Highlights
- Oladance OWS Pro offers up to 16 hours of playback with a unique air-conduction design.
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds feature a fully open ear canal for natural ambient awareness.
- Sony LinkBuds introduce an innovative tap control system and sleek design.
- Shokz OpenRun Pro and OpenFit stand out for their bone-conduction technology and durability.
Open ear headphones have been gaining popularity in recent years for their unique design that allows users to listen to music while still being aware of their surroundings.
This feature is especially useful for cyclists, runners, and commuters who want to enjoy their tunes but also need to stay alert.
Here are some of the best open-ear headphones of 2024, though it’s important to note that several may not be available in India.
Oladance OWS Pro
The Oladance OWS Pro is a high-end open-ear earbud known for its superior sound quality while allowing ambient sounds to be heard.
These headphones rest in front of your ears and utilize air-conduction technology to deliver audio.
Their design evenly distributes weight around the ears, accommodating a large battery for up to 16 hours of continuous playback.
An additional 42 hours of battery life is achievable with the charging case.
With an IPX4 rating, the Oladance OWS Pro is perfectly suited for outdoor exercise.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
The latest from Bose, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds, offer an inventive design with a fully open ear canal and a directional speaker directing music towards your ears.
These premium open-ear earbuds by Bose clip onto the ear’s side.
This non-intrusive design keeps users aware of their surroundings and does not interfere with wearing regular glasses or sunglasses.
Sony LinkBuds
Sony LinkBuds are another top choice for open-ear headphones.
They are notably comfortable and introduce an innovative tap control feature.
However, they lack significant bass and offer just moderate battery life.
In addition to their comfort and unique control feature, Sony LinkBuds are recognized for their sleek and minimalist design.
They fit securely in your ears, ensuring stability during active use.
The LinkBuds also have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to water splashes and sweat, which is advantageous for exercise enthusiasts.
However, those in search of robust bass may be underwhelmed, and the battery life, though fair, isn’t the best available.
Shokz OpenRun Pro
The Shokz OpenRun Pro is the pinnacle of bone-conduction headphones. Unlike Shokz’s previous bone-conduction models, the OpenRun Pro includes app support for improved device management.
Its dust and water-resistant construction mean you can take this headset almost anywhere without fear of damage.
Shokz OpenFit
The Shokz OpenFit is a popular pick among bone-conduction headphone users.
These headphones leave your ears open, prioritizing safety.
They feature Bluetooth 5.1 and quick charging for daily convenience.
However, their proprietary charging port might be seen as a downside for some. The sound quality is adequate, and they boast an IP54 rating, making them resistant to dust and water.
FAQs
What makes open ear headphones a good choice for outdoor activities?
Open ear headphones allow ambient sound, making them ideal for outdoor activities where awareness of your surroundings is crucial, such as cycling or running.
Can I use open ear headphones for extended periods without discomfort?
Yes, open ear headphones like the Oladance OWS Pro and Sony LinkBuds are designed to distribute weight evenly and fit securely, ensuring comfort during extended use.
Are the featured open ear headphones compatible with my smartphone?
Most open ear headphones, including the Shokz OpenFit and Bose Ultra Open Earbuds, connect via Bluetooth 5.1, making them compatible with a wide range of smartphones.
How do bone-conduction headphones like Shokz OpenRun Pro work?
Bone-conduction headphones transmit sound through vibrations in the bones of your skull, leaving your ears open to ambient noise and enhancing situational awareness.
What should I consider when choosing open ear headphones?
Consider battery life, water resistance rating, connectivity options like Bluetooth, and whether you prefer air-conduction or bone-conduction technology for your needs.
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