The Skullcandy EcoBuds are a new $40 pair of wireless earbuds that offer a low-stakes option for those who don’t need expensive or bulky headphones for every situation. What sets the EcoBuds apart is their eco-friendliness. Composed of 65 percent post-consumer recycled plastics and with approximately 57 percent less heavy metals than competitors, these earbuds have a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Skullcandy has made two main changes to achieve this. First, they use recycled post-consumer plastic for the case and earbuds. Second, they omit a battery in the storage case to minimize the use of heavy metals like lithium. This approach cuts the carbon footprint by 50 percent compared to similar headphones on the market.
The environmental impact of electronic waste is a growing concern. A UN report revealed that in 2022 alone, 137 billion pounds of e-waste were dumped worldwide, with less than 25 percent of it being recycled. The recycling rate of plastic in the U.S. is similarly low. By choosing eco-friendly headphones like the EcoBuds, individuals can take a step towards reducing their personal impact on the environment.
The EcoBuds’ eco-conscious changes primarily take place in the case. One noticeable difference is that the earbuds are not enclosed, relying on magnets to hold them in place. While this makes them susceptible to falling out and getting lost, the earbuds are IPX4 water-resistant, offering protection against rain and sweat droplets. However, without a lid, they offer no protection against dirt, sand, or other outside grime.
One major alteration to the EcoBuds case is that it doesn’t charge the earbuds. Skullcandy eliminated the battery in the case to reduce the use of metal, making it purely for storage. While this may be a dealbreaker for some users, the battery in the EcoBuds themselves lasts impressively long. With a battery life of eight hours, users can go almost an entire week without needing to charge them, even with regular usage. Charging the EcoBuds is simple, with a built-in USB-C port and a short charging cable that folds back into the case when not in use.
In terms of sound quality, the EcoBuds perform surprisingly well for their low price point. They produce immersive sound with clear vocals and distinct instrumentals. The bass is punchy, and the earbuds even offer a bass boost mode for those who prefer a stronger bass. While they may not have active noise cancellation, they provide a decent seal and volume to help drown out external noises.
When comparing the EcoBuds to other budget earbuds, they may not compete with pairs that offer features like ANC and a charging case. However, they fare well against more expensive options like Apple AirPods, which also lack ANC and have a shorter battery life. The EcoBuds are a great choice for those looking for easy-to-use earbuds as a secondary pair or as a first pair for kids.
Overall, the Skullcandy EcoBuds are worth considering for their impressive sound quality, eco-friendliness, and affordable price. While they may lack some features offered by other earbuds, they provide a solid option for low-stakes use. By choosing the EcoBuds, individuals can prioritize the environment while enjoying high-quality audio.