Shokz OpenFit 2+ open-ear headphones – Open and lightweight mobile sound

Shokz, formerly known as AfterShokz, has become known for its bone conduction headphones. In recent years, it has also expanded its range to include open-ear air conduction headphones. The OpenFit 2+ is the latest of these and brings several improvements over its predecessor: Qi wireless charging, better physical buttons and fine-tuned sound. The design relies on Shokz's DirectPitch technology, and it also includes Dolby Audio.

The OpenFit 2+ fits most people securely and feels almost invisible in the ears. In our tests, they stayed in place during light jogging and at the gym, but during hard running or shaking the head, the headband could move a little. Compared to earbuds, the open design distributes the weight over the earhook, and the earpiece does not push into the ear canal, which makes the fit airy and pressure-free. The physical buttons are well-placed, they respond quickly, and only require a light press. This is a clear advantage, especially when moving, compared to many models with touch controls.

Battery life is still one of the model's strengths: around 10-11 hours on a single charge and up to 48 hours with the case. The charging case now also supports Qi wireless, and fast charging gives around two hours of playback with a ten-minute charge.

In terms of sound quality, the OpenFit 2+ achieves a balanced performance within the limits of its design. The midrange is clean and uncolored, the treble is bright without metallicity, and the bass is reasonable, although the deepest lows are of course exhausted by the level of earplugs. The Dolby Audio mode adds an additional sense of space to the sound and can work especially well with slightly muted recordings. The inevitable downside of the open-ear design is sound leakage into the environment. In public transport or in quiet spaces, the person next to you may hear the music. The Shokz app (Android/iOS) offers basic adjustments, EQ presets, a five-band equalizer, Multipoint support, and the ability to control the Dolby Audio mode.

The Shokz OpenFit 2+ is a successful update in the open-ear category. It doesn't radically change the concept, but it increases usability and comfort with small, practical improvements. The light and discreet fit, good battery life, and clear controls make it a viable option for those who value ambient sound and an open feel. The bass isn't as good as closed-back models, but the overall sound is pleasant and balanced.

Lightweight and comfortable fit
Long battery life and wireless charging
Clear physical buttons
Balanced sound (within the limits of the structure)

Lack of deeper bass
Sound leakage into the environment