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Skullcandy Set Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£25
Avg. price in US: ~$30
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Skullcandy Set review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.9

Good

5.2

Good

8.6

Excellent

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
3.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
10
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
7.4
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
5.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Skullcandy Set is a wired in-ear sport earbud featuring 9mm dynamic drivers that deliver a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response with 16 ohms impedance and 94dB sensitivity. Designed for active use, it boasts an IPX4 sweat and water-resistant rating and utilizes Secure FitFin technology for a stable, noise-isolating fit. Its primary pros include reliable USB-C or 3.5mm plug-and-play connectivity, a lightweight 15g build, and an in-line microphone with integrated call and track controls. However, common cons include a lack of dedicated volume buttons on some models, a sound profile that may feel thin or lacking deep bass for some users, and reported issues with the durability of its thin cables.

Technical Specifications of Skullcandy Set

Overall score

5.9

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.1

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

4.5

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

5.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

7.8

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

8.3

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Skullcandy

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Skullcandy Set vs the average headphone

Why is Skullcandy Set better than the average headphone?

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93.1% lower weight
Skullcandy Set is lighter than the average headphone (15 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Skullcandy Set is lighter than the average headphone (15 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.15 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Skullcandy Set includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Skullcandy Set includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Skullcandy Set includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Skullcandy Set includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
0.2 % lower distortion
Skullcandy Set has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Skullcandy Set has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
USB-C charging
Skullcandy Set uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
What it is: Uses USB-C connector for charging or data
When it matters: When you want to charge with the same cable family used by your phone, tablet, laptop, or other daily devices.
Importance: LOW
Skullcandy Set uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Water resistance
Skullcandy Set is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
IPX4
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: MEDIUM
Skullcandy Set is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
3.6x cheaper
Skullcandy Set is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).
Skullcandy Set is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).£25 vs £90
2.15x more popular
Skullcandy Set is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
Skullcandy Set is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
93.1% lower weight
Skullcandy Set is lighter than the average headphone (15 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
Skullcandy Set is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
0.2 % lower distortion
Skullcandy Set has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
USB-C charging
Skullcandy Set uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Skullcandy Set includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Skullcandy Set includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Skullcandy Set worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Skullcandy Set has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Skullcandy Set does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
31 mm smaller driver size
Skullcandy Set has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Skullcandy Set has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Skullcandy Set has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
No neodymium magnet
Skullcandy Set does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
16 dB lower max SPL
Skullcandy Set has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
9 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Skullcandy Set has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
31 mm smaller driver size
Skullcandy Set has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Skullcandy Set has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.9 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Skullcandy Set has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Skullcandy Set has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Skullcandy Set has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Skullcandy Set has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Skullcandy Set has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Skullcandy Set has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
No travel bag
Skullcandy Set does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Skullcandy Set does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No neodymium magnet
Skullcandy Set does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
What it is: Uses neodymium magnets for stronger, clearer sound
When it matters: When driver construction details are part of how you compare sound hardware.
Importance: LOW
Skullcandy Set does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
16 dB lower max SPL
Skullcandy Set has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Skullcandy Set has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.94 dB vs 110 dB
9 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Skullcandy Set has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Skullcandy Set has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of Skullcandy Set and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Skullcandy Set?

Secure and comfortable fit suitable for long listening sessions and workouts
Affordable price point offering high value for budget-conscious users
IPX4 sweat and water resistance provides durability during exercise
Plug-and-play simplicity via USB-C or Lightning connectors for modern devices
Effective passive noise isolation due to the snug earbud seal
Includes multiple sizes of silicone ear gels to ensure a proper fit for different ear shapes

What customers dislike about Skullcandy Set?

Lack of integrated volume control buttons on the in-line remote
Audible cable noise (microphonics) when the wire rubs against clothing
Inconsistent bass performance; some users find it lighter than typical Skullcandy profiles
Durability concerns regarding thin wiring and long-term build quality
Limited track navigation functionality (difficulty using triple-click to restart tracks)
Absence of a carrying case for storage and protection

Expert reviews

deccanchronicle.com

13/02/2019

Skullcandy Set review: Earphones for a no-nonsense workout

Review Summary The Skullcandy Set is a wired, 3.5mm in-ear sports headphone priced at Rs 2,999 that is specifically built to withstand intense workout routines. On the positive side, these earphones offer a highly secure and locked-in fit during strenuous movements thanks to their angled earbud design and proprietary "FitFin" ear gels, which also provide excellent passive noise...Read more

m.economictimes.com

31/01/2019

Skullcandy Set review: Single-button in-line control works for music & answering calls

The Skullcandy Set is a pair of water-resistant, wired sports earbuds tailored specifically for fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers. Equipped with a right-angled 3.5mm jack to prevent cable damage while in a pocket, the earphones feature a sensitive single-button in-line microphone and remote that easily handles music playback and phone calls. The earbuds provide high audio clarity...Read more

techradar.com

07/06/2024

Skullcandy Set USB-C review: decent sound and all-day comfort

Review Summary The Skullcandy Set USB-C earbuds are a modern, entry-level wired option retailing at $31.99 / £29.99, available in True Black or three vibrant "Triple Threat" colorways (Sunset, Snow, and Ocean). A key highlight of these earbuds is their exceptional comfort; the included noise-isolating ear gels provide a secure, irritation-free fit suitable for multi-hour office or...Read more

it.trustpilot.com

25/04/2026

Skullcandy (US) Reviews and User Experience Testing in Italy

Overview of Skullcandy (US) Reviews The Skullcandy (US) Trustpilot profile holds a 4.2 out of 5 stars TrustScore based on 2,006 reviews, indicating a generally high level of customer satisfaction. Reviewers consistently praise the brand's fast, friendly, and helpful customer support, noting positive experiences with successful product replacements and financial resolution processes....Read more

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