ASUS Republic of Gamers has officially introduced the Cetra Open Wireless earbuds today, January 6, 2026. At first glance, these earbuds seem clearly aimed at users who want strong audio performance without being completely cut off from the world around them. That balance between sound quality and awareness appears to be the main idea behind the product. Whether someone is gaming, listening to music, or staying active outdoors, the Cetra Open Wireless is designed to adapt to those different situations without much friction.
One of the more practical aspects here is connectivity. The earbuds support two wireless modes, which is something ROG tends to emphasize for flexibility. Users can switch between standard Bluetooth and a dedicated 2.4GHz connection powered by ROG SpeedNova technology. Alongside that, ASUS includes a USB-C dongle that does more than just handle wireless audio. It also supports passthrough charging, which is a small but thoughtful detail. You can keep your phone, handheld console, or other device charging even while the dongle is plugged in, which honestly feels like something more products should do by default.
Key Takeaways
- Open-ear design with soft ear hooks and an optional reflective neck strap for a stable and secure fit
- Dual mode connectivity with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova technology
- USB-C wireless dongle supports passthrough charging while in use
- 14.2mm drivers with diamond-like carbon coating for clearer and more balanced sound
- Physical buttons offer reliable control during workouts, gaming sessions, or calls
The inclusion of ROG SpeedNova technology is especially relevant for gaming. Wireless audio often struggles with latency, and even a slight delay can feel distracting in fast-paced games. By using the 2.4GHz connection through the USB-C dongle, the Cetra Open Wireless delivers a more stable and noticeably lower-latency audio link compared to Bluetooth alone. For players who use handheld consoles or laptops, this could make a real difference, even if it is something you only fully appreciate once you go back to a slower connection.
Sound performance is handled by fairly large 14.2mm drivers, which is notable for earbuds. These drivers use a diamond-like carbon coating, a material known for being both rigid and lightweight. In practice, this helps the diaphragm move more precisely, producing clearer highs and tighter bass. ASUS also includes software sound modes, such as Phantom Bass for users who want a stronger low-end presence, and an Immersion Mode that slightly reduces outside noise when more focus is needed. It is not full noise cancellation, but given the open-ear design, that is probably expected.
Speaking of design, ASUS ROG deliberately went with an open-ear approach here. Instead of sealing off the ear canal, the earbuds rest on the outer ear. This allows ambient sounds like traffic, voices, or warning signals to remain audible. For outdoor use, especially running or cycling, this can be a safety advantage. To help with stability, the earbuds use flexible ear hooks, and users can attach a detachable reflective neck strap. The reflective material adds visibility at night, which feels like a subtle but sensible addition rather than a gimmick.
Control is another area where ASUS made a clear choice. Rather than touch-sensitive panels, the Cetra Open Wireless relies on physical buttons. This likely reduces accidental inputs and makes controls easier to use when your hands are sweaty, cold, or gloved. Call quality is handled by a quad-microphone system with AI noise cancellation. Four microphones work together to isolate the user’s voice while filtering out background noise such as wind or street sounds. This should help keep voice chats and calls clearer, even in less-than-ideal environments.
Related FAQs
Q1: What is the benefit of the open-ear design on the ROG Cetra?
A1: The open-ear design allows ambient sounds to remain audible. This can be safer for outdoor activities like running or cycling where awareness of traffic and surroundings matters.
Q2: Can I charge my phone while using the 2.4GHz dongle?
A2: Yes, the included USB-C dongle supports passthrough charging. You can connect a charging cable to the dongle while it is plugged into your device.
Q3: How does ROG SpeedNova technology help in gaming?
A3: It provides an ultra-low latency wireless connection. This keeps audio closely synced with on-screen action, reducing noticeable delay during gameplay.
Q4: Are the ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds waterproof?
A4: ASUS designed these earbuds for active use with a secure fit, but users should check the official IP rating before exposing them to heavy rain or water.
