Shokz OpenFit 2 Review: Notable Improvements with Sound Challenges

Shokz OpenFit 2: An Overview of the Latest Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds

The Shokz OpenFit 2, the latest innovation in open-ear wireless earbuds, made its debut at CES 2025, showcasing various improvements over its predecessors. While the design and functionality have been optimized, sound quality remains a concern for audiophiles.

Initial Impressions and Design Changes

Having previously tested the OpenFit Air, expectations were high for the OpenFit 2. The OpenFit Air was a solid contender with decent bass and only minor challenges regarding volume levels in busy environments. Unfortunately, the ear hook design was somewhat incompatible with eyeglasses, and the touch controls proved to be finicky.

Key Updates to the OpenFit 2

Priced at $179.95, the OpenFit 2 introduces several enhancements to improve user experience:

• Dual Speakers: Each earbud now houses two speakers—one tailored for bass and the other for mids and highs, significantly enhancing sound capabilities.
• Improved Volume and Controls: Volume levels have been improved, and each earbud features physical buttons for an intuitive user interface, simplifying track management.
• Battery Life: The battery life has extended to 11 hours from the previous models, significantly boosting usability during extended activities.
• Four EQ Presets: Users can now fine-tune their listening experience with adjustable EQ settings, catering to diverse musical preferences.

Testing the OpenFit 2: Real-World Applications

During testing, significant improvements were noted, particularly regarding ergonomics, especially for users wearing glasses. The redesigned ear hook is less bulky, making it much more functional.

While the OpenFit 2 showed marked improvement in volume and control, challenges remained in loud environments. For example, testing on the bustling Vegas Strip demonstrated a better experience compared to the OpenFit Air, as ambient noise had less of an impact on audio performance.

Battery performance was impressive, lasting approximately 10-11 hours per charge. However, the sound quality, while better than its predecessor, still left room for improvement. On listening to tracks such as "Unfair" by Stray Kids, deep vocals occasionally sounded muddled, diminishing the overall listening experience. The low-end distortion became evident during higher volume playback.

Sound Quality and User Experience

Sound quality is a critical aspect of any audio device, and for open-ear buds, expectations might need recalibration. OpenFit 2's dedicated bass drivers weren't as remarkable compared to the bone conduction technology employed in the OpenRun Pro 2, which delivers superior sound separation.

Nonetheless, for casual use—like listening to podcasts or working in quieter settings—the sound issues become negligible. For fitness enthusiasts and runners, traditional open-ear designs might still be preferable, though Shokz's flagship OpenRun Pro 2 might be the superior choice for those demanding high-fidelity sound.

Conclusion: Are Shokz OpenFit 2 Worth It?

Available in black and beige at $179.95, the Shokz OpenFit 2 offers several appealing features, especially for indoor use and leisurely activities. However, those seeking the best sound quality for running or high-energy environments may want to consider alternatives like the OpenRun Pro 2. Ultimately, your choice should align with your intended use—comfort during casual activities or superior sound quality for physical pursuits.

Explore More About Audio Technology

For those keen on learning more about the latest earbuds, check out the latest headphone trends for 2023. Dive deeper into audio technology by exploring our guide on how to make the most of open-ear technology.