Skullcandy’s Ink’d series has long been a favorite among budget-conscious listeners, and with the Ink’d ANC Wireless In-Ear Headphones, the brand takes a confident step into the active noise cancellation space. These neckband-style wireless headphones offer a compelling mix of features—ANC, long battery life, multipoint Bluetooth pairing, and Skullcandy’s signature sound tuning—all wrapped in a lightweight, travel-friendly design. At a price point that undercuts most premium competitors, the Ink’d ANC aims to deliver more than just value—it wants to be your daily audio companion.
Design and Comfort
The Ink’d ANC headphones feature a flexible neckband design that’s both lightweight and discreet. The band rests comfortably around the neck without feeling intrusive, and the earbuds are connected via short cables that tuck neatly when not in use. Available in matte black and deep blue finishes, the design is minimal and functional, with subtle branding and a soft-touch texture that resists fingerprints.
Skullcandy includes multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit, and the in-ear buds themselves are ergonomically shaped for long-term comfort. The passive isolation is decent, and when combined with ANC, it creates a surprisingly quiet listening environment. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or relaxing at home, the Ink’d ANC stays in place and feels unobtrusive.
Sound Quality and Audio Performance
Powered by 10mm dynamic drivers, the Ink’d ANC delivers Skullcandy’s signature Supreme Sound profile—emphasizing bass, warmth, and clarity. The low end is punchy without being overwhelming, making these headphones ideal for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop. Mids are smooth and present, while highs are crisp enough to keep vocals and instruments distinct.
While audiophiles may crave more detail and separation, the Ink’d ANC performs admirably for its price. The soundstage is intimate but immersive, and the tuning is well-suited for casual listening. Volume levels are strong, and distortion is minimal even at higher outputs.
Active Noise Cancellation and Call Quality
One of the standout features of the Ink’d ANC is its active noise cancellation. Using a quad-microphone system, the headphones effectively reduce ambient noise in everyday environments. While it won’t match the silence of high-end ANC models from Bose or Sony, it’s more than sufficient for blocking out chatter, engine hum, or background distractions.
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) also improves call clarity. The microphones isolate your voice during calls, minimizing interference from wind and background sounds. Whether you’re on a Zoom meeting or taking a call on the go, the Ink’d ANC ensures your voice comes through clearly.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another area where the Ink’d ANC excels. Users can expect up to 43 hours of total playback time, with around 9–10 hours on a single charge and additional power from the built-in battery module. Rapid Charge support means that just 10 minutes of charging provides up to 2 hours of playback—perfect for quick top-ups before heading out.
Charging is handled via USB-C, and while wireless charging isn’t supported, the fast wired charging compensates for the omission. The battery indicator is easy to read, and the headphones hold their charge well over time.
Connectivity and Controls
Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable and efficient wireless connectivity, with support for multipoint pairing. This allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously—such as a phone and laptop—and switch between them seamlessly. Pairing is quick and reliable, and the headphones remember previously connected devices for hassle-free reconnection.
Onboard controls are located on the neckband and include buttons for volume, playback, ANC toggle, and call management. The tactile buttons are easy to locate and responsive, offering a more reliable experience than touch-sensitive alternatives. Voice assistant support is also included, allowing users to activate Google Assistant or Siri with a long press.
Durability and Use Case Versatility
With an IPX4 rating, the Ink’d ANC headphones are resistant to sweat and light splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use. The build quality is solid, and the flexible neckband holds up well to daily wear and tear. While not designed for rugged environments, they’re more than capable of handling everyday challenges.
The headphones are particularly well-suited for commuters, students, and remote workers. Their lightweight design, long battery life, and effective ANC make them ideal for blocking out distractions and staying focused. They’re also a great choice for casual gaming and video streaming, thanks to low latency and consistent audio sync.
Verdict
The Skullcandy Ink’d ANC Wireless In-Ear Headphones offer an impressive feature set at a budget-friendly price. With solid sound quality, effective noise cancellation, long battery life, and reliable connectivity, they punch well above their weight. While they don’t compete with flagship ANC models in terms of silence or sonic detail, they deliver a balanced and enjoyable experience for everyday users.
If you’re looking for a versatile, affordable pair of wireless headphones that can handle music, calls, and travel with ease, the Ink’d ANC is a smart pick. Skullcandy has managed to blend practicality with performance, making these headphones a standout in the mid-range category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do the Ink’d ANC headphones support multipoint Bluetooth pairing?
Yes, they can connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them seamlessly.
Q: How effective is the noise cancellation?
The ANC is strong enough to block out everyday noise like chatter and traffic, though not as powerful as premium models.
Q: Are they suitable for workouts?
Yes, with an IPX4 rating and secure fit, they’re ideal for gym sessions and light outdoor activity.
Q: How long does the battery last on a single charge?
You can expect around 9–10 hours of playback, with up to 43 hours total using the built-in battery module.
Q: Can I use them for calls and meetings?
Absolutely. The quad-mic system and ENC ensure clear voice pickup even in noisy environments.
Q: Do they support voice assistants?
Yes, you can activate Google Assistant or Siri directly from the onboard controls.
Q: Is there a companion app for customization?
No dedicated app is required. All controls are handled via the physical buttons on the neckband.
