The tech landscape welcomes the introduction of the OneOdio OpenRock S2, a successor to the original OpenRock model that hit the market in October 2023. Released in June 2025, the OpenRock S2 aims to cater to a broader audience, offering a blend of comfort and affordability at a retail price of $98.99 in the United States, £79.99 in the UK, and AU$154 in Australia.
This new iteration marks a significant departure from its predecessor, the original OpenRock, which was well-received for its robust design and impressive battery life. The OpenRock S2, while still retaining some of the original’s charm, aligns more closely with current market trends, featuring a lighter and more compact design. This shift may attract users seeking a more contemporary look and feel in their open-ear headphones.
Design and Comfort: A Mixed Bag
The OpenRock S2 boasts a lightweight design, with each earbud weighing just 7 grams and a compact charging case that weighs 58 grams. This smaller, pebble-shaped case is easy to carry, making it a practical choice for users on the go. However, the design’s flexibility has led to some fit issues. Reviewers reported that the earbuds occasionally shifted during use, particularly during physical activities like running or working out.
Another aspect that received criticism is the touch controls. The placement of the physical buttons can lead to unintentional disruptions in audio playback, as users must press upward to pause music, which may dislodge the earbuds. This design flaw detracts from an otherwise comfortable listening experience.
Performance and Features: Solid but Not Exceptional
One notable drawback of the OpenRock S2 is its battery life, which is significantly shorter than that of the original model. The earbuds provide 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, with a total of 32 hours when using the charging case. In contrast, the previous model offered up to 19 hours per charge and 60 hours with the case. While the battery life remains competitive among open-ear options, it falls short of expectations set by its predecessor.
The sound profile is described as warm, with a focus on bass frequencies, thanks to the incorporation of TubeBass technology. This feature enhances lower-end sounds, making the OpenRock S2 suitable for workout playlists. However, the overall sound quality, while decent for casual listening, may not satisfy audiophiles seeking more nuanced audio performance.
The introduction of the OpenRock app is a welcome addition, providing users with an equalizer and additional features, including custom touch controls and a spatial sound setting. Though the app enhances the user experience, the transition between sound profiles can be jarring, as the audio briefly cuts out when switching settings.
Value Proposition: Affordable Yet Compromising
Priced lower than many other open-ear earbuds on the market, the OpenRock S2 presents a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. At $98.99, it competes well against other brands, offering decent features without breaking the bank. However, potential buyers should weigh the decreased battery life and fit issues against the lower price point.
While the OpenRock S2 may not be an instant must-have, it delivers good value for those seeking lightweight, affordable open-ear alternatives. It’s particularly appealing to consumers who prioritize bass-heavy sound profiles and portability over high-end audio fidelity.
In conclusion, the OneOdio OpenRock S2 represents a strategic evolution in the open-ear headphone segment, offering a mix of affordability and design improvements. While it may not capture the unique rugged charm of its predecessor, it has the potential to resonate with a broader audience looking for practical and functional audio solutions.
