Shokz OpenDots 2 vs Bose Sport Open Earbuds
Both are open-ear sport earbuds, but they solve different problems. The Shokz OpenDots 2 is the more rugged, longer-lasting pick: IP57 versus IP54, Bluetooth 6.1 versus older Bluetooth plus LE, and up to 270 days standby. The Bose Sport Open Earbuds is the simpler, lighter kit with 7 hours per charge and up to 29 hours with the case. No current prices were provided for either, so compare live store prices before deciding.
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Choose the Shokz OpenDots 2 if you sweat hard, run in rain, or want the newer Bluetooth and much longer standby between charges.
- IP57 survives sweat and rain better than IP54.
- Bluetooth 6.1 is a newer radio than Bose's Bluetooth setup.
- Up to 270 days standby means less charging anxiety.
- Five color choices.
- Lighter buds at 6.4g each.
What separates them
| Shokz OpenDots 2 | Bose Sport Open Earbuds | |
|---|---|---|
| Water resistance | IP57 on the earbuds | IP54 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6.1 | Bluetooth plus Bluetooth Low Energy |
| Battery per charge | Not stated in the listing | 7 hours |
| Battery with case | Not stated in the listing | Up to 29 hours |
| Standby time | Up to 270 days | Not stated |
| Weight | 6.4g per bud, 51.6g total with case | About 10g per bud, about 50g case |
| Noise cancelling | Yes | No |
| Colors |
Price history
- Shokz OpenDots 2: lowest $199.95 on Nov 3 at Shokz.
- Bose Sport Open Earbuds: lowest $165.00 on Nov 3 at eBay.
Prices at every store
Shokz OpenDots 2
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
- B&H Photo-Video-AudioCheck price at B&H Photo-Video-Audio
Bose Sport Open Earbuds
- AdoramaCheck price at Adorama
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
Specs compared
| Spec | Shokz OpenDots 2 | Bose Sport Open Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| With Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| Color | Black, White, Blue, Pink, Gray | Black |
| With Charging Case | Yes | Yes |
| With Touch Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Style | In-ear | In-ear |
| Wireless Type | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Use | Sports | Sports |
| Water-Resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Width | 3.74″ wide | 3.45″ wide |
| Depth | 1.89″ deep | 1.49″ deep |
| Water resistance |
What reviewers say
Bose Sport Open Earbuds
Owners like the awareness the open design gives on runs and rides and find the buds light and stable. The common complaints are weak bass, sound leakage and a bulky case, and some find the fit fussy.
- Sound qualityMixedOwners say vocals and mids are clear but bass is weak and loud environments overwhelm the open design.
- AwarenessPraisedRunners and cyclists value hearing traffic and surroundings without removing an earbud.
- FitMixedThe over-ear hook is light and stable for many, but some ears make it feel loose or awkward.
- Sound leakageCriticised
Questions and answers
- Which is better for running in the rain?
- The Shokz OpenDots 2. Its IP57 rating is stronger than the Bose IP54, which is splash-resistant but not built for heavy water.
- Which has longer battery life?
- Bose states 7 hours per charge and up to 29 hours with the case. Shokz does not state per-charge or case totals, only up to 270 days standby, so Bose is the safer bet on runtime.
- Does either cancel noise?
- The Shokz OpenDots 2 lists noise cancelling; the Bose Sport Open Earbuds does not. Both are open-ear designs, so neither blocks much outside sound.
- Which is lighter to wear?
- The Shokz buds at 6.4g each are lighter than the Bose buds at about 10g each. The cases are close, around 39g versus 50g.
- Is the Shokz worth extra money?
- Only if the price gap is small. You pay for IP57, Bluetooth 6.1 and color choice; Bose gives you stated runtime and USB-C charging.
- Which works better for calls?
- Bose lists two microphones; Shokz lists a microphone but no count. Neither is a call-focused headset, so treat them as close.