OpenRock X Open-Ear Headphones Review: Amazing Aesthetics, Incredible Sound

Here at NerdTechy, we’ve always been a fan of OpenRock and the earbuds they produce. They always seem to deliver an optimal blend of performance, quality, and comfort, which are characteristics that I always look for in a good set of earbuds.

Their latest release, the OpenRock X, are an open-ear set of headphones that don’t actually go into your ear canals. Rather, they rest outside of your ears and deliver audio while prioritizing situational awareness.

OpenRock was kind enough to send us a sample to test out, so today I’m going to go into further detail on what I liked and what I didn’t like after weeks of continuous use. Let’s get right into it.

Key Takeaways

• Exceptional fit and comfort with innovative dual-axis pivot design and moisture-wicking silicone material.
• Superb sound quality from customized 14.2mm dynamic drivers and BassDirect technology.
• Very durable construction with IPX5 rating and robust materials for active lifestyles.
• Impressive battery life offering up to 12 hours per charge and 48 hours with the charging case.
• Higher price point around $180, with limited color options and somewhat expensive compared to alternatives.

What I Liked

Excellent Fit and Comfort

What really stands out about the OpenRock X headphones is their exceptional fit and comfort, thanks to the innovative dual-axis pivot design. This design lets me freely adjust the earbud hooks to various angles, creating a custom-like fit each time I wear them.

Even during vigorous activities like running and jumping, they stay securely in place. The soft silicone material used is incredibly supple and naturally wicks away moisture, adding to the overall comfort.

Another aspect I appreciate is the open-ear design. Since the earbuds rest directly in front of my ear canals rather than plugging them up, they offer fantastic situational awareness. This feature is particularly useful during outdoor activities where being aware of my surroundings is essential. I can enjoy my music without feeling isolated from the environment.

Even after wearing the OpenRock X for more than five hours continuously, I didn’t experience any pressure points or discomfort. The lightweight design and secure fit make them suitable for various activities, from cycling to gaming. The upgraded silicone earhooks guarantee stability, and I can confidently say these headphones are among the most comfortable I’ve ever worn.

Superb Sound Quality

The sound quality of the OpenRock X headphones truly impressed me with its well-balanced highs, mids, and lows. From the moment I put them on, the audio experience was exceptional. The customized 14.2mm dynamic drivers deliver clear vocals and finely tuned treble, while the BassDirect technology guarantees a hefty, enhanced bass response.

Whether I was listening to rap, rock, country, blues, classical, or dubstep, the sound remained crisp and immersive across all genres. One of the standout features is how well these headphones perform even at maximum volume. There’s no distortion, and the audio quality remains excellent, which is quite a feat.

The optional smart app takes the experience a step further by allowing me to customize the sound profile. With several presets to choose from and the ability to manually tweak the settings, I could tailor the audio to my exact preferences.

Additionally, the four beam-forming microphones with AI noise reduction make calls crystal clear, even in noisy environments. Overall, the OpenRock X headphones provide an outstanding sound experience, making them a fantastic choice for any audiophile.

Very Durable

Despite their lightweight design, the OpenRock X headphones feel incredibly robust and well-constructed. I’ve used them in various conditions, from sweaty workouts to rainy runs, and they’ve held up remarkably well.

The IPX5 rating means they’re resistant to water and dust, so I never worry about using them in adverse weather. While they can’t be submerged, they handle rain and sweat effortlessly.

The materials used—silicone, metal, and ABS—instantly give off a sense of durability. Holding them, you can tell OpenRock focused on making these headphones not just comfortable but also tough enough to survive daily wear and tear. The upgraded silicone earhooks contribute to a secure fit, ensuring they stay put during intense activities without any signs of wear.

Another impressive aspect is the sturdy aluminum charging case. It’s built to protect the headphones, adding an extra layer of durability. I’ve tossed it in my bag countless times, and it still looks brand new.

The attention to detail in the construction reassures me that these headphones will last for years. OpenRock has clearly prioritized durability, making the OpenRock X a reliable choice for any active lifestyle.

Beautiful Aesthetics

How often do you come across a pair of headphones that combine functionality with such striking aesthetics? The OpenRock X open-ear headphones are a rare find in this regard.

From the moment I unboxed them, I was struck by their sleek, minimalist design. The earbuds themselves are low-profile, blending seamlessly with any outfit or setting. It’s clear that OpenRock put a lot of thought into making these not just functional, but also visually appealing.

One standout feature is the charging and storage case. Made of high-end aluminum, it exudes a premium feel right from the first touch. The unique sliding mechanism for accessing the earbuds is both innovative and satisfying to use.

You simply push in the bottom and pull outward, and it clicks into place, making it easy to grab each earbud. This thoughtful design element adds a layer of sophistication that I haven’t seen in many other headphone cases.

Battery and Charging

Given their impressive battery life, I found myself rarely worrying about running out of juice during my daily activities. The OpenRock X open-ear headphones offer up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is more than enough for a full day of use.

Even on days when I used them for 3-4 hours, I only needed to recharge the earbuds about once a week. This long-lasting battery life is a huge plus for someone like me who’s always on the go.

The charging case is another standout feature. It provides about four full charge cycles, extending the total usage to an incredible 48 hours before needing to plug it in. The case charges via USB-C and takes only about 3-4 hours to fully charge, which is quite convenient. Additionally, the fast-charging capability is a lifesaver; just five minutes of charging gives you an extra hour of use.

The convenience of not having to frequently charge the earbuds or the case means I can enjoy my music, podcasts, and calls without interruption.

Great Call Quality

After appreciating the impressive battery life, I turned my attention to testing the call quality, which turned out to be remarkably clear and reliable. Although I don’t make many phone calls, I made it a point to try out the OpenRock X during various calls. I was thoroughly impressed by how well they performed.

The headphones come equipped with four beam-forming microphones and a unique AI algorithm that automatically includes noise reduction. This technology really shined during my tests. Even in noisy environments, my voice was crystal clear on the other end. I made calls while walking down a busy street and even in windy conditions, and the earbuds effectively isolated my voice from the surrounding noise.

What truly stood out was how well these headphones handled background noise indoors. In situations where there were lots of people talking around me, the earbuds managed to focus solely on my voice, filtering out the extraneous sounds. The call quality was so good that the person on the other end couldn’t tell I was in a noisy environment.

What I Didn’t Like

Somewhat Expensive

Despite their impressive features and performance, the OpenRock X headphones come with a somewhat hefty price tag at around $180. This price point places them in the same bracket as some of the more established and renowned options in the market, like the Apple AirPods Pro. As much as I appreciate the quality and innovative design, I can’t help but feel the cost could be a deterrent for some potential buyers.

Here’s why the price might be a sticking point:

• Comparable Alternatives: There are numerous other options available in the market that offer similar features at a lower cost. For instance, you can find wireless earbuds with excellent sound quality and comfort for under $100.
• Investment Justification: For casual users or those new to open-ear designs, spending $180 might seem excessive, especially if they’re unsure about the benefits of this specific style of headphones.
• Value Perception: While the headphones do deliver fantastic audio and a suite of smart features, some users mightn’t perceive the value to be worth the premium price.

Ultimately, while the OpenRock X headphones are undeniably high-quality, their price could be a hurdle for budget-conscious consumers.

Only One Color Scheme

The lack of color options for the OpenRock X headphones is a notable drawback for those who prefer more vibrant and personalized designs. As someone who enjoys a bit of flair in my tech accessories, I found it disappointing that these headphones are only available in black. Sure, black is sleek and stylish, but it doesn’t cater to everyone’s taste.

I can imagine that others, like me, would appreciate having more fun colors to choose from—think blue, red, or even yellow. A broader color palette wouldn’t only allow users to express their individuality but also make the headphones more appealing to a wider audience. It’s surprising that a brand with such innovative features and high-quality audio performance would limit itself to just one color scheme.

The uniform black design might suit those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic, but it doesn’t offer the same level of personalization that many consumers look for today. It feels like a missed opportunity for OpenRock to connect with a more diverse group of potential users.

In an age where customization is key, I believe adding more color options could greatly enhance the appeal of the OpenRock X headphones.

Final Thoughts

In summary, I loved the OpenRock X Open-Ear Headphones for their incredible fit, comfort, and sound quality. Their durability and sleek design really impressed me, and the call quality was exceptional.

However, the somehwhat high price tag and limited color options are drawbacks. If you can overlook those, these headphones are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking premium performance.