Review: Shokz OpenDots Air, a highly recommended, more affordable open-ear earbuds option

Last week I reviewed the Shokz OpenDots 2 and overall I was very impressed with them, with Shokz continuing to improve on their open-ear earbud designs.  Alongside the OpenDots 2, Shokz also released the OpenDots Air, a more affordable version of the new open-ear earbuds.

The OpenDots Air are a lightweight version of the OpenDots 2 with an “accessible entry point into the range.  Weighing just 6.3 grams, the OpenDots Air are available in Daybreak Purple and Black.

The Air also promises improved bass and a “rich, balanced sound” thanks to Bassphere acoustic technology with DirectPitch technology helping to minimise sound leakage to those around you.

Design and Fit

The design looks very similar to that of the OpenDots 2 but in hand you can see and feel that they are different.  The cable connecting the two ends of each earbud is a bit stiffer and doesn’t feel as comfortable on the ear.  That isn’t to say that they are uncomfortable, just that you can feel a difference.  The premium OpenDots 2 are just that good, they are next level when it comes to comfort.

The battery section of the earbuds is also a different shape and has almost the same functionality as the OpenDots 2 when it comes to gestures.  It just lacks the pinch-and-hold gesture for volume, so it’s not a massive deal to miss.

I could still wear them comfortably while playing golf without them falling out or getting in the way.  You still forget you are wearing them because you can hear your environment fully – they just aren’t quite as comfortable as the OpenDots 2.

The OpenDots Air battery life was impressive again, with the earbuds easily lasting a full golf round.  Shokz says the earbuds and case together hold about 36 hours of playback.  That seems about right based on my testing.

Sound Quality

The sound difference between the Air and the 2 was minimal.  I had to listen closely to determine the difference, and in the end the difference was in a slight clarity in the range of sound, and a less muffled bass.  The OpenDots 2 produced a richer sound across a wider sound stage.  

Whether this is due to different hardware or a better fit, I am unsure, but I suspect it is a bit of both – although the website lists the speakers to have the same specs….. The upshot is that the OpenDots Air produces sound quality very similar to the OpenDots 2, a much more expensive set of open ear earbuds.  

Final thoughts

The OpenDots Air are much more affordable than its premium sibling, the OpenDots 2 and are not all that far behind. The sound quality is good but not as good, the fit is great but not quite as comfortable as the OpenDots 2. If you don’t want to pay the premium OpenDots 2 price, then the Air are a great option.

Often sound quality is not your top priority when purchasing a set of open-ear earbuds, and if that is you, then the OpenDots Air may be just what you are looking for.

Availability

The OpenDots Air (RRP AU 9 / NZ9) are be available in Daybreak Purple and Black through shokz.com.au, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman and other participating Australian retailers.  Limited-edition jewellery-inspired accessories will be available as a complimentary gift with purchase through the Shokz official website and selected retail channels. The accessories will not be sold separately.