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Introducing the Shokz OpenFit 2+
After several weeks with the Shokz OpenFit 2+, it’s evident that these headphones are worthy contenders in the best open-ear headphones and best running headphones categories. For runners looking for reliability and quality, the Shokz OpenFit 2+ is a commendable choice.
Comfort and Design
The over-ear design of the OpenFit 2+ may not suit everyone, especially for glasses wearers, but they still deliver comfort during daily commutes. The flexible nickel-titanium alloy ear hooks gracefully loop over the ears, with a snug driver resting against your temples. While this did affect the fit slightly, particularly with glasses, the sound quality remained unaffected. Interestingly, while I don’t typically wear glasses while running, I found this design to be quite accommodating during my activites.
Material and Durability
The “ultra soft silicone 2.0” covering is designed to be comfortable, even in sweaty conditions. Weighing in at just 9.4g, the OpenFit 2+ is lightweight, although slightly heavier than the original model. They possess an IP55 rating, making them splashproof and sweat-resistant, perfectly suited for wet climates, but not for continuous water submersion.
Audio Performance
Unlike bone-conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, the OpenFit 2+ features traditional drivers that direct sound toward your ears without completely blocking the ears. The headphones utilize four beamforming microphones equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and AI algorithms, allowing for clear calls—even if the claims about call clarity on windy days are somewhat exaggerated.
The audio quality is impressive, coming close to that of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds, our standard for open-ear sound quality. The addition of Dolby audio via the Shokz app significantly enhances the experience, making sounds richer and more pronounced.
Features and Controls
Experimenting with the EQ settings in the Shokz app adds further enjoyment to the listening experience. Options such as Vocal mode for podcasts and Bass Boost for energizing music enhance versatility during workouts. A “find my headphones” feature adds a layer of convenience to this already feature-rich device.
Stability During Activity
In terms of stability during exercise, the OpenFit 2+ excelled. They performed reliably during linear runs and trails requiring lateral movement, although they did shift slightly at times. The only moment of concern came during explosive movements in high-intensity workouts, when I felt they might slip off, highlighting a minor design quibble.
However, their flat design allows for comfortable wear even during sleep, making them versatile for various aspects of an active lifestyle.
Price and Comparison
The Shokz OpenFit 2 are priced at $179.95 / £169, while the OpenFit 2+ costs $199.95 / £179. The slight price increase comes with added perks like Dolby audio and wireless charging. This makes them a top choice for open-ear headphones without breaking the bank compared to other high-end options.
Overall Ratings
Category | Comment | Score |
Value | High-end for open-ears, but cheaper than Bose and marginally more expensive than OpenFit 2. | 4/5 |
Design | Comfortable and secure on the run, during commutes and during lateral movement. | 4.5/5 |
Features | Multipoint connectivity, advanced audio settings in-app, wireless charging. | 5/5 |
Performance | Outstanding on runs, wonderful sound quality, excellent battery life. | 5/5 |
Total | Misses out on a perfect score by a hair, but it’s an obvious choice for your next open-ear buds. | 4.5/5 |
Conclusion
In summary, the Shokz OpenFit 2+ are a reliable and secure choice for anyone actively seeking quality open-ear headphones. With robust features, comfort, and impressive audio quality, they provide a refreshing alternative without the high-cost burden of competitors. Their design allows versatility across different activities, making them a worthy investment.
For more in-depth insights on the Shokz OpenFit 2+ and how they compare in the current market, check out the detailed review here.
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