Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 1
Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 2
Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 3
Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 4
Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 5
Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — image 6
75%
25%
91%
Battery Life
88%
Rapid Charge
73%
Sound Quality
66%
Comfort & Fit
58%
Build Quality
61%
Noise Isolation
67%
Microphone Quality
79%
Wireless Performance
84%
Portability
72%
On-Ear Controls
82%
Value for Money
86%
Device Compatibility
74%
Aesthetic Design
More

Overview

The Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones occupy a genuine sweet spot in the budget audio market — capable enough for everyday use and priced well within reach for students and commuters alike. Skullcandy has built its reputation around youth-oriented gear that looks good and sounds fun, and the Hesh line has been a cornerstone of that identity for years. The third generation brought a more refined collapsible design and improved battery performance over its predecessors. At under four ounces, the all-plastic construction keeps things light — a practical trade-off for the price. Go in knowing this is a lifestyle headphone, not a piece of audiophile kit.

Features & Benefits

The standout feature here is battery endurance — a full charge delivers around 22 hours of playback, which is genuinely impressive at this price tier. Even better is the rapid charge capability: plug in for just 10 minutes and you recover roughly four more hours of listening. Bluetooth covers the full 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz range, and the on-ear push-button controls manage volume, track changes, and calls without pulling out your phone. Worth noting clearly: the over-ear cushions provide passive noise isolation by physically blocking ambient sound — there is no active noise cancellation technology here. A removable aux cable and micro-USB charging cable are included as practical backups.

Best For

These Skullcandy headphones make the most sense for commuters and students who want reliable wireless audio without a significant financial commitment. If your priority is getting through a full workday or a long travel stretch without hunting for a charger, the battery life alone builds a strong case. The foldable form factor is a real plus for anyone stuffing headphones into a bag daily — it collapses neatly and does not take up much room. They pair easily with smartphones, laptops, tablets, and even gaming consoles. Buyers who regularly take calls on the go will also appreciate having a built-in mic ready without needing a separate headset.

User Feedback

Buyers consistently highlight the quick-charge convenience as one of the most practically useful features — the kind of detail that genuinely changes daily use habits. Comfort gets more mixed responses; many find the ear cushions fine for an hour or two, but longer sessions can introduce some noticeable clamping pressure. Sound-wise, this wireless over-ear set leans into a bass-forward tuning that Skullcandy fans tend to enjoy, though listeners expecting neutral or detail-focused audio will likely find it too colored for their taste. Durability is a recurring concern, particularly around the plastic hinge points under heavy daily use. Call quality is generally described as clear enough for casual conversations.

#Over-Ear Headphones
#Headphones & Earbuds
#Headphones, Earbuds & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • 22-hour battery life handles multiple days of commuting or studying on a single charge.
  • Rapid Charge is genuinely practical — 10 minutes plugged in buys you around four more hours.
  • The collapsible design folds down compactly, making it easy to pack for travel or daily carry.
  • At under four ounces, these Skullcandy headphones are light enough to wear without neck fatigue during shorter sessions.
  • Bluetooth pairing is straightforward and compatible with a wide range of devices including phones, laptops, and tablets.
  • On-ear push-button controls for volume, tracks, and calls work reliably without needing to touch your phone.
  • A removable aux cable is included, giving you a wired fallback when battery runs out or on devices without Bluetooth.
  • The bass-forward sound tuning makes pop, hip-hop, and electronic music feel lively and engaging.
  • Built-in microphone handles casual calls clearly enough for everyday conversations.
  • The price point makes this a low-risk entry into wireless over-ear headphones for first-time buyers.

Cons

  • Clamping force becomes noticeable during extended wear, with comfort declining after a couple of hours for some users.
  • Passive isolation only — ambient noise from busy environments bleeds through more than many buyers expect.
  • The plastic hinge and headband construction raises legitimate concerns about long-term durability under daily stress.
  • Ear cushion material can degrade over time, and replacement pads are not always easy to source.
  • The bass-heavy tuning will frustrate listeners who prefer balanced or detail-oriented sound reproduction.
  • Micro-USB charging feels dated compared to the USB-C standard now common on most modern devices.
  • On-ear button controls can be stiff and awkward to locate by feel, especially while wearing gloves.
  • No companion app means there are zero options for EQ adjustment or sound customization.
  • Call quality, while functional, is noticeably average — background noise can interfere in louder environments.
  • The plastic aesthetic looks and feels budget-grade, which may matter to buyers who want a more premium look.

Ratings

The scores below reflect our AI-driven analysis of thousands of verified global user reviews for the Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, with spam, bot-generated, and incentivized submissions actively filtered out before scoring. Each category is rated independently to give you an honest picture of where these headphones genuinely excel and where real buyers have run into frustration. Both strengths and recurring pain points are represented transparently so you can make a fully informed decision.

Battery Life
91%
The 22-hour battery is consistently one of the most praised aspects of the Hesh 3 across buyer feedback. Commuters and students frequently note they can go several days between charges under normal use, which removes the anxiety of running out mid-journey or mid-class.
A small number of users report that battery performance degrades noticeably after 12 to 18 months of daily use, dropping below the advertised runtime. This is a common lithium battery limitation but worth factoring in if you plan to keep these for multiple years.
Rapid Charge
88%
The 10-minute charge for roughly 4 hours of playback is a standout practical feature that buyers genuinely appreciate in real-world situations. Forgetting to charge overnight stops being a crisis — a short plug-in while getting ready in the morning is enough to cover a full commute.
The rapid charge feature only works via the micro-USB cable, and the aging micro-USB standard means many users no longer carry that cable regularly. A handful of buyers report the charging port becoming loose over time with repeated daily use.
Sound Quality
73%
27%
For casual listening to pop, hip-hop, EDM, and bass-heavy genres, these Skullcandy headphones deliver a fun, energetic sound that many buyers find genuinely enjoyable on their daily commute or at the gym. The low-end punch is well above what you would typically expect at this price point.
The bass-forward tuning comes at the expense of midrange clarity and high-frequency detail, which makes acoustic music, jazz, and vocals feel recessed or muddied. Buyers who switch from more neutral headphones often find the tuning fatiguing over longer sessions.
Comfort & Fit
66%
34%
The lightweight plastic frame keeps pressure off the top of the head, and the over-ear design feels reasonably comfortable for the first hour or two of a commute or work session. Users with average-sized ears generally report a decent initial fit straight out of the box.
Clamping force is a recurring complaint for extended wear — many buyers note that after two or three hours, the ear cups press uncomfortably against the sides of the head. Users who wear glasses report the issue is compounded, as the frame presses the glasses arms into the temples.
Build Quality
58%
42%
The all-plastic construction keeps the headphone light at under 4 ounces, which is a genuine advantage for all-day carry. The collapsible design feels reasonably solid when folded, and the hinge mechanism works smoothly when new.
Durability is where buyer sentiment turns most negative — plastic hinge points and the headband joint are the most frequently cited failure areas after several months of daily use. The ear cushion material also shows wear relatively quickly, with peeling reported by a noticeable segment of longer-term owners.
Noise Isolation
61%
39%
The over-ear cushion design does a reasonable job of blocking moderate ambient noise passively — in quiet offices or on less crowded transit, most buyers find the isolation sufficient to stay focused on their audio without constant distraction.
In louder environments like busy subway cars, open-plan offices, or flights, the passive isolation falls noticeably short, and ambient sound bleeds through clearly. Buyers who expected active noise cancellation-level performance based on the listing are often disappointed.
Microphone Quality
67%
33%
For casual phone calls in quiet environments, the built-in mic performs well enough that most callers on the other end report hearing clearly without needing the speaker repeated. It handles everyday conversations — quick check-ins, brief calls — without issue.
In any environment with background noise, the microphone struggles to isolate the speaker's voice, and callers frequently report hearing wind, traffic, or ambient sound as prominently as the voice itself. It is not a replacement for a dedicated call headset in professional contexts.
Wireless Performance
79%
21%
Bluetooth pairing is quick and stable across smartphones, tablets, and laptops in the vast majority of use cases. Most buyers report a reliable connection within standard Bluetooth range without dropouts during their typical daily routines.
A minority of users note occasional audio dropouts or connection instability in environments with high wireless interference, such as crowded transit hubs or open office floors with many paired devices nearby. There is also no multipoint pairing support for switching between two devices.
Portability
84%
The collapsible design is genuinely practical for daily carry — the ear cups fold flat and the headphone fits into most backpack pockets or tote bags without much planning. Buyers who commute regularly appreciate not needing a dedicated hard case to protect them.
No carrying case or pouch is included in the box, which means the headphones are somewhat vulnerable to scratching or hinge stress when loose in a bag. The plastic build makes this a more consequential omission than it would be on a more robust frame.
On-Ear Controls
72%
28%
The push-button control layout handles the basics — volume up and down, track skipping, and call answering — without needing to pull out a phone, which buyers find convenient during commutes and workouts. The buttons are physically distinct enough to locate without looking.
The button feedback is stiffer than many users prefer, and the control layout takes some time to memorize by feel alone. A number of buyers also note that the buttons feel cheap and plasticky, raising questions about how they will hold up under years of repeated pressing.
Value for Money
82%
18%
At its price tier, this wireless over-ear set packs in a feature list — 22-hour battery, rapid charge, built-in mic, and Bluetooth — that would cost noticeably more from rival brands. For first-time wireless headphone buyers or those on a strict budget, it represents a solid return on investment.
The value equation weakens somewhat if the headphones develop hinge or cushion issues within the first year, as the cost of replacing or repairing them can undercut the original savings. Buyers who stretch the budget slightly toward the next tier often find meaningfully better build and sound.
Device Compatibility
86%
Bluetooth compatibility is broad — buyers pair these Skullcandy headphones with smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles without reported issues across all major operating systems. The included aux cable also extends compatibility to non-Bluetooth sources.
There is no NFC pairing support, and Bluetooth-only Xbox pairing remains problematic for some users without workarounds. The micro-USB charging cable is also increasingly out of step with a device ecosystem that has largely moved to USB-C.
Aesthetic Design
74%
26%
The Hesh 3 carries Skullcandy's recognizable style — clean lines and a low-profile look that fits naturally into a casual, everyday wardrobe. Buyers appreciate that it does not look ostentatiously cheap despite the budget price point.
The all-plastic finish picks up fingerprints and light scratches easily over time, and after several months of daily use the headphones can start to look noticeably worn. Style-conscious buyers may find the aesthetic loses its appeal faster than a matte or rubberized finish would.

Suitable for:

The Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are a strong match for students, daily commuters, and casual listeners who want a reliable wireless headphone without stretching their budget. If you spend your day moving between classrooms, transit, and the gym, the 22-hour battery means you can realistically go several days without thinking about charging — and the 10-minute rapid charge is a genuine lifesaver when you forget. The collapsible design fits without fuss into a backpack or carry-on, making these a practical travel companion. People who take frequent phone calls will appreciate the built-in mic and on-ear controls, which remove the need for a separate headset. These Skullcandy headphones also appeal to bass enthusiasts who want their music to feel energetic and punchy rather than clinically accurate.

Not suitable for:

The Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are not the right pick for anyone who prioritizes sound accuracy, noise cancellation, or premium build quality. Listeners who prefer a flat, neutral sound profile for critical listening or music production will find the bass-heavy tuning frustrating rather than enjoyable. The passive isolation from the ear cups reduces some ambient noise by physically covering your ears, but it offers nothing close to the active noise cancellation found on headphones at higher price points — so busy offices or loud flights will still bleed through noticeably. Long-wear comfort is also a real concern; the clamping force and cushion quality are adequate for shorter sessions but can become uncomfortable over several hours. Those who are hard on their gear should also factor in the all-plastic construction, which may not hold up well under rough daily handling over an extended period.

Specifications

  • Connectivity: The headphones connect wirelessly via Bluetooth and also support wired use through the included removable aux cable.
  • Battery Life: A full charge delivers up to 22 hours of continuous playback under typical listening conditions.
  • Rapid Charge: A 10-minute charge via the included micro-USB cable restores approximately 4 hours of playback time.
  • Driver Type: Audio is powered by dynamic drivers, which contribute to the headphone's characteristic bass-forward sound signature.
  • Frequency Response: The drivers cover a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, spanning the full range of human hearing.
  • Impedance: These headphones have an impedance rating of 32 Ohm, making them easy to drive directly from smartphones and laptops without an external amplifier.
  • Noise Control: Noise reduction is passive only — the over-ear cushion design physically blocks ambient sound without any active noise cancellation circuitry.
  • Ear Placement: The headphones use a full over-ear (circumaural) design, with ear cups that fully surround the ears rather than resting on them.
  • Weight: The headphones weigh 3.84 ounces, keeping the overall feel light for an over-ear form factor.
  • Form Factor: The frame is collapsible, folding down at the ear cups for compact storage or travel.
  • Controls: On-ear push-button controls handle volume adjustment, track skipping, and call management without needing to access a connected device.
  • Microphone: A built-in microphone supports hands-free calling and is integrated into the on-ear control module.
  • Dimensions: Product dimensions are approximately 1.69 x 7.32 x 7.79 inches in packaged form.
  • Material: The headband and outer ear cup structure are constructed from plastic, keeping the overall weight low.
  • Charging Port: The headphones charge via a micro-USB port using the included micro-USB to USB cable.
  • In the Box: Each unit ships with the headphones, a removable aux cable, and a micro-USB to USB charging cable.
  • Compatible Devices: These headphones are compatible with smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, desktops, gaming consoles, and any Bluetooth-enabled device.
  • Battery Type: The headphones are powered by an internal rechargeable lithium metal battery, which is included and non-removable.
  • Model Number: The official item model number for this variant is S6HTW-K617.
  • Generation: This is the third generation of Skullcandy's Hesh over-ear headphone family, introduced in late 2017.

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FAQ

Skullcandy does not publish an official full-charge time for the Hesh 3, but based on the battery capacity and the rapid charge spec — 10 minutes for 4 hours of playback — most users report a full charge taking roughly 2 to 2.5 hours via the included micro-USB cable.

Yes, a removable aux cable is included in the box. Just plug it into the 3.5mm jack on the ear cup and your source device, and the headphones work passively even with a dead battery.

No, they do not. The noise reduction is entirely passive — meaning the over-ear cushions physically block some ambient sound by forming a seal around your ears. This helps in moderately noisy environments, but it will not match the performance of headphones with active noise cancellation technology, particularly in louder settings like airplanes or busy offices.

They can pair via Bluetooth with PS4, PS5, and devices that support Bluetooth audio output. Xbox consoles have historically had limited Bluetooth audio support, so a wired connection via the aux cable would be the more reliable option there. For PC gaming, Bluetooth pairing works fine if your computer has a Bluetooth adapter.

Comfort is one of the more divided points among owners. For sessions up to an hour or two, most people find them fine. Beyond that, the clamping force and the basic quality of the ear cushions can become uncomfortable, particularly for people with larger ears or those who wear glasses. If extended wear is a priority, it is worth factoring that in before buying.

It is functional and acceptable for casual calls in reasonably quiet environments. The built-in mic picks up your voice clearly enough for everyday conversations, but in noisy locations — outdoors, on transit, or in a busy space — the other person may notice background noise bleeding in. It is not a headset built for professional call quality.

These headphones do not support multipoint Bluetooth pairing, which means they can only actively connect to one device at a time. To switch between, say, your phone and laptop, you would need to disconnect from one device and pair to the other manually.

The tuning leans noticeably toward bass, which works particularly well for hip-hop, EDM, pop, and similar genres. Rock and podcasts also translate reasonably well. Where things get less satisfying is with acoustic music, classical, or jazz — genres where tonal accuracy and midrange clarity matter more. It is a fun-sounding headphone, not a balanced one.

The all-plastic build keeps weight down but does raise legitimate durability questions for heavy daily users. The hinge points and headband are the areas most commonly flagged for wear over time. That said, many users carry them daily for a year or more without issue if they are reasonably careful. Using a case or bag sleeve is a smart habit to protect the hinges.

Skullcandy offers a limited warranty on their products, and this wireless over-ear set is typically covered under their standard one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Skullcandy also has a reputation for relatively straightforward warranty claims compared to some other audio brands. It is always worth registering the product on Skullcandy's website after purchase to make any future claims smoother.

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