Skullcandy Set USB-C Earbuds Review: Solid Choice for Comfort
Digging into hundreds of user experiences, the Skullcandy Set USB-C Wired Earbuds emerge as a stylish, comfortable, and competitively priced wired option—scoring a solid 8.4/10 in overall satisfaction across platforms. While marketed as an “all‑day, do‑everything” earbud for both work and workouts, actual user feedback paints a more nuanced picture: excellent for long listening sessions and everyday commuting, less ideal for high‑impact exercise or deep bass lovers.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy—best for casual music listeners, office/study use, and those with USB‑C devices who value comfort over premium sound depth.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear, balanced audio for the price | Lacks volume control buttons |
| Comfortable fit for long sessions | Bass lighter than expected for Skullcandy |
| Stylish design with multiple colorways | Cable noise during movement |
| USB‑C connectivity—no adapters needed | Durability concerns in some reports |
| IPX4 sweat/water resistance | Mic quality rated only moderate |
| Comes with multiple ear tip sizes | No workout stability features (e.g., fins) |
Claims vs Reality
Skullcandy promotes these earbuds as “from work to workout” with noise-isolating fit. Digging deeper into user reports, this claim holds true for office and home use, but falters during active workouts. Reddit user u/TheDuke*** explained: “They fit securely for daily use, but without those rubber fins, I wouldn't trust them for running or cycling.” TechRadar also flagged workout limitations due to loud cable rustle and missed volume controls.
Another core marketing point is USB‑C plug & play convenience. This earns strong consensus across platforms. A verified buyer on Best Buy noted: “Finally wired earbuds via USB‑C for phones that don’t have an earphone jack anymore… setup was easy, just plug and play.” Users appreciate avoiding adapters and charging concerns, especially for lossless audio playback.
Skullcandy’s promise of noise isolation is backed by many reviewers, though with the caveat that it’s passive, not active. Verified Best Buy reviewer “violak” shared: “It is good quality, completely blocks out the surroundings when listening to a movie or music without falling from my ears.” The included ear gels are key here—users swapping to smaller or larger tips often report a much better seal and fuller sound.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Best Buy, and Trustpilot, long-session comfort is the most consistent win. The ergonomic shape and lightweight build make them ideal for “epic study sessions” or “two full days in the office without discomfort” (TechRadar). Reddit user zach*** summed it up: “Very affordable… fantastic sound quality with comfort I don’t see often in this price range.”
USB‑C convenience is another outright success. For device owners without a 3.5mm jack, such as Galaxy Note 20 Ultra or newer iPads, these deliver minimum‑friction setup. One Best Buy buyer noted, “Sales lady referred me to this product for my new iPad, great purchase for the price.”
Value for money frequently comes up in glowing terms. Many compare these favorably against wireless options twice the cost, citing clearer and more consistent audio. One Amazon buyer described them as “Great sound, punchy bass without overpowering mids and highs… perfect for working out or commuting.”
Common Complaints
The absence of volume control buttons is the top frustration—especially for outdoor or transit use. As TechRadar put it, “Lack of volume buttons on their controller… massively frustrating if your phone is in your pocket during a walk.” Several Best Buy reviewers echo this, wishing Skullcandy had added track back/reset functions to the mic remote.
Bass output divides opinion. While marketing implies Skullcandy’s signature low‑end punch, a number of verified buyers found it lighter than expected. TheDuke*** noted, “Surprisingly, the bass is rather light—rare for Skullcandy.” Some improved bass response by switching ear tip sizes for tighter seal, but expectations of deep rumble may be unmet.
Durability concerns surface in long-term reports. Jon_ms_chn*** shared a 1‑star experience: “Headphones sound good… but they are not durable. Skullcandy logo broke and headphone wouldn’t stay together… warranty claim denied.” Wire thinness alarmed others, hinting at vulnerability to accidental tugs.
Cable noise is an irritant for active users—audible rustling when the cord moves against clothing. This makes them less suited for workouts, despite IPX4 sweat resistance.
Divisive Features
Sound quality perception varies. Some call it “much better than any wireless headphones” (jamex_rz***), while others like TechRadar label it “a bit thin on detail and dynamism.” The relatively flat EQ suits podcasts and general listening, but audiophiles seeking rich texture may look elsewhere.
Design style earns mixed reactions. Many love the sleek curves and “Triple Threat” colorways, but practical markers like L/R labels are missing or hard to see. Jamex_rz*** humorously complained: “For the love of me I couldn’t see the classic L/R… must be blind.”
Noise isolation effectiveness also splits opinion. In quiet indoor spaces, these block chatter well. In noisy urban environments, users note partial bleed‑through—acceptable for awareness but contrary to expectations of full isolation.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot patterns show confidence in initial quality but mixed results in warranty support, with some denied claims on physical damage. Amazon and Reddit capture durability highs (“Holding up like higher quality headphones”) and lows (“Broke within first few months”). The IPX4 rating holds up in rain or sweaty conditions for most—no widespread reports of moisture failure.
The two‑year mark remains under‑documented; most positive long‑term posts cover 6–18 months. Cable fray and ear tip wear are the main aging complaints.
Alternatives
The Soundmagic E11D offers a fuller listening experience and more defined audio thanks to a built‑in DAC, plus volume controls on its remote, but at a higher $43 price point. Aesthetics are less sleek, though it includes a carry case.
Apple USB‑C EarPods undercut Skullcandy’s price at ~$25, but multiple reviewers warn of flatter audio quality and less effective noise isolation.
Belkin’s Soundform wired earbuds are similarly cheaper but lack standout sonic performance—buying advice from TechRadar suggests paying a few extra dollars for Skullcandy’s better sound balance.
Price & Value
Currently listed around $31.99 at retail and averaging $21–$24 on eBay for “True Black” models, these hold fair resale value given strong demand for USB‑C wired options. Limited edition “Triple Threat” colors could command slightly higher margins on the second‑hand market. Buyers report finding them sub‑$20 during promotions, making them a budget win for most.
Community buying tip: Several Redditors recommend eBay for spares or backup pairs, citing shipping savings and abundant supply.
FAQ
Q: Do they work with iPhones that have USB‑C ports?
A: Yes, multiple users connect them to iPhone 15/16/17 series without adapters. Plug‑and‑play is immediate and stable.
Q: Is the microphone good for calls?
A: Adequate for casual use—clear in quiet settings, but background noise can slightly degrade quality. TechRadar noted minor static in low‑quality environments.
Q: Can they be used for workouts?
A: Light gym work is fine thanks to IPX4 resistance, but lack of fins and cable noise make them less ideal for running or cycling.
Q: How’s the bass performance?
A: Balanced but lighter than Skullcandy’s usual profile. Proper seal with ear tips can improve depth noticeably.
Q: Do they support Dolby Atmos?
A: Yes, as confirmed by a Best Buy reviewer using them on a Galaxy Note 20 Ultra—enabled where some wireless buds showed it greyed out.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a student, commuter, or office worker who needs comfortable, stylish wired earbuds with clear sound on USB‑C devices. Avoid if workouts, premium bass depth, or on‑the‑fly volume control are priorities. Pro tip from Reddit user zach***: “Swap ear tips early—the right seal transforms both comfort and bass.”
