VMK25 vs VMK20: Which to choose?
We get asked this every now and then, so let’s clear it up right away: there is no product called VMK20. You probably mean either VMK25 or its updated version VMK25.2. The model numbering is admittedly a bit like a Finnish telemarketer – confusing but well-intentioned. Let’s go through what the real differences between the two are so you can pick the right one.
What do they have in common?
On the outside, VMK25 and VMK25.2 look practically identical. Both are wireless over-ear noise-cancelling headphones with:
- 45 mm composite drivers and DSP hand-tuned by Jasse
- Active hybrid noise cancellation (ANC) + transparency mode
- Multipoint – connect two devices at the same time
- Magnetic Skinit side panels – change the color to match your mood
- Replaceable ear pads – no need to throw away the whole headphones when the pads wear out
- 3.5 mm AUX cable included, in case the battery dies
- 32-ohm impedance, weight about 300 grams
So the basic recipe is the same. Both sound excellent, and both are repaired in Kajaani if anything happens.
Where is VMK25.2 better?
The internals have been updated. Here are the concrete differences:
- Bluetooth 5.4 (5.1 on VMK25) – more stable connection, fewer dropouts
- Battery life: 55 hours with ANC on vs. 50 hours on VMK25. For talk time the difference is even bigger: 95 hours vs. 45 hours. If you sit in meetings all day, this really matters.
- Frequency response is even more linear – Jasse has refined the sound even further
- Wireless boom microphone 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 the headphones, that’s possible too
- Reset is easier: press + and - at the same time for three seconds. On VMK25 you still have to use the AUX cable trick.
What about VMK25 – is it bad?
Absolutely not. VMK25 is still an excellent pair of headphones. If you find it cheaper or you already have one, there’s nothing to worry about. The sound quality is close, the ANC works on the same principle, and the build is just as repairable. VMK25.2 is simply a fine-tuned version – like a newer model year of a car. The old one still drives just fine.
So which one should I buy?
- VMK25.2, if you’re buying new headphones now. You’ll get better battery life, newer Bluetooth, and the option for a boom mic. There’s no reason to buy the older model at full price.
- VMK25, if you find it on sale or you already have one. Save the cash for the beer fund.
Both are repairable, both have replaceable pads and panels, and both sound better than competitors in the same price range. We have to fund these Death Star parts somehow, too.
If that doesn’t help
If the comparison still feels confusing or you want to ask something specific, send a message to info@valco.fi. We’ll tell you honestly which one suits you – and if neither does, we’ll tell you that too.
