OpenRock S2 Open-Ear Sport Earbuds Review: Light, Loud, and Built to Move

Open-ear earbuds have come a long way—and the OpenRock S2 Open-Ear Air Conduction Sport Earbuds is making a strong case for why they might be your next workout companion. These aren't your average fitness earbuds; they're crafted for people who want to hear their music and the world around them. Whether you're out for a run, biking through busy streets, or can't stand the stuffed-ear feeling of traditional earbuds, the OpenRock S2 steps in with a refreshingly comfortable and capable solution.

Let's break it all down and see how this featherlight pair holds up in real-world use.

Design That Moves With You

Rating: 4.5/5

First thing you'll notice? These things are light like 'forget-you're-wearing-them' light. At just 7 grams per earbud, the OpenRock S2 is designed for serious comfort. Thanks to ultra-thin titanium filaments and soft liquid silicone, the hook-clip design moulds well to different ear shapes, staying put even when you're sprinting or dodging traffic.

The sporty matte finish adds a sleek, high-end look that holds its own in the gym or on a trail. And despite how slim they are, they don't feel fragile. The materials feel premium and surprisingly rugged for such a light build. That said, the charging case is on the bulky side and doesn't have a magnetic lid lock, which could've added some peace of mind if you toss your gear in a gym bag.

Performance in the Real World

Functionality Rating: 4.5/5

Ease of Use Rating: 5/5

When it comes to daily use, the OpenRock S2 doesn't miss a beat. The open-ear design might raise some eyebrows at first, but once you try it, it's a game-changer, especially for those long sessions when traditional buds start to hurt. Whether you're tuning into a podcast or catching up on calls during a walk, the S2 keeps everything sounding crisp without blocking out the world around you.

Audio quality is solid for this type of product. The 12mm drivers combined with BassDirect technology provide surprisingly punchy lows without bleeding into the mids. Music sounds full enough to enjoy, especially at moderate volume levels. And the Hi-Res LDAC codec support is a nice bonus for audio purists.

The 4-mic AI noise cancellation also deserves praise. During Zoom calls or phone chats, voices come through clean, even in windy outdoor settings. The intuitive button control for remote camera operation is a fun (and genuinely helpful) touch—great for hikers or solo adventurers.

The only downside? If you're into bass-heavy music or often find yourself in noisy environments, the open design might not cut through enough ambient sound. It's not a dealbreaker—but something to keep in mind.

Comfort and Staying Power

User Experience Rating: 4.5/5

Comfort is the unsung hero here. Unlike most earbuds that leave your ears sore after a couple of hours, the OpenRock S2 is built for all-day wear. No pressure. No ear fatigue. Just a secure fit that doesn't budge, whether you're bouncing on a treadmill or cruising on a bike.

Battery life also goes the distance—delivering 8 hours on a single charge and up to 32 hours with the case. That's easily enough for a full week of workouts or a weekend off the grid. And the 5-minute quick charge that gives you an extra hour of playtime? That's a sweet bonus when you're in a rush.

As for durability, the triple-layer water and sweat resistance is no gimmick. The earbuds handle sweat like a pro, and the internal nano-coating adds confidence for rainy runs or high-humidity sessions.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Rating: 5/5

Pairing is buttery smooth thanks to Bluetooth 6.0, and the multipoint support is a huge win for anyone juggling between a laptop and a phone. Whether you're listening on Android, iOS, or Windows, the OpenRock S2 jumps between devices with zero drama. There were no lags or weird drops during testing—just consistent, reliable performance.

This level of seamlessness is what makes the earbuds feel like an extension of your routine rather than another gadget to babysit.

Conclusion: Light Ears, Big Wins

The OpenRock S2 isn't here to replace your studio headphones or noise-cancelling beasts. It's here to fill the gap between sound, comfort, and safety—especially for people who are always on the move.

For runners, cyclists, or anyone who values ambient awareness during their activities, the S2 checks nearly every box. It looks good, sounds great for its category, and could survive your most challenging workouts.

Want to try them out? Use code IBT for 15% off your purchase at OpenRock's official store.

If the bulky case were redesigned and an EQ customisation option were added through an app, the OpenRock S2 could be near perfect.

Final Verdict:

For $100-ish, it's a solid investment—especially for anyone tired of cramming things into their ears. It's light, it lasts, and it lets you stay aware of your surroundings without sacrificing sound. What more could you ask from a pair of sport earbuds in 2025?