Nothing Headphone (1)
Best For
- Users who love retro-futuristic style
- Those seeking tactile headphone controls
- Buyers prioritizing battery life
Consider Carefully
- Individuals needing foldable headphones
- Audiophiles prioritizing sound quality
- People who want easily replaceable ear pads
Jump to Section
The Bottom Line
The Nothing Headphone 1, priced ~$250, is a headphone option that's turning heads with its striking transparent design and solid performance. We analyzed expert ratings and found that it scores a 72/100, reflecting generally positive feedback with a few notable trade-offs. What we found most appealing is the headphone's excellent physical controls and its unique aesthetic. The roller wheel and paddle button, praised by more than a third of sources, offer tactile satisfaction that's becoming rare in a touchpad-dominated market. With a battery life of over 33 hours with ANC enabled, it also stands out for its endurance. However, while its design is a point of pride for some, its inability to fold up and the difficulty in replacing ear pads may be drawbacks for others.
Performance Breakdown
Expert Scores
How 9 professional publications rated this product
In-Depth Analysis
Design & Aesthetics 86
Seven sources call the transparent retro aesthetic genuinely distinctive. Two call it embarrassing to wear in public. Both are right.
Key Takeaway
→Buy it for the design if you want to stand out. Skip it if you want something discreet or if aesthetics aren't worth a practical trade-off at $300.
Physical Controls 85
Thirteen of 16 sources agree: the roller wheel and paddle button are among the best physical controls at this price.
Key Takeaway
→If tactile controls matter to you, this is one of the better implementations at $300. The hidden pairing button is annoying but not a reason to walk away.
Battery Life 83
80 hours without ANC, 33-plus hours with it. Six sources agree this is exceptional. One catch: the wired analog jack requires battery power to function.
Key Takeaway
→Battery life is a genuine strength and a legitimate reason to choose this over competitors. Just know the wired jack is useless without power.
App & Customization 81
An 8-band parametric EQ with Q factor control is rare at this price, but the app experience has rough edges and Nothing phone owners get meaningfully more out of it.
Key Takeaway
→The EQ depth is a real advantage for anyone willing to use it. Nothing phone owners get the most out of the app. Everyone else gets a capable but occasionally buggy experience.
Sound Quality 76
Solid clarity and detail at the price, but ANC-off listening exposes a thin, bass-light tuning that divides reviewers.
Key Takeaway
→If you listen with ANC on and value clarity over bass, this punches above its price. If you toggle ANC off regularly or want consistent low-end, look elsewhere.
Portability & Build 74
IP52 rated and priced aggressively at $300, but the non-folding design is a real portability problem that three sources independently flag.
Key Takeaway
→Good value for a desk or commute setup. If you travel frequently and need a headphone that packs small, the non-folding design is a genuine inconvenience.
Noise Cancellation 70
Competent for commuting and offices, but 14 sources reveal real gaps: low-frequency rumble gets through, voices at max ANC are a problem, and transparency mode is widely criticized.
Key Takeaway
→Fine for commuters and moderately noisy offices. If ANC is your primary reason to buy, three sources say to shop elsewhere.
Comfort & Fit 65
Six sources praise the memory foam for all-day wear, but shallow ear cups, heat buildup, and a 329g weight create real problems for longer sessions.
Key Takeaway
→Good for commutes and work sessions under two hours. If you wear headphones all day or run warm, the heat buildup and weight will catch up with you.
Specifications & Verdict
Audio
- Driver Size
- 40 mm
- Frequency Response
- 20Hz to 20kHz
- Lowest Frequency
- 20 Hz
- Highest Frequency
- 40000 Hz
- Impedance
- 16 ohm
- Codecs
- LDAC, AAC, SBC
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Yes
- Transparency Mode
- Yes
- Spatial Audio
- Yes
Connectivity
- Bluetooth Version
- 5.3
- Multipoint Pairing
- Yes
- Microphone
- 4 total (AI call noise reduction)
- Compatibility
- Nothing Phone 3 for 'channel hop' feature (future rollout to other devices)
Battery
- Battery Life
- 80 hours
- Battery Life (ANC on)
- 35 hours
- Battery Life (ANC off)
- 80 hours
- Charge Time
- 2 hours
- Fast Charging
- 5 min → 8h (off) / 5h (on)
- Battery Capacity
- 1040 mAh
Design
- Type
- Over-ear
- Weight
- 329 g
- Dimensions
- 189.3 x 173.9 x 78mm
- Foldable
- No
- Colors
- white or black
- Ear Cup Material
- aluminum with high-tech plastic elements
- Frame Material
- Polycarbonate and glass fibre
- Water Resistance
- Sweat resistant
Features
- Companion App
- Nothing X (iOS and Android)
- Controls
- Roller wheel for volume,Paddle switch for track control,Customizable button
- EQ Bands
- 8-bands
- Included Accessories
- softshell with pouch for spare cables
- EQ Features
- More Bass, Balanced
- Special Features
- Active noise cancellation,Transparency mode,Head tracking/spatial audio,Customizable button,Voice assistant support (Google Gemini), Transparency mode, spatial audio
Other Specs
- Audio Tuning
- Sound by KEF
- Latency Low Lag Mode
- 240 ms
- Connectivity
- Analog jack (requires battery), Bluetooth
- Ports
- 3.5mm, USB-C
- Removable Ear Cushions
- true
- Ear Cushion Features
- oil-resistant, memory foam
- Size Weight
- 177×78×190.4 mm · 310 g
Our Verdict
he Nothing Headphone 1 earns its 72/100 score by nailing tactile controls and standout design, but audio quality and portability trade-offs keep it from greatness. Buy it for the experience, not the audiophile credentials.
Customer Reviews Amazon
924 reviews
4.3 out of 5 stars
from 924 reviews
Reviews shown are from Amazon customers and do not reflect our editorial assessment.
Reader Questions
Specific questions about the Nothing Headphone (1), answered only from what reviewers reported.
01How good are the physical controls compared to touch-based headphones?
Reviewers consistently praised the roller wheel, paddle, and button controls as intuitive and satisfying, making them a strong choice for anyone frustrated by accidental touch-gesture misfires. The physical controls were also noted as ideal for cold weather use, where gloves make touch surfaces impractical.
02How long does the battery actually last?
With ANC enabled, reviewers measured over 33 hours of battery life. With noise cancelling turned off, multiple sources reported up to 80 hours, which reviewers called exceptional and well suited to travel and commuting.
03Do they fold up compactly for travel?
These headphones fold flat but do not fold up, and one reviewer noted the folding mechanism works in a counterintuitive way that can cause backwards placement. This makes them bulkier to transport than headphones with a full fold-up design.
04Is the noise cancelling actually effective?
Reviewers found the ANC only slightly above average, and some noted it narrows the soundstage and mutes complex tracks when engaged. If strong noise cancellation is a priority, this is a notable limitation to consider.
05Does the transparency mode sound natural?
Reviewers were critical of the transparency mode, describing it as artificially tinny in one account and as running too loud and overwhelming music in another. It does not appear to match the natural passthrough quality found on some competing headphones.
06Can you use these at the gym or in the rain?
The headphones carry an IP52 rating for water and dust resistance, which reviewers noted makes them suitable for gym use and light sweat exposure.
Pricing & Availability
Nothing Headphone (1)
Sources & Methodology
Every score is built on evidence. This review synthesizes 29 independent sources — expert publications, video reviews, and community discussions — weighted by credibility, depth, and relevance.
Show detailed source analysis ↓ Hide source analysis ↑
Expert Reviews
theverge.com
7/10-point
The $299 Nothing Headphone 1 delivers solid flagship-level sound quality and effective noise cancellation in a striking transparent design that divides opinion. The reviewer found the retro-futuristic aesthetic visually appealing when not worn but felt self-conscious wearing it publicly, describing the experience as 'cosplaying as a cyborg.' Physical controls stand out as a genuine highlight—the roller wheel and paddle button offer intuitive, tactile operation. Comfort proved excellent for all-day wear, exceeding the Sony WH-1000XM6 in this regard. However, the folding mechanism is counterintuitively designed, causing users to put the headphones on backwards when retrieving them from the case. The analog jack requires battery power to function, and spatial audio with head tracking underwhelms. Call quality impresses once positioned correctly, with AI-powered noise suppression performing well even in loud environments.
Strengths
- +Good sound quality comparable to flagship competitors
- +Cheaper than other flagship over-ear headphones
- +Unique transparent retro design stands out visually
- +Excellent physical controls with roller wheel and paddle button
Weaknesses
- −Folds flat in counterintuitive way causing backwards placement
- −Design feels embarrassing to wear in public
- −Housing feels cheaper and less mature than premium alternatives
- −Analog jack does not work without battery power
rtings.com
Top
7.9/10-point
The Nothing Headphone (1) marks the company's first over-ear wireless entry, featuring 40 mm KEF-designed drivers and a distinctive transparent aesthetic. Battery life exceeds 33 hours with ANC enabled, while multi-device Bluetooth pairing enables seamless switching between sources. The IP52 rating stands out for over-ear headphones, supporting light outdoor use and workouts. ANC performs exceptionally well on mid and high frequencies though struggles with low rumbles. Comfort varies by ear size—shallow cups suit smaller ears but cause heat buildup and sweat over extended sessions. The warm, slightly subdued default tuning reduces fatigue during long listening periods. Wired USB-C and analog connections are supported, though the headphones must remain powered on. Gaming latency reaches 240 ms wirelessly and 33 ms wired, limiting competitive use. The button controls require adjustment for touchpad converts, and microphone quality suffices for calls in quiet environments only.
Strengths
- +Over 33 hours battery life with ANC enabled
- +IP52 water and dust resistance rating
- +Excellent mid and high frequency noise isolation
- +Stable fit for light to moderate workouts
Weaknesses
- −Shallow ear cups feel snug and trap heat
- −ANC ineffective against low-frequency rumbles
- −240 ms wireless latency unsuitable for gaming
- −Microphone struggles in noisy environments
whathifi.com
Top
3/5-point
Nothing's debut over-ear headphones deliver full-bodied, robust sound with admirable clarity and strong 80-hour battery life at an aggressive £299 price point. The distinctive transparent, cassette tape-inspired design divides opinion, while the unique control scheme—combining a roller, paddle, and customisable button—requires adaptation. Comfort issues emerge from uneven weight distribution causing looseness during movement, non-folding earcups limiting portability, and occasional on-ear overheating. The sound, while technically capable, lacks the entertainment factor found in cheaper alternatives.
Strengths
- +Full-bodied, robust sound signature
- +Admirable clarity and detail retrieval
- +Strong 80-hour battery life with ANC off
- +Distinctive transparent aesthetic stands out
Weaknesses
- −Cheaper rivals prove more entertaining to listen to
- −Fit feels insecure during movement
- −Non-folding design hinders portability
- −Uneven weight distribution affects comfort
cnet.com
Top
8.2/10-point
Nothing's first over-ear noise-canceling headphones deliver a distinctive retro design with translucent elements and sturdy aluminum construction. The 329-gram weight makes them heavier than key competitors, though the memory foam ear cushions provide decent passive isolation. Audio performance is clean and enjoyable with well-defined bass, backed by strong active noise cancellation and voice-calling capabilities. Physical controls rank among the best implemented, featuring a smooth roller for volume and ANC adjustments plus programmable shortcuts. Battery life is healthy, and USB-C audio provides wired flexibility. At $299, they position as a value play in the premium segment, though missing features like conversation awareness and non-replaceable ear pads limit their appeal for some users.
Strengths
- +Sturdy, eye-catching design with translucent elements
- +Clean sound with well-defined, enjoyable bass
- +Strong noise-canceling and voice-calling performance
- +Excellent, intuitive physical controls
Weaknesses
- −Heavy at 329 grams
- −Less comfortable than competing models
- −Fold flat but don't fold up
- −Sound quality is good but not exceptional
musictech.com
Top
5/10-point
Nothing's first full-sized headphone delivers impressive battery life (80 hours ANC off, 35 on) and distinctive transparent design at £299. Physical controls including the Roller, Paddle and Button offer refreshing tactility versus touch alternatives. Audio developed with KEF features 40mm drivers with extensive EQ customisation, though sound quality varies significantly with ANC settings and fit. Wired USB-C and 3.5mm options complement LDAC wireless. Build quality impresses with aluminium and leather, though ear pads appear non-replaceable. Noise cancelling performs well if not class-leading.
Strengths
- +Exceptional 80-hour battery life with ANC disabled
- +Physical Roller, Paddle and Button controls feel refreshing
- +Extensive eight-band parametric EQ with custom presets
- +Wired USB-C and 3.5mm connections included
Weaknesses
- −Sound becomes thin and loses bass when ANC is switched off
- −Optimal audio requires uncomfortably tight seal around ears
- −Ear pads do not appear to be user-replaceable
- −Pairing button is somewhat hidden
soundguys.com
Top
8.1/10-point
Nothing's first over-ear headphones deliver distinctive retro-tech aesthetics with transparent elements and aluminum construction that draws attention. The physical control scheme stands out with a satisfying volume roller and intuitive paddle for track navigation. Comfort proves excellent for extended wear thanks to memory foam cushions and balanced clamping force, though the non-folding design makes transport bulky. IP52 water resistance suits gym use, while good ANC and customizable audio appeal to tinkerers. However, the unique rectangular shape risks cosmetic damage from corner collisions, and the thin zipper on the case feels prone to catching.
Strengths
- +Distinctive transparent design with solid premium build quality
- +Excellent long-term comfort from memory foam cushions
- +Satisfying physical volume roller and intuitive paddle controls
- +IP52 water resistance rating for gym use
Weaknesses
- −Cannot fold; only rotates flat for bulky transport
- −Rectangular corners collide and risk cosmetic damage
- −Thin zipper strap catches easily when opening case
- −Unique design attracts unwanted attention in public
recordingnow.com
Top
9.1/10-point
The Nothing Headphone 1 delivers surprisingly excellent sound quality once customized through its advanced 8-band EQ in the Nothing X app, which offers full frequency and Q factor control. Stock tuning presents as neutral-ish with slightly boxy vocals and limited sub-bass, though the hardware—developed in collaboration with KEF—responds exceptionally well to EQ adjustments. Comfort is rated as fairly good, while noise cancelling performs only slightly above average. Battery life extends up to 80 hours. Build quality skews cheaper, but overall value remains strong for the price point.
Strengths
- +Excellent sound quality after EQ customization
- +Most advanced 8-band custom EQ with Q factor control
- +Up to 80 hours battery life
- +Great value for money
Weaknesses
- −Stock sound is polarizing and boxy
- −Noise cancelling only slightly above average
- −Cheaper build quality
- −Smaller soundstage out of the box
theshortcut.com
Top
80/100
A distinctive first attempt at over-ear headphones from Nothing that prioritizes bold design and exceptional battery life over refinement. The transparent aesthetic turns heads, while 80-hour endurance and lively sound quality impress at the $300 price point. Physical controls prove intuitive once learned, and the slim case aids portability. However, the 329-gram weight creates fatigue during extended wear, memory foam earcups trap noticeable heat, and the transparency mode sounds artificially tinny. Microphone performance underwhelms for calls. Despite these compromises, the package delivers compelling value that challenges whether premium alternatives justify their cost.
Strengths
- +Striking transparent design stands out visually
- +Exceptional 80-hour battery life
- +Lively, well-detailed sound with thunderous bass
- +Effective active noise cancellation
Weaknesses
- −329-gram weight causes fatigue after hours of wear
- −Memory foam earcups run noticeably warm
- −Transparency mode sounds artificially tinny
- −Microphones sound muffled on calls
theguardian.com
60/100
Nothing's first over-ear headphones deliver striking 1980s-inspired transparent design at £299, competing with premium noise-cancelling rivals. The 329g weight is offset by well-judged clamping force, though thin headband padding causes discomfort during extended sessions. Tactile physical controls—including a satisfying roller button and track-skipping paddle—stand out against touch-based competitors. KEF-tuned audio offers punchy bass and wide soundstage, but noise cancelling narrows the sound and reduces impact. Battery life reaches 35 hours with ANC or 80 hours without. Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint, USB-C audio, and 3.5mm connectivity provide flexibility. Noise cancellation handles low rumbles adequately but fails with higher frequencies like voices; transparency mode runs overly loud. Repairable design with replaceable ear cushions, though no recycled materials used.
Strengths
- +Striking transparent 1980s-inspired design stands out visually
- +Tactile physical controls with satisfying roller button and paddle
- +KEF-tuned audio with punchy bass and wide soundstage
- +Excellent 80-hour battery life without noise cancelling
Weaknesses
- −Thin headband padding creates sore spots after hours
- −Noise cancelling narrows soundstage and mutes complex tracks
- −ANC struggles with higher tones like voices at maximum
- −Transparency mode runs too loud and overwhelms music
nothing.community
After a month of testing, the reviewer found the Nothing Headphone 1 excels primarily as a PC gaming headset when paired with Dolby Access, delivering rich, punchy audio without distortion across highs, mids, and lows. The ANC and Transparency mode impressed, with the latter outperforming the reviewer's Ear 2024 earbuds. Physical controls including the volume roller and paddle received praise for intuitive operation. However, wireless volume output on mobile devices proved disappointingly low even with maximum equalizer settings, requiring an external EQ app for marginal improvement. The zippered case design also drew minor criticism. Best suited for stationary home use rather than mobile listening.
Strengths
- +Excellent PC performance with Dolby Access enabled
- +Rich, punchy audio with clean separation across frequencies
- +No distortion at high volumes
- +Effective ANC and outstanding Transparency mode
Weaknesses
- −Wireless volume too quiet on mobile devices
- −Requires external equalizer for acceptable mobile loudness
- −Zippered case mechanism feels suboptimal
Video Reviews
Marques Brownlee
Nothing's first $300 over-ear noise-canceling headphones prioritize …
Nothing's first $300 over-ear noise-canceling headphones prioritize bold industrial design with a transparent aesthetic and cassette-tape-inspired ear cups. The reviewer found the physical control scheme—featuring a scroll wheel for volume, a tactile paddle for track navigation, and customizable buttons—a refreshing departure from finicky touch controls. Sound quality, developed in partnership with hi-fi speaker company KEF, proved competent though not exceptional for the price tier. The design polarizes: some will embrace its uniqueness while others reject it. Despite skepticism about the KEF collaboration being a white-label arrangement, the reviewer confirmed these are substantively different from KEF's own MU7 headphones. Build quality and everyday usability exceeded expectations, helping justify the unconventional appearance.
- →Best for buyers prioritizing distinctive aesthetics over audio performance
- →Ideal for users frustrated by touch-based headphone controls
- →Suitable for commuters wanting visible style statement
- →Consider only if $300 budget includes design as primary feature
- →Verify fit comfort before committing to daily wear
Tech Spurt
The reviewer spent two weeks testing the white Nothing Headphone 1, …
The reviewer spent two weeks testing the white Nothing Headphone 1, noting its striking, polarizing design that attracts significant attention. The transparent, boxy aesthetic with red right-cup indicator stays true to Nothing's design language. Comfort is solid for extended wear despite minimal headband padding, with generous ear cup cushioning. The headphones don't fold but rotate 90 degrees for neck-wearing, though this causes rattling and wear. Features include Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint pairing, Nothing X app with EQ, spatial audio, ANC controls, and LDAC/AAC codec selection. IP52 rating offers only splash resistance. The right cup houses all controls and ports, creating a cluttered layout.
- →Best for users prioritizing unique, conversation-starting aesthetics
- →Suitable for long listening sessions due to comfortable fit
- →Good for commuters needing multipoint device switching
- →Not ideal for workout use given limited water resistance
- →Requires accepting practical compromises for distinctive design
ShortCircuit
Nothing Headphone 1 features 40mm custom dynamic nickel-plated drivers …
Nothing Headphone 1 features 40mm custom dynamic nickel-plated drivers with KEF tuning, physical button controls instead of touch gestures, and a fold-flat design with a slim carrying case. The headphones include both 3.5mm and USB-C cables, though the analog cable lacks microphone support. Build quality impresses with scratch-resistant clear polycarbonate-style material and anodized aluminum, though actual weight exceeds advertised specs by approximately 60 grams. Comfort stands out with smooth infinite adjustment and consistent clamping pressure across head shapes. Battery life rates at 80 hours without ANC and 35 hours with it enabled. Active noise cancellation performs adequately overall but struggles with wind interference. The physical control scheme includes a rebindable voice assistant button, rubberized roller for volume with transparency mode toggle, and a paddle for track navigation.
- →Best for users frustrated by touch controls
- →Long battery life suits travel and commuting
- →Physical controls ideal for cold weather use
- →Acceptable for office ANC, not windy environments
- →Wired listening requires USB-C for mic functionality
SoundGuys
Nothing's first over-ear headphones deliver a striking industrial …
Nothing's first over-ear headphones deliver a striking industrial design with transparent elements that turns heads, though much of the visible internals are cosmetic rather than functional. Build quality feels premium and solid despite noticeable weight, with memory foam cushions that conform to the head over time for comfortable hour-long wear. The 40mm KEF-tuned drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, and rare IP52 water resistance distinguish it from premium competitors. Physical controls—a volume roller with tactile feedback and a track-scrubbing paddle—offer refreshing alternatives to finicky touch surfaces. However, the rectangular aluminum slabs ding together easily, causing cosmetic damage concerns, and the folding mechanism limits portability since they don't collapse smaller than flat.
- →Best for style-conscious users wanting standout design
- →Good choice for gym-goers needing sweat resistance
- →Physical control lovers frustrated by touch surfaces
- →Nothing phone owners gain exclusive software features
- →Handle carefully to avoid cosmetic damage over time
Dave2D
The reviewer finds Nothing Headphone 1 to be the best $300 wireless …
The reviewer finds Nothing Headphone 1 to be the best $300 wireless ANC headphones available, despite some reservations. The transparent aesthetic looks striking in photos but appears silly when worn. Build quality exceeds expectations with aluminum ear cups, metal hinges with satisfying lockout, and polycarbonate see-through sections. Physical controls receive exceptional praise—a roller for volume, a paddle for track navigation, and a button for shortcuts. Sound quality rates 7.5-8/10 with emphasized mid-bass tuning likely for retail demo appeal. Comfort scores 7.5/10 due to tight clamp force and thin headband padding, though ear pads are soft and seal well. Weight is noticeable from metal construction. Replaceable ear pads and included case with USB-C and 3.5mm cables add value.
- →Best choice for $300 wireless ANC headphone buyers
- →Ideal for users prioritizing tactile controls over touch gestures
- →Try before buying due to polarizing on-head aesthetics
- →Suitable for retail store demos with boosted mid-bass tuning
- →Consider head size—clamp force runs tight
Naseem Speach
The Nothing Headphone 1 delivers a compelling first-generation product …
The Nothing Headphone 1 delivers a compelling first-generation product centered on thoughtful design and practical functionality. Its transparent aesthetic paired with an aluminum frame creates a premium feel without excessive weight, while physical controls offer reliable operation even with gloves. The standout 80-hour battery life with rapid 5-minute fast charging addresses real-world usage patterns effectively. Sound quality, tuned in partnership with KEF, prioritizes clarity and detail over bass-heavy signatures, with LDAC support for high-resolution wireless audio. Hybrid adaptive ANC performs consistently across varied environments without inducing pressure discomfort. The companion app provides extensive customization including spatial audio with head tracking and community EQ sharing. While not surpassing established competitors in pure audio fidelity, the overall package succeeds through superior build quality, intuitive controls, and cohesive user experience.
- →Ideal for users prioritizing battery life and comfort over audiophile sound
- →Perfect for commuters needing reliable ANC across varying environments
- →Great choice for those wanting physical controls instead of touch gestures
- →Suits listeners preferring clarity and detail over bass-heavy tuning
- →Strong option for multi-device users with seamless laptop-phone switching
Nothing and Carl Pei
The Nothing Headphone 1 features a distinctive transparent retro …
The Nothing Headphone 1 features a distinctive transparent retro design that polarizes opinions—some find it refreshingly unique while others consider it silly-looking when worn. Priced at $299, the headphones deliver impressive passive isolation even without ANC, and the active noise cancellation performs well against room noise though falls slightly short of top-tier competitors on extreme frequencies like airplane engines. Sound quality punches above its price point, earning a 7.5-8/10 comparison against flagship alternatives. The company deliberately chose not to leverage existing audiophile community research, instead partnering with external experts while building internal audio capabilities to develop their signature sound.
- →Best for style-conscious buyers wanting unique aesthetics
- →Strong value for premium features at mid-range price
- →Suitable for office and commute use, not frequent flyers
- →First-gen product with room for audio signature refinement
- →Ideal if you prioritize looks over maximum ANC performance
AllexB
The Nothing Headphone 1 sits at $299 in the company's lineup, …
The Nothing Headphone 1 sits at $299 in the company's lineup, featuring aluminum ear cups and a premium build at 329 grams. The reviewer found comfort to be a notable weakness—feeling too heavy on the head with clamping force that remained tight even after use. Sound quality proved problematic due to Nothing repeatedly altering the sound signature through firmware updates, forcing users to rely on advanced EQ adjustments with ongoing uncertainty about future changes. Ear cups are technically removable but require significant force and lack official replacement options from Nothing. The mesh is attached to the headphone body itself, unlike the Headphone A's design.
- →Better alternatives exist at lower price points
- →Consider only if premium materials are priority
- →Avoid if consistent sound signature matters
- →Not ideal for all-day comfort seekers
- →Wait for sale price given competition
6 Months Later
After six months of daily use, the reviewer considers the Nothing …
After six months of daily use, the reviewer considers the Nothing Headphone 1 their favorite headphones for the price despite some flaws. The design stands out with retro-inspired transparent plastic and genuine forged aluminum construction, delivering a premium feel at 329 grams. Five dedicated physical buttons on the right ear cup provide intuitive controls including a power switch with status light, paddle for track skipping and media scrubbing, roller for volume and playback, and a dedicated Bluetooth pairing button that eliminates common frustrations. Comfort allows all-day wear, and IP52 dust/water resistance exceeds most competitors. Sound quality requires EQ adjustment through the excellent companion app—flat and muddy out of the box, but highly tunable with community preset sharing via QR codes.
- →Best for users who value physical controls over touch gestures
- →Ideal for Nothing Phone 3 owners wanting Essential Space integration
- →Requires willingness to spend time with EQ tuning
- →Suitable for gym use with IP52 protection
- →Great value alternative to premium over-ear headphones
Aaron X Loud and Wireless
The Nothing Headphone 1 features a distinctive transparent design with …
The Nothing Headphone 1 features a distinctive transparent design with premium build quality and intuitive physical controls including a customizable button for voice assistants. It supports high-res LDAC codec, wired USB-C audio, adjustable noise cancelling, multipoint pairing, and spatial audio with head tracking that works across any device. Microphone quality is generally good with six mics total, though aggressive noise gating occasionally cuts into the user's voice. Active noise cancelling effectively reduces background chatter and transport noise but falls short of top competitors like AirPods Max, Sony WH-1000XM6, and Bose QC Ultra. At $299, the design appeals aesthetically but may not justify the price solely on performance merits.
- →Best for users prioritizing unique aesthetic and design
- →Suitable for audiophiles needing LDAC and wired USB-C
- →Good for cross-platform spatial audio with head tracking
- →Acceptable for calls in varied environments with caveats
- →Consider alternatives if noise cancelling is top priority
This is Tech Today
An audio engineer's review of the Nothing Headphone 1 highlights its …
An audio engineer's review of the Nothing Headphone 1 highlights its polarizing blocky design inspired by old-school tape decks, featuring a mix of metal and plastic elements. The headphones excel in comfort with moderate clamping force, spring-loaded fit, and ear cups approximately one inch deep—suitable for 10+ hour sessions. Physical controls include a paddle switch for track navigation, a versatile roller dial for volume and playback, and a customizable button with a unique 'channel hop' playlist feature. The soft-shell case includes a design callback to Nothing's earbud cases, and an off switch addresses a common pain point. The review suggests strong audiophile community influence in development but leaves sound quality assessment implied through extensive testing methodology rather than explicit claims.
- →Ideal for users prioritizing distinctive aesthetic over conventional design
- →Excellent choice for extended wear due to superior comfort engineering
- →Physical control enthusiasts will appreciate dedicated buttons and dial
- →Playlist-heavy users benefit from channel hop quick-access feature
- →Audiophile-influenced tuning suggests strong sound quality potential
BeebNG
The reviewer, previously disappointed by various headphones, found the …
The reviewer, previously disappointed by various headphones, found the Nothing Headphone 1 met their expectations across durability, audio quality, and design. They praise the premium packaging including a compact travel pouch, USB-C cable, and 3.5mm audio cable. The transparent white design with visible internal components achieves a clean, minimal aesthetic that stands out without being flashy. The aluminum and plastic construction feels sturdy yet lightweight, with flexible headband adjustment and soft ear cushions enabling comfortable extended wear. Physical controls including a scroll wheel for volume, paddle button for track navigation, and dedicated power switch are deemed practical and superior to touch controls. Active noise cancellation effectively eliminates background noise for gym, travel, and focused work, though transparency mode is considered mediocre for conversations. Sound quality, tuned by KEF, delivers clear, balanced audio with good bass and no distortion at high volumes.
- →Ideal for frequent travelers needing flight noise isolation
- →Excellent for gym workouts and noisy public spaces
- →Perfect for minimal design enthusiasts wanting standout aesthetics
- →Great choice for users preferring physical over touch controls
- →Suited for long listening sessions requiring comfort
9to5Mac
The Nothing Headphone 1 delivers a distinctive industrial-transparent …
The Nothing Headphone 1 delivers a distinctive industrial-transparent design weighing just 329 grams with an aluminum exterior. Sound quality stands out thanks to KEF tuning, with multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C audio for zero-latency iOS connection, and 3.5mm wired input. Controls feature a unique roller for volume, a rocker for track navigation, and customizable buttons via the Nothing X app. Android users benefit from LDAC codec support while Apple devices use AAC. The whimsical design extends to sound effects for actions like ANC switching, creating a cohesive personality throughout the experience.
- →Ideal for music production with wired USB-C to iOS
- →Great choice for Android users wanting LDAC codec
- →Perfect for those wanting standout industrial design
- →Excellent for audio editing requiring zero latency
- →Good fit for users prioritizing lightweight comfort
Community Discussions via Reddit
Long-term Update
r/NOTHING
u/defaltho
A two-year owner of the Nothing Headphone 1 reports a critical hardware defect where the left earcup produces constant white noise during ANC use, occurring even when disconnected from devices. The issue appears immediately upon enabling ANC and disappears when turned off, suggesting a firmware or hardware problem. Despite extensive troubleshooting including firmware updates, factory resets, and ANC microphone cleaning, the defect persists. The support experience has been frustrating with generic responses and no resolution. Multiple Reddit posts indicate this is not an isolated issue. Community comments reveal warranty complications for non-UK EU customers and suggest potential ANC microphone blockage as a cause, though this did not resolve the reporter's specific case.
Key Insights
- →ANC reliability appears compromised with reported hardware defects affecting left earcup specifically
- →Support infrastructure may be inadequate for non-UK European customers despite EU consumer protections
- →Not recommended for buyers prioritizing reliable ANC performance or requiring responsive warranty service
- →Potential buyers should verify local warranty terms and retailer return policies before purchase
- →Community suggests ANC microphone blockage as possible cause, though effectiveness varies
Top Comments
Your consumer protection might be different wherever you are, but in Australia we'd just have the retailer refund it.
Uhm...long shot but try this. I bought the BOSE QC 45 years ago, out of the box constant noise, at a level i couldnt unhear even when listening to music. Trick was to blow air, literally blow air …
Yeah, I’m still in the process of resolving it, and I am covered by consumer rights in my country. The main issue is that Nothing really should have better brand representation across the EU, which …
Comparison
r/headphones
u/vent93
A former Sony XM5 owner (4 years heavy use) transitioned to Nothing Headphone 1 after their XM5 broke. First impressions reveal stunning physical design with premium aesthetics that exceed photos/videos. Comfort is excellent for glasses wearers due to larger, superior memory foam earpads with reduced clamping pressure. Sound quality requires significant setup work—stock tuning is described as "awful" until users download the Nothing app, install bass firmware, and apply EQ settings. After proper configuration, bass performance is strong and high-quality, with noticeable improvement on lossless audio tracks. Packaging and case design disappoint: box is unnecessarily heavy, white fabric case attracts lint/fur problematic for bag storage, and cable colors mismatch black headphones. ANC performance was pending testing at time of post.
Key Insights
- →Best for users who prioritize aesthetic design and are willing to invest time in audio customization
- →Not ideal for those wanting immediate out-of-box performance or minimal maintenance case care
- →Glasses wearers specifically benefit from the pressure-reducing foam design
- →Lossless audio listeners will appreciate the more discernible quality improvements
- →Case design conflicts with casual bag storage—users must adapt carrying habits or accept lint accumulation
Top Comments
Enjoy your new Headphone(1)! p.s: i dont want it to come out in the wrong way, but your xm5 hinges breaking after 4 years kinda gives me hope, cuz i just bought the xm5 2 days ago, and everybodys …
I think I just had good luck (lol). I had a xb900n and when I got the xm5 they felt super fragile. But I heavily used them daily over 4 years. It fell once or twice but the trickiest part is storing …
I think I just had good luck (lol). I had a xb900n and when I got the xm5 they felt super fragile. But I heavily used them daily over 4 years. It fell once or twice but the trickiest part is storing …
Comparison
r/NothingTech
u/Urufuzu_Rein
Owner Urufuzu_Rein shares impressions after 50+ hours with Nothing Headphone 1 since July 22 preorder. Despite mixed online reviews, they found the headphones exceeded expectations with premium build quality, comfortable fit for extended wear, and distinctive rectangular design. The owner has sensorineural hearing loss and uses custom EQ at 70-75% volume. Community comments confirm cable color mismatch (black headphones with white cables), orientation confusion when removing from case, and a pending firmware fix for low volume issues affecting some users. Multiple commenters praise the EQ sharing feature and transparency of the review influenced purchase decisions.
Key Insights
- →Best for users who prioritize comfort for long listening sessions and distinctive industrial design over conventional aesthetics
- →Users with hearing loss may need to invest time in custom EQ setup to achieve adequate volume levels
- →Community consensus that build quality exceeds expectations set by mixed early reviews
- →EQ sharing feature creates active community engagement around sound customization
- →Pending firmware update should address volume concerns for affected users
Top Comments
enjoyed this review. I feel mostly the same about mine although I bought the white and the cables are black (jk they are white) I love them except for having to turn them around to put them on my …
For you, is the max volume not too low? I think some people like myself are experiencing low volume on these and apparently they are releasing a firmware update to fix that in 2 weeks. Just curious
Thanks, mate!
Comparison
r/NothingTech
u/MathematicianTop3848
The Nothing Headphone 1 is positioned as a premium offering with a retro aesthetic and superior sound quality compared to budget alternatives. The reviewer, who owns both the Nothing Headphone 1 and CMF Headphone Pro, considers the Nothing Headphone 1 worth its price at $229-249 but not at full retail ($299). The headphones deliver noticeably better audio performance and a premium design that multiple commenters praise. However, community feedback reveals a significant software issue where bass disappears when ANC or Transparency Mode is turned off, which appears to be intentional tuning rather than a defect. The product appeals to users prioritizing sound quality and design over value-focused feature sets.
Key Insights
- →Best for audiophiles and design-conscious buyers willing to pay for premium sound and aesthetics over feature quantity
- →Not ideal for users who frequently switch ANC off and expect consistent bass response
- →Purchase recommendation: wait for sale price ($229-249) rather than paying full retail
- →Community workaround exists for bass issues: verify Energy Slider is set to Bass Tuning in Controls settings
- →Design receives consistent praise as 'retro premium' while competing products are criticized for cheap-feeling materials
Top Comments
Awesome review! Thanks for taking the time. I love my headphone 1 but find it weird that when I turn ANC or TM to OFF the bass is completely gone..and this seems to be intentional. Only with ANC or …
I really don't like the shiny plastic color of the CMF. Feels cheap. Love the Nothing Headphone, gives a retro premium vibe.
For the bass slider, if you haven't already done this double-check the settings in Controls => Energy Slider (Slider) to make sure it's set to Bass Tuning.
Comparison
r/NOTHING
u/MathematicianTop3848
After one month of daily use, the Nothing Headphone (1) owner praises its striking transparent design that continues to draw attention and resist scratches. The sound profile is lively and punchy with clear vocals, though bass enthusiasts may want more even with EQ adjustments. Physical controls are intuitive and well-designed with varied button sizes. However, the owner experienced a distortion/low volume issue at unboxing requiring a phone restart, and another commenter reports reduced volume and bass after a recent firmware update. Noise cancellation and comfort meet or exceed expectations. The headphones are considered a solid mid-to-premium contender balancing price, performance, and aesthetics, though some design interactivity is missed.
Key Insights
- →Best for users prioritizing unique transparent design and intuitive physical controls over maximum bass output
- →Not ideal for gym users needing high volume or bass enthusiasts seeking deep low-end even with EQ adjustments
- →Firmware updates have introduced regressions in volume and bass; potential buyers may want to verify latest update status
- →Physical durability exceeds expectations for transparent materials; design remains attention-grabbing long-term
- →Call quality and thermal comfort during long sessions remain unverified by owner despite community inquiry
Top Comments
Thanks for writting this, very informative. I am considering these and wanna check if they have a discount on black Friday. I also consider the sony's. Could you tell a bit about the call quality, …
going to be so entirely honest with you I have not even the slightest clue what that means. I just started using Reddit and posting like a month ago
going to be so entirely honest with you I have not even the slightest clue what that means. I just started using Reddit and posting like a month ago
Setup Showcase
r/NothingTech
u/PlayStarRocker
The Nothing Headphone (1) is part of PlayStarRocker's extensive Nothing ecosystem collection, acquired alongside other Teenage Engineering-influenced devices. The owner appreciates the distinctive design language shared with Teenage Engineering products, particularly the M-1 headphones which served as partial inspiration for the purchase. However, the primary frustration centers on audio quality shortcomings—specifically weak bass response that the owner expected to be addressed through a promised firmware update from Carl Pei that has not materialized. The physical controls and aesthetic design receive praise, but the sound profile and noise cancellation performance disappoint the owner, who ultimately recommends Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones for those prioritizing audio quality and ANC over design.
Key Insights
- →Best suited for users who prioritize industrial design and aesthetic coherence over audio performance
- →Not recommended for bass-heavy music listeners or those seeking strong ANC without external alternatives
- →Purchase decision appears driven by brand ecosystem completion and design appreciation rather than audio quality needs
- →Owner explicitly directs serious headphone users toward Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones instead
Top Comments
That's impressive. I'm with you with number 1,6,9 https://preview.redd.it/28605rytjphg1.jpeg?width=1636&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c0080b5b6595a9562349fe0ed7af77584a517dc9
https://preview.redd.it/pj5v1grogphg1.jpeg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a3ff6f9e6bc40e2c498949df0d96d716750c314d
The Nothing Phone 3 because it started this obsession of mine and I use it daily. I'm quite happy with it! Another favorite is the Nothing Ear open. One of the most useful things I bought for work.
Scores based on weighted analysis of 29 expert and community sources. How we review →