I recently tested out open-ear headphones with bone conduction technology, and I'm here to share my experience and help you decide which type of headphones are best for your active lifestyle. The battle between open-ear and traditional earbuds is a hot topic, and I'm about to reveal my findings!
About a year ago, I accidentally lost my beloved Shokz OpenRun bone conduction headphones during a group cycling adventure. These headphones were a game-changer for me because they allowed me to listen to music or follow GPS directions while keeping my ears free to stay aware of my surroundings. Since then, I've been on a mission to find a suitable replacement.
While my trusty AirPods Pro 2 are excellent all-rounders, they're not my first choice for workouts. I worry about them falling out during intense sessions, and wearing them for extended periods can be uncomfortable. Plus, their in-ear design makes them less practical for cycling.
Noise Reduction vs. Cancellation: A Crucial Distinction
The Shokz OpenFit Pro boasts noise reduction technology, which is different from the active noise cancellation (ANC) found in top-tier earbuds and over-ear headphones. When I tested the OpenFit Pro's noise reduction feature in an office environment, it worked wonders. Ambient noises like street sounds and fan whirring disappeared, but I could still hear my colleagues' conversations clearly. However, outside in the open air, the noise reduction feature fell short. Even at maximum volume, the OpenFit Pro struggled to overcome surrounding noise, making it less effective for outdoor workouts.
The OpenFit Pro's Strength: Workouts
Despite the noise reduction limitations, the OpenFit Pro truly shines during workouts. Unlike my colleague who tested these buds, I found the noise reduction feature to be a game-changer while running. I could enjoy my workout music without cranking the volume to dangerous levels. However, for cycling, I had to increase the volume significantly, similar to my experience with the bone-conduction Shokz OpenRun.
Price vs. Performance: A Tough Call
The OpenFit Pro's price tag of $249 / £219 / AU$399 puts it in direct competition with some of the best noise-canceling earbuds on the market. While the audio quality is exceptional for open-ear headphones, I struggled to justify the cost. There are more affordable options that deliver similar, if not better, sound quality, such as the EarFun Air Pro 4+ and JLab JBuds Mini.
Controls: A Frustrating Experience
The OpenFit Pro's control scheme left me frustrated. Unlike the simple dedicated volume buttons on the Shokz OpenRun, the OpenFit Pro has two multifunction buttons on each side. Adjusting the volume requires a series of long presses, which is cumbersome and often resulted in unintentionally skipping tracks. I found myself relying on my phone's volume controls after a few days of use.
Comfort: A Bright Spot
Despite the control issues, the OpenFit Pro excels in comfort. The earbuds felt lightweight and secure, with earhooks that kept them in place during runs, badminton games, and even cycling. The ear tips may not fit everyone perfectly, but for me, they provided an excellent seal without any discomfort.
The Verdict: A Niche Product
At its price point, the OpenFit Pro is Shokz's most expensive offering. While the noise reduction technology and audio quality are impressive, I find it challenging to recommend them at this price. The OpenFit Pro is best suited for gym workouts or outdoor exercises, limiting its daily use. For those seeking awareness of their surroundings while listening to music or podcasts, bone conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun or OpenRun Pro 2 are more affordable and frequently discounted options.
The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider the OpenFit Pro?
The Shokz OpenFit Pro is ideal for individuals who prefer open-ear headphones over earbuds or over-ears and prioritize audio quality above all else. If you find earbuds invasive or have health reasons that prevent their use, the OpenFit Pro could be a suitable alternative. However, for the average user, there are more affordable and versatile options available.
Final Thoughts and a Question for You
After my experience, I'm curious: Do you think the benefits of open-ear headphones outweigh the limitations of noise reduction technology? Share your thoughts in the comments below! I'd love to hear your opinions and experiences with open-ear headphones.
