1More Open Earbuds S31

Design & Technology

The open-ear design uses a silicone-coated ear hook with a 14.2 mm dynamic driver positioned in front of the ear canal. A 60 mAh battery is housed in the rear counterweight, about 20% smaller than in the S30 predecessor, helping to maintain a balanced and comfortable fit.

Bluetooth 5.3 is onboard, though codec support appears limited to SBC. Controls are via touch-sensitive panels or the free 1More app (iOS/Android). The earbuds come in a mid-sized USB-C charging case and are available in white or black.

In Use

Targeted at budget-conscious buyers, the S31 offer around 10 hours of playback per charge, with the case providing two extra charges for a total of roughly 30 hours. A full recharge takes 90–120 minutes.

Each bud weighs 8.2 g, making them lightweight and comfortable. They rest in front of the ear canal without causing pressure and remain stable unless subjected to sudden, sharp movements. IPX5 splash resistance makes them suitable for gym use and outdoor exercise.

Touch controls are responsive after some practice, and Bluetooth stability is reliable within typical usage range.

The app allows firmware updates and limited control customisation, including separate double- and triple-tap assignments for each side and voice assistant activation via long press. However, unlike the S30, the S31 lacks a user-adjustable EQ, automatic functions, and multipoint pairing—features now reserved for higher-tier models.

Sound Quality

As with most open-ear headphones, audio quality takes a back seat to situational awareness. The S31 sound acceptable but suffer from a lower signal-to-noise ratio than closed designs. The presentation is neither tinny nor hollow, but bass is noticeably lacking despite electronic compensation, leaving mids more prominent.

Detail retrieval and dynamics are modest, and performance drops further in noisy environments. For background music during a workout, walk, or office work, they are adequate, but the inability to fine-tune the EQ limits their flexibility.

Call Quality

Call performance is mixed. Outgoing voice quality is surprisingly good for the price, aided by two microphones per bud and basic noise suppression. Incoming audio, however, is less impressive—voices can only be clearly heard at maximum volume in quiet surroundings. Outdoors, intelligibility suffers, making them unsuitable for use while driving or in other noisy situations.

Conclusion

The 1More Open Earbuds S31 are affordable, comfortable, and practical for users who value environmental awareness over high-fidelity sound. They work well for background listening in quieter environments and light sports, but the omission of adjustable EQ and other features from the predecessor makes them feel pared down. At their low asking price, they remain a reasonable entry-level option, provided expectations are realistic.

What are the benefits of open-ear headphones?

Unlike normal headphones, open-ear headphones leave the ear canal free for ambient noise.

Read the guide here