Shokz OpenFit 2 – The open-ear earbuds get an upgrade
Shokz OpenFit get a sequel, with improvements in design, sound, battery and controls. But are they the best open-ear earbuds under $200?
Shokz showed off their updated OpenFit 2 at CES 2025. Known for their bone conduction sports and communication focused headphones, OpenFit 2 are the company’s newest flagship true wireless earbuds. Open-ear headphones let the wearer stay aware of their surroundings, a favorite for exercise and social situations, while also protecting ears.
OpenFit 2 come with DualBoost technology. The single driver in the previous model is upgraded to two independent drivers, a high-frequency unit and 17.3mm low-frequency driver. These new drivers hope to deliver a balanced sound and also increased volume.
Enhanced sound also comes from the upgraded OpenBass 2.0 algorithm, which delivers powerful and deep bass tones. Sound quality and low frequencies in particular can often be a weakness of open-ear earbuds, so these hardware and software improvements will be welcome.
Improved DirectPitch 2.0 technology using advance engineering techniques optimize how sound is delivered to your ears, while minimizing sound leakage. According to Shokz, OpenFit 2 deliver clear sound, without disturbing those aroud the wearer.
Two microphones in each earbud along with advance noise-canceling technology and AI-powered beamforming algorithms, hope to effectively filter out background noise for clear calls.
Shokz has slightly tweaked the design of the OpenFit 2. Each earbud is just 9.4g. The flexible ear hooks, constucted with a nickel-titanium alloy, contour to the unique shape of your ears. Ultra-Soft Silicone 2.0 is softer than ever, providing a cushioning effect. The new design hopes to give a secure fit, personalized experience and maximum comfort.
The OpenFit 2 are IP55 water resistant, protecting the earbuds from light rain, sweat and dust. The case is not water resistant.
There are two methods of controls with the OpenFit 2, a physical button along the top and touch controls on the outer surface. These allow you to adjust the volume, play/pause music, skip tracks, answer calls and more.
With the case, the OpenFit 2 are good for up to 48 hours of total power. The earbuds alone will achieve up to 11 hours on a single charge. This is a significant upgrade on the 7 hours available on the first generation OpenFit. A 10-minute quick charge will provide 2 hours of listening. A USB-C to USB-C cable is included in the box. The OpenFit 2 case does not feature wireless charging.
The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.4 and multipoint pairing. This allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously for fast switching.
Customize sound in the Shokz app on iOS and Android. There are 4 pre-set EQ modes to choose from, including Treble Boost Mode, Bass Boost Mode, Vocal Mode, and Standard Mode, as well as 2 custom EQs to create your own sound profiles. The app also features find my earbuds where you can ring the device, customizable controls, multipoint device management, battery status and firmware updates.
Shokz OpenFit 2 are available in Black and Beige on Amazon for $179.95. Shokz’s entry-level true wireless earbuds, the OpenFit Air are available for $119.95. The previous generation OpenFit are available for $159.95, however with so many improvements, I believe the extra $20 is worth the upgrade.