Nothing, already experienced in wireless earbuds, has introduced its first over-ear headphones, the Nothing Headphone (1), priced at $299. This release raises questions about how it competes with established brands like Sony and Apple. After a week of use, the initial skepticism gives way to a recognition of its unique qualities.
Nothing Headphone (1) Box Contents Reveal Minimalist Approach
The retail package of the Nothing Headphone (1) reflects the brand’s minimalist design philosophy. Inside the box, users receive the headphones themselves, a textured carrying case, a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, a 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable, and a user manual guide.
Nothing Headphone (1) Design: A Blend of Futuristic and Retro Elements
Nothing continues its tradition of bold design with the Headphone (1), featuring a distinctive look that merges futuristic and retro aesthetics reminiscent of “2001: A Space Odyssey.” The white unit showcases white cassette tape motifs on rectangular metallic ear cups encased in a transparent shell.
While initial impressions from leaked images were mixed, the design’s uniqueness drew attention during public use, sparking curiosity even among non-tech enthusiasts. The headphones offer a comfortable fit, aided by a rubberized plastic headband and cushioned ear cups, accommodating various head sizes without discomfort.
Weighing 329 grams, they are lighter than competitors like the AirPods Max, allowing extended wear during long commutes without fatigue. However, the large, rigid ear cups limit neck movement when worn around the neck, resembling a restrictive brace.
Notably, the headphones eschew touch controls in favor of tactile buttons and rollers. A volume roller doubles as a switch between Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes. Additionally, side paddles control track navigation, complementing the retro design ethos. A dedicated ‘Channel Hop’ button provides quick access to selected Spotify or Apple Music playlists, enhancing convenience without phone interaction. Ports include USB-C charging, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a power switch located on the ear cups.
Sound Quality of Nothing Headphone (1): Balanced and Tuned by KEF
Initial units of the Headphone (1) exhibited problematic bass distortion, but firmware updates and a replacement resolved these issues. The headphones deliver a clean, balanced sound profile, credited to tuning by British high-end audio manufacturer KEF. Custom 40mm drivers and nickel-plated diaphragms contribute to clear audio reproduction with deep bass and crisp highs.
The sound output maintains a balance across frequencies, avoiding dominance by bass or treble. Tracks like James Blake’s “Limit to Your Love” highlight the mid-bass performance, though maximum volumes can reintroduce bass tearing. Bass enhancement features exist but may exacerbate distortion.
However, the soundstage lacks width and depth, limiting spatial awareness of instrument placement, as noted in Son Lux’s “All Directions.” Details and richness fall short compared to competitors like the Sony XM5, even when using high-resolution codecs such as LDAC or external DACs.
The Nothing X companion app offers an 8-band equalizer with adjustable Q factors, allowing users to tailor the sound profile. Custom EQ settings can enhance midrange clarity and treble presence, partially mitigating detail deficiencies.
Overall, the Headphone (1) sound quality is competitive within its price range, offering an enjoyable listening experience that approaches the standards set by Sony’s offerings.
ANC and Transparency Features of Nothing Headphone (1)
The Active Noise Cancellation on the Headphone (1) is effective, reducing ambient noise up to 42 dB with the high setting in the Nothing X app. Passive noise isolation is reinforced by the snug seal of the ear cups. This performance suffices for environments ranging from office spaces to busy metro commutes.
Despite strong ANC, the headphones fall slightly short of the Sony XM5, which provides superior passive isolation and quieter noise cancellation. During loud events, such as office foosball matches, the Nothing Headphone (1) allowed occasional background sounds to penetrate.
Conversely, the transparency mode on the Headphone (1) outperforms Sony’s by offering a more natural listening experience due to less aggressive ear cup sealing. This facilitates conversations without removing the headphones, enhancing usability in real-world scenarios.
Microphone quality is adequate, employing a six-microphone array that captures voice clearly in quiet settings. However, the headphones struggle to suppress background noise in noisy environments, diminishing call clarity on busy city streets.
Battery Life of Nothing Headphone (1): Long-Lasting Performance
The Headphone (1) features a 1,040 mAh battery capable of delivering nearly three days of use with 8 to 9 hours of daily listening. Even with ANC and LDAC codec enabled, the headphones exceed 30 hours of playback on a single charge.
This endurance makes them well-suited for extended travel or weekend use. Charging from zero to full capacity takes approximately two hours, ensuring minimal downtime between sessions.
Assessing the Value of Nothing Headphone (1) at $299
Considering the design, sound quality, ANC performance, and battery life, the Nothing Headphone (1) offers a compelling package for its price point. The distinctive aesthetic differentiates it in a crowded market, sparking consumer interest and discussion.
While the headphones exhibit some shortcomings in audio detail and microphone noise suppression compared to higher-end rivals, their overall performance is commendable. With potential software improvements, these headphones could enhance their appeal further. Currently, they represent a worthwhile option, especially when available at discounted prices.