Skullcandy Indy Evo Review

by Alex Chang
Skullcandy Indy Evo

In today’s fast-paced world, music and audio content have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. The demand for quality audio equipment has never been higher, and the market is teeming with options to suit every preference and budget. One such product that has managed to make a mark in the industry is the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the finer details of this impressive piece of audio technology, examining its features, performance, and value for money to help you make an informed decision.

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones come from a brand with a strong reputation for delivering reliable and affordable audio products. With a plethora of options available in the market, it is our goal to provide you with an unbiased evaluation of the Indy Evo and assist you in determining if this is the right choice for your audio needs. Our review will not only touch upon the specifications and design but also share insights into user experiences, comfort, and durability.

As you read on, we hope to provide you with a well-rounded perspective on the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones. Whether you are a casual listener or an audiophile, this review aims to give you the information necessary to make a confident purchase. So, sit back and immerse yourself in the world of sound as we explore the ins and outs of the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones.

Table of Contents

Skullcandy Indy Evo product information:

History of Skullcandy Indy Evo

Skullcandy, an American audio equipment manufacturer, has a reputation for offering affordable and stylish headphones and earbuds. The Skullcandy Indy Evo is one of the company’s true wireless earbud models, featuring improvements on its predecessor, the Skullcandy Indy. Here’s a brief history of the origin and creation of these headphones:

  1. Skullcandy’s Early Years: Founded in 2003 by Rick Alden in Park City, Utah, Skullcandy quickly gained popularity for its headphones that combined bold designs and affordability, targeting the action sports market.
  2. Expanding into Earbuds: As portable audio solutions became more popular, Skullcandy began to develop in-ear headphones and earbuds. Early products like the Ink’d and Smokin’ Buds featured colorful designs and affordable prices, allowing the company to establish a presence in the earbuds market.
  3. Embracing Wireless Technology: With the rise of Bluetooth technology and true wireless earbuds, Skullcandy started developing wireless audio products. They introduced wireless headphone models like the Hesh 2 Wireless and the Crusher Wireless, as well as wireless earbuds such as the Push and Indy.
  4. The Skullcandy Indy: In May 2019, Skullcandy released the Indy true wireless earbuds, designed to compete with other true wireless earbuds in the market while maintaining an affordable price point. The Indy earbuds featured a stem-style design, Bluetooth 5.0, and up to 16 hours of total battery life (including the charging case).
  5. The Skullcandy Indy Evo: Building on the success of the original Indy earbuds, Skullcandy introduced the Indy Evo in June 2020. The Indy Evo offered several improvements over its predecessor, such as enhanced sound quality, better call clarity, and a more comfortable fit. Additional features included an IP55 water, sweat, and dust resistance rating, a built-in Tile tracker for easy location of lost earbuds, and up to 30 hours of total battery life (with the charging case). The Indy Evo also featured touch controls for music playback, calls, and voice assistant access, as well as Skullcandy’s Ambient Mode, which allowed users to hear their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
See also  Top 5 Skullcandy Headphones of 2023

The Skullcandy Indy Evo is a testament to the company’s dedication to providing affordable and stylish audio solutions to a diverse range of consumers. By building on the success of previous models and incorporating consumer feedback, Skullcandy has created a true wireless earbud with the Indy Evo that offers a blend of functionality, design, and affordability that appeals to a wide audience.

Specification

SpecificationSkullcandy Indy Evo
Year of Manufacture2020
CompanySkullcandy Inc.
Official Websitehttps://www.skullcandy.com/
Fit TypeIn-ear
Item Dimensions1.4 x 3.5 x 5.5 inches
Item Weight0.15 lbs (68 grams)
Special FeaturesIP55 Sweat, Water, and Dust Resistant, Ambient Aware Mode
Driver Size6mm
Frequency Response20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance16 Ohms
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth Range33 feet (10 meters)
ANC ModesNot Available
Audio CodecSBC, AAC
Battery LifeUp to 30 hours (6 hours in buds, 24 hours in charging case)
Charging Time2 hours (for buds and case)
Quick ChargingYes (10 minutes for 2 hours of playtime)
ControlsTouch controls, Voice Assistant compatible
Price$79.99 (price may vary)
Skullcandy Indy Evo
Skullcandy Indy Evo

What is included in the delivery set?

The delivery set for the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones typically includes the following items:

  1. Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds
  2. Charging case
  3. Ear gels in three sizes (small, medium, and large) for a customized fit
  4. USB-C charging cable
  5. User manual and quick start guide
  6. Warranty card or information

Please note that the contents of the delivery set may vary slightly depending on the region or retailer. Always refer to the official website or product listings for the most accurate and up-to-date information on what is included with your purchase.

What about design, materials, assembly?

Design:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones feature a sleek, ergonomic design that is both stylish and functional. The in-ear buds have a compact and low-profile appearance, with touch controls located on the outer panel of each earbud. The earbuds are designed with a stem that extends downward, which not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also helps to improve call quality by bringing the microphone closer to the user’s mouth.

Materials:

The headphones are made of high-quality plastic materials that are lightweight yet durable. The ear gels are constructed from soft silicone, providing a comfortable fit for extended periods of use. The charging case, also made from plastic, features a smooth matte finish, giving it a premium feel. The case has a compact design, making it easy to carry in your pocket or bag.

Assembly:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones are assembled with precision and care, ensuring a high level of build quality. The earbuds fit snugly into the charging case, with magnetic connectors ensuring secure placement for charging. The USB-C charging port is located on the back of the charging case, and the case itself features an LED indicator to display the battery status. The ear gels can be easily replaced and come in three sizes, allowing users to find the best fit for their ears.

Overall, the design, materials, and assembly of the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones reflect the brand’s commitment to quality and user satisfaction. The headphones are not only aesthetically pleasing but also designed for comfort and durability, making them a reliable choice for users seeking a stylish and functional audio solution.

What about ergonomics and usability Skullcandy Indy Evo?

Ergonomics:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones are designed with user comfort and ergonomics in mind. The earbuds are lightweight and come with three different sizes of silicone ear gels (small, medium, and large) to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for various ear shapes and sizes. The earbuds’ angled nozzle and low-profile design provide a natural fit within the ear, reducing pressure and discomfort during extended listening sessions.

The stem design not only improves call quality by positioning the microphone closer to the mouth but also aids in the easy insertion and removal of the earbuds from the ears. Additionally, the earbuds are rated IP55 for sweat, water, and dust resistance, making them suitable for use during workouts and outdoor activities.

Usability:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones are designed for ease of use, featuring touch controls on the outer panel of each earbud. These controls allow users to play/pause music, skip tracks, control volume, answer/reject calls, and activate their device’s voice assistant without having to reach for their phone. The touch controls may require a slight learning curve, but they offer a seamless and intuitive user experience once familiarized.

Pairing the earbuds with a device is simple, thanks to the Bluetooth 5.0 technology. The headphones offer a stable connection within the standard 33-feet (10 meters) Bluetooth range. The charging case is compact and easy to carry, with a secure magnetic closure that ensures the earbuds stay in place while charging. The LED indicator on the case provides information about the battery status, making it easy to know when it’s time to recharge.

In conclusion, the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones offer a comfortable and user-friendly experience, with ergonomic design features and easy-to-use touch controls. Their IP55 rating for sweat, water, and dust resistance adds versatility, making them suitable for various environments and activities.

What about connection, control and software?

Connection:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones utilize Bluetooth 5.0 technology, ensuring a stable and reliable connection with compatible devices. This technology provides faster pairing, increased range, and improved power efficiency compared to older Bluetooth versions. The standard Bluetooth range for these earbuds is 33 feet (10 meters), which is sufficient for most day-to-day usage scenarios.

Control:

As mentioned earlier, the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones feature touch controls on the outer panel of each earbud, allowing users to manage their audio playback and calls without reaching for their phone. The touch controls enable users to play/pause music, skip tracks, control volume, answer/reject calls, and activate their device’s voice assistant. Although it might take some time to get used to the touch controls, they offer a seamless and intuitive user experience.

Software:

Skullcandy does not offer a dedicated app for the Indy Evo headphones. However, the earbuds are compatible with most devices that support Bluetooth audio, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The Indy Evo supports the SBC and AAC audio codecs, ensuring good audio quality and compatibility with a wide range of devices.

While a dedicated app could have provided additional features such as customizable EQ settings and firmware updates, the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones still deliver a reliable and user-friendly experience with their plug-and-play approach.

In summary, the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones provide a solid connection and easy-to-use controls, making them a convenient choice for everyday use. The lack of a dedicated app might be a drawback for some users, but the headphones’ compatibility with a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices ensures a hassle-free experience overall.

How’s the sound quality?

The sound quality of the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones is generally good, especially considering their price range. The 6mm drivers deliver a well-balanced sound signature that is suitable for various music genres and other types of audio content.

Bass:

The bass response is punchy and powerful without being overwhelming or muddy. It provides a satisfying low-end that complements most genres, particularly electronic, hip-hop, and pop music. However, it might not be adequate for users seeking a more bass-heavy listening experience.

Mids:

The midrange is clear and well-defined, allowing vocals and instruments to shine without being overshadowed by the bass. This makes the Indy Evo suitable for listening to podcasts, audiobooks, and genres like rock, acoustic, and classical music.

Highs:

The treble frequencies are crisp and bright, adding clarity and detail to the overall sound signature. However, some users might find the highs to be slightly harsh at higher volume levels, depending on their personal preferences and sensitivities.

Soundstage and Imaging:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones have a decent soundstage for in-ear headphones, providing a sense of space and separation between instruments. The imaging is also fairly accurate, allowing listeners to identify the positioning of different sounds within the audio landscape.

Overall, the sound quality of the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones is quite satisfactory for their price point. While they might not cater to the expectations of audiophiles or those seeking a highly customizable sound experience, they provide a well-rounded and enjoyable listening experience for casual listeners and those on a budget.

What about the energy efficiency and battery life?

Energy Efficiency:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones take advantage of Bluetooth 5.0 technology, which offers improved energy efficiency compared to older Bluetooth versions. This helps conserve battery life on both the earbuds and the connected device, allowing for extended periods of listening without draining the battery too quickly.

Battery Life:

The battery life of the Skullcandy Indy Evo is quite impressive for truly wireless earbuds in this price range. The earbuds themselves provide up to 6 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. The included charging case offers an additional 24 hours of battery life, bringing the total listening time to a maximum of 30 hours. This makes them suitable for daily use, commuting, traveling, or other situations where extended battery life is necessary.

Charging Time:

The Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds and their charging case require approximately 2 hours to charge fully. However, the earbuds support quick charging, allowing for 2 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, which can be very convenient for users who need a quick boost of battery life.

Overall, the energy efficiency and battery life of the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones are commendable. With a combination of Bluetooth 5.0 technology, a long-lasting battery, and quick charging capabilities, these earbuds are well-suited for users who need a reliable and long-lasting audio solution for various listening scenarios.

Comparison & Review:

What are similar headphones in features and cost?

Here are five similar headphones that offer comparable features and cost to the Skullcandy Indy Evo:

  1. JBL Free X:The JBL Free X truly wireless earbuds offer a comfortable fit, IPX5 water resistance, and up to 24 hours of combined battery life (4 hours in the earbuds and 20 hours in the charging case). They have a well-balanced sound signature and are suitable for various music genres.
  2. Anker Soundcore Life P2:These truly wireless earbuds feature graphene drivers for enhanced sound quality, 40 hours of total battery life (7 hours in the earbuds and 33 hours in the charging case), and IPX7 water resistance. They also offer quick charging, with 10 minutes of charging providing 1 hour of playback.
  3. 1MORE Stylish True Wireless Earbuds:These earbuds come with a sleek design, 6.5 hours of playback time on a single charge (with a total of 24 hours when using the charging case), and support for AAC and aptX audio codecs. They also feature a customized EQ setting through the 1MORE Assistant app.
  4. Sony WF-XB700:The Sony WF-XB700 truly wireless earbuds have a unique design, IPX4 water resistance, and up to 18 hours of combined battery life (9 hours in the earbuds and 9 hours in the charging case). They are part of Sony’s Extra Bass series, providing a bass-heavy sound signature that suits bass lovers.
  5. EarFun Free Pro:These earbuds offer active noise cancellation (ANC) at an affordable price point, 32 hours of total battery life (7 hours in the earbuds and 25 hours in the charging case), and IPX5 water resistance. They support wireless charging and come with touch controls for easy operation.

Please note that prices and features may change over time, so it is always a good idea to check the latest information on the official websites or product listings before making a purchase.

Compare with similar items

SpecificationSkullcandy Indy EvoAnker Soundcore Life P2Sony WF-XB700
Year of Manufacture202020192020
CompanySkullcandyAnkerSony
Official Websitehttps://www.skullcandy.com/https://www.soundcore.com/https://www.sony.com/
Fit TypeIn-earIn-earIn-ear
Item Dimensions1.4 x 3.5 x 5.5 inches3.15 x 2.05 x 1.18 inches4.3 x 2.36 x 5.71 inches
Item Weight0.15 lbs (68 grams)0.12 lbs (53 grams)0.18 lbs (82 grams)
Special FeaturesIP55 Sweat, Water, and Dust Resistant, Ambient Aware ModeIPX7 Water Resistance, Noise ReductionIPX4 Water Resistance, Extra Bass
Driver Size6mm6mm12mm
Frequency Response20Hz – 20kHz20Hz – 20kHz20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance16 Ohms16 OhmsN/A
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth Range33 feet (10 meters)33 feet (10 meters)33 feet (10 meters)
ANC ModesNot AvailableNot AvailableNot Available
Audio CodecSBC, AACSBC, AAC, aptXSBC, AAC
Battery LifeUp to 30 hours (6 hours in buds, 24 hours in charging case)Up to 40 hours (7 hours in buds, 33 hours in charging case)Up to 18 hours (9 hours in buds, 9 hours in charging case)
Charging Time2 hours (for buds and case)1.5 hours (for buds), 2 hours (for case)2.5 hours (for buds and case)
Quick ChargingYes (10 minutes for 2 hours of playtime)Yes (10 minutes for 1 hour of playtime)Not Available
ControlsTouch controls, Voice Assistant compatiblePhysical buttons, Voice Assistant compatiblePhysical buttons, Voice Assistant compatible
Price$79.99 (price may vary)$49.99 (price may vary)$129.99 (price may vary)
Skullcandy Indy Evo
Skullcandy Indy Evo

How do Skullcandy Indy Evo users describe their experience with these headphones? 

User experiences with the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones can vary, but here are some common themes based on customer reviews and feedback:

  1. Sound Quality: Many users appreciate the well-balanced sound signature, with clear mids and highs, and punchy bass that suits a wide range of music genres. Some users, especially bass enthusiasts, might prefer a more powerful bass response.
  2. Comfort and Fit: Users often find the Indy Evo earbuds comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the lightweight design and multiple ear gel sizes included. However, some users might need to try different ear gel sizes or combinations to achieve the perfect fit.
  3. Battery Life: The battery life of up to 30 hours (including the charging case) is praised by many users, who find it more than sufficient for daily use or travel. The quick charging feature is also appreciated for providing a fast power boost when needed.
  4. Connection and Controls: Users generally report a stable connection with Bluetooth 5.0 technology. The touch controls can be convenient once users become familiar with them, although some might prefer physical buttons or find the touch controls too sensitive.
  5. Durability and Water Resistance: The IP55 rating for sweat, water, and dust resistance is a plus for users who use the earbuds during workouts or outdoor activities. However, some users have reported issues with durability or functionality over time.
  6. Call Quality: While the call quality is generally considered decent, some users have reported issues with background noise or inconsistent microphone performance.
  7. Price and Value: Many users find the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones to offer good value for their price, delivering a solid overall listening experience without breaking the bank.

In summary, user experiences with the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones can be quite positive, with many appreciating the sound quality, comfort, battery life, and value for money. However, some users might face issues related to fit, durability, or call quality. As with any product, individual experiences may vary, and it’s essential to consider personal preferences and requirements when evaluating user feedback.

Pros and cons of headphones Skullcandy Indy Evo Review

Positive AspectsNegative Aspects
Well-balanced sound signatureBass might not be strong enough for bass enthusiasts
Comfortable and lightweight designTouch controls can be too sensitive for some users
Good battery life (up to 30 hours)Some users report durability issues over time
Quick charging featureInconsistent call quality and background noise for some users
IP55 rating for sweat, water, and dust resistanceMight require trying different ear gel sizes to achieve the perfect fit
Stable connection with Bluetooth 5.0No dedicated app for customizable settings or firmware updates
Good value for the price
Skullcandy Indy Evo
Skullcandy Indy Evo

Conclusions

The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones are a well-rounded pair of truly wireless earbuds that offer a good balance of features and performance at an affordable price point. They deliver a well-balanced sound signature, suitable for various music genres, and come with a comfortable and lightweight design. With a battery life of up to 30 hours (including the charging case) and quick charging capabilities, they cater to users who need a reliable audio solution for different listening scenarios.

The earbuds feature a stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection, touch controls, and an IP55 rating for sweat, water, and dust resistance. However, some users might find the touch controls too sensitive, and the bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts. Additionally, there have been reports of inconsistent call quality and durability issues over time.

Overall, the Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones provide a satisfying listening experience for casual listeners and those on a budget, but users should consider their personal preferences and requirements when evaluating these earbuds.

Our Review

Skullcandy Indy Evo Basic questions, basic answers:

  • Is Indy Evo noise Cancelling?

    The Skullcandy Indy Evo headphones do not have active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. They rely on passive noise isolation, which is achieved through the snug fit of the ear gels in your ears. While passive noise isolation can help reduce some ambient noise, it is not as effective as ANC for blocking out external sounds.

  • How do I get Indy Evo to play in both ears?

    If you’re experiencing an issue where only one of the Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds is playing audio, follow these steps to resolve the problem and get audio in both ears:
    1. Place both earbuds in the charging case and ensure they are fully charged.
    2. Remove both earbuds from the charging case. They should automatically turn on and enter pairing mode, indicated by LED lights flashing on both earbuds.
    3. Go to the Bluetooth settings on your device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) and forget or remove the Indy Evo from the list of paired devices.
    4. Turn off Bluetooth on your device, then turn it back on after a few seconds.
    5. With both earbuds still flashing, indicating they are in pairing mode, find the Skullcandy Indy Evo in the list of available devices in your Bluetooth settings and connect to it.

    If the earbuds are still not playing audio in both ears, you may need to perform a factory reset:
    1. Remove both earbuds from the charging case and turn them off by touching and holding the touch panels on both earbuds for 6 seconds.
    2. Press and hold the touch panels on both earbuds for 10-12 seconds. You will see a sequence of red, blue, and pink LED lights, followed by the earbuds turning off.
    3. Place both earbuds back in the charging case and close the lid.
    4. Remove the earbuds from the charging case, and they should automatically turn on and enter pairing mode.
    5. Repeat the process of removing the Indy Evo from your device’s paired devices list, turning Bluetooth off and on, and connecting to the earbuds in your Bluetooth settings.

    After following these steps, both earbuds should be playing audio. If the issue persists, it may be a hardware problem, and you should contact Skullcandy’s customer support for further assistance.

  • How long do Skullcandy Indy evos last?

    The Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds have a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 24 hours of battery life, giving you a total of up to 30 hours of playtime. The actual battery life may vary depending on factors such as volume levels, audio content, and usage patterns.

    As for the longevity of the product, the durability of the earbuds depends on factors like usage, care, and maintenance. With proper care and handling, the Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds can last for a couple of years or more. However, like any electronic device, individual experiences may vary, and certain components, such as the battery, may degrade over time.

Last Updated on October 14, 2023

Related Posts

Leave a Comment

en_USEnglish