Skullcandy Ink’d+ Wired Earbuds Review: Conditional Buy Verdict
Starting with a surprising pattern, the Skullcandy Ink’d+ Wired Earbuds with Microphone - Black have maintained a solid 4.4/5 rating across platforms despite recurring complaints about cord durability and microphone quirks. Digging deeper into user reports, these earbuds score an 8/10 for casual listeners seeking affordable, comfortable wired audio, but they’re not without flaws for more demanding users.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes | Microphone quality inconsistent |
| Affordable price point ($9.95–$15) | Short cord length bothers some users |
| Decent noise isolation | Limited bass depth for audiophiles |
| Clear mids and crisp treble | No in-line volume control |
| Durable flat cable design (resists tangling) | Occasional build quality issues |
| Lightweight for extended wear | Reports of one earbud failing over time |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes a “sleeker design” and “comfortable, noise-isolating music experience” with “call and track control.” While the official spec sheet promises a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response and noise isolation, users found the isolation “decent” but not complete. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “They may not completely block out external sounds, especially in noisy environments.”
The brand highlights “custom-tuned” sound with bass “in your bones.” Many users praised the bass punch for the price, but Reddit user feedback reveals a more modest reality: “Sound quality is pretty decent… definitely worth the $15–$20 they ask,” without claiming overpowering low-end presence. This aligns with Best Buy reviews where the bass was described as “punchy and well-defined” but not subwoofer-like.
Marketing also touts durability via a tangle-free flat cable. Across Trustpilot and Reddit, this claim holds up well—several users reported years of use, with one Best Buy reviewer saying: “My second one lasted me through about 2 1/2 years of heavy and consistent usage.” Yet, others faced early failures, with a Trustpilot review warning: “Two weeks for them to go out… then the speakers and both buds kept coming apart.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Comfort is a standout. The lightweight build and multiple ear tip sizes make these earbuds suitable for long listening sessions. A verified Best Buy customer explained: “Once you find the right size, they stay securely in place, even during active movement.” This appeals to commuters and gym-goers who need a secure fit without constant adjustments.
Sound quality for the price is widely appreciated. While not aimed at audiophiles, casual listeners found clarity in mids and treble satisfying. An Amazon reviewer shared: “Bass is thumping without distortion, highs are crisp.” For budget-conscious buyers, this offers strong perceived value.
The wired connection earns praise among users who dislike charging wireless sets. A Reddit user reported daily use for a year “without problems,” enjoying stable playback from laptops and MP3 players. This reliability benefits those using older devices without Bluetooth.
Common Complaints
Lack of in-line volume control is a recurring frustration. Several Best Buy reviewers mentioned difficulty managing sound levels without reaching for their device, making them less ideal for movie watching or variable-volume environments.
Cord length, officially listed at 4 feet, feels short to some. One Trustpilot reviewer commented that “the cable could be a little longer,” which can limit flexibility for desktop setups or taller users.
Microphone performance is inconsistent. While some say calls are clear, others encountered unwanted ambient noise or sensitivity issues that trigger playback controls unintentionally. A Twitter/X report described: “Mic is a little too automatic, catches a lot of ambient noise.”
Durability varies sharply. Long-term fans boast of multi-year lifespans, while others experienced failures within weeks. These differences suggest quality control inconsistencies.
Divisive Features
Noise isolation splits opinion. Passive sealing works well for some, acting “almost like earplugs,” but others say it’s insufficient for loud commutes. This variance likely depends on ear tip fit and environmental noise levels.
Bass response is similarly divisive. Casual listeners enjoy the punch, but several Quora and Amazon comments note “flat sound” compared to other brands in the same price range, with poor treble and midtone separation for critical listening.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot feedback shows mixed reliability. Positive stories include earbuds surviving accidental washing and drying cycles, still functioning afterward. One Twitter/X user marveled: “They functioned perfectly… impressive they survived being doused and dried in over 100 degrees.”
However, warranty awareness is crucial. Some Reddit and Amazon reviewers highlight Skullcandy’s 2-year warranty, urging buyers to use it when defects appear early. Yet, there are frustrations with warranty credit rules, such as needing to spend the full amount at once.
Long-term fans recall buying multiple pairs over a decade, accepting occasional failures due to low replacement cost. As one Quora user put it: “I’ve gone through about 20 of these since 2007… but for the price, I can afford to get a new pair.”
Alternatives
Within the Skullcandy lineup, some buyers compare Ink’d+ to the Jib. Reddit discussion suggests Ink’d+ offers better comfort and possibly higher sound quality, though at a slightly higher price. Outside the brand, JVC and Sony models in the same range are cited for more consistent sound signatures, particularly for treble clarity.
Price & Value
Currently priced between $9.95 and $15 on Amazon and eBay, resale values are modest, often under $12 for new units. Best Buy promotions and multi-pack deals on eBay can drop cost per unit further. Community tips recommend buying in multiples to offset potential early failures—especially for users who heavily rely on wired audio at work or school.
FAQ
Q: Do Skullcandy Ink’d+ earbuds have volume control on the cable?
A: No, users must adjust volume from the device. Several reviews mention this as a drawback for movie watching or dynamic audio environments.
Q: How effective is the noise isolation?
A: It’s decent for passive isolation, especially with the right ear tips, but won’t fully block loud external sounds. Fit plays a major role in performance.
Q: Are they good for phone calls?
A: Mixed results—some report clear voice transmission, others note ambient noise pickup and sensitivity issues with the inline mic button.
Q: How long do they last?
A: Lifespan ranges from weeks to several years, depending on use and luck. The 2-year warranty offers some safety net for early failures.
Q: Are they comfortable for long listening sessions?
A: Yes, the lightweight design and multiple ear tip sizes help maintain comfort over hours of use, as many reviewers attest.
Final Verdict: Buy if you want budget-friendly, comfortable wired earbuds for casual music, calls, and non-Bluetooth devices. Avoid if you need studio-quality sound, in-line volume control, or guaranteed long-term durability. Pro tip from community: keep spare pairs handy and register for the warranty to cover early defects.
