Shokz OpenFit 2 review: Open-ear design is a breath of fresh air for your ears
Open-ear headphones have evolved significantly from their early bone-conduction predecessors, offering enhanced comfort, improved sound quality, and a more immersive overall listening experience without compromising situational awareness. The Shokz OpenFit 2 produce a rich sound through air conduction while keeping your ears open to the world. I've spent the past couple of weeks living, cycling, and even DIYing with them, and they've earned a spot in my everyday carry.
Design
Shokz has refined its open-ear approach with the OpenFit 2. The curved ear hook design blends soft lines with robust construction. Each earbud weighs just 9.4g, and despite their lightweight feel, they don't skimp on build quality. A flexible nickel-titanium alloy provides a snug yet gentle grip, while the matte finish adds a premium touch.
The magnetic pogo-pin charging connectors snap neatly into the included case, which is relatively compact and practical. It's not flashy, but it's functional, with a USB-C port and clearly labelled LED indicators. The understated design feels thoughtfully considered, clearly made for users who prefer substance over style.
Comfort and fit
Using UltraSoft Silicone 2.0 and an open-ear design, the buds sit just outside your ear canal, delivering audio without the in-ear pressure typically associated with traditional earbuds. I wore them for hours on end, at my computer, cycling, and even while doing house chores, and never once felt discomfort or fatigue.
They don't budge either. Whether I was walking or cycling, they stayed put with zero slippage.
Features
The OpenFit 2 features IP55 water and dust resistance, ideal for sweaty workouts or unexpected drizzle. The headphones feature multi-point Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, allowing you to switch effortlessly between devices, such as your phone and laptop. I found this especially useful for listening to music on my MacBook Pro while seamlessly taking calls on my phone without needing to reconnect manually.
The physical button controls are refreshingly reliable, with no accidental taps or misfires. Each button has a satisfying, positive click, making them easy and reassuring to use. You can customise them via the Shokz app, which also offers EQ controls, firmware updates, and a 'Find My Earbuds' option. Unlike many rivals, there is no mandatory account registration required to use the app.
A 10-minute quick charge gives around two hours of use. Full charge yields up to 11 hours, with a total of 48 hours from the case.
Performance
Pairing is instant, connection is rock-solid, and latency is negligible when watching video content. The OpenFit 2 handles everything from podcasts to phone calls with clarity, thanks to dual microphones and effective noise reduction.
Ambient awareness remains high, allowing me to hear traffic and conversations around me, a significant safety advantage when cycling or engaging in other outdoor activities. Of course, if you prefer listening to music at higher volumes, it can reduce your ability to hear what's going on around you.
Sound quality
I'll admit I was sceptical about audio performance. Open-ear designs are typically lacking in bass and body. However, Shokz's OpenBass 2.0 algorithm, combined with a 17.3mm driver and a separate high-frequency unit, delivers a remarkably full-bodied experience.
Considering the open design, the bass is present, punchy, and well-controlled, even at lower volumes. The highs sparkle, vocals come through cleanly, and there's enough warmth to handle everything from acoustic folk to synth-heavy electronica. No, it won't replace your over-ear cans for audiophile sessions, but for an open-ear daily driver, it's superb.
Verdict
The Shokz OpenFit 2 are lightweight, secure, and sound far better than expected for an open-ear set. The all-day comfort, superb battery life, and strong ambient awareness make it a near-perfect choice for fitness-focused users and those who dislike in-ear designs.
€189 Harvey Norman
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