Shokz OpenFit 2 Review: Enhanced Open-Ear Audio Experience

The Shokz OpenFit 2 builds upon its predecessor with significant upgrades, delivering a refined open-ear audio experience. This review delves into the enhancements in comfort, sound quality, and battery life, comparing it to both its original iteration and the competing OpenRun Pro. We'll explore the impact of the new physical buttons, improved ear hook design, and the enhanced Dual Boost technology on the overall user experience. Expect a detailed analysis of the audio performance, battery longevity, and call quality, along with a comprehensive assessment of its suitability for various activities and lifestyles.This in-depth review covers all aspects of the Shokz OpenFit 2, from its comfortable and secure fit to its rich, balanced sound profile. We examine the advantages of the open-ear design for maintaining situational awareness, perfect for workouts and outdoor activities. We also analyze the improved Bluetooth connectivity, the enhanced battery life, and the useful features offered by the companion app. Ultimately, we determine whether the OpenFit 2 stands as a worthy successor, justifying its place within Shokz's impressive lineup of open-ear headphones.

Pros And Cons

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Design and Build Improvements

The Shokz OpenFit 2 boasts significant design upgrades compared to its predecessor. The most notable change is the inclusion of physical buttons, eliminating accidental touch controls during workouts. This improvement, combined with a refined ear hook curve using flexible nickel titanium alloy, ensures a more secure and comfortable fit for a wider range of ear shapes.

The earbuds also feature Shokz's Ultra Soft silicon 2.0 material for enhanced comfort. The charging case has received subtle refinements, featuring smoother edges for a more premium feel. These improvements contribute to a more polished and user-friendly experience compared to the original OpenFit.

The design prioritizes a secure, comfortable fit without compromising sound quality. The open-ear design maintains situational awareness, ideal for outdoor activities and safety. This combination makes them versatile for various situations, whether it's an intense workout or a casual walk.

Sound Quality and Audio Enhancements

The OpenFit 2 utilizes Shokz's Dual Boost technology, incorporating two dedicated drivers in each earbud. One driver handles mids and highs, while a larger 17.3mm driver delivers enhanced bass frequencies. This results in a richer, more balanced sound profile with improved clarity across the frequency range.

The larger bass driver (16% larger than the original) contributes to a noticeable improvement in low-end performance. The volume has also been significantly boosted, approximately 50% volume on the OpenFit 2 being equivalent to 65% on the original. This is particularly useful in noisy environments.

The improved sound quality makes these suitable for various music genres. The audio is crisp, and detailed, and the bass is well-integrated, creating a balanced listening experience. The open-ear design prevents the muffled sound often found in in-ear headphones.

Battery Life and Features

Battery life has seen a significant improvement, offering 11 hours of playtime per charge, compared to 7 hours on the original OpenFit. The charging case provides three to four additional full charges. A quick charge function provides approximately 2 hours of listening time with just 10 minutes of charging.

Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity ensures a stable connection with your device, minimizing dropouts. Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between multiple devices (like a phone and smartwatch). IP55 rating provides protection against sweat and rain, making them suitable for various weather conditions.

Beyond the core features, the companion app offers four EQ presets, two custom modes with five-band EQ for personalized sound, and customizable controls. The app also includes a "Find My Earbuds" feature, aiding in locating lost earbuds.

Real-World Usage and Performance

During testing, the OpenFit 2 earbuds remained exceptionally secure and comfortable, even during rigorous workouts. The improved ear hook design and lightweight materials contributed to a fatigue-free experience, even during extended use. The multi-function button was found to be incredibly useful for controlling music playback.

Call quality was impressive, with AI-powered beamforming effectively filtering out background noise. The reviewer's voice was clear and easily understood, even in busy environments. This feature makes the OpenFit 2 a practical choice for those who frequently take calls while on the go.

Overall, the OpenFit 2 delivers a seamless combination of comfort, sound quality and functionality. The open-ear design facilitates awareness of surroundings, a valuable safety feature. The physical button is a welcome addition for those who do not want accidental touch activation during use. This is perfect for individuals who lead an active lifestyle.

Comparison and Conclusion

Compared to the Shokz OpenRun Pro, the OpenFit 2 offers a more comfortable, band-free design. While the OpenRun Pro might offer superior security for intense activities, the OpenFit 2's comfort and ease of use make it ideal for a broader range of activities.

The Shokz OpenFit 2 represents a significant improvement over the original OpenFit, offering noticeable enhancements in comfort, sound quality, and battery life. While the improvements are incremental rather than revolutionary, they elevate the user experience.

Overall, the Shokz OpenFit 2 is a highly recommended choice for active individuals who value comfort, sound quality, and situational awareness. While not a dramatic leap from the first generation, the numerous enhancements make it the superior option in the OpenFit line. However, considering alternative models like the OpenRun Pro 2 depends on individual needs and activity level.