Compare Shokz OpenRun Air 2 vs Shokz OpenSwim Pro

PremiumPitch 3.0 adds warmth over the older OpenRun, and playlists and spoken audio remain enjoyable during runs. Overall sound can still feel slightly muffled and less detailed than the OpenRun Pro 2.

Underwater playback earns especially strong praise for its fullness and clarity. On land the audio is good for bone conduction but noticeably less rich than conventional earbuds, especially at loud volumes.

Nearby people may hear audio when volume is turned up. Quiet shared spaces call for more restrained listening levels.

At restrained listening levels the headset may be unobtrusive, but loud music can be audible to nearby people, especially at a crowded pool wall.

The microphones can reduce ordinary running background noise effectively, but stronger wind while cycling gets through. Launch claims of improved wind filtering exceed what has been independently demonstrated.

Noise-reducing microphones keep land-based calls intelligible in ordinary settings, although very loud surroundings remain a challenge.

Bass has more warmth than on the original OpenRun, but remains relatively light beside the Pro 2. Louder bass-heavy tracks can also cause an unpleasant buzz against the skin.

Bass is limited compared with sealed earbuds, especially on dry land, but can sound noticeably fuller underwater or with earplugs. Some swimmers find its punch surprisingly strong for bone conduction.

Because the ear canals stay open, traffic and other environmental noise remain audible. That is intentional for awareness but a poor match for sound isolation.

Open ears keep environmental sounds accessible, which is valuable outdoors but makes trains, busy roads and loud gyms difficult places to follow audio.

The open-ear design cannot provide the cancellation needed for a noisy train, airplane or loud gym. It is a poor choice when blocking surroundings is the priority.

This open-ear headset cannot mask loud gym music or other intrusive sounds. It suits awareness-focused activity rather than noise-cancelling listening.

Standard and Mini versions improve the odds of getting a secure fixed-neckband fit. Because the frame is not adjustable, the correct size has an outsized effect on comfort.

The standard band does not suit everyone, and several accounts wish for a shorter Mini option. One account describes size choices differently, so fit expectations should be checked carefully.

The neckband sits securely without creating distracting pressure around the head. That balance helps it remain comfortable through longer runs.

Gentle frame pressure supports a secure fit, but a tight swimming cap can push the hooks against the ears or temples during longer sessions.

At about 26 grams, it feels very light during exercise and after hours of wear. The design appears slimmer rather than substantially lighter than the original OpenRun.

The compact, low-weight frame is barely noticeable to most users across long sessions, although head shape can make it feel less airy for a few.

A smaller, lower-profile shape and contoured hooks modernize the familiar wraparound design. The refinement is real, but the standard headset is not dramatically lighter than the previous OpenRun.

The streamlined wraparound shape looks discreet on the head, and the brighter color option appeals to those wanting a distinctive piece of swim gear.

A noticeable cheekbone tickle or buzzing can occur on bass-heavy music when volume is pushed up, although one runner scarcely noticed vibration during workouts. Lowering volume or bass can help.

Turning up bass-heavy tracks can produce a noticeable cheekbone tickle or vibration, which some find distracting. Others report less vibration than on earlier Shokz models.

Long-run testing is a clear strength: three-hour sessions caused no soreness or ear-canal pressure. The low-profile hooks and ventilated open-ear fit make the headset easy to forget.

The light, soft frame often disappears during hours of running, swimming, or daily wear. A few users notice pressure from snug swim caps or the headband during certain positions.

Standard USB-C replaces dependence on the older proprietary charging connector. This is a broadly praised convenience upgrade, although no charging cable is supplied.

The proprietary headset connection draws repeated complaints from people wanting an everyday USB-C charging cable. Some appreciate its water-sealing rationale, and charging-end connectors can vary.

The package is sparse and notably omits a USB-C charging cable. Buyers may need to use a cable they already own.

Swim earplugs are useful for stronger perceived sound and lower pool noise, and the supplied case helps store the wet headset. These extras make the swimming package more complete.

Vocal-focused settings make podcasts easier to enjoy, while Volume Boost helps outdoors. The louder preset cannot entirely overcome heavy traffic or other noisy settings.

Vocal presets can help speech, and swimming mode changes the underwater balance. Preferences differ sharply: some like the swim tuning, while others find it flat and prefer Standard.

The transducers sit low enough to coexist comfortably with glasses, sunglasses, hats and visors. This helps for runs that involve extra headwear.

Swim goggles and caps generally work with the slim frame, while glasses and sunglasses are more divisive. Some wear them together comfortably and others find combinations crowded.

The Air 2 is regarded as a practical, comfortable refinement of the original OpenRun. Its improvements are worthwhile, although more premium Shokz models maintain an audio advantage.

Swimmers and multisport users are particularly enthusiastic about the unusual combination of underwater playback, secure fit and land connectivity.

Volume Boost improves audibility in moderately noisy outdoor settings, but busy traffic and other loud environments can still drown out audio. Higher volumes also cost battery life.

Volume is adequate in calmer environments but often cannot overpower wind, crowds or traffic. Raising it to maximum can add distortion or unwanted vibration.

The connected neckband, revised hooks and redistributed balance resist bouncing or slipping during runs. Extended training sessions required little to no adjustment.

Bluetooth is described as dependable, and switching between connected devices works without much disruption in normal use.

Revised hooks, Standard/Mini sizing and the stable neckband make a good fit stay put with minimal readjusting. Individual head shape still matters.

The ear hooks stay put through running, strength drills and many swimming strokes, including flip turns. Fit is less predictable under a tight cap, with some bounce or pressure reported.

IP67 dust and water protection handles sweat, rain and rinsing after workouts. The rating is a strong sports advantage, though the headset is not intended for swimming and the port must be dry before charging.

IP68 protection is the core appeal, handling laps, flip turns, showers and wet workouts rather than merely splashes. The stated depth and duration limits still matter.

Keeping the ear canals free makes cars, cyclists and other people easier to hear. This awareness is the defining benefit of the design, provided playback volume remains reasonable.

Keeping the ears unobstructed makes traffic, conversations and other surroundings easier to hear while moving. This remains one of the strongest reasons to choose the design.

Two adjustable EQ slots and several listening profiles allow meaningful tuning, including pulling back bass that feels buzzy. These controls make the audio more adaptable to individual preferences.

There are basic preset choices rather than a full customizable EQ. Some listeners find the limited options underwhelming for fine-tuning music.

The Shokz app adds accessible EQ tuning, configurable buttons, multipoint management and a headphone finder. It makes this basic running design easier to personalize.

The companion app makes EQ and mode selection easier and can help configure controls or multipoint connections. Its handling of onboard songs draws criticism, although one account notes newer playback-order controls.

Calls are usable while running, but the headset is less convincing for conversations in gusty cycling conditions. It works for occasional calls rather than consistently clear communication in all weather.

Voice calls come through well in offices and during walking or cycling in moderate noise. Busy roads and louder places can make speech harder to follow.

Separated physical buttons make volume changes and track skipping easy even mid-run, with sweaty hands or gloves. Their reliable tactile feel is consistently preferred to finicky touch controls.

Most find the tactile controls workable while running or swimming, including with wet hands or gloves. Smaller volume and mode buttons can be fiddly, with occasional accidental switching.

The companion app keeps essential tuning and control settings simple to locate. Customizing the sound does not require wrestling with complicated menus.

Bluetooth pairing and basic operation are straightforward, even with a computer. File loading and less common configuration settings require more effort.

The Air 2 offers a strong upgrade path from the original OpenRun at a similar price. Its value versus the OpenRun Pro 2 depends on discounts, since better sound can sometimes cost very little extra.

The premium feels justified for swimmers who also run or cycle and need both playback modes. Land-only listeners or swimming-only buyers often have cheaper ways to cover their needs.

Pairing with both phone and laptop makes switching sources easier without constant reconnecting. The convenience expands its usefulness beyond exercise.

Two-device pairing adds useful flexibility for switching between personal devices and taking a call. Setup is handled through the app and generally works as intended.

A covered, water-resistant USB-C socket addresses a recurring charging-area weakness reported with the older OpenRun. Drying and cleaning the socket after wet workouts remains important.

A sealed magnetic connection avoids exposing an ordinary port to water, a deliberate compromise that helps preserve swim-ready waterproofing.

Up to 10 hours is a useful step up for several runs or a long training session, and multi-hour workouts have been completed without alerts. Playback at higher volume drains the battery faster.

Bluetooth endurance generally covers full workdays and most training sessions, but local-file playback is shorter and high volume reduces runtime. Long-distance athletes may need to plan around that gap.

Five minutes of charging can provide roughly two hours of playback, and a full recharge takes about an hour. Quick top-ups are a welcome safeguard before a workout.

Fast charging is a standout convenience, frequently praised for adding hours of playback in a short top-up. The unusual connector is less universally convenient than USB-C.

Adding Bluetooth makes this far more versatile than a swim-only player, with generally reliable connections for music and calls on land. Underwater playback still requires stored files.

Switching between streamed music on land and stored files underwater makes one headset work across sports. Some dislike fiddly button combinations and returning to Bluetooth after each restart.

Copying locally owned files is straightforward once connected to a computer, but the cable, possible adapter, and manual preparation feel dated beside streaming services.

The flexible, silicone-coated frame survives ordinary active use and feels durable, though some find it less rigid than the previous OpenSwim.

The headphones can sink if they come loose, creating a particular loss risk in lakes or deeper open water. Securing them under swim gear is sensible.

The magnetic connection can feel secure and simpler than the original charging cradle, but the proprietary cable is a recurring headache: losing it means finding the correct replacement.

The supplied soft or silicone case is handy for storing the headset and its special cable, while drainage or ventilation helps wet gear dry. Its practical design suits pool bags.

An audible headphone-finder function can help locate a misplaced neckband within hearing range. It is a handy addition for a headset frequently tossed into gym bags.

The fixed neckband does not offer adjustable arms to compensate for an unsuitable fit. Choosing the right Standard or Mini size matters.

Despite its open-ear construction, the headset delivers pleasing separation of musical elements in both local playback and Bluetooth listening.

Bass-heavy music can distort when volume is pushed toward the top, particularly outdoors when listeners are trying to overcome surrounding noise.

Vocals and midrange material come through clear and balanced, helping spoken-word listening and music retain definition despite restrained bass.

The large onboard music library is a signature strength, making underwater and phone-free listening possible. Finding, ordering, and transferring songs can be less smooth than the sheer storage capacity suggests.

Large storage does not guarantee easy listening: track order, folder access, shuffle repeats and sparse in-app navigation frustrate many. A few accounts report improved app or folder controls, so experiences differ.

The connected neckband avoids having two separate buds or a charging case to manage during a run. It favors active convenience over pocketable true-wireless storage.

Ordinary streaming is convenient through Bluetooth on land, but saved subscription playlists generally cannot be transferred for underwater offline playback. Owned compatible files are needed.

Higher-frequency detail and vocals remain clear enough for enjoyable music, including underwater, even if the overall presentation is not audiophile-grade.

The expanded assortment of playable audio file types is welcome for loading locally stored music. Bluetooth codec options are modest, although that does not bother everyone for this kind of listening.

The two-year coverage, including reassurance about water ingress, is a welcome benefit for equipment used in the pool.

The open-ear, bone-conduction approach lacks the enveloping soundstage of more traditional headphones, particularly when external noise intrudes.

Wind can overwhelm the music on faster bike rides and exposed runs, although the streamlined design helps reduce physical wind buffeting for some.