Shokz is back at it again in the open-ear space with the OpenDots 2.
This new version doesn’t try to shake things up too much; instead, it refines what made the original so great.
If you look closely, you might have a hard time spotting the differences from the first OpenDots One.
The clip-on style is still intact, designed for those who want to enjoy their tunes without shutting out the outside world.
That’s really the goal here — keeping awareness at the forefront while audio takes a backseat — and Shokz clearly knows not to mess with a good thing.
But beneath the surface, this upgrade packs more punch than it appears.
Familiar design, tougher build
The earbuds themselves now carry an IP57 rating, making them more resistant to sweat and dust, while the charging case steps up to IP54 protection. It’s a small but practical improvement, especially for runners and outdoor users.
Like before, the earbuds automatically detect left and right ears, and touch controls handle playback, calls, and volume. Nothing flashy — just functional.
A noticeable push in sound quality
The bigger story is audio.
Shokz is introducing what it calls Bassphere 2.0, combining dual 11.8mm drivers to behave like a larger 16mm unit.
Alongside a redesigned diaphragm, the company claims distortion is reduced by up to 70 percent — a bold claim, but one that suggests a clear focus on cleaning up the weaknesses of open-ear audio.
Dolby Audio support also gets an upgrade, aiming to deliver a fuller, more spatial sound. For a category that often struggles with depth and bass, that matters.
Call quality gets serious attention
If there’s one area where the OpenDots 2 clearly pulls ahead, it’s voice calls.
Each earbud now houses three microphones, bringing the total to six — triple the previous generation.
More importantly, two of those are bone-conduction mics, working alongside traditional microphones and AI noise reduction.
In simple terms, the earbuds don’t just hear your voice through the air — they pick up vibrations directly from your jaw. The result should be clearer calls, especially in noisy environments.
Battery life stays steady, charging gets faster
Battery life hasn’t changed: expect up to 10 hours on a single charge, stretching to 40 hours with the case.
Charging, however, is quicker and more convenient. A five-minute top-up gives around two hours of playback, and the case supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging — something that’s becoming increasingly expected at this price.
Modern connectivity and app features
The OpenDots 2 comes with Bluetooth 6.1 and MultiPoint support, so switching between devices is seamless.
Through the Shokz app, users can tweak EQ settings, update firmware, and even locate misplaced earbuds.
It’s a standard feature set, but everything you’d want is here.
Price and availability
Shokz hasn’t touched the price — the OpenDots 2 launches at $199.95, matching its predecessor.
It’s available now in Pearl White, Grey, and Black. Buyers ordering directly from Shokz also get a small bonus, with a choice between a limited-edition accessory or a branded carrying case.
Source: Shokz
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
