Aftershokz OpenRun Headphones S803 review exceptional bone conduction audio quality tested

Description

A Game-Changing Design for Comfort and Functionality

I’ve had the pleasure of trying out the Aftershokz OpenRun Headphones Black, and the innovative bone conduction technology immediately caught my attention. These headphones are incredibly lightweight, coming in at just 26 grams, which makes them almost unnoticeable during use. The open-ear design is a breath of fresh air, especially when compared to traditional earbuds that can feel intrusive or over-ear headphones that get bulky. Whether I’m walking, running, or just lounging, the fit is snug without being constrictive.

The IP67 waterproof rating is another huge win. I’ve accidentally splashed water on them a few times, and they’ve handled it like a pro. While they’re not meant for swimming, they can withstand sweat and rain, making them perfect for outdoor activities. The tilted vibration design is genius—it reduces the ticklish sensation some bone-conduction headphones can have while boosting bass clarity and dynamic range. Honestly, this design feels like a thoughtful innovation aimed at solving problems I didn’t even realize I had with other headphones.

Audio Quality That Exceeds Expectations

The sound quality of these headphones genuinely surprised me. I’ve used bone conduction headphones before, and they often trade off audio richness for their unique design. But the Aftershokz OpenRun balances both impressively. The bass delivery is much deeper than I expected, and the treble remains crisp without distortion. I tested them across various genres, from bass-heavy hip-hop tracks to classical symphonies, and they handled everything with finesse.

One of my favorite things has been the ability to stay aware of my surroundings while enjoying my music. Whether I’m jogging on a busy street or working at my desk, the open-ear design lets ambient noise in without compromising audio quality. The dual noise-canceling microphones are the cherry on top. During calls, people on the other end often comment on how clear I sound, even when I’m in noisy environments.

Positives

• Incredibly lightweight and comfortable for extended wear.
• IP67 waterproof design ensures durability during workouts or outdoor use.
• Rich bass and clear treble thanks to advanced bone conduction technology.
• Open-ear design helps maintain situational awareness.
• Dual microphones provide high-quality call clarity.

Limitations

• Battery life is decent but not groundbreaking—it lasts long enough for daily use but could be better.
• The vibration sensation may take getting used to, especially for first-time users of bone conduction headphones.
• Not ideal for very noisy environments, as ambient sound can interfere with the audio experience.

User-Friendly Features and Controls

The controls on the headphones are straightforward and intuitive. There’s a multifunction button that handles playback, calls, and voice assistant activation. Everything is within reach and easy to toggle even while on the move. Pairing the headphones with my devices was seamless, thanks to the Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. The connection remains stable, and I’ve experienced no lag or interruption during use.

Charging is also a breeze. The proprietary magnetic charging cable is quick and efficient, though I wish it used USB-C for universal compatibility. Once fully charged, the headphones provide up to 8 hours of continuous use, which is fine for most activities but might fall short for long-haul travels or marathon listening sessions.

Competing Products

Compared to other bone conduction headphones like the Shokz Aeropex or the H20 Audio Tri Multi-Sport, these hold their ground quite well. The Aeropex offers slightly better battery life but comes at a higher price point, while the H20 Audio Tri is better suited for swimmers due to its fully waterproof design. However, neither matches the Aftershokz OpenRun’s comfort and sound balance. The tilted vibration technology is truly a standout feature that competitors haven’t quite nailed yet.

In terms of traditional earbuds like the Apple AirPods Pro, the OpenRun headphones might not deliver the same level of noise isolation, but they’re far superior for activities requiring awareness of your surroundings. The comfort level is also leagues ahead, especially for long-term use.

True Value

Given all the features packed into these headphones, they offer excellent value for money. Sure, they might not be the cheapest option out there, but the combination of comfort, durability, and audio quality justifies the investment. If you’re someone who values staying connected to your environment while enjoying music or podcasts, these are worth every penny. Unlike traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones, they feel like they’re designed with real-world practicality in mind.

Overall, the Aftershokz OpenRun headphones strike a nearly perfect balance between functionality and innovation. While there’s always room for improvement, the positives far outweigh the limitations.

Additional information