Aftershokz OpenRun Pro headphones review wireless bone conduction tech and enhanced bass quality

Description

A Game-Changer in Open-Ear Listening: AFTERSHOKZ OPENRUN PRO Headphones Black

Testing the AFTERSHOKZ OPENRUN PRO Headphones Black was an experience that left me both impressed and occasionally contemplative about whether they are the right fit for every user. These open-ear Bluetooth headphones are a solid example of innovation meeting practicality, with their 9th generation bone conduction technology and Shokz TurboPitch™ Technology stealing the spotlight. If you’re someone who enjoys staying connected to your surroundings while indulging in music or calls, this product may pique your interest. However, they aren’t without their quirks.

Sleek Design and Open-Ear Comfort

The design is undoubtedly one of the winning points of the OpenRun Pro. At just 1.02 ounces, they are incredibly lightweight, making them a breeze to wear during extended activities. The 20% smaller size compared to previous models ensures a snug fit without any discomfort, and the rounded earpiece shape feels natural. Personally, I found the open-ear style a refreshing change from traditional in-ear or over-ear options. It keeps you aware of your surroundings, which is a huge plus if you’re cycling, jogging, or just walking in a busy city.

Despite the comfort, I noticed that the plastic material, while durable, doesn’t feel as premium as you might expect for the price. It’s functional, but for those who care about aesthetics, it might come across as a bit underwhelming.

Premium Sound Quality with TurboPitch Technology

The sound quality blew me away, considering these are bone conduction headphones. The Shokz TurboPitch™ Technology truly delivers on its promise of enhanced bass. Whether it was a bass-heavy track or a podcast, the audio felt immersive and rich. The added bass enhancers are a noticeable improvement over older models, giving the sound more depth and clarity.

However, let’s be real here—bone conduction technology doesn’t quite match the audio fidelity of traditional over-ear headphones with soft cushioning. While excellent for open-ear devices, audiophiles might find them slightly lacking in overall sound isolation and depth.

Practical Features that Make a Difference

What stood out to me was the 10-hour battery life. I tested this across multiple sessions, and it lived up to the claim, keeping me powered through workouts and long calls. The quick-charge feature is a lifesaver—it gives you a solid 1.5 hours of playback with just five minutes of charging. I mean, who doesn’t love a quick boost when you’re running late for a workout?

The IP55 water-resistant rating is another highlight. I wore these during a particularly sweaty session at the gym and even during a light drizzle, and they performed flawlessly. However, while the water resistance is reliable for everyday scenarios, I wouldn’t push them to their limits by wearing them in heavy rain or underwater.

Dual Noise-Canceling Microphone for Calls

Taking calls while using these headphones was a pleasant experience. The dual noise-canceling microphone ensured that my voice came through clearly, even when background noise was present. Whether I was walking on a windy street or chatting during a break at the gym, the person on the other end could hear me without issues. That being said, outdoor calls in extremely noisy environments might still pose a challenge, as no microphone setup is perfect.

Positives

• Lightweight and comfortable design for long durations.
• Shokz TurboPitch™ Technology enhances bass and overall audio quality.
• Quick charging gives you instant playback in minutes.
• Water-resistant design makes it ideal for workouts and light outdoor activities.
• Dual noise-canceling microphone ensures clear call quality.

Hurdles

• Sound depth doesn’t fully compare to traditional headphones.
• Plastic material could feel less premium to some users.
• Water resistance isn’t suitable for extreme conditions.
• Limited noise isolation due to the open-ear design.

Competing Products

Comparing the OpenRun Pro to other open-ear headphones, such as the Bose Sport Open Earbuds or the HAYLOU PurFree, reveals some interesting differences. The Bose earbuds, for instance, offer a similar open-ear experience but tend to focus more on premium materials and slightly better sound quality. However, they lack the bone conduction technology that sets the OpenRun Pro apart. On the other hand, the HAYLOU model is more budget-friendly but doesn’t deliver the same depth of sound or build quality.

Where the OpenRun Pro excels is in its comfort and situational awareness, making it a top choice for athletes or outdoor enthusiasts. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes immersive sound over open-ear functionality, you might lean toward Bose or even traditional in-ear options.

Bang for the Buck

For what it offers, the OpenRun Pro strikes a balance between quality and practicality. While it may not be the most affordable option in its category, the features like TurboPitch Technology, 10-hour battery life, and IP55 water resistance make it a solid investment for those who need a dependable pair for workouts or commuting. If you’re someone who values being aware of your surroundings while enjoying your favorite tunes, the price feels justified.

On the flip side, if sound quality and premium materials are non-negotiable for you, you might question whether the cost aligns with your expectations. It’s definitely a product designed for a specific audience, and for that audience, it delivers exceptionally well.

Additional information