I like Shokz products like the ear hook design OpenFit Pro so I thought I’d try out their new Open Dots 2. I should have noticed that almost all the Shokz Open Dots 2 example customer photos were women and realised who the target market was (not me). The Open Dots 2 are clip on
I like Shokz products like the ear hook design OpenFit Pro so I thought I’d try out their new Open Dots 2. I should have noticed that almost all the Shokz Open Dots 2 example customer photos were women and realised who the target market was (not me).
The Open Dots 2 are clip on earbuds and that means they are best suited to people who are used to earrings and other ear jewellery that puts pressure on the ear cartilage.
I am not used to this so after an hour or so wearing the Open Dots 2 I found them uncomfortable and took them off. Just to make sure I tried them on several times on different days with the same result.
Shokz launched OpenDots 2 as the new flagship in its expanded open ear clip on range, which now also includes the more affordable OpenDots Air. The company built OpenDots 2 on the foundations of the original OpenDots ONE and positioned it for people who want open ear listening without the bone conduction or ear hook designs Shokz is better known for.
Each earbud weighs just 6.4 grams and uses a flexible nickel titanium JointArc structure that Shokz says moulds naturally to different ear shapes. That is a genuinely light build, but in my experience the clip still needs to hold firm contact with the ear to stay secure, and that contact was what became uncomfortable for me over time.
Unboxing & Setup
Bassphere 2.0
Two custom 11.8 millimetre drivers sit inside a compact spherical module that Shokz says performs like a single 16 millimetre driver. An updated diaphragm and redesigned surround are meant to improve vibration stability and cut distortion at lower frequencies.
MirrorPitch
This directional sound technology is designed to aim audio more precisely into the ear canal. Shokz says the aim is clearer sound for the wearer while reducing how much audio leaks out to people nearby.
Dolby Audio
OpenDots 2 carries an upgraded version of Dolby Audio. Shokz says it adds more depth and spatial detail across music, podcasts and calls.
Bone conduction microphone
A dedicated bone conduction microphone works alongside two air conduction microphones, adaptive beamforming and AI powered noise reduction. Together, Shokz says this combination helps capture a wearer’s voice more clearly in busy environments.
Force sensor controls
New pinch and hold gestures let wearers manage music and calls without reaching for their phone. The earbuds also support MultiPoint Pairing, allowing them to stay connected to two devices at once.
Dynamic ear detection
OpenDots 2 automatically recognises which earbud is left and which is right. Either bud can be worn on either ear, which is a small but useful touch for anyone who does not want to think about orientation each time they put them on.
Battery life and charging
Shokz rates the earbuds for up to 10 hours of listening on a single charge, extending to 40 hours with the charging case. A five minute quick charge is rated to provide up to two hours of playback, and the case also supports Qi certified wireless charging.
Water and dust resistance
The earbuds carry an IP57 rating and the charging case is rated IP54. Shokz positions this as protection against sweat, rain and everyday wear rather than full submersion.
Key specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6.4 g per earbud |
| Drivers | Dual 11.8 mm drivers (Bassphere 2.0), rated to perform like a 16 mm driver |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours from the earbuds, up to 40 hours with the charging case |
| Quick charge | 5 minutes charge for up to 2 hours of playback |
| Wireless charging | Qi certified |
| Water and dust resistance | IP57 (earbuds), IP54 (charging case) |
| Connectivity | MultiPoint Pairing across 2 devices |
| Colours | Pearl White, Grey, Black |
| Price (AU) | $339 |
Price and availability
OpenDots 2 is priced at $339 in Australia and is available directly through the Shokz Australian website in Pearl White, Grey and Black. Shokz is also including a limited time jewellery inspired clip on accessory with purchases made through its official site.
Final thoughts
OpenDots 2 delivers on sound quality and build for a clip on design, and the feature set is a genuine step up from the original OpenDots One though a bit pricey considering there is no noise cancelling functionality.
My issue was not with the technology but with the fit and that is worth flagging for anyone who, like me, does not usually wear earrings or ear jewellery of any kind and is not used to sustained pressure on the ear cartilage. If that sounds like you, try the excellent Shokz OpenFit Pro or OpenFit 2+ instead.
For more information, head to https://shokz.com.au/products/opendots-2
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