TOP 10 BEST SKULLCANDY EARPHONES

The name Skullcandy has often been associated with cool and trendy but affordably priced audio products, from earbuds and headphones to MP3 players. Targeted at an outdoor, action sports demographic as well as the general public, the American brand has long been a staple of skater culture and an active lifestyle since it was established in 2003 by Rick Alden, an avid skater and sportsman himself. 

TOP 10 BEST SKULLCANDY EARPHONES

1. Skullcandy Method In-Ear Sweat Resistant Sports Earphone

Form and Function

If you’re looking for quality earphones with an affordable price tag, look no further than the Skullcandy Method. Recommended for active use, the Method boasts Dual Lock Fit and Sticky Gels technology to ensure the earbuds sit securely, even during intense gym sessions. They can also be used outdoors while cycling or skateboarding.

Boasting sweat-resistant construction, the Method has been known to take a beating in wet conditions –  like accidentally being left in the washing machine – and emerging unscathed, thanks to their welded construction, which keeps sweat and water out of sensitive components. The rounded shape of the earbuds is comfortable and fits snugly into the ear.

Audio Quality

Even when not used as part of a sporty lifestyle, the Method still offers plenty of value in terms of audio performance and quality. It has noise cancelling features – particularly useful in a noisy office to drown out chatter and keyboard clicks. While it may not satisfy audio purists or those looking for an accurate sound signature, the earbuds will work for bass lovers, as it provides a deep, heavy response and minimal distortion even at maximum volume. When listening to tracks without sub-bass contents, the earbuds boost the lows with an extra layer of heaviness, but balances it out with clear mids and highs. Clarity is good, with vocals remaining clear. Clarity on the mic and call is good as well.

Design and Durability

Taking into account the fact that the earbuds are made for active people, the Method is compact and lightweight at 3.5 x 1.1 x 5.9 inches and just 3.2 ounces, with a four-foot long cable. Choose from bright green or pink colours, which make them difficult to lose. The side boasts the signature Skullcandy logo. For its price, its hard to fault the Method, but quality control seems to be a hit and miss, with some users attesting to its long lasting durability, but others expressing disappointment that it fizzles out after several users, especially on the right side.

Additional Features

Take calls or manage music on any smart device, even while working out, with the Method’s in-line microphone, which has good clarity on calls. Also included is a clip-on that comes with the set, so the cable does not get tangled while you are working out. The only downside would be its lack of volume control, which has to be managed on the smart device itself.

Pros

• Affordable
• For active use
• Sweat resistant construction
• Excellent sound quality for its price
• Good clarity on audio and mic
• Boosted bass
• Attractive colours
• Clip on included

Cons

• Quality control, some units last longer than others
• No volume control on earbuds

2. Skullcandy Ink’d 2.0 Earphone

Form and Function

The name Ink’d should give users an indication of what to expect – earbuds that are cool, hip and trendy. While not designed specifically for sport use, they are still a value-for-money buy.

Comfort-wise, the Ink’d 2.0 is not too shabby and sits comfortably in the ear, although the straight barrel design means that any vigorous movement will cause them to pop out. It also lacks moisture-resistant properties. The buds may not be compatible with all devices, and will require an adapter when used with certain units such as the iPhone.

Audio Quality

Like the slightly more expensive Smokin Buds 2, the Ink’d 2.0 boasts Supreme Sound Technology, with a tendency for deep bass, natural-sounding vocals and crisp highs. The bass is weaker than the Buds 2, and can be out of sync at times, with the right ear delivering a normal emphasis but the left dropping in volume. However, both speakers work well on mid and high notes, thanks to 11mmm drivers with neodymium magnets, and sound reasonably good with certain types of music, such as acoustic guitar tracks. The Ink’d has noise cancellation properties, so users can enjoy their songs or audio books without distractions.

Design and Durability

At a mere 0.9 x 0.5 x 0.9 inches and 0.48 ounces, users will barely feel the weight of the Ink’d 2.0 in their ears. The flattened cable is designed for both style and durability, reducing tangled messes. Add a splash of individuality by picking from unique colour options, such as gray, black and chrome. Owing to its cheap price, do not expect too much in terms of material quality and construction.

Additional Features

The Ink’d 2.0 comes complete with an in-line microphone and remote, although it is not recommended as a hands-free device due to echoing feedback. Otherwise, the in-line remote can be used to play and pause music, as well as cycle through tracks.

Pros

• Decent sound
• Compact and lightweight
• Trendy design
• Flattened cable reduces tangles

Cons

• Cheap build
• Syncing issues
• Echoing feedback on mic
• Not moisture resistant

                                           

3. Skullcandy Strum Maximum Comfort Earphone

Form and Function

Touted as the brand’s most comfortable fit yet’, the Strum realises that no two ears are the same, and has not one or two but three features to ensure your earbuds stay put in various situations. Unlike conventional straight-barrel earbuds, the Strum has FixTech – a hook-shaped exterior that ‘hooks’ into the ear, making it tug and pull resistant. Meanwhile, Off-Axis Tech combines with an oval-shaped nozzle that tilts at an angle designed to match the natural shape of the ear canal. It not only sits snugly, but also delivers better sound. Finally, BrinxTech uses a soft plastic at the base of the buds that adapts to the unique angle of your ear canal. These features make the Strum a prime choice for workouts, although it lacks moisture-resistant properties.

Audio Quality

Incorporating Supreme Sound Acoustics which the brand is famous for, the Strum produces a hefty bass that delivers a punch, without obscuring other notes. Highs and lows are sharp enough to be make out, but not entirely clear. What it lacks in clarity, though, it makes up for with smooth and balanced playback. The volume does not go up very loud, but it is still able to block out ambient noise.

Design and Durability

The Strum looks and feels more expensive than it actually is, with a sleek and shiny silver finish, the signature Skullcandy logo on its back and a handsome matte coat. It measures 3.5 x 1.1 x 7.5 inches and weighs 0.64 ounces. The flat cable makes for long lasting durability and less tangles. The buds are available in black, pink and white colours.

Additional Features

Most cheap earbuds will have a standard in-line microphone and remote, but the Strum ups the ante with an additional volume control. Instead of a button, it packs a slider which makes it quick and easy to mute music. The button, on the other hand, can be used for starting and stopping music, as well as making and taking calls. Also included is an extra pair of ear inserts.

Pros

• Triple tech for better comfort and snug fit
• Tug and pull resistant
• Sliding volume control
• Sleek look
• In-line mic and remote

Cons

• Not moisture resistant
• Volume does not go very high

                                             

4. Skullcandy Chops Flex Sweat-Resistant Sport Earphone

Form and Function

Not everyone likes in-ear earbuds, for comfort or hygienic reasons. Skullcandy’s Chops Flex is designed with a light and flexible ear hanger which hooks behind the ear, letting the buds rest just outside the ear canal. It is made to stay in place, even through tough workouts, and is sweat and water resistant up to IPX4, making it good companion even for outdoor excursions.

Audio Quality

The Chops Flex is not made to be noise cancelling, and as such, users will still be quite aware of their environment. Because of its design, sounds are fainter compared to in-ear buds as there is a lot of leakage, but should still be loud enough to enjoy. However, if one is not used to this design, sounds may appear tinny. The bass performs slightly better than mids and highs.

Design and Durability

Available in various colours such as black, mint, swirl and red, the Chops Flex looks refreshing and fits right into the whole active lifestyle vibe. At 2.6 x 1.4 x 7.6 inches, it weighs a lightweight 1.44 ounces, although the 1.2m cable can feel short, especially when one is using it with a device in their pocket. Small but thoughtful design details puts the Chops Flex ahead of its competition, such as the symmetrical cable and sliding holder which pulls up so that cables will not get tangled.

Additional Features

An in-line microphone and remote allows users to make and take calls whilst working out without interruptions. There is a two-year limited warranty on the earbuds.

Pros

• Not in-ear design
• Decent sound
• Symmetrical cable
• Sliding holder
• Stays firmly in place

Cons

• Faint volume, more sound leakage
• Short cable

                                             

5. Skullcandy XTFree Bluetooth Wireless Sweat-Resistant Earphone

Form and Function

Taking a more unisex approach, the XTFree is suitable for both men and women. The unit comes equipped with Pureclean Tech, featuring sweat-resistant silicone ear gels, while the buds are sonically welded shut to prevent moisture from getting into sensitive components.

The fit is decidedly better than the Women’s version, with its TripleLock tech helping earbuds stay firmly in place even during vigorous workouts. It is also more comfortable to wear compared to the Women’s.

Connectivity

One of the main complaints with the XTFree is its connectivity, which drops so regularly that some users have likened it to early Bluetooth headphones. It has a purported range of 10 feet, but even at close range, the connection is unstable. The battery lasts six hours when volume is played at 75% and below.

Audio Quality

Sound quality has not improved from the Women’s version and sound average at best. The bass is fairly solid with fine highs.

Design and Durability

The XTFree has the same dimensions as the Women’s, but heavier at 5 ounces. Its material is high quality and durable. The unit charges via USB cable through a port on the left earbud. It comes in two colours, black and a rainbow swirl.

Additional Features

Utilise the microphone and remote to make and take calls or skip through tracks.

Pros

• Wireless
• Sweat resistant
• Secure fit
• 6 hours of battery life

Cons

• Poor connectivity
• Connectivity issues
• Average Sound

                                                   

6. Skullcandy SCS2FXFM-003 Earphone

Form and Function

Those looking for an inexpensive pair of earbuds with quality audio and good form should consider the 003. Industrially designed to provide the best fit, the buds have a hooked shape and a ported top that conforms to the human ear, making them a sound choice for running or working out. Although the buds stay secure, the silicone gel tips tend to fall out. The 003 is compatible with iPhones but some of its functions such as volume control may not work with Android devices.

Audio Quality

The 003 performs well, with natural vocals and clear highs, although the bass is somewhat lacking, since it only has 10mm diameter neodymium speakers. Nevertheless, it has good noise reduction and sounds balanced across all genres. The mic offers good clarity on calls as well.

Design and Durability

For its price point, the 003 is a durable product. It measures 5 x 4 x 3.5 inches and weighs 5.6 ounces , which is somewhat heavier compared to some other models. The cables are, unfortunately, round rather than flat and are therefore prone to tangling. The length is also quite long and may get snagged during workouts, since it does not come with a clip to attach to clothing. It is available in a classy black colour.

Additional Features

A mic and inline remote lets users make and take calls, as well as cycle through tracks on their phone or music device. As a bonus, there is a button-style volume control, which may not work with Android devices. Another minor annoyance is that the mic is on the left side as opposed to the right in many models.

Pros

• Decent audio, good noise isolation
• Mic, remote and volume control
• Secure fit

Cons

• Lengthy cable, tangles easily
• Lacks bass
• Mic on left side

                                           

7. Skullcandy Fix Earphone

Form and Function

Ergonomically designed to follow the shape of the human ear, the Fix’s buds are ported from the top, which creates a hook shape to better secure them in place. They do not have moisture-wicking properties, but the buds stay in quite firmly, needing only occasional adjustments when running or working out. Replaceable silicone gel tips in different sizes

mold to individual ears to deliver a comfortable listening experience.

Audio Quality

The Fix uses Supreme Sound technology, which aims to provide powerful bass, natural vocals and precise highs. Noise isolation is fair, with just enough insulation to drown out ambient sounds, but still enough for users to be aware of their surroundings. It plays well across most genres of music, although the sound gets noticeably thin and scratchy at higher volumes.

Design and Durability

The Fix’s design is basic and simple, measuring 2 x 1 x 6 inches and weighing 0.32 ounces. We would have liked to see a flat cable instead of a normal round cable, which will be prone to tangling. It comes in two colours, black, and orange and gray.

Additional Features

A mic and in-line control hangs down on the cable, but poor design puts it very close to the ear piece which can be awkward and uncomfortable for some. The control only allows for users to play and pause music, skip tracks and answer or hang up calls.

Pros

• Firm fit
• Custom-sized gel tips
• Comfortable
• Decent sound

Cons

• Sound distorts at loud volumes
• Round cable prone to tangling
• Awkward placement of mic and controls
• No volume control

                                              

8. Skullcandy Method Bluetooth Wireless Sweat-Resistant Sport Earphone

Form and Function

A wireless version of the well-loved Method model, these earbuds offer convenience by doing away with wires that may get in the way of your workout or run. It employs the same Dual Lock Fit technology, as well as Sticky Gel silicone earbuds, to ensure that they stay in place – although the latter tends to pick up dust and grime after awhile. They are sonically welded to be sweat and water resistant.

Although the buds are quite comfy, the Flexsport Collar may need some getting used to. The fit is tight and sits solidly on the neck, which can be uncomfortable for people with thicker necks, and is non-adjustable. The upside is that there is no danger of it slipping off even during intense workouts.

Connectivity

The Method Wireless has an impressive battery life of nine hours, which lets you play music throughout the day. The battery fully recharges in just 2.5 hours. It has a range of 33ft. Signals may drop periodically but is fairly strong and consistent.

Audio Quality

Like the wired version, the Method favours lows and bass, with clear and articulate mids and highs, as well as warm vocals. Its rich and dynamic sound signature will keep most listeners satisfied.

Design and Durability

The Method measures 7.3 x 5.2 x 1.4 inches, and weighs 3.84 ounces, which is not much heavier than the wired version. Colour schemes are limited to black and swirl. The only issue with its build is the lining, which pops out and makes the unit uncomfortable to use.

Additional Features

An in-line microphone lets users manage calls, while a simple button press plays, pauses or skips tracks. The wireless version has also upgraded itself with a volume control. There is a limited two year warranty on the device.

Pros

• Wireless
• Impressive battery life
• Good connectivity
• Sweat resistant construction
• Good sound quality
• Deep bass response

Cons

• Tight fit around neck, non adjustable
• Poor quality lining

                                                   

9. Skullcandy XTFree Bluetooth Wireless Sweat-Resistant Earphone

Form and Function

Taking a more unisex approach, the XTFree is suitable for both men and women. The unit comes equipped with Pureclean Tech, featuring sweat-resistant silicone ear gels, while the buds are sonically welded shut to prevent moisture from getting into sensitive components.

The fit is decidedly better than the Women’s version, with its TripleLock tech helping earbuds stay firmly in place even during vigorous workouts. It is also more comfortable to wear compared to the Women’s.

Connectivity

One of the main complaints with the XTFree is its connectivity, which drops so regularly that some users have likened it to early Bluetooth headphones. It has a purported range of 10 feet, but even at close range, the connection is unstable. The battery lasts six hours when volume is played at 75% and below.

Audio Quality

Sound quality has not improved from the Women’s version and sound average at best. The bass is fairly solid with fine highs.

Design and Durability

The XTFree has the same dimensions as the Women’s, but heavier at 5 ounces. Its material is high quality and durable. The unit charges via USB cable through a port on the left earbud. It comes in two colours, black and a rainbow swirl.

Additional Features

Utilise the microphone and remote to make and take calls or skip through tracks.

Pros

• Wireless
• Sweat resistant
• Secure fit
• 6 hours of battery life

Cons

• Poor connectivity
• Connectivity issues
• Average sound

                                                

10. Skullcandy S2FXGM-396 Bombshell Robin Smoked Purple Gold Earphone with Mic

Form and Function

Simple designs are often the best, and this is the Bombshell’s main draw. Like the Women’s XTFree, the earbuds are designed for women, with smaller buds that offer a more ergonomic fit. Although not specifically made for sports use, the gels are fairly sweat resistant and should stay put in most situations. An antimicrobial finish protects them from accumulating dirt and grime. One thing to note is that the controls are made to work with Apple products, and therefore not guaranteed to work with other devices. They still support plug and play, but users may not be able to utilise the full suite of functions such as the mic and volume control.

Audio Quality

The Bombshell is noise isolating, and works well for blocking out ambient sounds. For its price, it has a reasonably good sound quality that is clear and crisp, while the volume goes up fairly high. The clarity on the mic is commendable.

Design and Durability

Although not as lightweight as other models on this list, it is still considerably light at 4.8 ounces and measures 3.5 x 1.1 x 7.5 inches. However, the construction is not very durable and should be handled with care to give it a longer shelf life. It is particularly prone to fraying between the cord and jack. As it does not have a flat cable or clip to hold the wires together, the Bombshell is susceptible to tangling. It comes in three colours, namely black, purple and coral/clear.

Additional Features

A three button in-line mic and remote allows users to take and make calls, as well as skip through playlists. As mentioned, it works best with Apple products. Also included is a clasp case for easy storage.

Pros

• Noise isolating
• Antimicrobial finish on buds
• Clear mic
• Ergonomic fit for women

Cons

• Might not be compatible with all devices
• Cables prone to tangling
• Flimsy build

                                          

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