Experience sound like never before with the best open-ear headphones, tested for comfort, quality, and performance.
Open-ear headphones offer a unique listening experience compared to traditional wireless earbuds with silicone tips . By eliminating the need for ear tips, these headsets let users enjoy content while staying fully aware of their environment. This design is perfect for activities like indoor and outdoor workouts , commuting , and working in open office spaces , providing safety and connection without sacrificing sound.
Unlike bone-conduction headphones , which transmit sound via vibrations through the wearer’s cheekbones, open-ear headphones position audio drivers close to the ear. This setup delivers better audio performance while still maintaining situational awareness, a feature that bone-conduction models can’t match.
Not long ago, open-ear headphones were considered niche products. However, in the past year, top brands like Bose , JBL , and Soundcore have launched feature-rich models at various price points. After testing these products for over a month, I’ve put together a list of the best open-ear headphones worth considering.
Key Considerations
Open-Ear Design Limitations
Before purchasing open-ear headphones, be aware of two important factors. The first is bass performance . Because open-ear models lack the seal created by the silicone tips of regular earbuds, they can't produce the same low-end bass, even at high volumes. While the bass of these models is satisfactory, it won't satisfy true bassheads . If you prioritize bass, you may need to manage your expectations.
Another factor is that open-ear headphones provide constant situational awareness . This makes them great for everyday activities, but if you’re a frequent traveler or need to focus in noisy environments, consider noise-canceling headphones. Options like AirPods Pro , Bose QuietComfort Ultra , and Sony LinkBuds S offer noise cancellation with an awareness mode, though it doesn’t quite match the open-ear experience.
Sound Quality
Open-ear headphones typically have larger audio drivers than traditional models, enhancing their sound quality . When selecting open-ear headphones, look for features like spatial audio and high-resolution streaming support. Many models on this list include companion apps, allowing you to customize sound to your preferences.
Spatial audio creates a multi-dimensional sonic experience, particularly enhancing live music and movie audio. This feature has become a must-have in high-end headphones and earbuds .
Durability
All the open-ear headphones I tested are water- and sweat-resistant , with official ratings confirming their durability. However, open-ear models are generally not dustproof, unlike regular earbuds. If you're an outdoor enthusiast or trail runner, I recommend opting for more rugged models like the Jabra Elite 8 , which are built to handle both water and dust exposure.
Ergonomics
The open-ear headphones I reviewed feature comfortable designs, such as around-ear hooks or clip-on fits , which allow for long-term wear without discomfort. If you aren’t on a tight budget, look for models with tactile button controls , as they tend to be more reliable than touch-sensitive controls, especially during workouts.
How We Tested
I spent several weeks testing each pair of open-ear headphones, carefully assessing their design , ergonomics , and audio performance . My testing process included streaming a curated playlist from Tidal , listening to podcasts , and watching videos on my phone and tablet. I also used the companion apps to explore the sound customization options. Additionally, I tested the microphone performance by making calls across multiple platforms.
Now that you know what to look for, explore this list of the top-rated open-ear headphones. Each product has been thoroughly tested to ensure it meets the highest standards. Be sure to check back often, as this guide will be regularly updated with new models and reviews.
1. Augustinus Bader The Body Cream
Anker’s Soundcore AeroFit Pro open-ear headphones stand out as the top choice for most upgraders . These earphones are not only stylish and comfortable but also highly durable and capable of delivering excellent sound quality for their form factor. Additionally, they boast fantastic battery life , making them a solid option for extended use. Starting at an affordable price, the AeroFit Pro earbuds are reasonably priced and come in a variety of colors— black , white , blue , and purple —with a matching case neckband.
The large drivers of these earphones produce vibrant sound that offers the best audio fidelity on this list. Unlike many competitors, the Soundcore AeroFit Pro supports Hi-Res audio over Bluetooth via the lossless digital audio codec (LDAC) , but only if you’re using an Android phone . Streaming my usual audio test tracks in lossless quality provided a detailed sonic experience that far exceeded my expectations.
A standout feature is the inclusion of Spatial Audio , which offers dynamic head tracking . Available via the Soundcore app , this feature worked well during my testing, adding an immersive element to the listening experience. I particularly appreciated the dedicated movie mode , but it couldn’t quite match the level of immersion that more expensive earphones, both open-ear and traditional, could provide.
When it comes to ergonomics , the AeroFit Pro impressed with its comfortable fit and clicky button controls that are customizable through the app. The physical buttons make it easier to control audio playback and take calls, even with sweaty hands during workouts. Anker also gets extra credit for including a removable clip-on neckband , which is incredibly useful for keeping the AeroFit Pro within reach when not in use.
2. Soundcore Soundcore AeroFit 2 Open-Ear Headphones
The Soundcore AeroFit 2 open-ear headphones are worth your attention for offering a perfect blend of sleek design , a comfortable fit , and exceptional sound quality at an incredibly affordable price. These earphones provide a great alternative to the higher-end AeroFit Pro, sacrificing a few premium features for a much lower price point.
Compared to the Pro version, the AeroFit 2 has shorter battery life and touch-sensitive controls , which are less reliable than the physical buttons of the more expensive model. The retail package also lacks a removable neckband , but the sleeker design and lower price more than make up for these omissions. Like the AeroFit Pro, Anker offers the AeroFit 2 in four colors: black , white , blue , and green .
When it comes to sound , the AeroFit 2 delivers the best experience for the price. The large racetrack-shaped drivers produce a vibrant and detailed sonic experience, with a surprisingly rich bass output —one of the best I’ve heard in this form factor. As with other Soundcore products, the sound is easily customizable via an app.
What’s even more impressive is that the AeroFit 2 also supports High-Resolution Audio playback via the LDAC Bluetooth codec , allowing Android users to enjoy more detailed sound when streaming from supported services. This feature enhances the listening experience, making the AeroFit 2 a great choice for audio enthusiasts on a budget.
3. Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
The Bose Open Ultra true wireless earbuds are the most expensive on this list of best open-ear headphones , but their immersive sound , exceptional quality, striking design , and superb button controls make them worth the investment.
Available in black or white , the Bose earbuds offer the most powerful bass and the best spatial audio experience in this category. If your budget allows for a $300 upgrade or a high-end gift , these earbuds are an excellent choice.
What sets the Bose Ultra Open apart is their eye-catching design and clip-on ear fit . Unlike most earbuds, these have a low-key look and understated branding, making them appear more like fashion accessories than typical tech gear. Expect compliments and questions from friends and coworkers when they spot you wearing them.
The clip-on fit not only reduces fatigue compared to traditional ear hook designs but also allows the Ultra Open to produce stronger bass . With their audio drivers better aligned with the ear canal, the Bose Ultra Open delivers impressive low-range output that surpasses most competitors.
The Bose Ultra Open earbuds are also unmatched in their spatial sound capabilities. Bose Immersive Audio uses onboard processing to deliver spatial audio, working with content that supports dynamic head tracking or not. You can easily switch between audio modes using the Bose Music app or the clicky button controls on the earbuds.
While the battery life could be better, and the case lacks wireless charging , the comfort and sound quality of the Bose Ultra Open make them worth the higher price tag.
4. SHOKZ OpenFit Open-Ear Headphones
The Shokz OpenFit earphones, from a brand known for its expertise in bone-conduction headphones , are a strong contender against the Soundcore AeroFit Pro . These open-ear headphones offer a noticeably powerful bass , a comfortable around-ear fit , and a highly durable build. Unlike most water-resistant competitors, the IP54-rated Shokz OpenFit can also withstand dust , making them ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, the two-year warranty surpasses the 18-month coverage offered by the Soundcore models.
From the moment I used the Shokz OpenFit, I was impressed by its powerful bass . The low-range output is noticeably stronger than that of the Soundcore AeroFit Pro , and combined with its robust durability , the OpenFit earphones are better suited for exercising . The sound is also customizable through the Shokz app.
Weighing just 8.3 grams per earbud, the OpenFit earphones are much lighter than the 12.3-gram Soundcore AeroFit Pro, contributing to a more comfortable fit . However, the lighter design comes with a trade-off in battery life , as the OpenFit offers up to 7 hours of playback, compared to the AeroFit Pro’s 14-hour battery life.
While the Soundcore AeroFit Pro provides more detailed sound , especially for Android users, and has clicky button controls , the Shokz OpenFit shines in areas like bass output , comfort , and durability . Available in black or beige with a matching case, the OpenFit is a solid choice for those prioritizing these features.
5. Soundcore V30i Open-Ear Headphones
The Soundcore V30i open-ear headphones offer a great way to enjoy audio entertainment while staying aware of your surroundings — all without breaking the bank. These impulse-buy earphones are comfortable , durable , and deliver robust sound for the price.
In terms of sound , the V30i provides a powerful experience that’s easily customizable via the Soundcore mobile app . Music and podcasts sounded crisp and enjoyable, though they weren’t as detail-rich as the higher-end Soundcore AeroFit models. The V30i doesn’t include Spatial Audio , but I didn’t find it necessary during testing.
The V30i exceeded expectations in ergonomics . Unlike other Soundcore models, the battery isn’t integrated into the back of the ear hooks , making the earphones quicker and easier to put on and take off.
At its price, the V30i is a perfect entry point for those looking to experience open-ear headphones before committing to a more expensive model with extra features. While its slightly dull design and touch controls could be improved, these minor shortcomings are easily overlooked given its affordable cost .
