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Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenRun Pro: Should you upgrade?
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 represents the latest evolution in bone conduction technology, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the OpenRun Pro. Both models sit at the premium end of Shokz’s lineup, but the question remains: are the upgrades worth the investment?
Editor’s note: this article was published on November 15, 2024, and is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.
What’s it like to use the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 compared to the OpenRun Pro?
Both models share the same basic design DNA, featuring a titanium headband and similar dimensions. The OpenRun Pro 2 is slightly heavier at 30g compared to the OpenRun Pro’s 27g, though this difference is negligible in daily use. Both models feature the same IP55 dust and water resistance rating, which is notably less impressive than the more affordable OpenRun’s IP67 rating.
The most significant design improvement in the OpenRun Pro 2 is the switch from a proprietary 2-pin connector to USB-C charging. Both models maintain the same comfortable fit that Shokz is known for, with a rubberized coating that helps the headphones grip your cheekbones and remain stable during workouts.
- Volume up/down buttons
- Multifunction button for playback control
- Softer button feedback tones (improved from the previous model)
- Controls accessible through the companion app
- Volume up/down buttons
- Multifunction button for playback control
- Loud “beep” with every button press
- Controls accessible through the companion app
Do the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 or OpenRun Pro have more features?
The OpenRun Pro 2 extends the feature set of its predecessor with some notable improvements:
- New DualPitch Technology for improved bass and treble reproduction
- Reduced cheekbone vibrations during playback
- Five EQ presets (Standard, Vocal, Bass Boost, Treble Boost, and Classic)
- Custom five-band EQ in the app
- Bluetooth multipoint connectivity
The OpenRun Pro offers:
- Two EQ modes (Standard and Vocal)
- Bluetooth multipoint connectivity
- Basic app functionality for firmware updates
How do the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 and OpenRun Pro connect?
The OpenRun Pro 2 features Bluetooth 5.3, while the OpenRun Pro uses Bluetooth 5.1. Both models support multipoint connectivity, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously regardless of operating system.
Is battery life better on the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 1 or OpenRun Pro?
The OpenRun Pro 2 offers improved battery life:
- 12 hours of playback
- 5-minute quick charge = 150 minutes playback
The OpenRun Pro provides:
- 10 hours of playback
- 5-minute quick charge = 90 minutes playback
Do the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 sound better than the OpenRun Pro?
The OpenRun Pro 2 delivers improved audio quality thanks to its DualPitch Technology, offering better bass reproduction and reduced vibrations against the cheekbones. Both models handle audio consistency well when chewing or moving, which was a significant improvement from earlier Shokz models. However, like all bone conduction headphones, neither can match the audio quality of traditional earbuds.
Do the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 or OpenRun Pro have a better microphone?
Both models offer similar microphone performance, which is generally sub-par compared to modern wireless earbuds. They perform adequately in quiet environments but struggle in windy conditions. Neither model stands out as significantly better in this regard.
Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenRun Pro: Price and availability
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is priced at $179.95 at Amazon, matching the original launch price of the OpenRun Pro ($179 at Amazon). The OpenRun Pro can now often be found at lower prices through various retailers.
Should you get the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 or OpenRun Pro?
Both the Shoks OpenRun Pro 2 and the original OpenRun Pro are among the best bone conduction headphones on the market. Here are some pointers to help you choose:
Choose the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 if:
- You want the latest bone conduction technology with improved bass response
- USB-C charging is important to you
- You value the extended battery life
- You want access to more EQ presets and custom EQ options
Choose the Shokz OpenRun Pro if:
- You can find it at a significant discount
- You’re satisfied with basic EQ options
- The proprietary charging connector doesn’t bother you
- You want a slightly lighter headset
The OpenRun Pro 2 represents a modest but meaningful upgrade over its predecessor. While the improvements in sound quality, battery life, and charging are welcome, they may not justify the cost of upgrading for current OpenRun Pro owners. However, for new buyers, the OpenRun Pro 2 is the clear choice unless you can find the OpenRun Pro at a significant discount.
Alternative options
If you’re considering other options, the standard Shokz OpenRun offers better water resistance (IP67) at $129 at Amazon. Swimmers might prefer the Shokz OpenSwim with 32GB of onboard storage at $149 at Amazon. For office use, the Shokz OpenComm2 UC ($199.95 at Amazon) includes an external microphone.
If you’re not sold on bone conduction but want to maintain environmental awareness, consider open earbuds like the Nothing Ear (Open) ($149 at Amazon) or the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation ($179.99 at Amazon).
Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenRun Pro: Frequently Asked Questions
The OpenRun Pro ($179) offers better bass reproduction, longer battery life (10 vs 8 hours), and uses 9th-generation bone conduction technology with PremiumPitch 2.0+. The newer OpenRun Pro 2 ($179.95) further improves on this with USB-C charging (replacing the proprietary connector), 12-hour battery life, DualPitch technology for better bass, and additional EQ options. However, the cheaper OpenRun has better water resistance (IP67 vs IP55 on both Pro models). While all models support fast charging, the Pro 2 offers 150 minutes of playback from a 5-minute charge versus 90 minutes on the Pro.
No. The OpenRun Pro has an IP55 rating, which protects against dust and water sprays, but it isn’t designed for immersion or showering. For water activities, consider the more water-resistant OpenRun (IP67) instead.
No. Bone conduction headphones like the OpenRun Pro are designed to keep your ears unoccluded to maintain awareness of your surroundings, which is incompatible with noise canceling technology.
Yes. Both models support Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously regardless of operating system. This feature can be toggled on/off through their companion apps.
Yes, but microphone quality is sub-par on both models compared to modern wireless earbuds. They perform adequately in quiet environments but struggle in windy conditions.
There is some degree of sound leakage. Although bone conduction headphones transmit sound through skull vibrations rather than air, others nearby might still be able to hear your music, especially at higher volumes.
Yes. Founded as AfterShokz in 2011, the company is headquartered in East Syracuse, New York, later rebranding to Shokz while maintaining its US base.