Shokz OpenFit 2 New Features
Shokz has just dropped the OpenFit 2, and there's quite a bit to unpack. For those of us who value staying connected to our environment while enjoying music or podcasts, open-ear earbuds are a game changer.
The first thing that caught our attention is the significant boost in battery life. Shokz claims up to 11 hours on a single charge, which is a solid 4-hour increase from the original OpenFit. That's thanks to the new 58 mAh battery in each earbud. With the charging case, you're looking at up to 48 hours total. Plus, a quick 10-minute charge gets you 2 hours of playtime.
On the sound front, Shokz upgraded from a single driver to their new DualBoost technology. This means each earbud packs two independent drivers: a high-frequency unit and a hefty 17.3mm low-frequency driver. Coupled with the OpenBass 2.0 algorithm, these should deliver deeper bass and a more balanced sound overall. Open-ear buds often struggle with low-end performance, so this could be a big step up.
They've also introduced DirectPitch 2.0, which is supposed to optimize sound delivery while minimizing leakage. Basically, you get clearer audio without bothering folks around you.
For calls, each bud has two microphones with advanced noise-canceling tech and AI-powered beamforming algorithms. This setup aims to filter out background noise effectively, making your voice clearer on the other end.
Design-wise, the OpenFit 2 are lighter at just 9.4g per earbud. The flexible ear hooks are made from a nickel-titanium alloy that contours to your ears for a snug fit. The Ultra-Soft Silicone 2.0 material is supposed to make them even more comfortable for extended wear.
In terms of durability, they've bumped up the water resistance to an IP55 rating, meaning they can handle light rain, sweat, and dust. Just keep in mind that the case isn't water-resistant.
Control options include both a physical button on the top and touch-sensitive panels on the sides. You can manage volume, playback, calls, and more without having to reach for your device.
Connectivity gets a boost with Bluetooth 5.4 and support for multipoint pairing. This allows for simultaneous connections to two devices, making it easier to switch between, say, your phone and laptop.
The Shokz app lets you customize your EQ settings with four presets: Treble Boost, Bass Boost, Vocal, and Standard Mode. There are also two custom EQ slots if you want to fine-tune the sound to your liking. Other app features include 'Find My Earbuds', customizable controls, device management, battery status, and firmware updates.
Available in Black and Beige, the OpenFit 2 are priced at €200 in Europe or $179.95 on Amazon. Considering the upgrades in battery life, sound quality, and features, the slight price bump over the previous model seems justified.
