shokz openfit air vs openfit united states
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OpenFit vs. OpenFit Air: A Consumer-Centric Comparison

10 mins
Table of Contents
  1. Introduction

  2. Sound Quality

  3. Stability

  4. Clarity and Volume

  5. Weight

  1. Battery Life

  2. Functions

  3. Price

  4. Conclusion

Introduction

In 2023, the Shokz team released their first true wireless open-ear earbuds, the Shokz OpenFit. Soon after, they released OpenFit Air, their second true wireless open-ear earbuds with a slightly different design and at a lower price point. Both OpenFit and OpenFit Air incorporate DirectPitchTM Technology, feature Shokz’s signature open-ear design, and offer amazing sound and a comfortable fit. However, due to their similar designs, the differences between them can be confusing. While they both fall under Shokz’s true wireless series, these two models offer distinct features and experiences.

In this article, we took a look at the user reviews of OpenFit and OpenFit Air to provide an objective comparison. By analyzing feedback from real users, we aim to help you make an informed decision about which model best suits your needs and preferences.

Sound Quality

OpenFit and OpenFit Air both offer unique audio experiences, thanks to Shokz’s signature open-ear design and DirectPitchTM Technology. While they share similarities, there are notable differences in the sound quality that may impact your choice.

openfit and openfitair directpitch technology united states

DirectPitch Technology 

Shokz’s OpenFit and OpenFit Air are the first products to incorporate DirectPitch™ Technology. This open-ear audio technology allows the listener to hear sounds clearly without having earbuds inside their ears, reduces sound leakage, and ensures privacy.

Clarity and Detail 

Many users and reviews describe the sound clarity of OpenFit as outstanding, saying that it delivers a soundstage that feels like you're right there with the music. Instruments and vocals are crystal-clear, making every note feel alive. 

While the OpenFit Air also offers great clarity, users tend to describe the sound quality as being slightly warmer, providing balanced sound.

Bass Response

If you love bass, OpenFit might be exactly what you’re looking for. It delivers a punchier bass than the OpenFit Air, making it perfect for those who enjoy genres like hip-hop and EDM. 

However, OpenFit Air still packs a solid bass punch, ensuring that your favorite beats hit hard. While OpenFit Air delivers solid bass performance, some users have reported that it can be a bit lacking in the deepest frequencies compared to traditional in-ear headphones. 

Overall Sound Experience 

Ultimately, the best sound quality will depend on your personal preferences and listening habits. If you’re looking for a crystal-clear sound with a bit more bass, OpenFit is a fantastic choice. But if you prefer a slightly warmer sound, the OpenFit Air might be the right match for you.

Stability

Both OpenFit and OpenFit Air are designed to provide a secure fit during workouts and other high-energy sports and activities. However, each has a unique ear hook design, an important factor to consider when deciding which model to purchase.

Ear Hook Design

While both models feature ear hooks, there are slight differences in their design. The OpenFit’s dolphin arc ear hook design, with a built-in 0.7mm ultra-fine flexible memory wire, provides an ergonomic fit that can gently adapt to your natural ear shape. Plus, the earbuds and battery compartment are perfectly balanced to ensure a stable fit. 

On the other hand, OpenFit Air’s ear hooks feature a pliable cut-out design, allowing the ear hook to conform to the contours of each individual ear, making it easier to fit different ear shapes.

openfit and openfitair ear hook design united states

Open-Ear Design

The Shokz signature open-ear design of both models can also contribute to their stability. By not inserting the earbuds into your ear canals, they’re less likely to shift or fall out. This can be especially beneficial for users who find traditional in-ear headphones uncomfortable.

Clarity and Volume

Both OpenFit and OpenFit Air offer a decent volume range, allowing you to adjust the sound to your preference. However, there are some differences in overall sound quality at high volumes.

Clarity at High Volumes

While both models maintain good clarity at moderate volume levels, the OpenFit Air may exhibit slightly more distortion at the highest settings. However, the distortion is minimal and should not impact your listening experience.

User Feedback

Some users have reported that OpenFit Air's volume controls can be sensitive, making it easy to accidentally adjust the volume. However, this is not a widespread issue, and most users find the volume controls to be intuitive and responsive.

Weight

Designed to be lightweight and comfortable for extended wear, it’s unlikely that you will experience much difference between OpenFit vs. OpenFit Air. However, there are slight differences.

Weight Comparison:

  • OpenFit: Approximately 8.3 grams per earbud
  • OpenFit Air: Approximately 8.7 grams per earbud

Many users report that both true wireless earbud models are comfortable to wear, even during long workouts or listening sessions, with no noticeable difference in weight.

Battery Life

Shokz products generally deliver impressive battery life, and it’s no different with their true wireless range. These earbuds charge up fast and have long-lasting batteries that last even longer thanks to their charging cases. 

Battery Life:

  • OpenFit
    Up to 7 hours on a single charge.
    Up to 28 hours of listening time with the charging case.
    A 5-minute quick charge delivers 1 hour of listening time.

  • OpenFit Air
    Approximately 6 hours on a single charge.
    Up to 28 hours of listening time with the charging case.
    A 10-minute Quick Charge delivers 2 hours of listening time.

User Feedback 

Overall, users report being satisfied with the battery life of both OpenFit and OpenFit Air. The headphones generally provide enough power to last through a full day of use, plus the charging cases help extend the battery life significantly. 

Functions

The Shokz OpenFit and OpenFit Air offer a range of features that allow them to seamlessly blend into your everyday life. 

Feature

OpenFit

OpenFit Air

Sound Quality

Good overall sound quality, slightly more pronounced bass.

Good overall sound quality, slightly more balanced sound.

Stability

Secure fit with well-balanced dolphin arc ear hooks and soft silicone finish.

Secure fit with pliable cut-out design for ear hooks and soft silicone finish.

Volume

Excellent volume levels, with very little distortion at maximum volume.

Slightly higher maximum volume, may exhibit slightly more distortion at maximum volume

Weight

Approximately 8.3 grams per earbud

Approximately 8.7 grams per earbud

Battery Life

Up to 7 hours on a single charge, up to 28 hours with charging case

Up to 6 hours on a single charge, up to 28 hours with charging case

Charging Case

Included

Included

Quick Charge

5-minute quick charge for 1 hour of listening

10-minute quick charge for 2 hours of listening

Waterproof Rating

IP54 dust and water resistant

IP54 dust and water resistant

Features

MultiPoint Pairing, Shokz App

MultiPoint Pairing, Shokz App

Bluetooth

BluetoothⓇ V5.2

BluetoothⓇ V5.2

Price

  $179.95. 

$119.95 

 

openfit vs openfit air united states

Price

The OpenFit Air is slightly more affordable at $119.95, compared to the OpenFit at $179.95. This price difference is primarily due to the OpenFit's slightly longer battery life and better overall sound quality.

OpenFit

Offers a good balance of features and performance, with a focus on durability and versatility. It's a solid choice for users who prioritize bass, comfort, and long-lasting battery life.

OpenFit Air

Provides a more affordable option with similar performance and features. It's a good choice for users who prefer a more pliable ear hook and slightly warmer sound qualities.

Conclusion

Both OpenFit and OpenFit Air offer excellent open-ear headphones with a focus on comfort, stability, and sound quality. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and listening habits when making your decision. To learn more about Shokz’s true wireless earbuds, visit shokz.com.

Richard
A passionate audiophile and a sports enthusiast rolled into one. With a deep love for both audio and sports, he brings a unique perspective to the table. Whether you're looking to enhance your workout playlist or explore the role of audio in sports, Richard has you covered.
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