Critics' Assessments on Nothing Headphone Version 1: Discover Their Opinions
The Nothing Headphone (1), the latest offering from UK-based tech startup Nothing, has made a splash in the market with its distinctive design and competitive pricing. The headphones have received praise for their comfort, battery life, and feature set, although some compromises in sound quality and noise cancellation compared to premium competitors have been noted.
### Design and Comfort
The Nothing Headphone (1) stands out with an eye-catching, distinctive transparent design that many reviewers appreciate for its bold aesthetic. Build quality is considered superb and premium-feeling, with excellent on-ear controls including a favoured volume "roller" button. The headphones feel comfortable for extended wear, with reviewers noting that they sit well on the ear without causing fatigue.
### Sound Quality
Tuned in partnership with British audio brand KEF, the sound aims for a balanced and authoritative signature with good detail and control. However, the default sound is described as flat, somewhat uninspiring, and dark, with a lack of midrange presence that can make vocals and instruments feel recessed unless EQ adjustments or bass boost mode is applied. The headphones have good bass depth but avoid overwhelming the mix, maintaining clarity in lows without boominess. While spatial audio support is included, it has been described as limp compared to rivals.
### Noise Cancelling
The active noise cancelling (ANC) is decent but not class-leading. It effectively reduces common urban noises like traffic and trains but doesn’t match the industry-best ANC performance found in Sony’s WH-1000XM6 or the AirPods Max. Offers three ANC levels plus a transparency mode, giving users flexibility to adjust noise cancellation.
### Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, with reviewers noting standout endurance for all-day use without frequent recharges. This strong battery performance is a clear advantage in its category.
Comparing the Nothing Headphone (1) to the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max, the design is unique and somewhat divisive, with big, rectangular cases for the ear cups and available in two colours: white and black. Comfort is comfortable for long sessions, according to reviews. The sound quality is balanced but flat by default, needing EQ, and the noise cancelling is decent, adjustable ANC. Battery life is exceptional, long-lasting. The price is around $299 / £299 (budget-friendly), while the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max retail for over $400.
In summary, the Nothing Headphone (1) offers a compelling value proposition with its distinctive design, strong battery life, and customisable features, but it falls slightly short of the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max in terms of sound excitement and noise cancelling prowess. Users who prioritise unique design and long battery life at a mid-range price might find Nothing Headphone (1) very appealing, while audiophiles and ANC enthusiasts may prefer the established leaders.
James Pero from Gizmodo praises the quality of the noise cancelation and audio output of the Nothing Headphone (1). Many critics agree that the Nothing Headphone (1) offers great value for its price. Matt Bolton from TechRadar finds the audio of the Nothing Headphone (1) to be reasonably refined, well-balanced, and broadly enjoyable, but also compressed and lacking openness compared to competitors at the same price point.
- The Nothing Headphone (1) shares a comparable design aesthetic with Google and Amazon's tech-focused product lines, featuring sleek, minimalist gadgets that are both visually appealing and premium in feel.
- AI technology seems to play a role in the Nothing Headphone (1) as well, as British audio brand KEF collaborated with the tech startup to tune the headphones, aiming for a balanced sound signature with good detail and control.
- While the tech industry giants, such as Apple and Google, have made significant investments in AI to enhance their products, it remains to be seen whether Nothing will leverage AI in future offerings to expand beyond headphones and make a mark in technology.
- As competition in the tech industry heats up, consumers may gravitate towards unique offerings like the Nothing Headphone (1), which provides a balance of design, sound quality, noise cancelling, battery life, and value for a mid-range price.
