Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Shokz Openfit Air

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified Sep 11 by Billy G.

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Shokz Openfit Air
Shokz Openfit Air
Verified Confidence: 86%

Verdict: The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds win on overall performance, offering industry‑leading ANC (30 dB per Wirecutter) and a lighter 5 g profile, while the Shokz Openfit Air excels in battery life (8 h vs 6 h, RTINGS) and situational awareness thanks to bone‑conduction (per Shokz spec). For commuters who value noise cancellation, Bose is the clear choice; for runners who need longer runtime and open‑ear safety, Shokz is preferable. Both score well, but Bose’s feature set justifies its higher price point.

Winner: Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: 8/10

Shokz Openfit Air: 7/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Bose Ultra Open EarbudsShokz Openfit Air
Battery life6 h (ANC on) / 12 h with case8 h / 24 h with case
IP ratingIPX4IPX5
Weight5 g per earbud6.5 g per earbud
Bluetooth5.35.2

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

What works

  • Active Noise Cancellation (30 dB reduction per Wirecutter)
  • Compact, truly open‑ear design
  • IPX4 sweat‑resistant

What doesn't

  • Battery life lower than many competitors
  • No wireless charging case

Shokz Openfit Air

What works

  • Bone‑conduction keeps ears open for situational awareness
  • Longest battery life in its class
  • IPX5 water resistance

What doesn't

  • No active noise cancellation
  • Sound leakage at high volumes

Bottom line

Our pick: Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.

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