Shokz has been making waves in the audio world with their unique open-ear technology, and the OpenFit Air are their latest and most accessible offering yet. These earbuds ditch the bone conduction of their predecessors for a more traditional air conduction approach, but keep the signature open-ear design that lets you enjoy your music while staying aware of your surroundings. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
Design and Comfort (10/10):
The OpenFit Air are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. Seriously, these are the most comfortable earbuds I have ever tested. The ear hooks are flexible and secure, providing a snug fit without any pressure points. I wore them for hours on end without any discomfort, even with glasses. The earbuds are also IP54 rated for sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
Sound Quality (7/10):
While not audiophile-grade, the OpenFit Air deliver surprisingly good sound quality for an open-ear design. The DirectPitch™ technology does a decent job of delivering clear audio with a respectable amount of bass, although it’s understandably not as powerful as you’d get with in-ear buds. The soundstage is open and airy, which enhances the sense of spatial awareness. These are perfect for podcasts, audiobooks, and casual music listening.
Features and Battery Life (8/10):
The OpenFit Air boast a solid feature set. They offer Bluetooth 5.2 for stable connectivity and multipoint pairing for connecting to two devices simultaneously. The touch controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls with ease. Battery life is rated at up to 28 hours with the charging case, which is more than enough for most users.
Open-Ear Experience (9/10):
The highlight of the OpenFit Air is undoubtedly the open-ear design. It allows you to enjoy your audio without completely isolating yourself from the world around you. This is a game-changer for outdoor activities like running and cycling, where situational awareness is crucial. I felt safe and connected to my surroundings while still enjoying my music.
Verdict:
The Shokz OpenFit Air are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfortable, open-ear earbuds that don’t compromise on sound quality. They excel in comfort, situational awareness, and ease of use, making them ideal for workouts, commuting, and everyday listening. While the bass response might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles, the overall sound quality is more than adequate for most users.
I highly recommend the Shokz OpenFit Air. They deliver a unique listening experience that is both liberating and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a way to stay connected to your music and your surroundings, these earbuds are definitely worth considering.