ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Bose announces two clip-on open earbuds.
- The Sport Open is ideal for exercise, while the Ultra Open (2nd Gen) provides a premium experience.
- Both will be available beginning Oct. 1.
Following the release of the second-gen QuietComfort Headphones, Bose returns with two new open-ear options: the Sport Open Earbuds and the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen).
Also: Sony vs. Bose isn’t a draw when it comes to open-style earbuds – here’s how they differ
Bose’s open-ear clip-on earbuds are among our favorites, and the company is expanding its lineup to accommodate different types of open-ear fans. The upgraded second-gen Ultra Open builds on premium Bose audio technologies, signaling that it’ll best suit those seeking an elevated experience in an open-ear form factor.
Meanwhile, the Sport Open Earbuds are a new Bose product category that appeals to those seeking open-ear earbuds for their active lifestyles.
Ultra Open Earbuds
We’ve rated Bose’s Ultra Open buds highly for their rich sound, sleek design, and all-day comfort. Bose says its second-gen open-ear buds have improved audio reproduction, specifically deeper bass, louder volume, and clearer calls.
Additionally, the Ultra Open (2nd Gen) will have a new Immersive Audio mode: Cinema. With a new spatial audio mode, intelligent auto volume adjustment, and improved voice pickup technologies, Bose positions the second-gen Ultra Open as premium open-ear headphones for everyday use.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will also support AptX codecs for hi-res audio over a wireless connection (with a compatible source device), Google Fast Pair, and Google Find Hub.
Also: I replaced my Bose Ultra Open with these Shokz headphones – they’re better for less money
Sony’s LinkBuds Clip also delivers improved voice pickup and stellar audio, but Bose’s designs are usually more refined and stylish, while Sony opts for plastic builds and uniform design language.
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will be available for $299 in Black and White Smoke.
Sport Open Earbuds
The $199 Sport Open Earbuds lie below the $299 Open Ultra Earbuds, but Bose says its cheaper open-ear buds are built for “running, workouts, and outdoor activities.” The Sport Open buds feature an IP54 durability rating, meaning they are dust-protected and can withstand splashes of water.
Thus, the Sport Open is suitable for runs or hikes in dusty conditions and can withstand bouts of rain or particularly sweaty workouts. On-device button controls are on deck, ideal for pausing, playing, or skipping tracks during a run or walk without pulling out your phone.
Also: I swapped my Shokz with these bass-heavy bone conduction headphones
Bose’s midrange clip-on buds aren’t as durable as the IP57-rated Shokz OpenDots 2, though I’ve found that Bose tends to offer a sleeker design and more color options. However, like its Shokz counterpart, the Sport Open buds support Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, Google Fast Pair, and Google Find Hub.
The Bose Sport Open Earbuds will be available for $199 in Black and White Smoke.
