Bone conduction headphones have been gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts and safety-conscious audio users, offering a unique way to enjoy music while maintaining awareness of surroundings. In a significant price move, the highly-regarded Shokz OpenRun Pro has just dropped to its lowest price ever, making this premium audio technology more accessible.
The Significant Price Drop
The Shokz OpenRun Pro bone conduction headphones are currently available for USD $99.99, down from their original price of USD $179.95. This represents a substantial USD $80 discount on one of the market's leading bone conduction headphone models. Price tracking tools confirm this is the lowest price these headphones have reached, making it an opportune time for those curious about bone conduction technology to make a purchase.
Shokz OpenRun Pro Specifications:
- Sound: Stereo
- Connection Type: Wireless
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Maximum Wireless Range: 33 feet
- Weight: 29 grams
- Water/Dust Resistance: IP55 rating
- Battery Life: Approximately 10 hours
- Quick Charge: 1.5 hours of use from 5-minute charge
- Frame Material: Titanium
- Features: Dual noise-canceling microphones
- Original Price: USD $179.95
- Current Sale Price: USD $99.99
What Makes Bone Conduction Different
Unlike traditional headphones that send sound directly into the ear canal, bone conduction technology works by transmitting audio vibrations through the cheekbones directly to the inner ear. This leaves the ear canals completely open, allowing users to maintain full awareness of their surroundings. This feature makes them particularly valuable for outdoor activities like running, cycling, or any situation where environmental awareness is crucial for safety.
The Shokz Advantage
Shokz (formerly AfterShokz) has established itself as the premier brand in bone conduction audio technology. The OpenRun Pro sits near the top of their product lineup, offering superior sound quality compared to earlier bone conduction models. While the technology has historically struggled with bass reproduction, the OpenRun Pro has been specifically designed to address this limitation, delivering improved low-frequency performance without compromising the open-ear experience.
Design and Durability
The OpenRun Pro features a lightweight titanium frame weighing just 29 grams, making them comfortable for extended wear. They're designed with active users in mind, featuring an IP55 rating for protection against dust and moisture. This water resistance makes them suitable for intense workouts and light rain, though they're not designed for swimming or submersion. Their design also accommodates wearing them alongside sunglasses and bicycle helmets without interference.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is impressive with the OpenRun Pro offering approximately 10 hours of playback on a full charge. For users in a hurry, the quick-charge feature provides 1.5 hours of use from just a 5-minute charge – particularly useful for those who might have forgotten to charge them before a workout.
Call Quality and Connectivity
The headphones include dual noise-canceling microphones to ensure clear voice transmission during calls, even in noisy environments. With Bluetooth connectivity and a wireless range of 33 feet, they offer standard connection options and stability for most use cases.
Limitations to Consider
It's worth noting that bone conduction technology does come with inherent limitations. Despite improvements, bass response still can't match what traditional in-ear or over-ear headphones deliver. Additionally, these headphones don't block ambient noise – which is intentional for safety but may be a drawback in very loud environments where the external noise might overpower your audio.
Who Should Consider These Headphones
The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are particularly well-suited for outdoor runners, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts who prioritize situational awareness. They're also an excellent option for those with certain hearing sensitivities or individuals who find traditional earbuds uncomfortable. At this significantly reduced price point, they represent a compelling entry point into bone conduction technology for curious tech enthusiasts.