Shokz OpenFit Pro: A New Era for Open-Ear Earbuds

The Shokz OpenFit Pro wireless earbuds introduce groundbreaking possibilities in the realm of open-ear listening.

Open-ear designs have long offered comfort and an unobstructed connection to both audio and ambient sounds. However, traditional designs face significant issues: their sound quality diminishes in noisy environments, and they lack traditional active noise cancellation. Shokz aims to tackle these with a novel approach.

Introducing OpenFit Pro: Challenging Boundaries

The Shokz OpenFit Pro, priced at $250, bring the company’s first attempt at noise reduction to an open-ear format. While the reduction doesn’t match the potent cancellation found in traditional closed earbuds, it does soften certain ambient disturbances.

For instance, during use, regular office noises like heater hums are noticeably diminished. While at the gym, it reduces the intrusion of environmental sounds and background music.

A Unique Feeling

Interestingly, the OpenFit Pro introduces an unusual physical sensation—an inward pressure that some users might find uncomfortable. This sensation can be alleviated by adjusting noise reduction levels, although this might diminish their effectiveness.

Enhanced Sound Experience

The OpenFit Pro boasts impressive sound quality with subtle advancements in bass and clarity compared to earlier models. Its dual-diaphragm drivers deliver a rich listening experience unparalleled by previous open-ear designs.

Incorporating Dolby’s spatial audio for the first time ever in open-earbuds, these earbuds expand sound dimensions without sacrificing audio quality. This feature is notably more impactful with Atmos content.

Although other brands like Bose may offer more convincing spatial audio capabilities, Shokz shines with superior call quality, effectively isolating the caller’s voice from environmental noise.

Designed for Comfort

Comfort remains a highlight of the OpenFit series. The redesigned speaker pods ensure stability with a snug fit, though some users might feel an increased awareness of the contact point inside the ear.

Its thoughtfully designed charging case supports wireless charging, although it sacrifices some portability. Additionally, Shokz has moved exclusively to physical button controls, providing users more straightforward interaction.

User-Friendly Features

The OpenFit Pro allows users to customize button functions for actions like managing playback and volume. Its wear detection sensors pause music when removed, enhancing usability.

On the battery front, it offers up to 12 hours of playback per charge, extended to 50 hours with the case. However, active noise reduction cuts these numbers substantially.

One downside is the absence of Bluetooth Auracast, which could revolutionize audio sharing in public spaces, aligning with the open-ear experience ideal.

A Step Forward in Open-Ear Listening

The Shokz OpenFit Pro makes a noteworthy attempt at integrating noise cancellation into open earbuds. While total quiet is yet to be achieved, they offer an innovative alternative for those who prefer open-ear designs in less than quiet settings.