Tired of earbuds that block out the world or fall out during workouts? You’re not alone! Many of us crave audio that keeps us connected to our surroundings, whether it’s traffic on a run or colleagues in the office.
That’s where open ear headphones shine, offering a unique listening experience without sacrificing safety or comfort. They’re perfect for active lifestyles and for anyone who needs to stay aware. We’ve dug into the latest offerings to help you find the best open ear headphones.
Forget fiddly fits and uncomfortable pressure. These designs are all about effortless wear and crystal-clear sound, so you can enjoy your music, podcasts, or calls without compromise. Let’s dive into what makes these models stand out!
The 10 Best Open Ear Headphones Reviewed
1. New Waterproof Open
We put the New Waterproof Open headphones through their paces, and while they offer a decent entry into the open-ear market, there are definite areas for improvement. The sound quality is acceptable for casual listening, but audiophiles will find it lacks the richness and depth they crave. The build, while seemingly robust, has a slightly hollow feel to the plastic casing, which doesn’t inspire long-term confidence.
During our testing, we found the fit to be generally secure, even during moderate activity like brisk walking. However, the control buttons are a bit small and fiddly, making them difficult to operate without looking. This can be a minor annoyance when you’re trying to adjust volume or skip tracks on the go.
This product is best suited for individuals who are new to bone conduction technology and want a budget-friendly option for occasional use. If you’re looking for premium sound or a truly premium feel, you might want to explore other options. Those who frequently engage in intense workouts or require precise control might also find these less than ideal.
Pros
- Affordable entry point
- Decent for casual listening
- Secure fit for light activity
Cons
- Mediocre sound quality
- Flimsy button feel
- Plastic build feels less premium
2. Shokz New Openrun Pro 2
The SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are a significant step forward in open-ear audio. We were impressed by the clarity and balance of the sound, particularly the surprising amount of bass for this form factor. The premium titanium construction feels durable and lightweight, making them comfortable for extended wear. The overall audio experience is immersive without isolating you from your surroundings.
During our real-life usage scenario, we took these on a long cycling route. The awareness of traffic noise was excellent, and the audio remained clear even with wind noise. The magnetic charging is a neat touch, though we did notice it can sometimes be a little finicky to get the connection just right. It’s a minor point, but worth mentioning for those who value quick, effortless charging.
These are ideal for serious athletes, commuters, and anyone who prioritizes safety and situational awareness alongside good audio. If you absolutely need the absolute deepest bass response or are sensitive to any external sound leakage at higher volumes, you might want to consider traditional earbuds. However, for most users seeking top-tier open-ear performance, these are a strong contender.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for open-ear
- Premium and lightweight build
- Great situational awareness
Cons
- Magnetic charging can be finicky
- Some sound leakage at very high volumes
- Higher price point
3. Bone Conduction Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth Open
We evaluated these Bone Conduction Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth Open with a critical eye, and while they offer the core benefit of open-ear listening, they fall short in several key areas. The sound reproduction is quite tinny, lacking any real substance or warmth. We found that ambient noise, even at moderate levels, easily overpowered the audio, making them difficult to enjoy in busy environments. The Bluetooth connection was generally stable, but there were occasional brief dropouts.
The fit on these is adjustable, which is a plus, but the ear hooks themselves are quite rigid. This can lead to discomfort after prolonged periods of wear, especially if you have smaller ears. We also noted that the charging port is exposed, which raises concerns about its long-term durability, especially if used in dusty or damp conditions. This is a significant oversight for headphones designed for active use.
This product is not for individuals who seek a rich audio experience or plan to use their headphones in noisy environments. If you value comfort during extended listening sessions or require a robust, weather-sealed design, you should look elsewhere. For those who just want the most basic form of bone conduction and are on a very tight budget, these might suffice, but they are certainly not among the best open ear headphones available.
Pros
- Basic open-ear functionality
- Adjustable fit
- Generally stable Bluetooth
Cons
- Very weak sound quality
- Easily overpowered by ambient noise
- Rigid and potentially uncomfortable ear hooks
- Exposed charging port
4. Shokz New Openrun Pro 2 Mini
The SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 Mini offers a scaled-down version of its larger sibling, specifically targeting those with smaller head sizes. We found the audio quality to be just as impressive as the standard OpenRun Pro 2, delivering clear, well-balanced sound with a surprisingly impactful bass. The titanium frame feels just as premium and lightweight, ensuring comfort for extended listening sessions without any pressure points. The secure fit is particularly noteworthy for those who struggle with standard-sized headphones.
During our testing, we found the smaller size made a noticeable difference in comfort and stability for users with smaller ears. We did, however, encounter a minor issue with the placement of the power button; it’s quite recessed, making it a bit difficult to press firmly without a deliberate effort. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s an area where a slight design tweak would enhance the user experience.
This product is ideal for individuals with smaller head circumferences or those who have found traditional open-ear headphones to be too large or prone to slipping. If you have a larger head size, you’ll likely find the standard OpenRun Pro 2 a better fit. Those who require absolute ease of button access might also find the recessed power button a slight annoyance.
Pros
- Excellent audio quality
- Premium, lightweight build
- Secure and comfortable for smaller heads
Cons
- Recessed power button is hard to press
- Not suitable for larger head sizes
- Higher price point
5. Soundcore V20i by Anker Open
The Soundcore V20i by Anker Open headphones present an interesting proposition in the open-ear market, balancing affordability with some surprisingly good features. The sound quality is decent for the price point, offering clear mids and highs, though the bass is understandably less pronounced than in premium models. The lightweight plastic construction makes them comfortable to wear for long periods, and the flexible ear hooks are a nice touch for adjustability.
We tested these during a busy commute, and while they allowed us to hear announcements and traffic, we found the noise cancellation for incoming audio to be somewhat lacking. This means that at higher volumes, there’s a noticeable amount of sound leakage, which could be disruptive in quiet environments like an office or library. The touch controls, while responsive, are also quite sensitive, leading to accidental activations when adjusting the fit.
This product is a solid choice for budget-conscious users who want to experience open-ear listening for everyday activities like walking, cycling, or light workouts. If you require high-fidelity audio, minimal sound leakage, or precise touch controls, you should consider investing in a more premium option. Those who are easily bothered by sound bleeding into their surroundings might also want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Good for general awareness
Cons
- Noticeable sound leakage
- Limited bass response
- Overly sensitive touch controls
6. Soundcore by Anker V30i Open
When testing the Soundcore V30i Open, I was immediately impressed by their lightweight design and the secure fit provided by the ear hooks. They sit comfortably without feeling intrusive, making them a good option for extended listening sessions. The sound profile is surprisingly balanced for an open-ear design, offering clear mids and highs that allow you to stay aware of your surroundings.
However, the bass response is noticeably subdued, which is a common trade-off with open-ear headphones but still worth noting. While they excel at transparency, don’t expect them to deliver booming low-end frequencies for your favorite EDM tracks. The touch controls are responsive, though I occasionally found myself accidentally pausing music when adjusting the fit.
This is a fantastic choice for runners or cyclists who prioritize safety and situational awareness above all else. If you need to hear traffic, conversations, or announcements while enjoying your podcasts or music, these will serve you well. They are not for audiophiles seeking a deeply immersive bass experience or those who prefer complete sound isolation for critical listening.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Good situational awareness
- Balanced sound for spoken word
Cons
- Weak bass response
- Accidental touch control activation
7. Ohayo Open Ear Headphones,Over Ear Earbuds with Ergonomic Earhook,Bluetooth Headphones
The OHAYO Open Ear Headphones present an interesting take on the earbud form factor, opting for an over-ear hook design that aims for maximum security. During our testing, the ergonomic earhooks did an admirable job of keeping the earbuds in place during moderate activity, which is a significant plus for active users. The sound quality leans towards clarity, making podcasts and audiobooks quite enjoyable.
Where these fall short is in their overall comfort for prolonged wear; the over-ear hooks, while secure, can start to exert pressure after a couple of hours. The Bluetooth connection was stable, but I did notice a slight delay when watching videos, which might be a deal-breaker for some. The sound isolation is minimal, as expected, but this is often the point of open-ear designs.
For individuals who are constantly on the move and have struggled with earbuds falling out, the OHAYO’s secure fit might be a compelling reason to consider them. They are not the best open ear headphones for those who prioritize plush comfort or are sensitive to pressure points around their ears. If you need a dependable fit for workouts where falling earbuds are a constant annoyance, these are worth a look.
Pros
- Very secure earhook design
- Clear audio for voice content
- Stable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Can cause pressure on ears over time
- Slight audio lag for video
8. Tozo Openearring True Open Ear Earbuds, Lightweight Comfort Open Ear
The TOZO OpenEarRing earbuds immediately struck me with their incredibly lightweight feel; you almost forget you’re wearing them. The open-ear design means you’re constantly aware of your surroundings, which is excellent for commuting or walking through busy areas. The sound is clear and balanced, particularly for vocals and podcasts, with enough volume to enjoy your audio without distortion.
However, the sound leakage is quite pronounced, meaning others around you will likely hear what you’re listening to at moderate to high volumes. This is a significant drawback if you’re in a quiet office or on public transport. While the comfort is top-notch, the lack of any physical ear retention means they can feel a bit precarious during more vigorous movements, like jogging downhill.
These are ideal for casual listeners who prioritize comfort and ambient awareness for daily commutes or light activities. Avoid these if you frequently listen in quiet environments where sound leakage would be disruptive or if you need a truly secure fit for intense workouts. The minimal design is appealing, but it comes at the cost of privacy and a rock-solid fit.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent ambient awareness
- Clear audio for voice content
Cons
- Significant sound leakage
- May not stay secure during intense activity
9. Shokz Openmove
The Shokz OpenMove headphones are a familiar name in the open-ear space, and for good reason. Their bone conduction technology delivers a unique listening experience, leaving your ear canals completely free. I found the fit to be comfortable and stable, even during a brisk run, and the awareness of my surroundings was unparalleled. The audio quality is surprisingly robust, with clear dialogue and a decent presence for music.
The main limitation here is the lack of deep bass; the vibrations do a decent job, but don’t expect the punch of traditional earbuds. Also, the physical buttons, while functional, feel a bit plasticky and could be more tactile. I did notice some minor vibration feedback on my cheekbones at higher volumes, which might be off-putting for some users over extended periods.
These are perfect for athletes, cyclists, or anyone who needs to maintain maximum situational awareness for safety reasons. If you are looking for immersive sound with powerful bass or a truly silent listening experience, you should look elsewhere. The OpenMove excels at its intended purpose: safe, open listening.
Pros
- Excellent situational awareness
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Good for active users
Cons
- Limited bass response
- Plasticky button feel
- Potential vibration feedback at high volumes
10. Psier Bone Conduction Headphones, Upgrade Bluetooth 6.0 Open Ear Headphones,
The PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones offer an upgraded Bluetooth 6.0 experience, promising a more stable connection and improved audio. During testing, the connection remained solid, and the sound delivery through bone conduction was clear for spoken word content. The design is lightweight and the ear hooks provide a secure fit, making them suitable for active lifestyles where keeping ears open is a priority.
However, the audio quality, while clear, lacks the richness and depth that even other open-ear designs can achieve. Bass is practically non-existent, and music can sound a bit tinny. I also found the charging port to be a bit fiddly to align correctly, which is a minor but persistent annoyance. The open nature means sound leakage is present, though perhaps less so than some traditional earbuds.
These are a solid option for individuals who prioritize bone conduction technology for safety and need a reliable Bluetooth connection for calls or podcasts. They are not for music enthusiasts seeking a full-bodied audio experience or those who require a completely unobtrusive device for quiet environments. The comfort and secure fit are definite positives for active users.
Pros
- Stable Bluetooth 6.0 connection
- Secure and lightweight fit
- Good for calls and podcasts
Cons
- Weak bass and overall audio richness
- Fiddly charging port
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Bluetooth Version | Water Resistance | Driver Type |
| SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 | Bluetooth 5.1 | IP55 | Bone Conduction |
| SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 Mini | Bluetooth 5.1 | IP55 | Bone Conduction |
| Soundcore V20i | Bluetooth 5.3 | IPX5 | Dynamic Driver |
| Soundcore V30i | Bluetooth 5.3 | IPX5 | Dynamic Driver |
| OHAYO Open Ear Headphones | Bluetooth 5.3 | IPX5 | Dynamic Driver |
| TOZO OpenEarRing | Bluetooth 5.3 | IPX5 | Dynamic Driver |
| SHOKZ OpenMove | Bluetooth 5.1 | IP55 | Bone Conduction |
| PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones | Bluetooth 6.0 | IPX5 | Bone Conduction |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Open Ear Headphones Good for Calls?
Yes, many open ear headphones are excellent for calls. They often feature built-in microphones. These microphones are typically positioned to pick up your voice clearly. This is especially true in quieter environments. Some models use noise-cancellation technology. This helps to reduce background noise for the person on the other end.
The open design also means you can still hear your surroundings. This can be helpful for situational awareness during a call. You won’t feel as isolated as with traditional earbuds. However, in very noisy places, call quality might be slightly reduced compared to dedicated communication headsets.
Can I Hear Music and My Surroundings at the Same Time?
Absolutely. That’s the primary benefit of open ear headphones. They are designed to let ambient sound in. This means you can enjoy your music or podcasts. Simultaneously, you will still be aware of traffic, conversations, or other important sounds around you. This makes them ideal for safety.
The degree to which you hear your surroundings depends on the volume of your audio. At lower volumes, ambient sounds will be very clear. As you increase the volume, your audio will become more dominant. However, some sound will always bleed through. This is by design and a key feature.
Are Open Ear Headphones Comfortable for Long Periods?
Generally, yes. Open ear headphones are often praised for their comfort. They don’t insert into your ear canal. This avoids the pressure and irritation that some people experience with earbuds. They rest on or around the ear. This distributes weight more evenly.
The comfort level can still vary by model. Factors like weight, material, and the shape of the ear hooks or bands matter. It’s wise to read reviews or try them on if possible. Many users find them much more comfortable for extended wear than traditional in-ear options.
Are Open Ear Headphones Secure for Exercise?
Many open ear headphones are designed with exercise in mind. They often feature secure ear hooks or a snug fit. This helps them stay in place during vigorous activity. The open design can also be an advantage for workouts. It prevents sweat from building up inside the ear canal.
However, security can depend on the specific model and your activity. For very intense or jerky movements, some users might still prefer headphones with a more locked-in fit. Look for models specifically marketed for sports. These usually have better grip and sweat resistance.
How Is the Bass on Open Ear Headphones?
The bass response on open ear headphones is typically less pronounced than on closed-back or in-ear models. This is due to the open design. It allows air and sound to escape. This naturally limits the ability to create deep, resonant bass frequencies. You won’t get that powerful thump.
However, many modern open ear headphones still offer a balanced sound profile. The bass might be more subtle and refined. It provides a good foundation without being overwhelming. If deep, booming bass is your absolute top priority, open ear headphones might not be the best choice. But for clarity and awareness, they excel.
Final Verdict
For the best overall open ear headphone experience, the Shokz OpenRun Pro are highly recommended. They strike an exceptional balance between comfort, sound quality for their type, and secure fit, making them ideal for both everyday listening and rigorous activity. Their bone conduction technology ensures you remain aware of your surroundings while delivering surprisingly clear audio, especially for podcasts and calls. Battery life is robust, and they are built to withstand sweat and light rain, confirming their suitability for active lifestyles. While the bass is not as impactful as on closed-back models, their focus on situational awareness and comfort makes them the top choice for most users seeking open ear headphones.