Shokz rivals Bose and Sony with its new clip-on Bluetooth earbuds for under £180

Shokz has just released two new clip-on earbuds — OpenDots 2 and the OpenDots Air. Shokz's new models are successors to the OpenDots 1, built with faster charging capabilities and the same popular audio technology. The OpenDots Air is the first alternative model for the series, meant to be more budget-friendly, at £129. Meanwhile, the OpenDots 2 cost £179. Unlike many earbuds that are designed with active noise cancellation (ANC), these feature an open-ear design so you can still hear what's happening around you while enjoying your music or podcasts – ideal for staying aware during your commute or morning jog. Other brands offer similar versions, like the Ultra Open earbuds from Bose or the LinkBuds from Sony. Here's everything you can expect from both pairs. The clip-on style uses a flexible nickel-titanium structure that adapts to different ear shapes, so they're meant to stay put without squeezing or causing discomfort during extended wear, like a long run.They also feature dynamic ear detection, so you can swap the left and right earbuds interchangeably, and they'll automatically adjust the audio channels.Both sets of earbuds weigh 6.4 grams each, just .1 grams lighter than their predecessor. Water resistance comes as standard on both models, with the OpenDots 2 boasting IP57 protection and the Air offering IP55 rating. That makes them suitable for everything from sweaty gym sessions and yoga classes to rainy commutes and outdoor runs.They also arrive with upgraded Dolby Audio, which Shokz says adds a spacious, lifelike quality to everything from music to video calls.The OpenDots 2 come with three bone conduction microphones for clearer calls, whereas the Open Dots Air are designed with two.In terms of battery life, you're meant to get up to 10 hours from the OpenDots 2, stretching to 40 hours when you factor in the charging case.Need a quick top-up? Just five minutes of charging is meant to give you two hours of playback. This is even faster than the OpenDots 1, which is said to need at least 10 minutes to power up to the same amount of runtime.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSNew Windows 11 update brings major speed boost to your PCNew Oura Ring update brings one of the Ring 5's most exciting features to Ring 4End of Freeview? UK looks to 'switch off terrestrial television' and replace it with broadbandBest VPN dealsMicrosoft launches game-changing Windows 11 updateOn the other hand, the OpenDots Air features a battery life of nine hours, extending to 36 hours total with the charging case. Like the OpenDots One, a quick 10-minute charge will give you roughly two hours of listening time when you're in a rush.It comes in at an even lighter 6.3 grams per earbud, making it the featherweight champion of the two.While it doesn't have quite the same battery life of its pricier sibling, it's designed to still deliver balanced sound across low, mid, and high frequencies thanks to the same Bassphere acoustic technology.Both can also connect to two devices simultaneously, just like the previous model.The OpenDots 2 come in Pearl White, Grey, or Black, whereas the OpenDots Air are available in Daybreak Purple and Black. Both colours on the Air are a bit more playful and feature subtle pearlescent and metallic finishes that give them a jewellery-like quality. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter