Looking for open-ear earbuds that let you stay aware of your surroundings? The Shokz OpenFit Air Wireless Earbuds deliver exactly that. This review covers everything from the core specs to real-world performance so you can decide if they fit your needs.
Table of Contents
- Specifications
- Differences Between the Shokz OpenFit Air and the OpenFit 2
- Value for Money Compared to Similar Earphones
- Sound Quality
- Reliability of the Brand
- What Type of User the Earphones Would Be Ideal For
- What is the battery life of the Shokz OpenFit Air?
- Is there app control and EQ customization with the Shokz OpenFit Air?
- How water resistant are the Shokz OpenFit Air earbuds?
- Do the Shokz OpenFit Air stay secure during workouts?
- Does the Shokz OpenFit Air use bone conduction technology?
Specifications
The Shokz OpenFit Air use DirectPitch technology for open-ear audio. They weigh 8.7 grams per earbud and connect via Bluetooth.
- Active Noise Cancellation: No
- Case: Compact charging case that adds up to 22 extra hours of playback for a total of 28 hours
- Bluetooth version: 5.2
- App control and EQ?: Yes, via the free Shokz app with preset and custom EQ modes
- Water resistance rating: IP54 for the earbuds only (case is not rated waterproof)
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours per charge on the earbuds, up to 28 hours total with the case
They also support multipoint pairing and quick charging. A 10-minute charge gives about two hours of use.
Differences Between the Shokz OpenFit Air and the OpenFit 2
The OpenFit Air serves as a more affordable option compared to the newer OpenFit 2. It uses OpenBass Air technology and a smaller driver unit.
The OpenFit 2 steps up with DualBoost technology, longer battery life of up to 11 hours per charge, and a total of 48 hours with the case. It also upgrades to Bluetooth 5.4 and IP55 water resistance.
Controls differ too. The Air relies on touch controls while the OpenFit 2 adds physical buttons for more reliable operation during sweaty sessions.
At $119.95 (£94), the Air keeps things lighter on your wallet without losing the core open-ear design.
Value for Money Compared to Similar Earphones in the Same Price Bracket
Priced at $119.95 (£94), the OpenFit Air sits comfortably in the mid-range open-ear category. It undercuts the original OpenFit while offering similar everyday performance.
Other open-ear models in the $100 to $150 bracket often lack the same secure fit or app support. Cheaper no-name alternatives frequently cut corners on build quality and battery life.
You get solid value here if situational awareness matters more than maximum bass or noise isolation. The included case and quick-charge feature add practical worth for daily use.
Sound Quality
The OpenFit Air delivers clear and balanced audio for open-ear buds. Vocals come through naturally while bass feels present without overwhelming the mix.
At higher volumes some sound leakage occurs, which is typical for this design. The Shokz app lets you tweak EQ modes to suit podcasts, music or calls.
Overall the sound suits casual listening during activity rather than critical audiophile sessions.
Reliability of the Brand
Shokz has built a strong reputation over years of producing sports-focused audio gear. Their products consistently hold up through sweat, movement and daily wear.
The two-year warranty and responsive support reflect confidence in the build. Users report few connectivity drops or failures even after months of regular use.
What Type of User the Earphones Would Be Ideal For
These earbuds suit runners, cyclists and gym-goers who need to hear traffic or conversations. Office workers who dislike full ear blockage also benefit from the open design.
Anyone prioritizing comfort during long sessions or all-day awareness will find them practical. They work less well for noisy commutes where isolation matters more.
Top 5 Most Common Questions
What is the battery life of the Shokz OpenFit Air?
The earbuds provide up to six hours of listening on a single charge. The case extends total playback to around 28 hours.
Is there app control and EQ customization with the Shokz OpenFit Air?
Yes. The free Shokz app offers four preset EQ modes plus one custom option. You can also manage multipoint pairing and firmware updates through it.
How water resistant are the Shokz OpenFit Air earbuds?
The earbuds carry an IP54 rating for sweat and light rain resistance. The charging case has no water resistance rating and should stay dry.
Do the Shokz OpenFit Air stay secure during workouts?
The ergonomic ear hooks provide a stable fit for most users during runs or gym sessions. They rarely shift even with heavy movement.
Does the Shokz OpenFit Air use bone conduction technology?
No. The OpenFit Air relies on DirectPitch open-ear technology instead of bone conduction. This approach directs sound toward the ear canal while keeping ears open.
