Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 : Unboxing and Review

It's been a year since I was signed up to be a part of Shokz Malaysia's ambassador program and it has been nothing but a great collaboration and sharing. Being able to experience and provide review of the Bone Conduction and Air Conduction headphones gave me the in-depth knowledge and understanding on how each product may and could suit different individual lifestyle. 

If you missed them, here are the list of products I have had the chance to review:

Shokz OpenFit Air [Unboxing+Review]

Shokz OpenSwim [Unboxing+Review]

Shokz OpenComm [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenRun Pro [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenFit [Unboxing Review]

Shokz OpenSwim Pro is in progress, and I am de-prioritizing it today to bring to you the brand new, just launched, fresh from the oven Shokz OpenRun Pro 2.

Hello OpenRun Pro 2

I received this unit under embargo and only to be posted on September 20th. However, some of you sharp eyed enough would realised I have been wearing it in a few of my IG stories... but if you missed it...

I have a knack for writing long reviews and understand not everyone enjoy reading a rather longish review, so here is the TL:DR version:

Pros:

• Less vibration vs OpenRun Pro. Way less ticklish if you are sensitive about it.
• Sound quality noticeably better than OpenRun Pro. The DualPitch™ is not a marketing gimmick.
• Because of open ear concept, you can hear your surroundings and still able to have a conversation while running or cycling or in the gym. Beyond sports-usage, the ability to hear your water boiling, fire alarm and other surrounding noises. 
• Less potential for in-ear infection or impacted ear-wax as it does not go into the ear. No sweat or heating/hot issue as the unit doesn't sit in the ear canal or has the earpad covering like the traditional headphones.
• Comfortable fit, doesn't fall out. Difficult to lose as it is secured in a band-construction
• Suitable for those with medical or auditory condition. Those with ringing ear (tinnitus) condition may be able to enjoy music better as it does not rely on the eardrums to transmit sound vibration. Works well with hearing aid as the vibration helps amplify the sound picked up by the bone conduction.

Cons:

• Pricier at RM899 (aligned with their flagship) - but this in my mind is subjective if you were to compare to the higher end earbuds or Bluetooth communicator devices (specific for work)
• Sound leakage if you bump the sound too high (above 75%). If you are in a quiet environment or taking a confidential call/privacy matters, it is best to lower the volume or find a more secure place.
• Can potentially cause hearing loss much like traditional headphone/earphone due to exposure to loud noises for much longer hours.

The Full Review

If you been using the OpenRun series, you will know about the bone conduction technology and how the open ear design keeps you alert while you are still able to listen to your favourite podcast, music or just using the device to get coaching feedback from your training.

With a lot of competing brands and products, it is often easy to get lost in the choices and prices; needless to say, Shokz is the pioneer in open-ear bone conduction earphones that has existed since 1994. 

Shokz as a brand has kept innovating and improving on their range of products that grew from military application to consumer products and (After)Shokz has made them popular.

Thanks to Shokz Malaysia (Nove Marketing), I received the unit ahead of the official launch and has the chance to re-learn and give this new addition a test so I can share my review with you today.

Here is the unboxing video. 

Environmentally friendly packing from recycled corrugated cardboard material

Items you get in this box consist of

• The OpenRun Pro 2
• USB-C Charging cable
• Premium Case
• Manual and warranty card

All in

Premium carry case

Slot for cable

Sitting very pretty

How it look with all items removed

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 specification (that is important to know):

New DualPitch™ technology delivering crystal clear sound

• New technology DualPitch™ that combine both TurboPitch™ and DirectPitch™; one brings in the mid and highs, and the other the bass  
• 30.3 +/- 0.5 grams - lightweight (slightly heavier than Pro by 1 gram)
• IP55 protection - water resistance (meaning, do not immerse in water), sweat proof, splash proof
• 1 hour to fully charge (2 hours for Pro)
• 12hours of battery life - 5mins charge allow 2.5 hours usage (2hours more battery life + 1 hour more on Quick Charge compared to Pro)
• Latest (10th) generation Bone Conduction technology with TurboPitch™) allowing enhanced bass with clearer vocal
• 2 Years Warranty

Review

Shokz has been integral in my lifestyle - both at work and play. Having experienced all the models available, I can say that I am very familiar with the functionality.

Eco-friendly packing

The ability to be fully aware of my surrounding is audible even down to my own footstep. As long as it's not cranked up to more than 80% of the max volume, I can hear people talking, traffic rumbling and even dogs barking during my activities. I felt safer and felt way less guilty using headphone for a workout in a trafficked public area. Best of all, at a conversational volume, i can have music playing in the background like white noise while still having a chat while running with friends. 

Getting to know the device (parts)

There are minimal changes to the buttons arrangement and how it works on the OpenRun Pro 2 when compared to the Pro. Which is good news as it is zero learning for those familiar or upgrading from OpenMove OpenRun and the OpenRun Pro.

Love the orange colorway

The biggest change is the USB-C charging port versus the proprietary magnetic charging. If you lose the magnetic cable, you will have to buy a new one. With USB-C, which is easily available, you are certain that you can charge the unit without worrying you forgot the cable.

covered port

USB-C exposed

There are a few additional parts that makes this different from the Pro version. The charging port is one, which now comes with a cover and without Moisture Detection function (aka it will blink/'beep if you try to charge it while the magnetic port is damp).

Because of the air-conduction, the vent that points directly to your ears is more pronounced and obvious, also making the contact patch much larger compared to the Pro.

The air-vent for the Air-Conduction driver is large. Bass all the way

The placement of the dual-microphone has changed with one of the mic being placed on top/higher than the Pro. Shokz claim this new iteration has greatly reduced noises and provide crystal clear vocal from users during calls and conversation. 

They move the upper mic to the very top of the driver, hidden behind the titanium band

I have been using this set and tested it by making a call in front of a fan and the counterparty did not hear any wind noises as my voice came through to them clear. I have made calls in noisy environment (indoor swimming pool with splashes and a lot of chatters from the pool side) and the counterparty still hear me clearly. I feel confident to use this as my daily call/conference call headset if I have to travel light to office or out of home.

The next small change is the multifunction button where it was shrinked smaller and moved slightly to the front. My finger automatically moved to the back or closer to the driver initially and quickly learnt to readjust as needed. Two runs and I am all re-learned.

The multi-function button is moved slightly to the front and smaller footprint. Note the air-vents for the Bone-Conduction driver next to it

No changes to the volume and on/off rocker. Pairing is same as OpenRun Pro; hold it long enough from OFF position and it will start pairing to new device.

Same volume rocker and on-off switch

Charging LED same position

The air-vent for the Air-Conduction driver is large. Bass all the way

Air-vent at the bottom to aid the Bone-Conduction driver to deliver the mid and high 

No changes to one of the mic position (that small dot). There is another vent for the Bone-Conduction that mirror the left side driver.

They move the upper mic to the very top of the driver, hidden behind the titanium band

The Bone-conduction unit vibrates as it send them to your cheekbone for the whole music/sound production. The speakers and the air-vents gives the overall surround experience, apart from allowing the driver unit to push air from the vibration (hence the bass enhancement) sound delivery.

Connectivity

Fresh out of the box and once linked to the phone (iPhone) and app, a quick check and updating the firmware as needed.

The Pro comes with Bluetooth V5.3 and allow Multipoint pairing. V5.3 is the latest protocol and it worked as it should. Minimal delay making it suitable for both sports and play.

Straight forward pairing with laptop (Windows 11)

I have the unit paired to my Garmin FR965, iPhone12 and 13, and my work laptop. You can link up to two devices at any one time. It however require activation of Multipoint connection.

easy and fast pairing on my FR965

Done!

The instruction is here or you can also do it via the Shokz App which is much easier with a flick of the toggle button in the app. But if you want to do it the harder way... the same process as doing it for OpenRun Pro.

Straight forward with a few steps to follow

Using it with Multipoint meant I have the freedom to switch between two devices without needing to disconnect from other devices. At work, I switch between phone (for Spotify) and laptop (for meeting/calls). you are limited by the 12 hours battery life. If you are a heavy user, do keep your device charged to avoid interruption. It is sufficient for a day or two use (assume up to 4hours of total usage per day).

You can tell that I am a fan

On the new devices since OpenFit Air, it is more straight forward on the connection function, and it is all defaulted to just "Headset". Previously on the OpenRun Pro, there were option for Headset and Headphone, which essentially limits how the sound is optimized for music or call. So no more guessing game with the OpenRun Pro 2. 

The Multifunction button allow for playing/pausing, switching music, answering and ending calls. 

Find the complete guide here

The complete user guide for Pro 2 is similar to Pro and can be found here

Fitting

The unit hook over your ears, it clasps lightly over the top of your ear with the driver unit sitting on your face, parallel to the ear canal on this area called the Auricle. The Pro 2 claims to have 16% less "clamping" force versus the Pro version. The bigger contact area helps to distribute pressure better ensure a daylong comfort.

Personally I felt no differences in how it sits on my head and side of my face. It remain as comfy with no pressure points around my ears. It doesn't interfere with sunglasses or my reading glasses as well.

Once placed in position, you hardly will notice it weigh wise, but you know it's there due to the light pressure the titanium band holds it against your face. There is a "mini" version where the band is shorter.

Not noticeable from the front

right side

Left side

If you have a small (circumference) head, you may want to consider going the "mini" version with 1.5inches shorter band. Having said this, if you are planning to use the normal sized band over a hoodie, it will interfere with the clothing. Some adjustment to the unit to move the rear side downwards/towards the neck may be needed at the expense of the bone-conduction driver sitting slightly higher on the cheekbone.

Using it while cycling, the OpenRun Pro 2 won't interfere with the positioning as long as it's not an aero-helmet. 

Sound - Now with 4+2 Customizable EQ and DualPitch™

This is a flagship model - and rightly so with dual-driver known as DualPitch™ technology that changed how the OpenRun pro delivers the sound. DualPitch™ brings in both bone conduction and air conduction into one unit. Resulting in precise high and mids using the bone conduction and subterrean bass delivered from the air conduction. 

The introduction of DualPitch™ also reduced the vibration effect of the OpenRun series that uses TurboPitch™. Those of you that felt a bit uncomfortable on the strong vibration may want to test and try if the sensation has been reduced. Personally, I actually like the vibration. It reminds me of the days when i had 2 units of 12 inches subwoofers installed in my car.

Having experienced and tested all the Shokz product, I can say that the Pro 2 is definitely a different listening experience. You have to hear it to believe it. Also, as mentioned above, it has way less ticklish sensation or vibration or I would say there was none in my week of testing this product pre-launch. 

Customised EQ 

4 preset EQ which is Standard, Vocal, Bass Boost, Treble Boost is same as the OpenFit series. And as they are the same, you have the ability of creating and saving two other EQ that suits your listening style. It is important to note that the EQ only works when you stream using your phone (where the app resides) and not when it is streamed from your devices (laptop or watches). 

More than sufficient for all your intent and purpose

This is because the quality is significantly impacted by the sound codec of your device and limited by what Shokz can process. In this case, OpenRun Pro uses sub-band codec or SBC which allow up to 300kbps transfer rate. This is also the most general codec compatible with all Bluetooth transmission, at the expense of quality. 

The Shokz is compatible with profiles such as A2DP (high quality audio signals profile), AVRCP (remote control profile for sending command such as play, skip, pause etc), HSP (Headset profile aka to be used for communication) and HFP (handsfree profile). 

About IP55 Protection

The IP protection of Pro 2 is the same as Pro which is IP55. It is however lesser than the OpenRun with IP67. In my last year of using the devices with IP55, there is absolutely no issue to have the unit drenched in sweat and in rain. No issues to pour water over my head or even taking it to shower. Only do not immerse the unit in water (read: do not wash it in washing machine) or take it for swimming.

IP stands for International Protection (rating). It comes with two numbers and an optional letter. It defines the degree of protection against solid contact and water in electrical enclosures.

The first digit defines the level of protection the enclosure provides against access to hazardous parts such as electrical contacts, moving parts, and ingress of solid objects (like dust, sand, finger)

The second digit refers to liquid protection against well, water or liquid, generally.

The bigger the number, the better the protection. Naturally the IP67 would meant better protection versus IP55. 

• IP55 protection against limited dust ingress and protected from low-pressure water jets from all direction
• IP67 protection against total dust ingress and immersion up to 1m depth, but not meant for swimming

Looking at it, it is evidence enough that IP55 is sufficient protection taking into account splashes of water from heavy rain or sweat. I would not worry too much as all my unit has been in service for the past 2 years with no issues. The Pro 2 will definitely stand to this level of usage if not better as with better materials and technology vs the older models.

TL:DR 

Pros:

• Less vibration vs OpenRun Pro. Way less ticklish if you are sensitive about it.
• Sound quality noticeably better than OpenRun Pro. The DualPitch™ is not a marketing gimmick.
• Because of open ear concept, you can hear your surroundings and still able to have a conversation while running or cycling or in the gym. Beyond sports-usage, the ability to hear your water boiling, fire alarm and other surrounding noises. 
• Less potential for in-ear infection or impacted ear-wax as it does not go into the ear. No sweat or heating/hot issue as the unit doesn't sit in the ear canal or has the earpad covering like the traditional headphones.
• Comfortable fit, doesn't fall out. Difficult to lose as it is secured in a band-construction
• Suitable for those with medical or auditory condition. Those with ringing ear (tinnitus) condition may be able to enjoy music better as it does not rely on the eardrums to transmit sound vibration. Works well with hearing aid as the vibration helps amplify the sound picked up by the bone conduction.

Cons:

• Pricier at RM899 (aligned with their flagship) - but this in my mind is subjective if you were to compare to the higher end earbuds or Bluetooth communicator devices (specific for work)
• Sound leakage if you bump the sound too high (above 75%). If you are in a quiet environment or taking a confidential call/privacy matters, it is best to lower the volume or find a more secure place.
• Can potentially cause hearing loss much like traditional headphone/earphone due to exposure to loud noises for much longer hours.

This unit of Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 (orange) is provided to me under the Shokz Malaysia and Nove Marketing Sports Ambassador program for 2024/2025 year. The unit retail for RM899.00 and comes with 2-years warranty. Make sure you only get your Shokz from Nove Marketing as the authorised distributor and also from Malaysia authorised dealers. 

There are a few scam website that often offer too good to be true pricing. To purchase, please click this link and use TRISTUPE15 on check out for 15% discount on older models (sorry this is not applicable for OpenRun Pro 2, OpenFit Air and OpenSwim Pro at this moment of time)

Thank you Shokz Malaysia

Full Technical Info of OpenRun Pro 2 vs the two previous generations

About Shokz:

Shokz is a US world's leading brand. Shokz's headphone focuses on Open-Ear technology, which are bone conduction technology and DirectPitch™ Technology with the purpose of ensuring the listening experience while keeping safe.

Bone Conduction Technology: transmits sound via vibrations through the skin and temporal bone directly to the cochlea, bypassing the ear canal and eardrum. This ensures clear sound even in noisy environments without affecting others.

• Bone Conduction Headphone: OpenMove, OpenRun, Open Run Pro, OpenRun Pro 2, OpenSwim, OpenSwim Pro, OpenComm, OpenComm 2
• DirectPitch™ Technology: which is also called Air Conduction Technology, enhances audio by using phase cancellation, where opposing sound waves cancel each other out. With multiple vents, it directs sound towards the ear canal, reducing leakage and enabling immersive, private Open-Ear listening.
• Air Conduction Headphone: OpenFit, OpenFit Air

Read More

Shokz OpenFit Air : Unboxing and Review

When I last reviewed the Shokz OpenFit in October 2023, I was bowled over by how much better the sound was when compared to the traditional bone conduction headset. Bearing in mind that the OpenFit was a TWS or True Wireless Sound headset that is made into an Open-Ear concept. If you haven't read about the OpenFit, you can click here

Rewind to about 1 month ago, where Shokz Malaysia had a big launch for the new addition to the TWS series - the OpenFit Air. Having known of this since April/May 2024 via insiders, I was looking forward to seeing it - lighter and cheaper. Two things that matters for a Triathlete on Budget.

The bonus point? I be given an unit for my keeping. I am very grateful for that gesture as I loved the OpenFit sound, and I am sure I will love the OpenFit Air as much as I love the OpenRun Pro I have.

And in Pink, please.

Summary

• RM599 makes it a very affordable TWS with 2 years Shokz Malaysia Warranty.
• Touch gesture/function can be fully disabled.
• 3-Colors with Hot Pink being the "limited edition".

A Quick Rewind of What is OpenFit?

Let's start with the most basic... Shokz OpenFit Air is not the usual Shokz Bone Conduction earphone. It is an air-conduction and what Shokz call as DirectPitch™ technology. The technology optimize the distance and angle between the sound source to the ear in such way that it minimize sound loses to your surrounding while maximizing your listening.

DirectPitch™  explained at Shokz Website

Now, to call it air-conduction is not exactly mind-blowing as all speakers works on displacing air through the drive unit. The displaced wave is what gives you sound. You can actually consider the OpenFit Air as a "mini speaker" but that would not do justice.

Like the OpenFit, the OpenFit Air comes with the same 18mmx11mm driver made from composite (read: Carbon fiber) with polymer surround. Both the carbon fiber diaphragm and polymer surround creates the clear, crisp, strong sound with deep bass notes.

But unlike the OpenFit, the OpenFit Air has a renewed fit that is ergonomically enhanced.

Couple that with the Nickel-Titanium memory alloy ear hook, a teardrop shaped cross section design that is thinner on the top, and a pliable ear hook, you will have an earbud that lets you listen for a long period of time in a secure stable fit.

Fitting

The unit hook over your ears exactly like the OpenFit, it clasps lightly over the top of your ear with the driver unit sitting somewhere on your upper part of the ear where it is near the Tragus, which shield your ear canal - it's also the place where some of you pierce your ears.

Tragus and where it is (that red circle). Image from AnatomyStuff

Here is how it look like with the OpenFit Air, Take note how it "wrap around" my ear and it sort of fits pretty well.

And here it is with the OpenFit. Very subtle differences but the angle of fit is pretty obvious better in the OpenFit Air.

Position of OpenFit relative to my right ear

OpenFit Air vs OpenFit

If you came this far, here is another summary if you need a quick decision to decide between the two very similar products.

Thought I make a table and make my Excel skill to good use

Similarities:

• Open-ear hook style design using air conduction technology
• Comfortable fit, no issues with glasses or sunnies
• IP54 dust and water-resistant
• Touch controls with double tap and press-and-hold gestures
• App support for Android and iOS
• Multipoint connectivity
• USB-C charging
• Quick charge feature (2 hours of listening with 10-minute charge)
• Similar battery life (around 7 hours in real-world testing)
• 28 hours total battery life with the charging case

Differences:

• Price: OpenFit Air (RM599) vs OpenFit (RM899)
• Colors: OpenFit Air available in more colors (including pink and white)
• Design: OpenFit is slightly smaller; Air has a larger earpiece
• Materials: OpenFit has smoother plastic case; Air has matte silicone finish
• Battery placement: OpenFit has battery in ear hook; Air has it in the earpiece
• Sound profile: OpenFit has more bass; Air has more treble emphasis
• EQ settings: OpenFit offers custom 5-band EQ; Air only has EQ presets
• Touch surface: OpenFit has silicone finish; Air has matte plastic finish

Unboxing Let's Go!

Here is a very simple unboxing I did to show you what is inside the OpenFit Air packaging. 

Items you get in this box consist of

• The OpenFit Air Left and Right,
• Charging Case
• Charging cable USB-C
• Manual and warranty card

All together now

Some visual differences between OpenFit Air and OpenFit

Comparing my wife's OpenFit (in biege) and my OpenFit Air (in pink)

Casing size very similar from top

OpenFit Air is more rounded on edges

Similar profile in the case

OpenFit opens wider

OpenFit has battery on the ear hook vs OpenFit Air on the earbud making it look bigger

Stainless Steel earbud n driver side with metal mesh vs plastic on OpenFit Air

OpenFit Air and OpenFit laid flat

similar placement of air-vent for bass production

Similar placement of microphone (small dot)

Now for the review 

Having spoilt with the OpenRun Pro for my daily run and conference calls on both phone and laptop, enjoying the freedom of not having the ear canal stuffed or the ear covered for my training; or even having the head constantly being clamped on headset for work - the OpenFit brought new freedom similar to OpenRun Pro.

All these with a total pass-through of surrounding sound even at volume as the ear canal is not blocked.

As this unit is a loaner, i been maximing the use for all my activities. I hear my footsteps, and continue to not feel guilty of using headphone for a workout in a trafficked public area. Similarly, I can have a conversation with music playing in the background like white noise while running or talking with friends.

And may i add again - the music streamed is like having an in-ear monitor or a proper headphone over your ears. Even as I am typing this, I have Eric Clapton Tears' In Heaven playing in the background, with each strum of the strings and the bass kicking in to be reminding me of my regret number 2.

Getting to know the device (parts)

Red circle is microphone. Yellow circle is the touch control

Red is the driver outlet. Yellow is the Quick Charge point that links to the charging case. Blue is where the battery resides, unlike OpenFit where the battery sits at the tail of the ear hook

Red is mics. Yellow is top air vent for bass production. Blue is the touch sensor

Bottom air vent

Like the OpenFit, if you close off these vents or some water covers them, the Bass is cut off and all i hear is just flat mid-range sound/vocal.

The Charging Case is small and pretty nifty. Very similar to the OpenFit but more rounded edges.

not as angular as OpenFit

Connectivity

The OpenFit Air comes with Bluetooth V5.2 and allow Multipoint pairing. I have the unit paired to my Garmin FR965, Fenix7ProSolar, iPhone12, iPhone13 Pro and my work laptop. It requires activation of Multipoint connection on the App.

All I need daily

I personally prefer it to be done on the Shokz App for the OpenFit Air as the touch-button doesn't support on device multipairing. Very straight forward with the app.

Take note that OpenFit Air only has 4-preset EQ vs OpenFit with customisable EQ

Using it with Multipoint meant I have the freedom to switch between two devices without needing to disconnect from other devices. At work, I switch between phone (for Spotify) and laptop (for meeting/calls). you are limited by the 7 hours battery life. If you are a heavy user, do keep your device charged in the Charging Case when you are not using. As an example, my 10 hours usage today for run, music, phone calls and standby time has set the Charging Case battery to 50%. Doing a quick maths to see it all add up - both OpenFit Air at 100% (7hours), Charging case at 50% (10.5hours), usage as of today 8 hours = 7+10.5+10 = 27.5 Hours. The unit is rated at 28hours which meant it is pretty accurate.

Perfect color

As usual, on the laptop, the connection requires some understanding of the limitation of each function between using it as a headset and headphone.

• Headset - allow full usage for both voice (usage of the mic on Shokz) and music/playback (anything streamed from the laptop)
• Headphone - only music/playback

The separation meant the playback as headset is biased to vocal. This meant the music streaming will be subpar and sound really bad. However on Headphone, the quality is as good as streaming from the phone.

The Bluetooth 5.2 has a faster switching between devices between multipoint pairing. 

The OpenFit Air EQ is limited to only 4-preset. Unlike the OpenFit where you can create your own

OpenFit EQ menu

OpenFit Air EQ menu

Bear in mind that this mode of EQ is only available through phone source streaming and not on any other devices as they are controlled solely from the Shokz App. So it makes no differences to the sound quality aka default to "standard" when you playback outside of your phone app.

Touch Disable- able

If there is one experience using the OpenFit is the sensitivity of the touch sensor. Very similar exoerience using the OpenFit Air as it is a hit and miss when using it while running or cycling. If the unit/sensor is covered in sweat, it can "activate" automatically - which is irritating. Lucky for the OpenFit Air, Shokz has made the touch sensor being able to be disabled. A gift to humankind using these. I do not change music or adjust volume when I use the earbuds for workout as they are mostly for instruction feddback and voice note/voice over of my pace/hr/km. So having them switched off is great as it also meant less distraction. 

None. None. None. and None. 

Enabling it is as simple as tapping it in the app. No issues.

Fitting - using it while cycling and running

A month of usage since recieving the unit and making it my main headset/earbud for workout has affirmed that this unit is as secured as it's older sibling the OpenFit. Short of one occasion where I literally ran into a low hanging (small) branches with leaves, the unit got tangled in the low hanging shrubs and I had to run back to locate it. I was worried that I will lose it after using it just 3 times...

And as I started to use it for more runs and cycling, I need to be aware of any movement that may peel off the unit - such as when i remove my running tops or helmet. There is however a small hole on the end of the earhook - which makes me believe there should be an accessory that may allow it to be secured and hung over the neck... maybe.

This hole here

Sound - Output and Input

As expected the sound produced from the OpenFit Air sound as good as the OpenFit. As they both share the same DirectPitch technology with the same composite driver and air vents. Only noticable differences is on heavier bass sound where the OpenFit with it's metal casing perform better. Simplay said, OpenFit Air is great for vocals and treble sound, but perform below par on any hip-hop or heavier bass notes. For that, the Direct Bass function (in EQ) will bump it up without muddling it to be overly bassy just for the sake of being bassy.

Still with no ANC as the unit is open-ear concept, so there is no encapsulating or isolation potential for the earbuds to properly drive any ANC. However, the clarity and isolation is sufficient for both indoor and outdoor condition.

Perfect for commuting in open area

One thing though, the sound volume is not sufficient loud enough for commuting in train - as the train screeching and announcement will drown off a level or two of the fidelity. 

The dual-microphones is situated at the top and bottom portion of the driver unit. With Noise-Cancelling feature (vs OpenFit AI Noise-cancelling), it works sufficiently well for phone calls and my everyday conference call/meetings. The counterparties I speak to has no issue hearing me clearly except when i stand infront of a fan and talk - but even that, the best noise-cancelling microphone will fail unless you put some buffer between it and the wind noise. Overall, satisfactory and no complains.

My companion for outdoor conference call

The Shokz OpenFit Air is compatible with profiles such as A2DP (high quality audio signals profile), AVRCP (remote control profile for sending command such as play, skip, pause etc), HSP (Headset profile aka to be used for communication) and HFP (handsfree profile). 

Being TWS earphone meant that you can have the option to just use ONE side at any time and still carry on your daily work. Not too bad if you are planning to extend the battery life by another 7 hours by using one side at a time.

About IP54 Protection

The IP protection of OpenFit is lesser than the Pro version. The OpenRun Pro is IP55 and the OpenFit Air, very much like the OpenFit is IP54.

IP stands for International Protection (rating). It comes with two numbers and an optional letter. It defines the degree of protection against solid contact and water in electrical enclosures.

Rain is not an issue, whatmore sweat

The first digit defines the level of protection the enclosure provide against access to hazardous parts such as electrical contacts, moving parts, and ingress of solid objects (like dust, sand, finger)

The second digit refers to liquid protection against well, water or liquid, generally.

The bigger the number, the better the protection. Naturally the IP55 would meant better protection versus IP54. 

• IP55 protection against limited dust ingress and protected from low-pressure water jets from all direction
• IP54 protection against limited dust ingress and protected from water splashes (read: sweat and well, rinsing or just water splashes)

Great companion - works in all weather like me

For the purpose of testing, yes, I have taken the OpenFit Air to shower after my run. Trickling water over the unit causes no significant issue except the touch function goes haywire and the air-vents on the top and bottom gets saturated with water and render the sound to be limited to just vocal/midrange. With the touch control disabled, there is zero issue listening to music in shower if you don't mind the muffled sound due to the vents being blocked by water. However, do not do this on purpose other than to just wash it after exercise (aka rinse) and not immerse in water. You been warned ;-)

Looking at it, IP54 is sufficient protection taking into account splashes of water from heavy rain or sweat on typical exercise. Should not have issue and do not submerge the unit in water and make sure to empty your pocket if you are the type to keep your earphones/wireless buds in your pocket (remember i say above the unit is hard to keep outside the charging case without risk of losing it?)

Long Term Review

I have been using this unit for slightly longer than a month since I received it thanks to Shokz Malaysia (Nove Marketing). I've charged it maybe like 3 times (casing) and it lives up to the 28hours usage which translate to roughly 8 days of mix usage for run/cycle and conference call before the casing battery goes to 20%. A quick charge often gives me enough of juice for another run, and always make sure the connecting Quick Charge is dry before you place it in the unit.

Yes, that is the OpenSwim Pro... Guess which one I review next ;-)

TL:DR 

Pros:

• Significant better sound reproduction than bone conduction
• Open ear concept allow you can hear your surroundings and still able to have a conversation while running or cycling or in the gym. Beyond sports-usage, the ability to hear your water boiling, fire alarm and other surrounding noises. 
• Less potential for in-ear infection or impacted ear-wax as it does not go into the ear. The OpenFit sit outside the external ear and it gives impression it is an in-ear, but it isn't. No sweat or heating/hot issue as the unit doesn't sit in the ear canal or has the earpad covering like the traditional headphones.
• Comfortable fit super light. 
• Touch function able to be disabled (woohoo!)

Cons:

• Some chances of losing the unit as it hooks over your ear that can get caught in your hood, cap or even your hair as you flip/adjust 
• Sound leakage if you bump the sound too high. It is a mini-speaker after all. If you are in a quiet environment or taking a confidential call/privacy matters, it is best to lower the volume or find a more secure place.
• Lack of customizable EQ

Thank you Shokz Malaysia

This unit of Shokz OpenFit is provided to me as part of being their Brand Ambassador of Shokz Malaysia and Nove Marketing. The unit retail for RM599.00 and comes with 2-years warranty. To purchase, please click this link. 

Special promotion with RM50 worth of Fitsy class voucher for every purchase

Discount for other Shokz items

If you are looking for a pair of Shokz Open-Ear headphone or earbuds, use my code TRISTUPE15 on check out to get 15% off from normal pricing. This offer is valid for all items except newly launched OpenFit Air and OpenSwim Pro. Make sure you get your Shokz from Authorised distributor and reseller that comes with two years warranty. Avoid deals that sound too good to be true - and if in doubt, check with NoveMarketing. Don't be a victim of scam!

15% offer using TRISTUPE15 code at NoveMarketing site!

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