Shokz has released the OpenDots 2, a new pair of open-ear earbuds that address the common discomfort of in-ear designs. The clip-on earbuds feature a two-part construction: a tiny spherical speaker sits inside the ear, while a thin nickel-titanium band coated in silicone connects to a barrel containing the battery, which rests behind the ear. This design ensures a secure fit without causing pressure inside the ear canal, making them suitable for extended wear and workouts.
Key Features and Specifications
The OpenDots 2 earbuds weigh 6.4g each, with a charging case weighing 38.8g. Battery life is 10 hours from the earbuds, with an additional 30 hours from the case, totaling 40 hours. A five-minute charge provides two hours of playback. The earbuds have an IP57 water resistance rating, improved from IP54 on the previous generation, making them sweatproof but not fully waterproof. They are available in black and grey color options.
Audio and Call Quality
Despite the open design, the OpenDots 2 deliver strong audio quality with Dolby Audio and enhanced bass. The lack of a seal means ambient sound is more present, which can be beneficial for safety in public spaces. For phone calls, the earbuds use three microphones—two air-conduction and one bone-conduction—along with AI noise reduction to improve clarity in noisy environments. According to technology critic David Phelan, who tested the earbuds, “Overall, the Shokz opendot 2 sounds tremendous, with real fidelity to the musical source, and the enhanced bass is effective, especially in quieter environments.”
Design and Comfort
The clip-on design is flexible and fits various ear shapes. The contoured silicone material adds comfort, and the earbuds are lightweight enough for all-day wear. Phelan noted, “I’ve worn them all day long, with no issues of pinching, no need to adjust the fit and no concern that they might go flying, whatever I was doing.” The earbuds are interchangeable between left and right ears, using dynamic ear detection to automatically adjust.
Controls and Connectivity
Users control playback and volume by tapping, squeezing, or pinching the barrel. The earbuds support multipoint connectivity, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously. Shokz provides a guide to ensure proper placement of the barrel behind the ear, as the clip-on design may be unfamiliar to some users.
Verdict
The Shokz OpenDots 2 earbuds are lightweight, attractive, and comfortable, avoiding the invasive fit of traditional earbuds. They are less effective in very noisy environments due to the open design, but they excel at delivering good sound while maintaining awareness of surroundings. The earbuds are priced at £179 on Amazon.co.uk.
