Shokz also introduced the OpenRun Air 2 earbuds, which feature a design that wraps around the back of the head and prioritizes stability for runners. These are also lighter than the previous iteration, with a battery life of ten hours per charge and a five-minute quick charge for two hours of playback.
The OpenFit Air 2’s open-ear design avoids ear canal pressure and allows ambient sound, making it ideal for outdoor activities like running. The earbuds feature a proprietary Bassphere audio driver and OpenBass 2.0 algorithm, delivering “richer bass” and “fuller sound,” according to the company. The ergonomic ear hooks ensure long-term comfort, though some users note the design could interfere with glasses or hats. The earbuds also offer 8 hours of playback per charge, with 36 hours total using the included case.
The New Shokz OpenFit Air 2 Earbuds Are Nearly
Shokz released the second-gen OpenFit 2 at CES 2025 with upgraded drivers that noticeably improve sound quality, with more bass and better clarity. The OpenFit 2 weighs 9.4 grams, about a gram more than the originals, but features a redesigned ear hook for better ergonomics and 11 hours of battery life, up from up to seven hours. Both models use Shokz’s low-frequency enhancement algorithm OpenBass 2.0 (along with DirectPitch 2.0 on the OpenFit 2), addressing a common criticism of bone-conduction headphones. The OpenFit 2 also includes a physical control button, a feature requested by users who didn’t want to fiddle with touch controls while running or doing other sporting activities.
Shokz also introduced the OpenDots Air, a more budget-friendly option priced at AU$219 / NZ$249. Weighing 6.3 grams, it features rich, balanced sound via Bassphere acoustic technology with DirectPitch technology to minimise sound leakage, though reviewers noted a slight drop in comfort compared to its premium sibling, the OpenDots 2. The OpenDots Air’s battery life matches the OpenDots 2 with about 36 hours of total playback, but lacks the pinch-and-hold gesture for volume control. A review described the OpenDots Air as “a great option” for users who prefer not to pay the premium OpenDots 2 price, stating, You still forget you are wearing them because you can hear your environment fully – they just aren’t quite as comfortable as the OpenDots 2.
Shokz OpenDots Air, a highly recommended, more affordable open-ear
The OpenFit Air 2 and OpenRun Air 2 models share a focus on stability and minimizing bounce. The OpenRun Air 2’s design, which wraps around the back of the head, prioritizes stability for runners. Both the OpenFit Air 2 and OpenRun Air 2 are priced at $130 and available on August 27. The OpenFit 2, available at $180, was released at CES 2025 and is available in black or beige. The OpenFit 2’s redesign includes a slightly heavier weight (9.4 grams) but improved ergonomics, with the ear hook’s wearing curve altered slightly to improve ergonomics and wrapped in upgraded flexible nickel-titanium alloy and Ultra-Soft Silicone 2.0.
Shokz’s product lineup now spans multiple price points, from the OpenFit Air 2’s $130 to the OpenFit 2’s $180. The OpenDots Air is marketed as an accessible entry point into the range, offering rich, balanced sound
through Bassphere acoustic technology with DirectPitch technology to minimise sound leakage. The OpenFit Air 2’s app includes four preset EQ modes and two custom EQ profiles, while the OpenDots Air battery has almost the same functionality as the OpenDots 2 when it comes to gestures, though it lacks the pinch-and-hold gesture for volume control.
Shokz OpenFit 2 Earbuds Get Improved Design and Sound
Availability for the OpenFit Air 2 and OpenRun Air 2 is August 27, the OpenDots Air are available through shokz.com.au, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman and other participating Australian retailers at RRP AU $219 / NZ$249, and the OpenFit 2 is available for $180 at Shokz.com and Amazon. Shokz has also announced limited-edition jewellery-inspired accessories as a complimentary gift with purchase through the Shokz official website and selected retail channels for OpenDots Air.
Shokz’s commitment to refining open-ear technology is evident in the OpenFit Air 2’s improvements, including enhanced sound quality and a more ergonomic design. The company’s focus on addressing user feedback, such as the addition of a physical control button in the OpenFit 2, underscores its responsiveness to consumer needs. Meanwhile, the OpenDots Air’s affordability and performance make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. As Shokz continues to expand its product range, the success of these models will hinge on their ability to balance innovation, comfort, and value in a competitive market.
