Bose Sport Open Earbuds Review

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As a self-confessed technology enthusiast and audiophile, I am always on the lookout for the latest and greatest audio gear. When I first caught wind of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds, I knew I had to get my hands on them and put them through their paces. These unique earbuds promise an unparalleled audio experience while ensuring you stay connected to your surroundings, making them perfect for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. In this article, I’ll be diving deep into the design, performance, and overall experience of using the Bose Sport Open Earbuds, providing you with all the details you need to make an informed decision about whether they’re the right fit for your audio needs.

Bose Sport Open Earbuds product information

History

Bose Corporation, a renowned audio equipment manufacturer, has been in the business of creating high-quality audio products since its inception in 1964. The company’s founder, Amar Bose, was a dedicated audiophile and an MIT professor, who started the company with the goal of creating exceptional audio equipment that would provide a unique and immersive sound experience. Over the years, Bose has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and excellence, which is evident in the brand’s extensive lineup of headphones, speakers, and other audio solutions.

The idea behind the Bose Sport Open Earbuds can be traced back to the increasing need for a new breed of headphones catering specifically to active individuals who require both exceptional audio quality and a heightened sense of situational awareness. With the rising popularity of outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and hiking, the demand for audio gear that ensures users’ safety while not compromising on sound quality grew significantly.

In response to this need, Bose’s research and development team set out on a mission to create the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and situational awareness. Drawing inspiration from their previous successful models like the Bose SoundSport Free and Bose Frames, the team began brainstorming and prototyping various designs. The goal was to create a pair of earbuds that would sit comfortably on the ears without blocking ambient sounds.

After numerous iterations and rigorous testing, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds were finally born. These revolutionary headphones feature a unique open-ear design that sits above the ear canal, allowing users to stay connected to their surroundings while enjoying Bose’s signature audio quality. Additionally, the earbuds are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies such as Bluetooth 5.1 and a long-lasting battery to provide a seamless, uninterrupted listening experience.

Since their launch, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds have received widespread acclaim from both casual listeners and audiophiles alike, solidifying Bose’s reputation as a leader in audio innovation. As a testament to the company’s commitment to continuous improvement, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds represent a significant milestone in the evolution of audio gear for active individuals.

Specification

Specification	Details
Year of Manufacture	2022
Company	Bose Corporation
Official Website	www.bose.com
Fit Type	Ear-Hook
Item Dimensions	2.00 x 1.25 x 1.00 inches (LxWxH)
Item Weight	0.95 ounces (26.9 grams)
Special Features	Open-ear design, Sweat & weather resistant, Secure fit
Driver Size	16 mm
Frequency Response	20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
Impedance	32 ohms
Bluetooth Version	5.1
Bluetooth Range	33 feet (10 meters)
ANC Modes	N/A (Not applicable due to open-ear design)
Audio Codec	SBC, AAC
Battery Life	Up to 8 hours
Charging Time	Approximately 2 hours
Quick Charging	15 minutes for 2 hours of playback
Controls	Touch controls, voice assistant compatible
Price	$199.95

What is included in the delivery set?

The delivery set of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds includes the following items:

1. Bose Sport Open Earbuds: The main attraction, a pair of Bose Sport Open Earbuds designed for active individuals who want to enjoy premium audio quality while staying connected to their surroundings.
2. Charging case: A compact and portable charging case that not only protects your earbuds when not in use but also provides additional battery life to keep your earbuds charged on-the-go.
3. USB-C charging cable: A USB-C cable to charge the earbuds and the charging case, ensuring fast and efficient charging.
4. User manual: A comprehensive user manual containing detailed instructions on how to set up, use, and troubleshoot your Bose Sport Open Earbuds, ensuring a seamless experience.
5. Safety and warranty information: Documentation outlining important safety guidelines and warranty information for your Bose Sport Open Earbuds.
6. Additional accessories (optional): Depending on the specific package or region, some sets may include additional accessories such as different-sized ear tips or a carrying pouch. Always refer to the product documentation or official website for accurate information on what is included in the delivery set for your specific region or package.

What about design, materials, assembly?

Design:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds feature a unique and innovative open-ear design that sets them apart from traditional in-ear or over-ear headphones. The earbuds are shaped to comfortably sit above the ear canal, allowing users to hear their surroundings while enjoying high-quality audio. This design makes them ideal for those who engage in outdoor activities and require situational awareness for safety purposes.

The earbuds are equipped with a contoured ear hook that ensures a secure and comfortable fit during intense workouts or extended periods of use. Additionally, the touch controls on the earbuds are intuitively placed, allowing for easy access and control over music playback, volume, and voice assistant features.

Materials:

Bose Sport Open Earbuds are constructed using high-quality materials to ensure durability, comfort, and performance. The earbuds’ housing is made of a combination of lightweight and robust materials, such as reinforced polymer and high-grade silicone. These materials provide the earbuds with a sturdy build while maintaining a comfortable feel during extended use.

The earbuds are also designed to be sweat and weather-resistant, with an IPX4 rating, making them suitable for use in various environments and conditions. This ensures that your Bose Sport Open Earbuds can withstand the challenges of an active lifestyle.

Assembly:

Bose is known for its meticulous attention to detail and precision in manufacturing, and the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are no exception. Each component of the earbuds is carefully assembled to ensure consistent performance and reliability. The earbuds undergo rigorous quality control tests to ensure that each unit meets the high standards set by Bose.

Furthermore, the assembly process is optimized to minimize waste and maintain efficiency, adhering to the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By focusing on design, materials, and assembly, Bose has successfully created a pair of earbuds that cater to the needs of active individuals while delivering the exceptional audio quality the brand is known for.

What about ergonomics and usability Bose Sport Open Earbuds?

Ergonomics:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds are designed with ergonomics in mind, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for users during various activities. The unique open-ear design allows the earbuds to sit above the ear canal, ensuring that users can remain aware of their surroundings while enjoying their music. This design is particularly beneficial for those who require situational awareness for safety reasons, such as runners, cyclists, and hikers.

The contoured ear hooks are made from a flexible material that provides a secure fit around the user’s ears. This design ensures that the earbuds stay in place during intense workouts or movement, eliminating the need for constant readjustment. The lightweight design of the earbuds also minimizes fatigue, allowing users to wear them comfortably for extended periods.

Usability:

Bose Sport Open Earbuds are designed to be user-friendly and easy to operate. The touch controls on the earbuds allow users to manage music playback, volume, and access voice assistants with simple taps and swipes. The earbuds also feature easy Bluetooth pairing, ensuring a seamless connection with your device.

The earbuds are compatible with the Bose Music app, which provides additional customization options and enables users to access software updates and product support. With the app, users can personalize their audio experience by adjusting the EQ settings or configuring the touch controls according to their preferences.

The battery life of up to 8 hours ensures that the earbuds can last through long workouts or outdoor adventures. The charging case provides additional charges, making it convenient for users who are constantly on the go. The earbuds also support quick charging, with a 15-minute charge providing up to 2 hours of playback.

The IPX4 rating of the earbuds ensures sweat and weather resistance, making them suitable for various environments and conditions. This adds to the overall usability of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds by allowing users to enjoy their music without worrying about potential damage from sweat or rain.

In summary, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds offer excellent ergonomics and usability, ensuring a comfortable fit and user-friendly experience for active individuals who require high-quality audio while maintaining situational awareness.

What about connection, control and software?

Connection:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds are equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, providing a reliable and stable wireless connection with your devices. This updated Bluetooth version ensures lower latency and more extended range, allowing for a seamless listening experience without interruptions. The earbuds also support multi-point connectivity, enabling users to connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them with ease.

Control:

The touch controls on the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are intuitively designed and placed on the outer surface of the earbuds. These controls allow users to manage music playback, adjust volume, answer phone calls, and access voice assistants with simple taps and swipes. The touch controls are also customizable through the Bose Music app, allowing users to configure them according to their preferences.

Software:

Bose Sport Open Earbuds are compatible with the Bose Music app, available for both iOS and Android devices. The app provides users with additional customization options and features, including:

1. Personalized EQ settings: Users can adjust the bass, treble, and mid-range frequencies to their liking, creating a tailored audio experience.
2. Touch control customization: The app allows users to configure the touch controls on their earbuds, enabling them to set their preferred functions for single taps, double taps, and swipes.
3. Firmware updates: The Bose Music app ensures that your earbuds are always up-to-date with the latest firmware, providing improvements in performance and functionality.
4. Product support: The app offers easy access to product documentation, troubleshooting tips, and customer support, ensuring a smooth user experience.

Overall, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds provide a reliable and seamless connection, intuitive touch controls, and comprehensive software support, enhancing the user experience and ensuring optimal performance.

How’s the sound quality?

Despite their open-ear design, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality that is consistent with Bose’s reputation for audio excellence. The earbuds are equipped with high-quality 16mm drivers, which produce a balanced and dynamic sound signature that caters to a variety of music genres.

Bass:

The bass response of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds is impressive for an open-ear design. The earbuds deliver tight, punchy bass that provides a solid foundation for any track without overpowering the mids and highs. While the bass may not be as deep or rumbling as some in-ear or over-ear headphones, it is well-balanced and satisfying for most users, particularly given the open-ear design’s focus on situational awareness.

Mids:

The mid-range frequencies on the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are clear and detailed, allowing vocals and instruments to shine. The earbuds reproduce accurate and natural-sounding vocals, ensuring a captivating listening experience. Instrument separation is also excellent, providing a sense of space and depth to the music.

Highs:

The high frequencies on the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are crisp and articulate, delivering an excellent level of detail without becoming harsh or fatiguing. The earbuds reproduce treble notes with precision, revealing subtle nuances and textures in the music that make for an engaging and immersive listening experience.

Soundstage and Imaging:

Considering the open-ear design, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds offer a surprisingly spacious soundstage, giving music a sense of depth and dimension. The imaging is precise, allowing users to pinpoint the location of different instruments and sound elements within the mix. This results in an immersive audio experience that is uncommon for earbuds designed for outdoor activities.

Overall, the sound quality of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds is impressive, particularly given the unique open-ear design. While they may not provide the same level of isolation or bass depth as traditional in-ear or over-ear headphones, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds deliver a well-balanced, dynamic, and engaging sound signature that will satisfy most audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

What about the energy efficiency and battery life?

Energy Efficiency:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds are designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing Bluetooth 5.1 technology, which consumes less power compared to previous Bluetooth versions. This advanced technology ensures a stable connection with your device while optimizing energy consumption, resulting in longer battery life.

Battery Life:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds offer a battery life of up to 8 hours on a single charge, which is impressive for wireless earbuds, especially those with an open-ear design. This extended battery life ensures that the earbuds can last through long workouts, outdoor adventures, or daily commutes without the need for frequent charging.

Charging Case:

The included charging case provides additional charges for the earbuds, effectively extending the total battery life to around 24 hours. This portable case allows you to recharge your earbuds on-the-go, making them convenient for users who are constantly on the move.

Quick Charging:

The Bose Sport Open Earbuds support quick charging, enabling users to gain up to 2 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge. This feature is particularly useful for those who may forget to charge their earbuds regularly or need a quick power boost before heading out for a workout or other activities.

Charging Time:

The earbuds take approximately 2 hours to fully charge, which is relatively standard for wireless earbuds. The charging case can also be charged simultaneously with the earbuds, ensuring that both the earbuds and the case are ready for use when needed.

In summary, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds demonstrate excellent energy efficiency and battery life, making them ideal for users who require reliable and long-lasting audio gear. The inclusion of the charging case and quick charging feature adds to the overall convenience and usability of the earbuds, ensuring that you can always enjoy your music without worrying about running out of battery.

Comparison & Review

What are similar headphones in features and cost?

Two similar headphones in features and cost to the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are the Jabra Elite Active 75t and the Jaybird Vista.

1. Jabra Elite Active 75t:

The Jabra Elite Active 75t are true wireless earbuds designed for active users. They feature a secure and comfortable fit, with an IP57 rating for sweat and water resistance. The Jabra Elite Active 75t offers customizable sound profiles through the Jabra Sound+ app, providing a personalized audio experience.

Key Specifications:

• Price: Around $180
• Bluetooth 5.0
• Up to 7.5 hours of battery life (up to 28 hours with the charging case)
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and HearThrough mode
• Customizable EQ settings through the Jabra Sound+ app
• IP57 sweat and water resistance rating

2. Jaybird Vista:

The Jaybird Vista are true wireless earbuds designed for sports and outdoor activities, offering a secure and comfortable fit. They feature an IPX7 rating for sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for various environments and conditions. The Jaybird Vista can be customized through the Jaybird App, allowing users to adjust EQ settings and personalize their audio experience.

Key Specifications:

• Price: Around $150
• Bluetooth 5.0
• Up to 6 hours of battery life (up to 16 hours with the charging case)
• Customizable EQ settings through the Jaybird App
• IPX7 sweat and water resistance rating

Both the Jabra Elite Active 75t and the Jaybird Vista are excellent alternatives to the Bose Sport Open Earbuds, offering similar features and price points. While they differ in design, with both being in-ear models rather than open-ear, they cater to active users who prioritize a secure fit, durability, and customizable sound profiles.

Compare with similar items

Specification	Bose Sport Open Earbuds	Jabra Elite Active 75t	Jaybird Vista
Year of Manufacture	2021	2020	2019
Company	Bose	Jabra	Jaybird
Official Website	www.bose.com	www.jabra.com	www.jaybirdsport.com
Fit Type	Open-ear, Ear-hook	In-ear	In-ear
Item Dimensions	Not specified	0.86 x 0.76 x 0.64 inches	0.94 x 0.74 x 0.45 inches
Item Weight	0.49 ounces (14 g)	0.19 ounces (5.5 g)	0.21 ounces (6 g)
Special Features	Open-ear design	ANC, HearThrough mode	Custom EQ settings
Driver Size	16mm	6mm	6mm
Frequency Response	Not specified	20Hz – 20kHz	20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified
Bluetooth Version	5.1	5.0	5.0
Bluetooth Range	Up to 33 feet (10 m)	Up to 33 feet (10 m)	Up to 33 feet (10 m)
ANC Modes	None	Yes	None
Audio Codec	Not specified	SBC, AAC	SBC, AAC
Battery Life	8 hours (24 hours with charging case)	7.5 hours (28 hours with charging case)	6 hours (16 hours with charging case)
Charging Time	2 hours	2 hours	2 hours
Quick Charging	Yes (2 hours playback in 15 minutes)	Yes (1 hour playback in 15 minutes)	Yes (1 hour playback in 5 minutes)
Controls	Touch controls	Button controls	Button controls
Price	Around $200	Around $180	Around $150

How do Bose Sport Open Earbuds users describe their experience with these headphones? 

Bose Sport Open Earbuds users generally describe their experience with these headphones as positive, highlighting several key aspects:

1. Comfort and Fit: Users appreciate the open-ear design and contoured ear hooks, which provide a secure and comfortable fit. The lightweight construction and non-intrusive design make it easy for users to wear the earbuds for extended periods without discomfort.
2. Situational Awareness: One of the standout features for users is the ability to maintain situational awareness while enjoying their music. The open-ear design allows ambient sounds to come through, making these earbuds popular among runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts who need to stay aware of their surroundings.
3. Sound Quality: Many users are impressed with the sound quality of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds, considering their open-ear design. They appreciate the well-balanced audio profile, with clear mids and highs and satisfying bass.
4. Battery Life: Users find the 8-hour battery life and additional charges provided by the charging case to be more than sufficient for their needs. The quick charging feature is also well-received, as it allows users to gain additional playback time with just a short charge.
5. Ease of Use: Users appreciate the intuitive touch controls and seamless Bluetooth pairing, which make the earbuds easy to use and manage. The compatibility with the Bose Music app is another plus, as it offers customization options and support.

However, some users may point out a few areas where the earbuds could be improved:

1. Isolation: Given the open-ear design, these earbuds do not provide significant noise isolation, which may be an issue for users in noisy environments or those who prefer more immersive listening experiences.
2. Price: Some users may find the price point of the Bose Sport Open Earbuds to be on the higher side compared to other alternatives in the market.

Overall, Bose Sport Open Earbuds users describe their experience as positive, appreciating the earbuds’ unique design, sound quality, and user-friendly features. The open-ear design caters to a specific niche of users who prioritize situational awareness and comfort during outdoor activities and workouts.

Pros and cons of headphones Bose Sport Open Earbuds

Positive Aspects	Negative Aspects
Comfortable and secure open-ear design	Limited noise isolation due to open-ear design
Impressive sound quality for an open-ear design	May not provide deep bass as some in-ear or over-ear headphones
Good battery life (8 hours)	Higher price compared to some alternatives
Quick charging feature
Intuitive touch controls
Customizable settings through Bose Music app
Maintains situational awareness
Lightweight and suitable for workouts
Seamless Bluetooth connection
IPX4 water and sweat resistance

Conclusions

In conclusion, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are an innovative pair of headphones that cater to a specific niche of users who prioritize situational awareness, comfort, and sound quality during outdoor activities and workouts. With their unique open-ear design, impressive sound profile, and user-friendly features, these earbuds have garnered positive feedback from users. However, it’s essential to consider the limited noise isolation due to the open-ear design and the higher price compared to some alternatives.

Despite these drawbacks, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds stand out in the market for their distinctive design, making them an excellent option for those who seek a balance between enjoying their music and staying aware of their surroundings.

Our Review

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Last Updated on November 5, 2023