If you’re hunting for budget wireless earbuds with solid playback and long runtime, check this: the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds XT (Black) are now $14.88 at Walmart, down from $19.88—a $5 discount. That price brings surprisingly strong performance for entry-level listeners.
Pros
- Long battery life: ~8 hours per charge + 12 hours in case for a total of ~20 hours
- Three built-in EQ presets (Music, Podcast, Movie) let you adjust sound on the fly
- Bass-rich sound profile enhances hip-hop and pop genres with strong low-end punch
- IPX4 sweat-resistant for light workouts and a durable in-ear fit during movement
- Lightweight (~40 g total) and comfortable for long use with passive isolation
Cons
- Sound can be harsh—treble peaks cause sibilance and fatigue on higher-frequency mixes
- No companion app or customizable EQ beyond preset modes
- Bluetooth latency is high, not ideal for gaming or synced video use
- Reliability concerns reported by users: some note audio dropout or pairing issues over time
Why This Deal Is Worth It
For under $15, the Smokin’ Buds XT delivers features that many entry-level earbuds lack: long battery life, multiple EQ presets, and decent sound with punchy bass. While they lack finesse and high-end clarity, they pack strong value if you focus on price over performance. Compared to similarly priced earbuds, these stand out with better battery and built-in EQ modes.
Who Should Grab This
- Budget-conscious users wanting wireless earbuds under $20
- Commuters, students, or travelers needing long battery life
- Casual listeners of bass-heavy music like hip-hop, pop, or EDM
- Anyone who needs a simple, no-app-required option for calls and media
Lab-Tested & User-Verified Performance That Backs It Up
- Audio Score: 6.9/10 overall — neutral to slightly bass-focused sound
- Battery: ~8 hours per charge + 12 hours in case (20 hours total), with 10-minute rapid charge giving ~2 hours of playback
- Sound: V-shaped tonal profile—bass emphasized, vocals clear but treble harsh on some tracks; EQ presets help modestly
- Fit & Isolation: Lightweight with good passive isolation; earbuds are stable but may need adjustment during sports or movement
- Mic Quality: Average—functional in quiet settings, but struggles with noisy backgrounds
- Connectivity Issues: Some Reddit reports of audio dropouts, pairing failure, and case magnet weakness over time
