For those in the market for wireless bone conduction headphones, two names that often come up in conversation are Shokz and Aftershokz. While they may seem like interchangeable terms, there is, in fact, a subtle distinction between the two. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of these brands, explore their similarities and differences, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right wireless bone conduction headphones for your needs.
The History Behind the Brands
To understand the difference between Shokz and Aftershokz, it’s essential to know the story behind these brands. Aftershokz is a company that was founded in 2011 with the mission of creating high-quality, waterproof bone conduction headphones. Their initial product, the Aftershokz AS301, was launched in 2012 and quickly gained popularity among athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals with hearing loss.
Fast forward to 2020, Aftershokz rebranded itself as Shokz, a move that marked a significant milestone in the company’s evolution. The name change was intended to signal a fresh direction, one that would allow the brand to expand its product line, improve user experience, and cater to a broader customer base.
Similarities Between Shokz and Aftershokz
Despite the rebranding, Shokz and Aftershokz share many similarities. Both brands are synonymous with wireless bone conduction headphones, a technology that allows for sound transmission through the cheekbones, bypassing the eardrums. This innovative approach enables users to listen to music, take calls, or engage in voice commands while maintaining situational awareness and comfort.
Some key similarities between Shokz and Aftershokz include:
- Water resistance: Both Shokz and Aftershokz headphones are designed to be waterproof, making them ideal for athletes, swimmers, and individuals who enjoy water-based activities.
- Bone conduction technology: As mentioned earlier, both brands utilize bone conduction technology, which provides a unique listening experience and numerous benefits, such as improved situational awareness and comfort.
- Wireless connectivity: Shokz and Aftershokz headphones offer wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing users to connect to their devices without the hassle of cords.
Differences Between Shokz and Aftershokz
While Shokz and Aftershokz share a common heritage, there are some key differences to consider:
New Brand, New Direction
The most significant difference between Shokz and Aftershokz is the brand identity and direction. Shokz represents a fresh start, one that is focused on innovation, customer experience, and expandeding the product line to cater to a broader audience. Aftershokz, on the other hand, is a legacy brand that has been synonymous with bone conduction technology.
Product Lineup
Shokz has introduced new products to its lineup, such as the Shokz OpenRun and Shokz OpenSwim, which cater to specific customer segments. These products offer enhanced features, improved sound quality, and sleek designs. Aftershokz, although still available, is no longer the primary focus of the company.
Product Comparison: Shokz OpenRun vs. Aftershokz Trekz Air
| Feature | Shokz OpenRun | Aftershokz Trekz Air |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Enhanced sound with deep bass and clear highs | Balanced sound with clear highs and decent bass |
| Design | Sleek, ergonomic design with improved fit | Lightweight, comfortable design with adjustable fit |
| Water Resistance | IP67 waterproof rating, suitable for swimming and water sports | IP67 waterproof rating, suitable for swimming and water sports |
What’s in a Name?
So, why the name change from Aftershokz to Shokz? According to the company, the rebranding is intended to signal a new direction, one that is focused on innovation, customer experience, and expanding the product line. The name “Shokz” is intended to be more modern, fresh, and memorable, appealing to a broader audience.
In an interview, the company’s CEO stated, “We wanted a name that would reflect our commitment to innovation, customer experience, and our passion for creating high-quality products. Shokz embodies that spirit, and we’re excited to embark on this new chapter.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Shokz and Aftershokz share a common heritage, there are distinct differences between the two brands. Shokz represents a new direction, one that is focused on innovation, customer experience, and expanding the product line. Aftershokz, on the other hand, is a legacy brand that has been synonymous with bone conduction technology.
When choosing between Shokz and Aftershokz, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for the latest and greatest in bone conduction technology, Shokz might be the better choice. However, if you’re loyal to the Aftershokz brand or prefer their legacy products, you can still find them available in the market.
Ultimately, both Shokz and Aftershokz offer high-quality wireless bone conduction headphones that cater to a wide range of users. By understanding the differences between these brands, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect headphones to suit your lifestyle.
Who owns Shokz and Aftershokz?
Shokz and Aftershokz are actually the same company, with Shokz being the rebranded name. The company was founded in 2008 by Bruce Borenstein and later rebranded as Shokz in 2020. The reason behind the rebranding was to better reflect the company’s mission and values. Despite the name change, the company remains committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and innovative audio products.
The rebranding from Aftershokz to Shokz was a strategic move to separate the company from its original focus on bone conduction technology. While Aftershokz was closely associated with bone conduction, the company wanted to expand its product lineup to include more traditional audio products, such as wireless earbuds and headphones. By rebranding as Shokz, the company can now explore new markets and product categories while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.
What is the difference between Shokz and Aftershokz products?
The main difference between Shokz and Aftershokz products is the brand name and logo. Both brands offer similar product lines, including bone conduction headphones, wireless earbuds, and accessories. The quality, design, and features of the products remain the same regardless of the brand name. In fact, many of the products are identical, with the only difference being the branding and packaging.
However, it’s worth noting that Shokz has introduced some new products and features that are not available under the Aftershokz brand. For example, Shokz has launched new wireless earbuds with advanced noise-cancellation technology and improved sound quality. These new products are exclusive to the Shokz brand and may not be available under Aftershokz. Despite these differences, both brands offer high-quality products that are designed to provide excellent sound and comfort.
Will Aftershokz products still be supported?
Yes, Aftershokz products will still be supported by the company. Despite the rebranding to Shokz, the company remains committed to providing excellent customer service and support for all products, including those under the Aftershokz brand. This means that customers can still contact the company for warranty claims, technical support, and other inquiries related to Aftershokz products.
The company’s commitment to supporting Aftershokz products is a testament to its dedication to its customers. By continuing to support older products, the company can ensure that customers remain loyal and satisfied with their purchase. Additionally, the company can continue to learn from customer feedback and improve its products and services over time.
Can I still purchase Aftershokz products?
While the company has shifted its focus to the Shokz brand, Aftershokz products are still available for purchase from authorized retailers and online marketplaces. However, the availability of Aftershokz products may be limited, and the company may eventually phase out older products as it introduces new ones under the Shokz brand.
If you’re interested in purchasing an Aftershokz product, it’s recommended to act quickly, as stock levels may be limited. Additionally, be sure to purchase from an authorized retailer or online marketplace to ensure that you’re getting a genuine product with valid warranty and support.
Are Shokz and Aftershokz products compatible?
Yes, Shokz and Aftershokz products are compatible with each other. Since both brands offer similar product lines, many of the products share the same technology and features. This means that accessories and replacement parts for Aftershokz products can often be used with Shokz products, and vice versa.
In fact, many customers have reported successfully using Aftershokz accessories with their Shokz products, and vice versa. However, it’s always recommended to check the compatibility of specific products before making a purchase. The company’s customer support team can also provide guidance on compatibility and recommend the best products for your needs.
What does the future hold for Shokz?
The future looks bright for Shokz, as the company continues to innovate and expand its product lineup. With the rebranding effort complete, Shokz is now poised to take on new challenges and explore new markets. The company has already announced plans to launch new products, including advanced wireless earbuds and headphones with cutting-edge technology.
In addition to new products, Shokz is also focused on improving its customer experience and support. The company has invested heavily in its customer service infrastructure, making it easier for customers to get help and support when they need it. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Shokz is well-positioned to become a leading brand in the audio industry.
Why did Aftershokz change its name to Shokz?
The company changed its name from Aftershokz to Shokz to better reflect its mission and values. The name change was part of a broader rebranding effort to position the company for growth and expansion. By dropping “After” from the name, the company can focus on the “shok” or “shock” of innovation and surprise, which is at the heart of its brand identity.
The name change also reflects the company’s desire to move beyond its original focus on bone conduction technology. While bone conduction remains an important part of the company’s product lineup, the company wants to be seen as a broader audio brand that offers a range of innovative products. The new name and branding are designed to be more modern, bold, and dynamic, reflecting the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio technology.