At CES 2026, Shokz unveiled a significant evolution in open-ear audio technology. The new OpenFit Pro wireless earbuds promise to solve a long-standing paradox: how to enjoy immersive audio while staying aware of your surroundings, even in moderately noisy environments. By introducing what the company calls "noise reduction," these earbuds aim to bridge the gap between the situational awareness of open-ear designs and the focused listening experience of traditional noise-cancelling buds. This launch challenges the assumption that you must seal your ear canal to effectively manage environmental sound, potentially redefining the use cases for open-ear audio.
Key Specifications & Data
- Product Name: Shokz OpenFit Pro
- Launch Price: USD 249.95
- Key Feature: Adaptive Open-Ear Noise Reduction
- Driver: 11 x 20 mm dual-diaphragm
- Frequency Range: Up to 40kHz
- Microphones: Triple-microphone array for noise reduction
- Battery Life (Earbuds): Up to 12 hours (without NR), ~6 hours (with NR)
- Battery Life (Case): Provides additional 50 hours of charge
- Audio Codecs/Features: Dolby Atmos with head tracking
- Availability: Priority shipping begins January 12, 2026
The Core Innovation: Open-Ear Noise Reduction
The headline feature of the Shokz OpenFit Pro is its novel approach to managing ambient noise. Unlike traditional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which requires a physical seal in the ear canal to create opposing sound waves, Shokz employs a triple-microphone array and an adaptive algorithm. Two external microphones monitor environmental sounds, while a third, placed near the ear, tracks what actually reaches the ear canal. The system then generates precise inverse sound waves to dampen unwanted noise. This technical distinction is why Shokz uses the term "noise reduction" instead of "cancellation," but the practical effect for the user is remarkably similar, offering a quieter listening environment without complete auditory isolation.
Performance Context & Comparisons
- Noise Reduction vs. ANC: Shokz's system uses external mics and algorithms to dampen sound without an ear seal, differing from traditional ANC which requires a seal.
- Use Case Suitability: Most effective in moderately loud environments (cafes, commuting). Less effective against very loud, irregular noise (live music, construction) compared to full ANC.
- Battery Impact: Enabling noise reduction halves the earbuds' battery life from 12 to 6 hours.
- Market Position: Priced between standard open-ear buds and premium models like Bose's Ultra Open Earbuds (USD 300), offering a unique feature (noise reduction) not found in most open-ear designs.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
Early hands-on impressions from CES and extended testing indicate the technology is effective, particularly in specific use cases. In moderately loud environments like cafes, busy offices, or during typical city commutes, the noise reduction makes a noticeable difference, allowing music, podcasts, and audiobooks to remain clear. It successfully masks consistent, low-frequency hums like those from air purifiers or refrigerators. However, it is not a complete replacement for full ANC in extremely loud or chaotic settings, such as a bar with live music or a subway car with unexpected interruptions. The feature is best viewed as a powerful enhancement for open-ear buds, making them viable in more situations rather than making them direct competitors to sealed, ANC-heavy models.
Audio Quality and Additional Features
Beyond noise management, Shokz has also focused on improving the core audio performance of the OpenFit Pro. The earbuds house an 11 x 20 mm dual-diaphragm driver and support a frequency range up to 40kHz, with a specific focus on reducing distortion below 100Hz. This engineering effort translates to better bass response, an area where open-ear designs have historically struggled. The buds also include support for Dolby Atmos with head tracking, a feature that adds a spatial audio element, though its utility with an open-ear design may be more situational and dependent on personal preference.
Design, Fit, and Battery Considerations
The physical design of the OpenFit Pro follows the familiar open-ear hook style of its predecessors. While this design ensures they stay in place during activity, some testers note the hooks can feel bulky, especially for users who wear glasses, and the fit may not feel as secure as some would prefer. The charging case is also reported to be on the larger side. Battery life is directly impacted by the use of noise reduction. With the feature turned off, the earbuds last up to 12 hours. Engaging noise reduction cuts that battery life in half to approximately 6 hours per charge, which is on par with many standard ANC earbuds. The case provides an additional 50 hours of backup power.
Market Position and Verdict
Priced at USD 249.95, the Shokz OpenFit Pro occupies a premium niche in the open-ear market. It is more affordable than some competitors like the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (USD 300), which lack any form of active noise management. For individuals who prioritize situational awareness for safety or comfort but have been frustrated by the limitations of open-ear buds in noisier settings, the OpenFit Pro represents a compelling upgrade. It is unlikely to fully replace dedicated, sealed ANC earbuds for air travel or extremely loud work environments, but it successfully expands the functional scope of open-ear audio, making it a versatile tool for commuting, working from home, and outdoor activities where hearing your environment is key.