The audio world is buzzing with excitement, and for good reason. On April 15, 2025, Skullcandy launched its latest innovation—the Method 360 ANC Earbuds, tuned by Bose. This collaboration blends Skullcandy’s bold style with Bose’s legendary sound expertise, delivering premium audio at an affordable price. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who craves immersive sound on a budget, these earbuds are worth checking out. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Method 360 ANC a standout choice, why this partnership matters, and how it could redefine your listening experience.
Why the Skullcandy-Bose Partnership Is a Big Deal
For years, Skullcandy has been known for its vibrant designs and budget-friendly audio gear, while Bose has set the gold standard for high-fidelity sound and noise cancellation. Now, these two brands have joined forces, creating a product that promises the best of both worlds. Specifically, the Method 360 ANC Earbuds feature Bose’s audio tuning and licensed technology, ensuring exceptional sound quality and comfort. Meanwhile, Skullcandy keeps the price accessible, with an introductory offer of $99.99 (rising to $129.99 later).
So, what does this mean for you? In short, you’re getting near-premium audio performance without the hefty price tag. For instance, while these earbuds don’t match the elite noise cancellation of Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra series, they offer a compelling alternative at a fraction of the cost—potentially saving you close to $200. Additionally, the collaboration elevates Skullcandy’s reputation, making the Method 360 ANC its most advanced audio product to date.
A Fusion of Style and Substance
Skullcandy’s signature flair shines through in the Method 360 ANC’s design. Available in five eye-catching colorways—Black, Bone, Primer, Plasma, and Leopard—the earbuds cater to those who want to stand out. Moreover, the translucent charging case, complete with a carabiner-style O-ring clip, adds a practical yet trendy touch. On the other hand, Bose’s influence ensures the earbuds deliver on sound and comfort, with features like ergonomic ear gels and fit fins for a secure, noise-isolating fit.
Key Features of the Method 360 ANC Earbuds
The Method 360 ANC Earbuds are packed with features that make them a strong contender in the crowded wireless earbud market. Below, we break down the highlights to show why these earbuds are generating so much hype.
1. Sound Tuned by Bose
First and foremost, the audio quality is a standout. Thanks to Bose’s tuning, the Method 360 ANC delivers rich, balanced sound with deep bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. In fact, reviews describe the bass as “deliciously full” and the highs as “energetic,” making these earbuds ideal for various genres, from hip-hop to classical. Furthermore, the Skull-iQ app offers three preset EQ modes (Music, Bass Boost, and Podcast) plus a custom five-band equalizer, so you can tailor the sound to your taste.
2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Stay-Aware Mode
Next, the earbuds feature a four-microphone hybrid ANC system, which effectively reduces background noise for an immersive listening experience. Although it doesn’t rival top-tier models like Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra, it’s impressive for the price. Additionally, the adjustable Stay-Aware mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed, such as during commutes or workouts.
3. Long Battery Life
Another key advantage is the battery life. With ANC off, the earbuds offer up to 11 hours of playback, with the case providing an additional 29 hours, totaling 40 hours. Even with ANC on, you get 9 hours from the earbuds and 23 hours from the case, which is more than enough for long trips or busy days. Plus, a quick 10-minute charge delivers 2 hours of use, ensuring you’re never without music.
4. Comfort and Durability
Comfort is a priority, and Bose’s licensed ear gels and fit fins (available in three sizes) ensure a snug, secure fit for all-day wear. Not only do these enhance noise isolation, but they also keep the earbuds in place during intense activities like running or skating. Moreover, the IPX4 rating means the earbuds are sweat- and splash-resistant, making them perfect for workouts or outdoor adventures.
5. Smart Features and Customization
Finally, the Skull-iQ app unlocks a range of customization options. For example, you can reconfigure touch controls for actions like play/pause, track skipping, volume adjustment, or even activating Spotify Tap for instant music access. Other features include multipoint pairing, wear detection, and a low-latency mode for gaming or streaming. These additions make the Method 360 ANC versatile and user-friendly.
Design and Usability: A Bold Take on Earbuds
While the Method 360 ANC earbuds resemble Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in shape, Skullcandy adds its own personality. The glossy stems feature the brand’s iconic half-skull logo, and LED indicators enhance the modern aesthetic. However, the charging case has sparked mixed reactions. Unlike traditional clamshell designs, it uses a sliding mechanism, which some find bulky and less pocket-friendly. On the bright side, the O-ring clip makes it easy to attach to bags or belts, aligning with Skullcandy’s active, on-the-go vibe.
Inserting and removing the earbuds requires a bit of a learning curve. To simplify, hold the case upside down with the skull logo facing up and the carabiner loop pointing toward you. This ensures the earbuds slide out in the correct orientation for quick use.
How Do They Compare to the Competition?
In the budget ANC earbud market, the Method 360 ANC faces stiff competition from brands like Sony, JBL, and Anker. For instance, Sony’s WF-C710N earbuds are praised for their value, offering solid ANC and sound for a similar price. However, the Skullcandy-Bose partnership gives the Method 360 ANC an edge in audio quality, especially for Bose fans who love its signature sound profile. Compared to Motorola’s Moto Buds+, which also use Bose tuning, the Method 360 ANC offers a more stylish design and a lower introductory price.
That said, if you prioritize top-tier ANC, Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra or Sony’s WF-1000XM5 remain the gold standard, though they cost significantly more. Ultimately, the Method 360 ANC strikes a balance between performance, style, and affordability, making it a top pick for budget-conscious buyers.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Early reviews are glowing, with critics calling the Method 360 ANC “a gift to Bose fans on a budget.” Digital Trends praised the earbuds as “easily the best-sounding Skullcandy has ever made,” highlighting their comfort and audio fidelity. Similarly, TechRadar noted that if the ANC and sound quality live up to the Bose partnership, these could rank among the best budget earbuds of 2025. On X, influencers like Flossy Carter expressed enthusiasm, emphasizing the earbuds’ value at $99.99.
However, some reviewers flagged the bulky charging case as a drawback, suggesting it may not suit those who prefer compact designs. Overall, the consensus is that the Method 360 ANC delivers exceptional value, especially at the introductory price.
Should You Buy the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds?
If you’re in the market for new earbuds, the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC is a compelling option. Here’s a quick rundown of who these earbuds are for:
- Music Lovers on a Budget: The Bose-tuned sound and customizable EQ make these earbuds a steal for under $100.
- Active Listeners: With IPX4 durability and a secure fit, they’re ideal for workouts, commutes, or outdoor adventures.
- Style Enthusiasts: The vibrant color options and unique case design appeal to those who want their gear to reflect their personality.
- Gamers and Streamers: The low-latency mode ensures lag-free audio for videos and games.
On the flip side, if you need the absolute best ANC or a more compact case, you might want to consider pricier alternatives like Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra or Sony’s WF-1000XM5.
Where to Buy and What’s Next
The Method 360 ANC Earbuds are available now on Skullcandy’s website and select retailers for $99.99, though the price will increase to $129.99 after the introductory period. Choose from five colorways to match your style, and download the Skull-iQ app to unlock the full range of features.
Looking ahead, this partnership could signal more collaborations between Skullcandy and Bose, potentially bringing premium audio to even more affordable devices. For now, the Method 360 ANC sets a new standard for what budget earbuds can achieve.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds tuned by Bose are a bold step forward for affordable audio. By combining Bose’s sound expertise with Skullcandy’s flair and accessibility, these earbuds deliver a premium experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the rich audio, long battery life, or vibrant design, there’s plenty to love. So, if you’re thinking of new earbuds, check out the Method 360 ANC—you might just find your perfect pair.