ASUS Republic of Gamers announced the ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds on January 6, 2026, marking the brand’s entry into open-ear gaming audio. These earbuds combine dual-mode wireless connectivity Bluetooth and ultra-low-latency 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova with an open-ear design that maintains environmental awareness during gaming, workouts, or daily use. The launch positions ROG alongside JBL and other brands expanding open-ear lineups at CES 2026.
What’s New
The ROG Cetra Open Wireless introduces ASUS’s first open-ear design with 14.2mm diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated diaphragm drivers for high-resolution audio. Key features include:
- Dual-Mode connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 or 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova wireless via USB-C dongle
- Passthrough charging: ROG’s first USB-C dongle supporting one-way charging while connected
- Physical buttons: Tactile controls that work in rain or sweat, unlike touch surfaces
- IPX5 splash resistance and detachable reflective neck strap
- 16-hour battery life in Bluetooth mode with sound modes and RGB disabled
The open-ear design uses liquid silicone ear hooks that rest outside the ear canal, allowing users to hear surroundings while gaming or exercising.
Why It Matters
Open-ear earbuds solve a critical problem for gamers and active users who need audio without blocking environmental sounds. Traditional in-ear designs create isolation that can be unsafe during outdoor activities or prevent awareness of real-world interruptions during long gaming sessions.
The 2.4GHz SpeedNova connection delivers sub-30ms latency for synced in-game audio and visuals, eliminating the lag common with standard Bluetooth. ROG SpeedNova optimizes the 2.4GHz band through streamlined protocols and efficient data packets, outperforming competing wireless solutions in both speed and power efficiency.
For active users, the IPX5 rating and physical buttons mean the earbuds remain functional through sweat, rain, and high-intensity movement where touch controls fail.
Audio Features
The Cetra Open Wireless includes two on-board audio modes accessible without an app:
- Phantom Bass: Enhances low-frequency perception for deeper bass response
- Immersion Mode: Reduces ambient noise while maintaining the open-ear design’s awareness benefits
The 14.2mm DLC drivers larger than most gaming earbuds produce crisp highs and deep bass with minimal distortion. This size advantage gives the Cetra Open a wider soundstage compared to typical 10mm gaming earbud drivers.
Market Context
| Feature | ROG Cetra Open | Typical Gaming Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Open-ear hooks | In-ear canal |
| Latency (2.4GHz) | <30ms (SpeedNova) | 30-60ms |
| Battery (Bluetooth) | 16 hours | 6-10 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 | IPX4 typical |
| Controls | Physical buttons | Touch panels |
The open-ear category is seeing major expansion in 2026, with JBL launching five new models across three lines at the same CES event. Unlike traditional gaming earbuds that prioritize isolation, these designs target users who switch between gaming, calls, and outdoor activities throughout the day.
What’s Next
ASUS has not announced pricing, regional availability, or a release date for the ROG Cetra Open Wireless. Typical ROG audio products launch 4-8 weeks after CES announcements, suggesting a late January or February 2026 release window based on past patterns.
The USB-C dongle’s passthrough charging feature is new to ROG’s lineup and may appear in future peripherals. ASUS is also showcasing additional open-ear products at CES 2026, indicating a broader shift in the brand’s audio strategy.
Users interested in pre-launch updates should monitor ASUS ROG official channels, as the company typically opens pre-orders 1-2 weeks before retail availability.
Featured Snippet Boxes
What is ROG Cetra Open Wireless?
The ROG Cetra Open Wireless is ASUS’s first open-ear gaming earbud with dual-mode connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz SpeedNova), 14.2mm DLC drivers, and IPX5 water resistance, announced January 6, 2026.
Does ROG Cetra Open support both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless?
Yes, the Cetra Open features Dual-Mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3 and ultra-low-latency 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova wireless via a USB-C dongle that also supports passthrough charging.
How long does the ROG Cetra Open battery last?
The Cetra Open delivers up to 16 hours of continuous playback in Bluetooth mode with sound modes and RGB lighting disabled and microphone muted. A 15-minute quick charge provides 3 hours of listening time.
Are ROG Cetra Open earbuds waterproof?
The ROG Cetra Open earbuds have an IPX5 splash-resistance rating, protecting them from rain, sweat, and everyday moisture but not full submersion. They’re designed for workouts and outdoor use.
