Shokz has launched the OpenFit Pro, its first open-ear earbuds with a noise reduction system, priced at $250. The model aims to address key limitations of open designs by reducing mid-frequency sounds while maintaining awareness of surroundings. Reviewers note improvements in audio quality and call performance, though some users may experience discomfort from the noise feature.
Open-ear wireless earbuds have gained popularity for allowing users to hear both audio content and ambient noise, offering greater comfort than traditional in-ear models. However, they typically suffer from poorer sound isolation and lack active noise cancellation. The Shokz OpenFit Pro challenges this with an innovative noise reduction system that targets mid-frequencies, providing a noticeable dampening effect without fully blocking external sounds.
In practical tests, the earbuds halved the perceived drone from a space heater in an office setting and softened gym noises like treadmills, though they did not eliminate them entirely. This feature, adjustable via the Shokz app, comes with a caveat: some users, including the reviewer, reported an unpleasant inward pressure sensation, similar to a 'sucking' effect, which subsided when lowered but also diminished the noise blocking. Playing music helped alleviate this discomfort, and the system preserved the earbuds' sound quality.
Audio performance marks a step up for Shokz, with enhanced bass response and detail from a dual-diaphragm driver, avoiding distortion or sibilance at high volumes. The open design delivers an airy soundstage, further enhanced by an 'Optimized for Dolby Atmos' mode that incorporates spatial audio processing and head tracking. This is the first implementation of Dolby's technology in open-ear earbuds, creating a wider, more immersive experience, particularly with Atmos content, though it falls short of competitors like Bose's Immersive Audio in smoothness.
Call quality stands out, with microphones effectively suppressing background noise in noisy environments such as busy streets or construction sites, allowing natural voice hearing without fatigue. Comfort relies on soft silicone ear hooks, with speakers positioned for better stability, though prolonged contact may be noticeable. The charging case supports wireless charging but is bulky.
Controls use customizable physical buttons and include wear sensors for auto-pause. Battery life reaches 12 hours per charge (50 hours total) without noise reduction, dropping to 6 hours (24 total) when enabled. A notable omission is Bluetooth Auracast support, which could enhance shared audio features suited to open-ear designs.