What we liked
- The effective noise cancelling
- The comprehensive and efficient app
- The excellent music qualities for open earbuds
- The controlled sound leakage
- The exceptional 50h battery life
We would have liked
- Support for hi-res codecs
- A more compact case, but I'm really nitpicking here
Our expert’s opinion
After several days of testing, I consider the Shokz OpenFit Pro to be the current pinnacle of "open-ear" listening. Despite my initial impression that they were heavy, I was immediately won over by their comfort and secure fit. What really impressed me was the precise sound quality and controlled dynamics which, combined with very limited sound leakage, finally meet the expectations of music lovers who are put off by in-ear monitors. I also found the active noise reduction to be effective, particularly for isolating myself in open plan offices or on public transport. From a practical standpoint, I almost forgot about the battery life: with 50 hours of playback time with the case (including 12 hours on a single charge), charging is no longer an issue. Finally, voice pickup is excellent, even in windy conditions. Whether for calls, commuting or sports thanks to the IP55 rating, they are completely versatile. The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds are not trying to compete with isolating in-ear earphones; they are establishing themselves as the obvious choice for those seeking excellence in open listening.
The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds enter the open-ear segment with a clear goal: to combine freedom, long-lasting comfort, and advanced technologies. This open-ear approach is aimed at users who want to stay aware of their surroundings while seeking refined musical reproduction and active noise cancelling specifically adapted to this format. With a battery life of 50 hours, Bluetooth 6.1 connectivity, and a design tailored for versatile use, the Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds combine performance, endurance, and practicality. Priced at €249, they aim to redefine expectations around contemporary open-ear listening.
Introducing the Shokz OpenFit Pro
The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds feature an open-ear design engineered to deliver sound without blocking the ear canal. This hook-style format ensures excellent stability and outstanding comfort that’s non-invasive, especially compared to in-ear models. By nature, this type of design does not fully isolate you from your surroundings, allowing you to remain aware of external sounds.
Each earbud weighs 12.3g, while the case weighs 99.3g, for a total weight of 123.9g. This is relatively high for earbuds, mainly due to the materials used, the large battery providing up to 50 hours of battery life, and the presence of components dedicated to active noise cancelling, wireless charging, and the various integrated technologies.
Stability is ensured by nickel-titanium alloy hooks designed to naturally adapt to the shape of each ear. Ultra-soft Shokz 2.0 silicone is in contact with the skin. This material minimizes pressure points, allowing you to use the earbuds for long periods of time without discomfort, and prioritizes both stability when moving and comfort during long listening sessions.
What accessories are included?
The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds packaging prioritizes immediate access to the earbuds: the top part of the box reveals the earbuds directly, while the accessories and documents are stored in a separate lower compartment. This layout lets you quickly get to your earbuds without messing around with cables or papers.
The box includes:
- A charging case compatible with Qi wireless charging.
- A USB-C cable
- Accessories to optimize fit (in the white box shown in the image)
- A warranty card
- A legal notice
- A quick start guide
The charging case has a plastic and aluminum build that immediately inspires confidence. The cool touch of the metal, combined with its substantial weight, contributes to a sense of durability and solidity.
Innovative noise reduction for open-ear listening
The Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds introduce active noise cancelling specifically optimized for the open-ear format, a significant milestone for this sector. This technology, called Open-Ear Noise Reduction, combines an innovative acoustic architecture with adaptive processing to effectively reduce ambient noise while maintaining natural awareness of your surroundings.
The system relies on a set of three AI-optimized microphones, carefully calibrated with feedforward and feedback ANC, powering an intelligent algorithm. A key element of this innovation is the integration of a Noise Reduction Ring, designed to enhance acoustic capture and improve the system’s ability to filter unwanted noise while preserving open and safe listening.
Innovative acoustic performance
The noise reduction is reinforced by a sophisticated acoustic design and a dual-diaphragm driver structure (11 × 20mm) that contributes to rich, precise, and dynamic sound reproduction. This design combines a PMI aluminum dome for high frequencies and a silicone diaphragm for bass. OpenBass 2.0 technology completes the system to enhance low-end depth while preserving the benefits of the open format.
The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds are also the first of their kind to offer Dolby Atmos optimization. This integration represents a major innovation for this type of design. Combined with head-tracking technology, Dolby Atmos keeps the soundstage stable around the listener and enhances immersion with compatible content.
Cutting-edge Bluetooth 6.1 connectivity
The Shokz OpenFit Pro Bluetooth earbuds are among the few open-ear models to adopt Bluetooth 6.1, a recent version of the protocol focused on transmission stability and smooth wireless exchanges. This 6.1 connectivity also includes multipoint pairing, enabling simultaneous connection to two devices and seamless switching between sources.
Audio transmission relies on the SBC and AAC codecs, compatible with all major platforms, ensuring stable and consistent playback. However, the absence of Auracast and audio certifications such as Hi-Res Wireless or aptX is regrettable, as they would have positioned these earbuds more clearly in the high-definition segment.
Controls and the Shokz app
The Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds feature discreet, waterproof physical buttons seamlessly integrated into the earbud structure. Their placement limits the risk of accidentally pressing them while still being easy to access once you get the hang of them. They let you control playback, skip tracks, adjust the volume, and manage noise reduction.
All the controls are fully customizable via the Shokz app, with the ability to modify or disable assigned functions. The app centralizes all settings, allowing users to enable or disable multipoint, Dolby Atmos, and wear detection, as well as precisely adjust the level of noise reduction through a progressive scale.
The interface also displays an accurate battery level indicator for each earbud and the case, making it easier to anticipate recharging. The EQ includes five preset profiles complemented by a 10-band equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune the sound reproduction to their listening preferences.
Finally, the earbud location function via an audible alert is particularly practical if you misplace them, while the integrated starter guide and help with positioning the attachment accessories make it easy to get started.
At the time of writing, the Shokz app is one of the most advanced and comprehensive apps we have tested.
Battery life and durability
The Shokz OpenFit Pro boast an outstanding total battery life of 50 hours with the charging case, allowing you to use them for days. The earbuds provide up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge. Fast charging provides approximately 4 hours in just 10 minutes, a generous and practical advantage. The Qi wireless charging case further simplifies daily battery management.
An IP55 certification ensures effective protection against dust, sweat, and water splashes. This durability allows worry-free outdoor use in the rain and during sports activities.
This combination of endurance and durability reinforces the versatility of the OpenFit Pro, equally suited for a workday, a workout session, or traveling.
Key specifications
- Open earbuds
- 11 × 20mm dual-diaphragm driver
- Frequency response: 80Hz – 40kHz
- Bluetooth 6.1 with multipoint
- Active noise cancelling
- 3 AI-optimized microphones
- Dolby Atmos with head tracking
- Total battery life of up to 50 hrs
- Fast charge: 10 min = 4 hrs of playback
- Qi wireless charging
- IP55 rating
Test conditions
For this review, I mainly used the Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds with Spotify, with additional listening sessions on Qobuz Hi-Res. Fit and dynamic use were evaluated while cycling and playing Beat Saber, a relevant context for assessing stability and latency management.
I tested the active noise cancelling of the Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds in an open-plan office and on public transport to observe its behavior with continuous noise such as conversations, ventilation and road sounds. I also made multiple phone calls to evaluate voice capture and microphone performance in various contexts. Finally, I assessed voice pickup and wind noise handling outdoors.
In addition, I watched series, videos, and podcasts on Netflix and YouTube to evaluate audiovisual coherence and connection stability. The multipoint function made it easy to switch between my smartphone and computer in a mixed work and leisure context.
My impressions
Right out of the box, the Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds felt high-quality. The partially aluminum case and above-average weight immediately conveyed a premium positioning. Once in place, they were surprisingly comfortable. Despite being larger than other open models, I quickly forget I was wearing them, even during long sessions.
The slim band and nickel-titanium alloy ear hooks provided stable support without noticeable pressure points. The shape naturally fits the ear, and the stability accessories allow adjustment based on individual morphology. Wearing them with glasses does not cause excessive discomfort. During more athletic sessions, particularly while playing Beat Saber, the Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds remained incredibly secure.
The battery life of the Shokz OpenFit Pro is one of their strengths. I used these open earbuds for nearly a full week without worrying about recharging them. The earbuds offer up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, and with the case, total battery life reaches 50 hours. With the Shokz OpenFit Pro open earbuds, I significantly exceeded the advertised 10-meter range. In my apartment, the connection remained perfectly stable across several rooms and through walls, providing true freedom of movement daily.
In terms of sound, the Shokz OpenFit Pro deliver above-average audio quality for open earbuds. The sound is balanced, with precise bass that sometimes lacks punch compared to closed models. However, where these earbuds truly shine is in soundstage and spatial imaging: they provide an open and natural experience, ideal for calls or podcasts.
Bad Guy – Billie Eilish
On Bad Guy, the Shokz OpenFit Pro delivered strong bass, but they lack a bit of punch compared to closed earbuds. The equalization helped energize the sound slightly, but it remained somewhat less impactful. That said, the experience was still very enjoyable, with good vocal reproduction and appreciable spatial imaging for an open format.
Defying Gravity – Wicked
On Defying Gravity, the OpenFit Pro stood out with their remarkable precision on vocals and high-frequency instruments. ANC provided decent isolation, but the open mode offered better spatialization and a more natural immersion, making the experience feel more organic.
September – Earth, Wind & Fire
On September, the bass and brass instruments stood out clearly, offering solid definition for each instrument. The sound was dynamic, although the highs were slightly timid, softening some musical nuances. Nevertheless, the overall experience remained very satisfying, with a pleasing balance and rich sound.
The ANC, although limited by the open design, remained impressive for earbuds of this type. It effectively reduced moderate noise in open-plan offices and public transportation while allowing me to remain aware of my environment. Quickly switching between open mode and ANC made it easy to adapt to noisy surroundings while optimizing the listening experience.
Call quality is another strong point of the Shokz OpenFit Pro. Thanks to three AI-optimized microphones, vocal clarity was excellent, even in noisy environments. Up to around 25 km/h wind, voice pickup remained very clean: speech came through clearly, with only a slight drop in volume and no disruptive wind noise, making conversations perfectly intelligible. In this type of situation, few open earbuds achieve such a level of control. On the move or during outdoor calls, the OpenFit Pro therefore deliver a reliable experience and prioritize the user’s voice, provided one accepts a logical compromise in volume in very exposed environments.
Shokz OpenFit Pro vs Beyerdynamic Amiron 200
The Shokz OpenFit Pro and the Beyerdynamic Amiron 200 rank among the best open earbuds currently available on the market, with a similar form factor and a positioning aimed at versatile daily use. We recently published the review of the Beyerdynamic Amiron 200 open earbuds on the blog.
The Beyerdynamic Amiron 200 clearly prioritize compactness and lightness. Each earbud weighs 10.2g, with a 76g case. In comparison, the Shokz OpenFit Pro weigh 12.3g per earbud and 123.9g in total. The Amiron 200 are therefore about 16% lighter, a difference mainly due to a shorter battery life limited to 36 hours, compared to 50 hours for the OpenFit Pro.
In terms of sound, the Amiron 200 emphasize more pronounced bass but can lack precision compared to the OpenFit Pro. The Shokz OpenFit Pro benefit from more balanced reproduction and offer more advanced technologies, such as Bluetooth 6.1, open-ear-optimized active noise cancelling, and Dolby Atmos compatibility—features absent from the Amiron 200.
The price difference reflects these orientations. The Beyerdynamic Amiron 200, priced at €179, focus on simplicity and lightness. The Shokz OpenFit Pro, offered at €249, position themselves as a more comprehensive solution for those seeking the highest level of technology and versatility in the open-ear segment.
Who are they for?
The Shokz OpenFit Pro are designed for those who want the best open earbuds available today without worrying about battery life. With 50 hours of total listening time, IP55 certification, and excellent stability, the Shokz OpenFit Pro open-ear earbuds are highly versatile and suitable for music, calls, or even sports. Their active noise reduction is not perfect but promising, and their Bluetooth 6.1 technology makes them ideal for everyday use.
If you are looking for the best open earbuds, the Shokz OpenFit Pro stand out as the benchmark. We are eager to discover the next models truly capable of challenging them.
Frequently asked questions about the Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds
The active noise cancellation of the OpenFit Pro is effective in moderately noisy environments and is impressive for open earbuds. However, it does not rival traditional ANC systems found in in-ear models.
Yes, thanks to their secure fit, resistance to water and sweat (IP55), and extended comfort, the OpenFit Pro are suitable for sports.
Open earbuds like the OpenFit Pro do not block the ear canal, allowing better awareness of ambient sounds, unlike in-ear models that fully isolate the user.
Yes, the OpenFit Pro are equipped with three AI-optimized microphones, ensuring clear voice capture even in noisy environments.
The earbuds provide up to 12 hours of listening on a full charge, and up to 50 hours with the charging case.
Yes, their lightweight design and slim band make them comfortable to wear with glasses, without excessive pressure on the temples.
