Shokz OpenFit 2 Wireless Earbuds Review: All-Day Comfort & Bass
For those who value situational awareness and all-day comfort, the open-ear headphone market has been a game-changer. Shokz (formerly AfterShokz) has long been a leader in this space, and their new OpenFit 2 series is here to raise the bar. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into the Shokz OpenFit 2 Wireless Earbuds and their upgraded sibling, the OpenFit 2 Plus, to see if they deliver on their promise of exceptional sound, secure fit, and ultimate comfort.
Table of Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Shokz OpenFit 2 series comes in sleek, premium packaging. We're looking at the OpenFit 2 Plus, which is identical to the standard model but adds two key features: Wireless Charging and Dolby Audio. Inside the box, you'll find:
- The OpenFit 2 earbuds in their charging case
- A Type-C to Type-C charging cable
- A warranty card and user paperwork
- A card with a QR code for the Shokz app
The total travel weight is a mere 76 grams, with each earbud weighing in at a feather-light 9.4 grams. The case itself feels solid, with a satisfying magnetic closure and no rattling parts—a small but important sign of quality.
Design, Fit, and Unmatched Comfort
Shokz has perfected the open-ear design for maximum comfort. The earbuds don't go inside your ear canal, which eliminates pressure buildup and makes them a healthier option for those prone to ear infections. They simply hook over your ear, staying securely in place.
The ergonomic ear hook is made from a resilient nickel-titanium memory alloy and coated in Shokz's "Ultra-soft Silicon 2.0." This combination provides a secure fit that is so comfortable, you can genuinely wear them all day without fatigue. A standout feature is the move to a physical button for controls. This is a welcome change from often unreliable capacitive touch controls, as it prevents accidental presses and ensures every command is registered.
Sound Quality: Powerful Bass Meets Crisp Highs
Historically, open-ear designs have struggled with bass response. Shokz tackles this head-on with their Open-Bass 2.0 algorithm. The result is surprisingly powerful and deep bass that you wouldn't expect from this style of earbud.
Sound is delivered by a large 17.3 mm driver, complemented by a separate, independent driver dedicated to handling higher frequencies. This dual-driver setup ensures you get rich, detailed highs without them sounding overly sharp. The algorithm also intelligently adjusts the sound profile at different volume levels, boosting the bass slightly at lower volumes so the audio never sounds flat.
For audiophiles, the OpenFit 2 Plus model is a must-have. It includes Dolby Audio support, which creates a more expansive, richer, and immersive soundstage.
Performance for an Active Lifestyle
Thanks to their secure fit, the Shokz OpenFit 2 Wireless Earbuds are exceptional for sports. Whether you're walking, jogging, or even jumping, they stay firmly in place. With an IP55 water-resistance rating, they can easily handle sweat and light rain, making them a reliable workout partner.
One of the biggest advantages is safety. Because they don't block your ear canal, you can hear ambient noises like traffic, cyclists, or pedestrians. This makes them perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, where situational awareness is crucial.
What about wearing them with glasses? The soft silicone ear hook rests comfortably alongside the arms of glasses or sunglasses. There's no noticeable noise from them touching, even during vigorous movement.
Battery Life and Charging
The OpenFit 2 series boasts impressive battery performance. You get a fantastic 11 hours of runtime on a single charge, with the charging case providing a total of 48 hours of listening time. Need a quick boost? A 10-minute charge gives you 2 hours of playback.
The standard model charges via a USB-C port, while the OpenFit 2 Plus adds the convenience of Qi-standard wireless charging.
Connectivity and App Features
Running on Bluetooth 5.4, the earbuds provide a stable connection. They also support multi-point pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously (e.g., your phone and a tablet). The audio sync is excellent for streaming videos, with no noticeable lag.
The Shokz app is straightforward and feature-rich. You can:
- View the battery percentage of each earbud and the case.
- Choose from EQ presets (Standard, Vocal, Bass Boost, etc.) or create a custom one.
- Customize the physical button controls (double-click, long-press, etc.).
- Manage multi-point connections.
- Update the firmware and use the "Find My Earbuds" feature.
Pricing: OpenFit 2 vs. OpenFit 2 Plus
The pricing places the OpenFit 2 series in the premium category, but the value is clear.
- Shokz OpenFit 2: £169
- Shokz OpenFit 2 Plus: £179
For an extra £10, the Plus model is an easy recommendation. The addition of wireless charging convenience and the superior sound quality from Dolby Audio makes it well worth the small price difference.
Final Verdict
The Shokz OpenFit 2 Wireless Earbuds are a phenomenal product for anyone who prioritizes comfort, safety, and long battery life. They have successfully solved the age-old problem of weak bass in open-ear designs, delivering a sound experience that is both powerful and detailed. With a secure fit for any activity, a great physical button, and an IP55 rating, they are a versatile companion for work, workouts, and everything in between. If you're in the market for open-ear earbuds, the OpenFit 2 series, especially the Plus model, should be at the very top of your list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are the Shokz OpenFit 2 good for running and sports?
A: Absolutely. Their ear-hook design provides a very secure fit that won't come loose during intense activities like running or jumping. The IP55 rating also means they are resistant to sweat and light rain.
Q2: Can I wear the OpenFit 2 with glasses?
A: Yes. The soft silicone material of the ear hook sits comfortably next to the arms of glasses or sunglasses without causing discomfort or transmitting noise.
Q3: What is the main difference between the OpenFit 2 and the OpenFit 2 Plus?
A: The OpenFit 2 Plus costs slightly more but adds two significant features: Qi-compatible wireless charging for the case and Dolby Audio for a more immersive sound experience.
Q4: How is the bass on these open-ear earbuds?
A: The bass is exceptional for an open-ear design, thanks to Shokz's Open-Bass 2.0 technology. It delivers a powerful low-end response that is typically lacking in this style of earbud.
Q5: Do they support connecting to multiple devices?
A: Yes, they feature multi-point pairing, allowing you to connect to two Bluetooth devices at the same time and switch between them seamlessly.
Author: Azeem_USA
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