening time with the charging case, supported by an Apple H2 chip. Fast Fuel provides 1.5 hours of playback from a 5-minute charge. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds offer 20 hours total, with 8 hours in the earbuds and 12 in the case. Rapid Charge gives 2 hours from a 10-minute charge. Beats provides more than double the total battery life, making it the clear winner for extended use without frequent recharging.
Recommended use
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are built for athletes, featuring secure-fit earhooks that stay locked during sprints or heavy lifts. They include a built-in heart rate sensor. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds are designed for general comfort and everyday listening, using a standard in-ear fit without hooks. If you need stability during intense workouts, Beats is superior. For casual listening, Skullcandy offers a simpler, lighter option without specialized athletic features.
Audio features
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 features Adaptive EQ that adjusts frequencies in real time and Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking on Apple devices. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds provide three preset EQ modes: Music, Movie, and Podcast, selectable via touch controls. Beats offers more advanced, dynamic sound customization and spatial audio. Skullcandy provides static presets. For users seeking adaptive sound tuning, Beats has the edge.
Microphone quality
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 includes six total microphones, with three per earbud, to isolate your voice and filter ambient noise for clear calls. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds do not specify the number of microphones or advanced noise isolation for calls in the provided data. Both support voice assistants. Beats explicitly highlights superior call quality through its six-microphone array, giving it a clear advantage for phone calls in noisy environments.
Weight and build
Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds weigh 2.4 ounces, making them lighter than Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, which weigh 5.12 ounces. Skullcandy also uses 50% certified recyclable plastics and 100% recyclable packaging. Beats focuses on secure-fit hardware and durability for sports. If you prioritize lightweight comfort and sustainable materials, Skullcandy is better. If you need robust build for heavy activity, Beats is preferable. Skullcandy wins on weight and eco-materials.
Which earbuds match your workout needs
Runners needing secure fit and heart tracking
Powerbeats Pro 2 features secure-fit earhooks that stay locked during sprints or heavy lifts. It includes built-in sensors for real-time heart rate tracking without a chest strap. The IPX4 rating handles sweat, while the earhook design ensures stability. This setup keeps your hands free and your data accurate during intense training sessions.
Listeners wanting preset audio modes and sustainability
Smokin’ Buds offer three preset EQ modes for Music, Movie, and Podcast via four taps. They are made with 50% certified recyclable plastics and feature 100% recyclable packaging. The noise-isolating design fits comfortably without electronic cancellation. This option suits users who prefer simple touch controls and environmentally conscious materials.
Users prioritizing long battery life and fast charging
Powerbeats Pro 2 delivers up to 45 hours of total listening time with the charging case. Fast Fuel provides 1.5 hours of playback from a five-minute charge. This capacity supports whole-week usage. The Qi-charging case adds convenience. This battery performance exceeds the 20 hours offered by the competing Skullcandy model.
Buyers seeking lightweight comfort and basic wireless use
Smokin’ Buds weigh 2.4 ounces, making them lighter than the Beats option. They provide up to 20 hours of total battery life with rapid charge support. The ergonomic design ensures comfort for extended wear. These earbuds offer essential wireless connectivity and intuitive touch controls for volume and calls without extra bulk.
The products compared
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Earhooks
Best for: Athletes needing secure fit and heart rate tracking
- Noise Cancellation
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
- Total Battery Life
- Up to 45 hours
- Water Resistance
- IPX4
- Transparency Mode
- Transparency mode
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Recommended Use
- Workout
View on Amazon: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Earhooks Affiliate link
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are wireless workout earbuds featuring a secure-fit earhook design. They offer Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode to manage gym noise. A built-in heart rate sensor tracks your pulse, while IPX4 rating ensures sweat resistance. You get up to 45 hours of total listening time with the charging case. These earbuds connect via Class 1 Bluetooth and work with both Apple and Android devices.
Pros
- Secure-fit earhooks for stable wear during intense movement
- Built-in heart rate sensor for real-time tracking
- Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode
- Up to 45 hours of total battery life with case
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance rating
Cons
- Only IPX4 water resistance, limiting heavy rain protection
- No included wired audio option for non-bluetooth use
- Heavier build at 5.12 ounces compared to standard earbuds
Good fit if
- You need a secure fit that stays locked during sprints or lifts
- You want to track your heart rate without a chest strap
- You require long battery life for week-long usage
Skip if
- You prefer lightweight earbuds for all-day casual wear
- You need high-level water resistance for swimming or heavy rain
- You want a budget-friendly option without premium features
Verdict: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 is ideal for athletes who prioritize a secure fit and integrated heart rate monitoring. The 45-hour battery life and ANC make it a strong choice for dedicated gym sessions.
Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds
Best for: Users seeking battery endurance and workout durability
- Noise Cancellation
- Noise Isolating
- Total Battery Life
- Up to 20 hours
- Single Charge Battery
- 8 hours
- Water Resistance
- IPX4
- Form Factor
- In-Ear
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Bluetooth
View on Amazon: Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds Affiliate link
These Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds deliver noise-isolating sound with an ergonomic fit. You get up to 20 hours of total battery life, including 8 hours per charge and 12 hours in the case. The earbuds feature IPX4 sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts. They also include preset EQ modes for music, movies, and podcasts, along with intuitive touch controls for easy management.
Pros
- Up to 20 hours total battery life with rapid charge capability
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for active use
- Three preset EQ modes accessible via touch controls
- Constructed with 50% certified recyclable plastics
Cons
- Offers noise isolation rather than active noise cancellation
- Lacks Bluetooth multipoint connection for multiple devices
- No companion app for customizable sound profiles
Good fit if
- You want long battery life for daily commutes
- You need sweat-resistant earbuds for exercise
- You prefer simple touch controls without an app
Skip if
- You require active noise cancellation for travel
- You need to connect to multiple devices simultaneously
- You want customizable EQ settings via an app
Verdict: Skullcandy Smokin' Buds Wireless Earbuds are a solid choice for listeners who prioritize battery endurance and basic water resistance over advanced noise cancellation or app-based customization.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Earhooks | Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Noise Isolating |
| Total Battery Life | Up to 45 hours | Up to 20 hours |
| Single Charge Battery | not stated | 8 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Transparency Mode | Transparency mode | not stated |
| Noise Cancellation Type | not stated | Noise Isolating |
| Form Factor | not stated | In-Ear |
| Connectivity | Wireless | Wireless, Bluetooth |
| Recommended Use | Workout | not stated |
| Dimensions | 3.75 × 3.75 × 2.5 inches | 5.71 × 3.15 × 1.22 inches |
| Weight | 5.12 ounces | 2.4 ounces |
| Size | 2.50 | One Size |
| Color | Jet Black | True Black |
| Model | MX723DN/A | S2TAW |
Frequently asked questions
Do Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds track heart rate?
Yes, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 include integrated heart rate sensors. This feature allows you to monitor your pulse in real time without needing a separate chest strap. It is designed specifically for athletes who want comprehensive fitness data while working out.
Are Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds water resistant?
Yes, the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds feature IPX4 water resistance. This rating means they can handle sweat and light rain during workouts. They are suitable for gym sessions and daily commutes where exposure to moisture is possible.
Which brand offers active noise cancellation?
Beats offers active noise cancellation in the Powerbeats Pro 2 model. This technology electronically reduces background noise, which is helpful in loud gyms. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds use a passive noise-isolating design instead, relying on physical fit to block sound.
Do Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 have earhooks?
Yes, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 come with secure-fit earhooks. These hooks help keep the earbuds locked in place during intense movement like sprinting or heavy lifting. This design prioritizes stability over a simple in-ear fit.
How much battery life do these earbuds provide?
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 provide up to 45 hours of total battery life with the case. This supports extended gym sessions and daily use. Specific battery details for the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds are not listed in the provided specifications.
Can I use these earbuds for running?
Yes, both brands are recommended for workout use. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are ideal for runners needing secure fit and heart tracking. The Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds are suitable for users seeking battery endurance and durability during physical activity.