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Shokz has just released two new clip-on earbuds — OpenDots 2 and the OpenDots Air.
Shokz's new models are successors to the OpenDots One, built with faster charging capabilities and the same popular audio technology. The OpenDots Air is the first alternative model for the series, meant to be more budget-friendly, at £129. Meanwhile, the OpenDots 2 cost £179.
Unlike many earbuds that are designed with active noise cancellation (ANC), these feature an open-ear design so you can still hear what's happening around you while enjoying your music or podcasts – ideal for staying aware during your commute or morning jog.
Other brands offer similar versions, like the Ultra Open earbuds from Bose or the LinkBuds from Sony.
Here's everything you can expect from both pairs.
The OpenDots 2 is the newest flagship, meant to combine lightweight comfort with premium performance. Its flexible JointArc design and 6.4g earbuds provide a secure, comfortable fit for all-day wear. They feature upgraded Dolby Audio and Bassphere™ 2.0 technology to deliver richer sound and deeper bass, while triple AI noise-canceling microphones enhance call clarity. It comes with up to 40 hours of battery life with the case and wireless charging capabilities.
If you're one of the early shoppers, Shokz will include 360 days of worry-free service, earbud clip-on accessories, and a travel case free of charge.
The OpenDots Air is designed to offer a lightweight, comfortable listening experience with its flexible JointArc design and a weight of only 6.3g. They're equipped with Bassphere tech, which is meant to deliver balanced sound and bass for daily use. Its dual AI noise-canceling microphones are built-in to help keep calls clear, while IP55 water resistance adds durability for workouts and outdoor activities. Unlike the OpenDots 2, you must use the included USB-C for charging.
If you're one of the early shoppers, Shokz will include earbud clip-on accessories and a travel case free of charge.
The clip-on style uses a flexible nickel-titanium structure that adapts to different ear shapes, so they're meant to stay put without squeezing or causing discomfort during extended wear, like a long run.
They also feature dynamic ear detection, so you can swap the left and right earbuds interchangeably, and they'll automatically adjust the audio channels.
Water resistance comes as standard on both models, with the OpenDots 2 boasting IP57 protection and the Air offering IP55 rating. That makes them suitable for everything from sweaty gym sessions and yoga classes to rainy commutes and outdoor runs.
These feature an open-ear design so you can still hear what's happening around you while enjoying your music or podcasts – ideal for staying aware during your commute or morning jog | SHOKZ PRESS OFFICE They also arrive with upgraded Dolby Audio, which Shokz says adds a spacious, lifelike quality to everything from music to video calls.
The OpenDots 2 come with three microphones — two air-conduction mics and one bone-conduction mic for clearer voice pickup, even in noisy environments. The OpenDots Air has dual AI noise-canceling microphones per earbud, designed for effective noise reduction and clear calls in everyday use.
The OpenDots 2 weigh just 6.4g, which is .1g lighter than their predecessor.
In terms of battery life, you're meant to get up to 10 hours from the OpenDots 2, stretching to 40 hours when you factor in the charging case. It also features wireless charging.
Need a quick top-up? Just five minutes of charging is meant to give you two hours of playback. This is even faster than the OpenDots 1, which is said to need at least 10 minutes to power up to the same amount of runtime.
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On the other hand, the OpenDots Air features a battery life of nine hours, extending to 36 hours total with the charging case. Like the OpenDots One, a quick 10-minute charge will give you roughly two hours of listening time when you're in a rush.
However, you'll need to use its included USB-C cable for charging.
It comes in at an even lighter 6.3 grams per earbud, making it the featherweight champion of the two.
The OpenDots Air features a battery life of nine hours, extending to 36 hours total with the charging case.
|SHOKZ PRESS OFFICE
While it doesn't have quite the same battery life as its pricier sibling, it's designed to still deliver balanced sound across low, mid, and high frequencies thanks to the same Bassphere acoustic technology.
Both can also connect to two devices simultaneously, just like the previous model.
The OpenDots 2 come in Pearl White, Grey, or Black, whereas the OpenDots Air are available in Daybreak Purple and Black. Both colours on the Air are a bit more playful and feature subtle pearlescent and metallic finishes that give them a jewellery-like quality.