VMK25 vs VMK25.2: Which One Should You Pick?
Quick clarification first: the VMK20 exists and is doing just fine, it's our 169 euro classic model. If you're after a VMK20 vs VMK25 comparison, that's in the article "What's the difference between VMK25 and VMK20". This article compares the VMK25 to its upgraded sibling, the VMK25.2, since that's the comparison people actually ask about most. Our model numbering is, admittedly, a bit like a Finnish telemarketer: confusing, but well-intentioned.
What do they have in common?
Side by side, the VMK25 and VMK25.2 look basically identical. Both are wireless over-ear noise cancelling headphones with:
- 45 mm composite drivers tuned by hand by Jasse's DSP work
- Active hybrid noise cancellation (ANC) + transparency mode
- Multipoint pairing, connect two devices at once
- Magnetic Skini side panels swap the color depending on your mood
- Swappable ear pads no need to bin the whole headset once the pads wear out
- 3.5mm AUX cable included, for when the battery dies
- 32 ohm impedance, weighs about 300 grams
So the base recipe is the same. Both sound excellent, and both get repaired in Kajaani if something goes wrong.
Where's the VMK25.2 better?
The internals got an overhaul. Here are the concrete differences:
- Bluetooth 5.4 (VMK25 has 5.1): a more stable connection, less stuttering
- Battery life: 55 hours with ANC on vs. the VMK25's 50 hours. The talk time gap is even bigger: 95 hours vs. 45 hours. If you sit in meetings all day, this is actually a big deal.
- An even flatter frequency response Jasse tuned the sound to be even better
- Wireless boom mic available as an accessory (USB-C), a remote worker's dream
- 3D-printable side panels if you want your own face on the side of your headphones, that's an option too
- Reset is easier: hold + and - at the same time for three seconds. On the VMK25 you still need the AUX cable trick.
So is the VMK25 bad, then?
Not at all. The VMK25 is still an excellent headset. If you find it cheaper, or already own one, don't worry about it. The sound quality is nearly identical, the ANC works the same way, and it's just as repairable. The VMK25.2 is simply a fine-tuned version, like a newer model year of the same car. The old one still drives just fine.
So which one should I buy?
- VMK25.2, if you're buying new headphones right now. You get better battery life, newer Bluetooth, and the option of a boom mic. There's no real reason to pay full price for the older model.
- VMK25, if you find it on sale or already have one. Save the difference for the beer fund.
Both get repaired, both have swappable pads and panels, and both sound better than competitors' gear in the same price range. Somebody has to fund those Death Star parts.
If this didn't help
If the comparison still feels confusing, or you've got a specific question, drop us a line at info@valco.fi. We'll tell you honestly which one suits you, and if neither does, we'll tell you that too.
