Table of Contents
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Introduction: Skullcandy Hesh ANC – A 2026 Update
The Skullcandy Hesh ANC headphones first hit the market several years ago, quickly gaining popularity as a surprisingly capable and affordable option in the noise-cancelling headphone space. In 2026, with a crowded market of ANC headphones, the question remains: do the Hesh ANC still hold up? This review will provide a comprehensive look at the 2026 model, evaluating everything from sound quality and noise cancellation to comfort and value. These headphones remain a strong contender for budget-conscious consumers, students, and anyone seeking a casual listening experience without breaking the bank.
Skullcandy Hesh ANC: Key Features & Specs
The 2026 Skullcandy Hesh ANC boasts several improvements over previous iterations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.3
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Noise Cancellation Technology: Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation
- Battery Life (ANC On): Up to 22 hours
- Battery Life (ANC Off): Up to 36 hours
- Charging Time: 2.5 hours (full charge), 10 minutes for 3 hours playback
- Weight: 208g
- Available Colours: Black, Navy, Grey, Crimson
- Included Accessories: USB-C charging cable, 3.5mm audio cable, carrying pouch
- App Support: Skullcandy App (iOS & Android) – includes EQ customisation
Key updates in the 2026 model include the move to Bluetooth 5.3 for a more stable connection, an improved hybrid ANC system, and faster charging capabilities.
Design and Comfort: How Do They Feel?
The Hesh ANC maintains Skullcandy’s signature minimalist aesthetic. The build quality feels solid, utilizing a combination of matte plastics and padded elements. While not premium, the materials feel durable enough for everyday use. The headphones feature a foldable design, making them relatively portable, and the included carrying pouch adds to their convenience.
Comfort is generally good. The ear cups are well-padded and spacious enough to accommodate most ear sizes. The headband padding is sufficient, although those with larger heads might find it slightly snug during extended listening sessions. At 208g, they are reasonably lightweight, minimizing fatigue over longer periods. The matte finish is also a nice touch, resisting fingerprints and smudges.
Sound Quality: A Detailed Analysis
Skullcandy has historically been known for a bass-forward sound signature, and the Hesh ANC largely continues that tradition. The bass is prominent and punchy, making them well-suited for genres like electronic dance music, hip-hop, and pop. However, it’s not overwhelming to the point of muddiness. The mids are reasonably clear, though they can occasionally be overshadowed by the bass. Highs are present but lack some of the sparkle and detail found in more expensive headphones.
The Skullcandy app allows for custom EQ adjustments, which is a welcome addition. Users can tailor the sound signature to their preferences, boosting the mids or highs if desired. Compared to competitors in the same price range, the Hesh ANC delivers a more energetic and engaging sound, though arguably less refined.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Performance
The Hesh ANC’s hybrid ANC system performs admirably for its price point. It effectively reduces low-frequency sounds like engine rumble on trains or buses, and the constant drone of office environments. It’s not as powerful as the ANC found in premium headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra, but it’s certainly a significant improvement over listening without any noise cancellation.
The transparency mode, activated with a button press, allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones, which is useful for quick conversations or staying aware of traffic. While not perfectly natural-sounding, it’s functional and convenient.
Battery Life & Charging: Real-World Results
Skullcandy claims up to 22 hours of battery life with ANC enabled and 36 hours with ANC disabled. In our testing, we achieved approximately 20 hours with ANC constantly on at moderate volume, which is close to the advertised figure. With ANC off, we consistently hit around 34 hours. The 10-minute fast-charge feature is incredibly useful, providing around 3 hours of playback when you’re in a hurry.
The USB-C charging port is a welcome standard, and the battery life is competitive with other headphones in this price bracket.
Microphone Quality: For Calls and Voice Assistants
The microphone quality on the Hesh ANC is adequate for phone calls and voice assistant commands. Your voice will be clearly audible in relatively quiet environments. However, in noisy surroundings, the microphone struggles to effectively filter out background noise, resulting in some muffled sound for the person on the other end of the call. It’s sufficient for casual conversations but not ideal for professional video conferencing.
Skullcandy Hesh ANC vs. The Competition (2026)
Here’s a comparison of the Skullcandy Hesh ANC with some of its key competitors in the UK market:
| Feature | Skullcandy Hesh ANC (2026) | Sony WH-CH520 | Jabra Elite 4 | Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | Skullcandy Grind Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Approx.) | £89.99 | £69.99 | £79.99 | £84.99 | £64.99 |
| ANC Performance | Good | Decent | Very Good | Excellent | None |
| Sound Quality | Bass-Forward, Energetic | Balanced | Clear, Neutral | Detailed, Customizable | Bass-Heavy |
| Battery Life (ANC On) | 20-22 hours | 35 hours | 20 hours | 40 hours | 40 hours |
| Comfort | Good | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Average |
| App Support | Yes (EQ Customization) | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Pricing and Value for Money (UK – 2026)
At a current UK retail price of £89.99, the Skullcandy Hesh ANC offers excellent value for money. While the Sony WH-CH520 is cheaper, the Hesh ANC provides a superior ANC experience and a more engaging sound signature. The Jabra Elite 4 offers better overall sound quality but at a similar price point. The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 boasts superior ANC and battery life, but the Skullcandy’s brand recognition and user-friendly app are appealing factors. Considering its features, performance, and price, the Hesh ANC represents a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.
Skullcandy Hesh ANC: Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Effective Active Noise Cancellation
- Bass-forward and energetic sound signature
- Comfortable for extended listening
- USB-C charging & Fast Charging
- Customizable EQ via Skullcandy app
- Cons:
- Microphone quality could be better
- Bass may be overpowering for some
- Build quality isn’t premium
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Skullcandy Hesh ANC in 2026?
The Skullcandy Hesh ANC remains a worthwhile purchase in 2026, particularly for those seeking a balance between affordability, performance, and style. While it doesn’t compete with high-end headphones in terms of ANC or audio fidelity, it delivers a surprisingly capable experience for its price.
We recommend the Skullcandy Hesh ANC for:
- Students
- Commuters
- Casual listeners
- Those on a budget
- Fans of bass-heavy music
If you prioritize top-tier noise cancellation or audiophile-grade sound, you’ll need to spend more. However, for everyday use and a satisfying listening experience without breaking the bank, the Skullcandy Hesh ANC is a solid choice.
FAQ
- Are the Skullcandy Hesh ANC waterproof?
- Can I use the Hesh ANC with a wired connection?
- How do I update the firmware on the Hesh ANC?
- What is the warranty on the Skullcandy Hesh ANC?
- Do the Hesh ANC work with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant?
No, the Hesh ANC are not waterproof. They have a degree of splash resistance, but they should not be exposed to heavy rain or submerged in water.
Yes, the Hesh ANC include a 3.5mm audio cable, allowing you to connect them to devices without Bluetooth connectivity.
Firmware updates are performed through the Skullcandy app. The app will notify you when an update is available and guide you through the process.
Skullcandy offers a standard one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Yes, the Hesh ANC are compatible with Siri and Google Assistant. You can activate your voice assistant by pressing the multi-function button.