Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating Fit, Up to 20 Hours Battery, IPX4 Sweat and Water Resistant, Microphone for iPhone Android - Flame
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AI Verdict
These are 6mm dynamic driver earbuds with 20 hours of battery life and IPX4 water resistance, designed for listeners prioritizing sound over advanced features on a tight budget.
These earbuds are a situational fit, offering a compelling package for their price band with 20 hours of battery life and IPX4 water resistance. However, the lack of Active Noise Cancellation and reported inconsistencies in microphone performance and touch controls mean they won't suit everyone's needs. They excel for basic listening and active use where advanced features aren't critical.
If you need active noise cancellation or a more robust microphone for calls, look for earbuds explicitly stating 'Active Noise Cancellation' and featuring multiple beamforming microphones.
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Pros
- Delivers clear audio with a palpable sense of thump in low frequencies, surprising for its price point.
- Offers up to 20 hours of total battery life (8 hours in buds, 12 in case) with 2 hours of listening from a 10-minute rapid charge.
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance means they can handle rain or workouts without issue.
- Includes three preset EQ modes (Music, Movie, Podcast) accessible with four taps on either earbud.
- Designed with 50% certified recycled plastics and 100% recyclable packaging.
- The in-ear fit is generally described as consistent, comfortable, and secure for many users.
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), relying only on passive sound isolation.
- The touch controls can be finicky, sometimes triggering the voice assistant unintentionally, and lack dedicated gestures for skipping tracks.
- Microphone performance is inconsistent, with some users reporting poor call quality.
- Does not support wireless charging, Google Fast Pair, or multipoint connectivity.
- Some users report reliability issues, including one earbud failing to pair or audio cutting out.
Dimension Scores
Users consistently report 'surprising audio quality' and 'clean audio' with a 'palpable sense of thump' in the bass for a budget product, despite some noting the bass can be 'a bit odd'.
The earbuds only offer passive 'noise isolating fit' and lack Active Noise Cancellation, which is a significant limitation compared to many competitors.
Many users find the 'ergonomically designed' earbuds provide a 'consistent, comfortable, and secure' in-ear fit, with some calling it the 'best fit I ever had'.
With 8 hours in the buds and 12 additional hours in the case for a total of 20 hours, plus rapid charging, the battery life is considered 'long-lasting' and 'good' by users.
Best For
- Budget-conscious users needing basic wireless earbuds for music and podcasts.
- Individuals who need sweat and water resistance for workouts or light outdoor activities.
- Listeners who prioritize passive noise isolation and a secure in-ear fit.
Not Recommended For
- Anyone requiring Active Noise Cancellation for noisy environments.
- Users who need advanced features like app control, wireless charging, or multipoint Bluetooth.
- Professionals relying on clear microphone audio for frequent calls.
Watch Out For
- The touch controls are finicky, with one user reporting the voice assistant randomly triggering when trying to pause.
- Microphone quality is a common complaint, with users stating the 'mic sucks' and call audio suffers.
- Reliability concerns exist, including reports of one earbud failing to pair or audio cutting in and out after a few minutes of use.
- The charging case feels a bit hollow and the plastic could be of a better grade.
- Some users with smaller ears found the earbuds too big, leading to discomfort.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 810145322901 |
| ASIN | B0DWVHDM7B |
| Brand | Skullcandy |
| Color | Flame |
| Material | 50% Renewable Plastics |
| Batteries | 3 Lithium Polymer batteries required. |
| Impedance | 16 Ohms |
| Generation | 3 |
| Model Name | Smokin' Buds |
| Form Factor | In Ear |
| Item Weight | 1.44 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB |
| Battery Life | 20 Hours |
| Control Type | Touch Control |
| Manufacturer | Skullcandy |
| Cable Feature | Without Cable |
| Charging Time | 2 Hours |
| Ear Placement | In Ear |
| Noise Control | Sound Isolation |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Earpiece Shape | Bud |
| Controller Type | Touch |
| Headphones Jack | No Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Noise Isolation, Sweatproof, Touch Control, Fast Charging, Preset EQ Modes |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 |
| Item model number | S2TAW-T967 |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Desktops, Gaming Consoles, Laptops, Smart Watch |
| Frequency Response | 20 KHz |
| Product Dimensions | 5.71 x 3.15 x 1.22 inches |
| Included Components | Charging Case, Ear Gels (S, M, L), Quick Start & User Guides, Smokin' Buds® True Wireless Earbuds |
| Input Device Interface | Bluetooth |
| Noise Control Features | passive_noise_isolation |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Specific Uses For Product | Gaming, Music, Sport |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Calling, Exercising, Office Meetings, Running, Skateboarding |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising finding is how often users praise the sound quality for such an affordable pair of earbuds, often stating they 'punch above their class'. However, this positive audio experience is frequently overshadowed by complaints about inconsistent microphone performance and finicky touch controls. Several users also reported reliability issues, with earbuds failing to pair or audio cutting out, which is a significant concern for long-term use. The build quality of the case also received criticism for feeling 'hollow'.
“Look, for the price, these sound way better than they have any right to, but seriously, the mic is trash and sometimes the left bud just decides it's not feeling it today. Super annoying when you're trying to take a call.”
Common Praise
- Sound quality is clear with a noticeable bass response, exceeding expectations for the price.
- Battery life of 20 hours total is considered long-lasting and sufficient for extended use.
- The in-ear fit is comfortable and secure for many users.
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance provides confidence for active use.
- The inclusion of three preset EQ modes is a valued feature for audio customization.
Common Complaints
- Microphone quality is poor, making calls difficult for the other party.
- Touch controls are often unresponsive or accidentally trigger the voice assistant.
- Reliability issues, such as one earbud not pairing or audio cutting out, are reported by multiple users.
- The charging case feels cheaply made with a 'hollow' plastic construction.
- Lack of an app for personalized settings or firmware updates.
Ownership Tips
- The touch controls require precise taps; a slight miss can activate the wrong function or the voice assistant.
- The lack of an app means you're stuck with the three preset EQ modes and no further sound customization.
- While sweat resistant, the case doesn't feel particularly robust, so careful handling is advised.
- If one earbud stops pairing, a full reset of both earbuds and re-pairing might be necessary, which can be a hassle.
- The included USB-C cable is short, and you'll need your own wall adapter as one isn't included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these earbuds have Active Noise Cancellation?
No, the Skullcandy Smokin' Buds feature 'Sound Isolation' for passive noise reduction, but they do not have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
How long does the battery last?
You get up to 20 hours of total battery life: 8 hours in the earbuds themselves and an additional 12 hours from the charging case. A quick 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of listening time.
Are they waterproof for swimming?
No, they are IPX4 sweat and water resistant, meaning they can handle splashes, light rain, and sweat. They are not designed to be submerged in water.
Can I use only one earbud at a time?
Yes, you can use either earbud solo, which is convenient for staying aware of your surroundings or extending listening time.
Do these earbuds have an accompanying app for customization?
No, the Smokin' Buds do not have a companion app for customization. They offer three preset EQ modes (Music, Movie, Podcast) that you can switch between using touch controls.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at wireless earbuds, you need to think about how you'll actually use them. Don't just get caught up in flashy features. For example, 'noise isolation' just means the earbuds physically block some sound, while 'Active Noise Cancellation' (ANC) uses technology to actively cancel out noise. If you're commuting on a loud train, ANC is what you want. If you're just listening at home, isolation might be enough. Also, check the IPX rating; a higher number means more water resistance, but 'sweat resistant' doesn't mean 'swim proof'.
Battery Life (20 Hours)
This number tells you how long the earbuds and their charging case will last before needing to be plugged into a wall. Think of it like your phone's battery life; 20 hours total means you can use the earbuds for 8 hours, then pop them back in the case for two more full charges (12 hours) before the whole package needs power.
IPX4 Sweat and Water Resistant
The 'IPX4' rating is like a weather forecast for your earbuds. 'IP' stands for Ingress Protection, and the '4' means it can handle splashes of water from any direction. So, if you're sweating during a workout or get caught in light rain, your earbuds should be fine. It's not for swimming, though, which would require a higher rating like IPX7.
Dynamic Driver (6mm)
The 'dynamic driver' is basically the tiny speaker inside each earbud that produces the sound. The '6mm' refers to its size. Generally, larger drivers can move more air and produce richer bass, but good sound also depends on how well the driver is tuned. For budget earbuds, a 6mm dynamic driver is standard and can still deliver clear audio if well-engineered.
Sound Isolation
This means the earbuds physically seal off your ear canal to block out external noise, similar to how earplugs work. It's effective for reducing some background sounds, but it's different from 'Active Noise Cancellation' (ANC), which uses microphones and electronics to actively cancel out noise. If you need silence in a loud environment, ANC is usually more effective.
Alternatives
If these don't quite hit the mark, look for earbuds with 'Active Noise Cancellation' if you need to block out more noise, or 'multipoint connectivity' if you want to switch seamlessly between two devices.
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