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WIRED Names Shokz OpenDots 2 Top Open Earbuds
Developing
In Short: WIRED has named the Shokz OpenDots 2 as the top open earbuds, highlighting their superior comfort and functionality.
The Shokz OpenDots 2 are described as everything the reviewer wants in open earbuds, which are designed to rest on the ear and allow natural sound from the environment to pass through.
Unlike traditional in-ear variants, open earbuds like the Shokz OpenDots 2 are clip-ons that wrap around the earlobe, with the speaker end resting at the ear canal opening and the other end behind the ear.
The reviewer notes that open earbuds are the big new trend in headphone technology, offering a comfortable alternative for those who find traditional earbuds uncomfortable or who want full environmental awareness during activities like running, biking, or household chores.
The Shokz OpenDots 2 also boast an IP57 dust and waterproof rating, matching that of premium, flagship earbuds like the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro.
WIRED also mentions the recent launch of the lower-priced Shokz OpenDots Air and Shokz OpenFit Air 2, indicating a possibility of updating the recommendation based on further testing.
The reviewer has tested dozens of open earbuds since 2022 and still recommends having a pair of noise-canceling earbuds, but also loves open earbuds for specific use cases.
For more headphone recommendations, WIRED provides guides to the Best Wireless Earbuds, Best Workout Headphones, and Best Wireless Headphones.
What this adds
WIRED's latest recommendation for the Shokz OpenDots 2 builds on previous endorsements for the same model, emphasizing their comfort and functionality.
The review highlights the Shokz OpenDots 2 as a standout among open earbuds, which are gaining popularity for their unique design and practical benefits.
Background
WIRED has named the Shokz OpenDots 2 as the top open earbuds, highlighting their superior comfort and functionality.
WIRED recommends the Shokz OpenDots 2 for their comfort and functionality.
What's still developing
- The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds were a big deal when they launched in 2024—a brand-new design from Bose and one of the biggest swings from a major brand in clip-on open earbuds.
- Like the Shokz and Soundcore, they are supremely comfortable, so much so that I sometimes forgot I was wearing them.