There are really only a handful of things I look for in wireless Bluetooth headphones: comfort, sound quality, and wireless reliability. Skullcandy's new Grind Wireless, a set of Bluetooth headphones that hit stores earlier this month, do well in all of those areas, and only cost $89.99. They aren't perfect, but for less than a Benjamin, they get the job done and look pretty good while doing it.
The Grind Wireless look just like the wired version of the Grind, which means they have a minimal design, round, on-ear cups, a metal headband, and a padded top. A metal headband is rare to see in this price range; generally, inexpensive headphones are entirely plastic. I don't like that the Grind Wireless don't fold up in any way — jamming them into my bag is a bit clumsy and they take up more room than I'd prefer. There are controls for volume and Bluetooth pairing on the right earcup, and Skullcandy says the battery is good for 12 hours between charges, which is not the best you can get, but certainly acceptable.
The sound from the Grind Wireless is balanced — it's not too bassy, but it's not going to win over any audiophiles. It's pleasant to listen to for long periods, which is cool. If you're buying the Grind Wireless, chances are you're into them for their looks, and they come in a handful of different colors. I dig the black model with brown suede headband I've been testing, but you can get them in white, blue, teal, or even a camo pattern.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Decent battery life
- Physical instead of touch controls
Cons:
- No fold or collapse feature