Are Open-Ear Earbuds Worth It? I Tried the Best Ones in 2025
If you’ve ever run with music and nearly missed a honk—or just hate the “plugged-in” feeling of regular earbuds—you’ve probably looked into open-ear tech.
In 2025, there are two main types:
- Bone Conduction: Vibrations through your cheekbones
- Air Conduction: Direct sound delivered near your ears
So, are they worth it? I tested 3 top picks.
🏃♀️ 1. Shokz OpenRun Pro – The Bone Conduction Champ
- Why I liked it:
- Super light and secure
- Great for calls and podcasts
- IP55 water-resistant
- Drawback:
- Lacks bass for music-heavy workouts
Best for runners and cyclists who prioritize safety and voice clarity.
🧘 2. Cleer Arc II Sport – Air Conduction Comfort
- What stood out:
- Loud, rich sound without covering your ears
- Comfortable “C-curve” around the ear
- Motion controls for workouts
It felt like background sound—but better. Surprisingly immersive.
🚌 3. Sony LinkBuds – The Everyday Pick
- Unique design:
- Actual hole in the center to keep ears open
- Great for indoor and outdoor awareness
- Clean midrange, decent highs
Perfect for office, commuting, and casual wearers who hate being cut off from the world.
🎯 Emma’s Open-Ear Scores:
| Earbud Model | Best For | Rating (⭐) |
|---|---|---|
| Shokz OpenRun Pro | Outdoor safety, calls | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Cleer Arc II Sport | Fitness, rich sound | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Sony LinkBuds | Everyday transparency | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Emma’s Final Word:
If you value situational awareness, comfort, and safety, open-ear earbuds might just change how you listen. They’re not replacing your AirPods—but they’re an amazing second pair to have.
