Shokz OpenFit 2+

Shokz OpenFit 2+ Review

Brand: Shokz
Released: September 22, 2025
Updated: 2 weeks ago
3.9
Consolidated expert score
232
Review insights
44
Scored features
13
Expert reviews

Bottom Line

Choose the Shokz OpenFit 2+ for open-ear comfort, secure runs, long battery life, and convenient wireless charging. Skip it if you need ANC, deep bass, LDAC, or earbuds that never shift under helmets, buffs, or jumps.

Best for

Best for runners, cyclists, commuters, walkers, and active users who want music or calls while staying aware of traffic, people, and surroundings. Reviewers especially liked them for long wear, workouts, and daily movement.

Not for

Not for listeners who need ANC, deep sealed-earbud bass, high-end codecs like LDAC, or critical-listening accuracy. Ultra runners and helmet/beanie users should also weigh the case, layer-removal, and fit caveats.

Verdict

Across the reviews, the Shokz OpenFit 2+ lands as a highly convincing open-ear workout earbud because comfort, battery life, button controls, and situational awareness earned unusually consistent praise. Sound is also stronger than reviewers expected from the format, especially with EQ or Dolby, though the tradeoff is clear: bass depth, isolation, and true ANC cannot match sealed earbuds. The Plus upgrades, mainly Dolby audio and wireless charging, are treated as worthwhile for new buyers, but not always enough for current OpenFit 2 owners. Fit is secure for running and everyday movement, yet helmets, buffs, glasses, vertical jumps, and wet post-workout charging introduce real caveats.

Compared in Reviews

Products reviewers directly compared with this model, grouped into quick takeaways.

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

  • More expensive: price and security tradeoff The OpenFit 2+ was described as nearly as rich, more secure, and roughly $100 cheaper than Bose's model.
  • Similar: sound quality The reviewer said OpenFit 2+ sound quality was close to the Bose benchmark for open-ear sound.

JBL Soundgear Sense

  • Worse: weight and comfort The OpenFit 2+ was presented as much lighter-feeling than this open-ear companion.

Nothing Ear (Open)

  • Better: measured sound quality and price SoundGuys said Nothing Ear (Open) measured better and cost less, making it a stronger sound/value comparison.

Feature Scorecards

Summary

44 reviewed features
  • Very positive 4.5-5.0 36% 16 features
  • Positive 3.5-4.4 36% 16 features
  • Neutral 2.5-3.4 16% 7 features
  • Negative 1.5-2.4 9% 4 features
  • Very negative below 1.5 2% 1 feature

Pros

  • 5.0
    based on 10 reviews
    Battery: 5.0, based on 10 reviews
    Battery life received strong agreement as excellent, long-lasting, or a non-issue for daily use, training, and long sessions.
  • 5.0
    based on 1 review
    Android compatibility: 5.0, based on 1 review
    Android compatibility received one direct positive test result alongside iOS compatibility.
  • 5.0
    based on 1 review
    Clamping force comfort: 5.0, based on 1 review
    The one explicit clamping-force assessment was very positive because the reviewer felt no clamping pressure at all.
  • 5.0
    based on 1 review
    Multi-platform compatibility: 5.0, based on 1 review
    Multi-platform compatibility was positively supported by tested compatibility across Android and iOS.
  • 5.0
    based on 1 review
    USB-C: 5.0, based on 1 review
    USB-C received one explicit positive mention for avoiding proprietary charging cables.
  • 4.9
    based on 13 reviews
    Comfort during long use: 4.9, based on 13 reviews
    Comfort was one of the strongest points across nearly every review, with repeated praise for long-wear softness, low fatigue, and all-day active use.
  • 4.8
    based on 6 reviews
    Multipoint connectivity reliability: 4.8, based on 6 reviews
    Multipoint was repeatedly described as smooth, seamless, convenient, or reliable for switching between phones, laptops, watches, and other devices.
  • 4.8
    based on 6 reviews
    Weight comfort: 4.8, based on 6 reviews
    Weight comfort was consistently praised; reviewers repeatedly said the earbuds felt very light or nearly disappeared on-ear.
  • 4.8
    based on 2 reviews
    Build quality: 4.8, based on 2 reviews
    Build quality was praised through flexible/durable ear hooks and robust-feeling materials.
  • 4.8
    based on 2 reviews
    Design and Aesthetics: 4.8, based on 2 reviews
    Design and aesthetics were praised as classy, understated, premium, sleek, and among the best-looking open-ear designs tested.
  • 4.7
    based on 3 reviews
    Instrument separation: 4.7, based on 3 reviews
    Instrument separation was praised when reviewers heard clean, distinct instruments or stereo separation without muddying vocals and guitars.
  • 4.5
    based on 13 reviews
    Sound quality: 4.5, based on 13 reviews
    Reviewers broadly praised the open-ear sound as unusually strong, clear, balanced, or top-tier for the category, though SoundGuys treated it as below critical-listening earbuds and one runner focused mainly on clear voice playback.
  • 4.5
    based on 11 reviews
    Button control usability: 4.5, based on 11 reviews
    Physical buttons were widely praised as easier, more reliable, and more comfortable than touch-only controls, though one ultrarunner wanted an on/off button.
  • 4.5
    based on 8 reviews
    Charging: 4.5, based on 8 reviews
    Charging was praised for wireless convenience and quick top-ups, but one review reported case charging behavior that could leave earbuds undercharged.
  • 4.5
    based on 7 reviews
    Value for money: 4.5, based on 7 reviews
    Value was usually positive for first-time buyers because reviewers saw the $10-$20 Plus premium or category price as justified, though existing OpenFit 2 owners may not need to upgrade.
  • 4.5
    based on 4 reviews
    Maximum volume clarity: 4.5, based on 4 reviews
    Most reviewers who discussed high-volume behavior heard clean playback without distortion, though one warned that very high volume could sound cranky.
  • 4.4
    based on 4 reviews
    Preset EQ profile quality: 4.4, based on 4 reviews
    Preset EQ opinions were mostly positive for Bass Boost, Treble Boost, and Vocal/voice modes, with one technical review saying presets help compensate for open-ear limitations.
  • 4.4
    based on 10 reviews
    Treble clarity: 4.4, based on 10 reviews
    Treble drew mostly positive comments for crispness, sparkle, and detail, while SoundGuys found the treble weak and less detailed in busy mixes.
  • 4.3
    based on 6 reviews
    Midrange clarity: 4.3, based on 6 reviews
    Midrange and vocals were generally described as clean, natural, energetic, or more forward, with the strongest praise coming from music-focused reviews.
  • 4.3
    based on 10 reviews
    Water/sweat resistance rating: 4.3, based on 10 reviews
    Water and sweat resistance was generally reassuring for rain, sweat, and workouts, though reviewers warned against submersion and sweat-related charging care.
  • App
    4.3
    based on 8 reviews
    App: 4.3, based on 8 reviews
    The app was generally considered useful, simple, or feature-rich for EQ, firmware, controls, Dolby, and tracking, though a few reviews described it as minimal or not essential.
  • 4.3
    based on 6 reviews
    Sound leakage: 4.3, based on 6 reviews
    Sound leakage was generally better than expected for open-ear earbuds at reasonable volumes, but reviewers still warned that higher volumes can be heard nearby.
  • 4.3
    based on 2 reviews
    Software/setup simplicity: 4.3, based on 2 reviews
    Setup simplicity was supported by the convenient pairing button and the fact that app use is not required for basic functions.
  • 4.2
    based on 12 reviews
    Bass performance: 4.2, based on 12 reviews
    Bass was often better than expected for open-ear earbuds, especially with EQ or Dolby, but several reviewers still noted limited punch and depth compared with sealed earbuds.
  • 4.2
    based on 8 reviews
    Microphone quality for calls: 4.2, based on 8 reviews
    Call quality was mostly praised as clean, clear, or very good, with caveats around wind, crowded cafés, or heavy processing.
  • 4.2
    based on 6 reviews
    Equalizer customization: 4.2, based on 6 reviews
    EQ customization was a clear strength: reviewers liked tweaking sound, custom EQ, and personal preference controls, though one app workflow was limited.
  • 4.1
    based on 11 reviews
    Spatial audio: 4.1, based on 11 reviews
    Spatial/Dolby audio was usually praised for richer, wider, more immersive sound, but some reviewers preferred it for video or podcasts over music and one found it gimmicky.
  • 4.1
    based on 11 reviews
    Stability: 4.1, based on 11 reviews
    Stability was strong for running, workouts, and general movement, but reviewers found caveats with helmets, buffs, high-impact jumps, or losing an earbud when removing layers.
  • 4.1
    based on 7 reviews
    Microphone noise reduction: 4.1, based on 7 reviews
    Microphone noise reduction generally handled traffic, background noise, or indoor noise well, but wind remained the recurring weak scenario.
  • 4.1
    based on 7 reviews
    Soundstage width: 4.1, based on 7 reviews
    Dolby and the open presentation usually expanded the stage, but SoundGuys felt the spatial positioning was more artificial than genuinely dimensional.
  • 4.0
    based on 6 reviews
    Volume output: 4.0, based on 6 reviews
    Volume was usually enough for music, calls, and outdoor use, but reviewers split on headroom in noisy places, with some wanting more output.
  • 4.0
    based on 1 review
    Audio-video sync accuracy: 4.0, based on 1 review
    One reviewer found video latency minimal and acceptable for casual gaming, while noting no dedicated gaming mode elsewhere in the review.

Cons

  • 3.3
    based on 3 reviews
    Bluetooth: 3.3, based on 3 reviews
    Bluetooth behavior was mixed: reviewers liked seamless single-bud use, but others reported earbuds staying connected in the case or draining phone battery without an off switch.
  • 3.3
    based on 5 reviews
    Carry case quality: 3.3, based on 5 reviews
    Case quality was mixed: reviewers liked the size/design and wireless charging, but cited a pinch hazard, poor low-battery signaling, and non-waterproof case limitations.
  • 3.3
    based on 2 reviews
    Sensors: 3.3, based on 2 reviews
    Sensor feedback was mixed: one review praised wear detection, while another wished smart sensors were included.
  • 3.3
    based on 2 reviews
    Voice assistant integration: 3.3, based on 2 reviews
    Voice assistant integration exists through limited touch or button customization, but reviewers treated it as secondary rather than a standout feature.
  • 2.9
    based on 6 reviews
    Find My: 2.9, based on 6 reviews
    Find My-style feedback was mixed: some reviewers liked ringing/tracking features, while others complained about missing true case Find My support or losing tracking when the battery died.
  • 2.5
    based on 1 review
    Portability/foldability: 2.5, based on 1 review
    Portability had one notable criticism from an ultrarunner who found carrying the case extra weight and space during long races.
  • 2.5
    based on 1 review
    Touch control responsiveness: 2.5, based on 1 review
    Touch control usefulness was limited in the cited review because the touchpad was mainly restricted to voice assistant activation.
  • 2.0
    based on 1 review
    Codec support: 2.0, based on 1 review
    Codec support drew criticism from one reviewer because the earbuds lack high-end Bluetooth codecs.
  • 2.0
    based on 1 review
    Frequency response accuracy: 2.0, based on 1 review
    Only SoundGuys offered an opinionated frequency-response critique, finding upper mids and treble below its preferred target.
  • 2.0
    based on 1 review
    LDAC: 2.0, based on 1 review
    LDAC was specifically missed by one reviewer who expected it on a premium open-ear product.
  • 1.5
    based on 1 review
    Noise isolation (passive): 1.5, based on 1 review
    Passive isolation is essentially not the point of the design; the cited reviewer emphasized that the earbuds do not isolate the listener from the world.
  • 1.3
    based on 4 reviews
    Active noise cancellation: 1.3, based on 4 reviews
    Reviewers consistently framed ANC as absent or unsuitable for noise-cancellation seekers, treating the product as intentionally awareness-first instead.

Compared With Category Average

Compared with other Open-Ear Headphones, this product is above average in Spatial audio, Clamping force comfort, Preset EQ profile quality, below average in Codec support, LDAC, Frequency response accuracy.

Summary

8 compared features
  • Above average 0.4+ pts higher 63% 5 features
  • Same as average within 0.3 pts 0% 0 features
  • Below average 0.4+ pts lower 38% 3 features
Attribute This product Category average Difference
Spatial audio 4.1 2.4 +1.7
Clamping force comfort 5.0 3.3 +1.7
Codec support 2.0 3.6 -1.6
LDAC 2.0 3.5 -1.5
Frequency response accuracy 2.0 3.4 -1.4
Preset EQ profile quality 4.4 3.2 +1.2
USB-C 5.0 3.8 +1.2
Instrument separation 4.7 3.6 +1.1

FAQ

Are the Shokz OpenFit 2+ good for running?

Yes. Reviewers repeatedly found them comfortable and secure for running, road use, trails, and long sessions, though high-impact jumps, helmets, buffs, and removing layers can create fit or loss risks.

Do they have active noise cancellation?

No. Reviewers emphasized that these are open-ear earbuds designed for awareness, not isolation or ANC.

How good is the sound quality?

For open-ear earbuds, reviewers were mostly impressed by the clear, balanced, and often lively sound. The main caveat is that bass depth and critical-listening accuracy still trail sealed earbuds.

Is Dolby Audio worth it?

Most reviewers liked Dolby for a richer, wider, or more immersive presentation, especially for video, podcasts, or outdoor listening. A few preferred regular mode for music or found Dolby artificial.

How is the battery life?

Battery life was one of the strongest points, with reviewers calling it excellent, impressive, or a non-issue. One caveat was case behavior when low on power or when dirty pins prevent proper charging.

Are calls clear?

Usually yes. Reviewers praised clean call audio and strong noise reduction, but wind, crowded cafés, and heavy processing were recurring limits.

Should OpenFit 2 owners upgrade?

Reviews generally framed the Plus model as worthwhile for new buyers because of Dolby audio and wireless charging. Existing OpenFit 2 owners may find the upgrades too incremental for a full replacement.

Sample Expert Reviews We Analyzed

These are a few of the reviews included in our analysis.

Video Reviews

Article Reviews

Consider This Instead

If you want better Bluetooth

Choose Shokz OpenFit 2. It scores 5.0 vs 3.3 for Bluetooth, with a 4.1 overall score.

Compare

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