Nothing Headphone (1) Review: The New King of ANC?
Introduction
Nothing’s Headphone (1) stuns with its unique design, supreme comfort, and analytical sound. Is this the best ANC headphone you can buy right now?
A Surprising New Contender
I typically prefer earbuds over headphones for long listening sessions because I often find headphones fatiguing. However, the Nothing Headphone (1) has completely changed my perspective. From its design to its sound, this product is the most exciting piece of audio tech I’ve reviewed in a long time. It’s a first-generation device that feels incredibly refined, making a strong case for itself against industry giants.
Iconic Design and Superior Comfort
Headphones are as much a fashion accessory as they are a tech product, and the Headphone (1) nails the aesthetic. Its design is an immediate head-turner. Nothing’s designers have created a stunning retro-futuristic look with a transparent shell over an aluminum ear cup, giving it an iconic feel right out of the box. You get two color options, white and black, both of which look fantastic.
Beyond looks, the build quality is sturdy and feels built to last for generations. Furthermore, Nothing includes IP52 water resistance, a feature missing from top competitors like the Sony XM5 and AirPods Max.
Most importantly, the comfort is exceptional. While the AirPods Max has a high clamping force that becomes uncomfortable quickly, the Headphone (1) is the best-fitting and most comfortable headphone I have tested in years. I used them for three hours straight with absolutely no fatigue. This alone makes them a winner for anyone who finds other headphones too tight.
Intuitive Controls That Just Work
Instead of fussy touch controls, Nothing opted for a full set of tactile buttons, rollers, and paddles. This decision pays off brilliantly. The layout feels far more intuitive and useful than the controls on the Sony XM5 or even the Apple AirPods Max crown.
A smooth horizontal roller manages volume and playback, while paddles let you change and scrub through tracks. There is also a customizable shortcut button. On a Nothing Phone, you can use it for “Channel Hopping” to switch between apps like Spotify and YouTube, similar to changing radio stations. These physical controls are a joy to use, although they strangely don’t function when listening in wired mode.
Connectivity and A Superb App Experience
Connectivity is rock-solid with Bluetooth 5.3, and I found its connection to be stronger than both the AirPods Max and Sony XM5. The headphones support Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair for quick setup.
The accompanying Nothing X app is another highlight. It is beautifully designed—clean, minimal, and easy to navigate. Unlike Sony’s often intrusive app, Nothing provides easy access to noise cancellation modes, spatial audio toggles, and a very impressive parametric EQ. It’s a feature-rich and aesthetically pleasing app that enhances the overall user experience.
ANC, Mics, and Sound Performance
ANC and Mic Quality
The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is very good, effectively cutting out sounds up to 42 dB. While it falls just short of the class-leading performance from Sony and Apple, it’s still highly effective and doesn’t create that uncomfortable “vacuum” feeling, even on the highest setting.
Surprisingly, the microphone quality is great. In test recordings, the Headphone (1) clearly outperformed the AirPods Max by using its environmental noise cancellation (ENC) to cut out background fan noise. While the Sony XM5’s mic is slightly louder and clearer, Nothing’s mics are excellent for calls.
Analytical and Engaging Sound
Now, for the sound. The Headphone (1) features 40mm dynamic drivers tuned in collaboration with the renowned UK audio brand, KEF. This partnership has resulted in a wonderfully analytical and balanced sound signature.
The bass is fast and precise, with excellent attack and almost no decay. It isn’t boomy or overwhelming, but for those who want more rumble, the app offers a five-level bass enhancement setting. The mids are clean and present, and vocals come through clearly. If you want a more forward vocal presentation, the parametric EQ allows for easy and effective adjustments. Finally, the treble is extended and airy without being sharp or fatiguing.
Overall, the sound is detailed and spacious. I was particularly impressed with the stereo imaging, which accurately places sounds in the soundscape. While the AirPods Max may retrieve slightly more micro-detail, I prefer the airier and more engaging sound signature of the Headphone (1). It’s a sound that consistently brings a smile to my face.
Incredible Battery Life
Battery life is another area where Nothing has hit it out of the park. With ANC on and using the high-quality LDAC codec, I got close to 28 hours of playback. This is beyond impressive, surpassing what Sony’s XM5 can achieve under similar conditions. Compared to the AirPods Max’s 20 hours, it’s in a different league entirely. A full charge takes about two hours, and a quick charge can get you five hours of playback in just a few minutes.
Key Specifications
- Drivers: 40 mm dynamic drivers
- Audio Tuning: Tuned by KEF
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 42 dB
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, 3.5mm jack
- Hi-Res Codec: LDAC
- Battery Life (ANC On): Up to 28 hours (LDAC), 35 hours (AAC)
- Controls: Physical buttons, rollers, and paddles
- Water Resistance: IP52 rating
- App Support: Nothing X app with Parametric EQ
- Weight: Approx. 300g (inferred, heavier than XM5 but lighter than AirPods Max)
Verdict: A Breakout Hit
The Nothing Headphone (1) is the company’s most refined product yet. It’s a Gen 1 device that gets almost everything right. The design is iconic, the comfort is unmatched, the controls are intuitive, and the sound is fantastic. This could very well be the breakout product that gives Nothing global fame.
If you are considering premium ANC headphones from Bose, Sennheiser, Sony, or Apple, the Nothing Headphone (1) absolutely deserves to be in your top three options. Priced sensibly at ₹21,999 in India, it delivers exceptional value and makes a compelling case for being the best all-around headphone in its class. I cannot recommend it enough. what is your thought comment down below.
Nice design, and sound quality super