Best For Ambient Listening: Skullcandy Sesh Evo Vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

Choosing the right earbuds for ambient listening can significantly enhance your daily experience, whether you’re commuting, working, or relaxing. Two popular options in this category are the Skullcandy Sesh Evo and the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live. This article compares these two models to help you decide which might be best for your needs.

Design and Comfort

The Skullcandy Sesh Evo features a compact, lightweight design with a rounded shape that fits comfortably in most ears. Its ergonomic design makes it suitable for extended wear without discomfort. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live has a distinctive bean-shaped design, which some users find stylish and modern. However, its larger size may require some getting used to for prolonged use.

Ambient Listening Features

Both earbuds offer features that support ambient listening, but they approach it differently. The Skullcandy Sesh Evo includes a transparency mode that allows external sounds to pass through, making it safer for outdoor use. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live also offers a similar feature called Ambient Aware, which enhances surrounding sounds without removing the earbuds.

Sound Quality and Transparency

The Skullcandy Sesh Evo provides balanced sound with decent clarity, but its primary focus is on bass. Its transparency mode effectively lets in external sounds, though not as seamlessly as some higher-end models. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live boasts a more natural sound profile with active noise reduction options, and its Ambient Aware mode offers a clear and natural pass-through of external sounds, making it ideal for ambient listening.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The Skullcandy Sesh Evo offers approximately 5 hours of playback on a single charge, with an additional 19 hours provided by the charging case. It connects via Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable connection. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live provides around 6 hours of playback, with up to 21 hours total with the charging case. Its Bluetooth 5.0 connection is reliable and supports quick pairing.

Additional Features

  • Skullcandy Sesh Evo: IP55 water and dust resistance, built-in microphone for calls, simple touch controls.
  • Samsung Galaxy Buds Live: IPX2 water resistance, touch controls, voice assistant compatibility, and a customizable equalizer via app.

Final Verdict

For those prioritizing ambient listening with a focus on comfort and affordability, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo is a solid choice. It offers effective transparency modes and a compact design. However, if you prefer a more natural sound profile with enhanced external sound pass-through and additional smart features, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live is the better option.