QCY has added a new contender to the open-ear category with the Crossky C50i, a clip-on earbud that arrives in China at 169 yuan. The model stands out not only for its low price, but also for features that are usually reserved for more expensive products, including LDAC support and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification.
That combination makes the Crossky C50i a notable entry in a market where comfort, awareness of the surroundings, and wireless audio quality are increasingly competing priorities. For users who want an open-ear fit without giving up too much sound quality, QCY is aiming at a very specific gap.
Open-ear fit with a reinforced clip-on build
The Crossky C50i uses a clip-on open-ear design that leaves the ear canal unobstructed. This approach is increasingly popular among listeners who want to stay aware of traffic, conversations, or other ambient sounds while still using earbuds throughout the day.
To keep the earbuds steady, QCY relies on a flexible C-bridge built around a 0.5 mm memory titanium wire. The company says the part has been tested for 10,000 bends to support daily wear.
The outer surface uses a soft material to reduce pressure on the ear, while an inner hook is added to help the earbuds stay in place during activities such as running or cycling. The earbuds also carry an IPX4 rating, which means they are designed to handle sweat and light rain.
Audio features go beyond the price tag
Sound performance is one of the main arguments behind the Crossky C50i. QCY equips the earbuds with an SQ Ohm driver that uses a composite diaphragm made from wool fiber and paper.
The company also adds a dedicated DSP audio module and software-based tuning to strengthen low-frequency output. That is a clear attempt to improve bass response, an area where open-ear earbuds often struggle.
LDAC support is one of the strongest selling points here. The codec allows audio transmission of up to 990 kbps, which is well above what many budget wireless earbuds offer through standard codecs.
The Crossky C50i is also certified for Hi-Res Audio Wireless and supports 360-degree spatial audio mode. To reduce sound leakage, QCY uses a 30-degree sound channel and reverse wave technology to aim audio more directly toward the listener.
| Key Audio and Design Details | Crossky C50i |
|---|---|
| Form factor | Open-ear clip-on |
| Driver | SQ Ohm driver with wool fiber and paper composite diaphragm |
| Codec support | LDAC, up to 990 kbps |
| Wireless audio | Hi-Res Audio Wireless |
| Special audio mode | 360-degree spatial audio |
| Protection | IPX4 |
Calls, app tools, and dual-device use
For voice calls, the earbud includes four microphones for noise reduction and wind noise suppression. QCY is also adding software features that go beyond basic playback controls.
The companion app includes real-time translation for around 30 languages and meeting transcription, both of which help the Crossky C50i stand out in its price segment. The earbuds can also stay connected to two devices at once, and a low-latency gaming mode is available for faster audio response.
Battery life varies sharply with LDAC
Battery performance is another important part of the package. QCY claims up to eight hours of use from a single charge in standard mode, while the 500 mAh charging case extends total battery life to 40 hours.
That figure changes when LDAC is enabled. In that mode, playback drops to about four hours per charge and up to 20 hours in total with the case.
USB-C charging is supported, and QCY says a 10-minute charge can provide around 1.5 hours of playback in standard mode. That makes the Crossky C50i practical for quick top-ups between short sessions.
| Battery and Charging | Crossky C50i |
|---|---|
| Single charge, standard mode | Up to 8 hours |
| Total with charging case | Up to 40 hours |
| Single charge, LDAC mode | About 4 hours |
| Total with charging case, LDAC mode | Up to 20 hours |
| Charging port | USB-C |
| Fast charge claim | 10 minutes for around 1.5 hours of playback |
Colors and market position
QCY is offering the Crossky C50i in four colors: Sea Salt Blue, Bright Moon White, Peach Pink, and Mist Gray. The charging case uses an iridescent finish that changes appearance depending on lighting.
The launch puts QCY into a growing clip-on earbud segment that is attracting more attention from established audio brands as well. Sennheiser recently introduced its first clip-on earbud with a 12 mm driver, LDAC, and up to 36 hours of battery life.
At 169 yuan, the Crossky C50i tries to combine comfort-focused design, high-resolution wireless audio, and a broad feature set in a budget package. For buyers who want open-ear earbuds without moving far up the price ladder, it is a direct challenge to more established rivals.
