The Retro-Style Nothing Headphone (1) Debuts Worldwide at a Price Point Lower Than Competing Flagship Models


Earlier this month, the UK brand Nothing unveiled its inaugural on-ear headphones, and on July 15, they globally released the Nothing Headphone (1) at a price of $299.

These new flagship headphones integrate features from well-known models by Bose, Sony, and Dyson, providing a high-fidelity listening experience at a more accessible price compared to other flagship noise-canceling headphones.

Mashable is in the process of testing these new headphones, with a comprehensive review on the way. In the meantime, here’s what we have gathered about the newly launched Nothing headphones and how they stack up against the competition.

The Nothing Headphone (1): Initial thoughts

These headphones include several of our favorite traits from rival products. They are built with precision aluminum CNC components found in premium audio products such as the Panasonic Technics AZ100 and Dyson OnTrac. They also feature sophisticated spatial audio akin to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and tactile controls reminiscent of the Sony XM6 noise-canceling headphones.

Nonetheless, they offer these features at a considerably lower price than those aforementioned models. In my assessment of the Sony XM6 headphones, I pointed out that the $450 price was becoming the new benchmark for flagship noise-canceling headphones. However, Nothing is standing against that trend. While $299 might not be labeled as inexpensive, it is $100 to $150 less than competing models.

However, this price difference could come with a compromise. Despite the collaboration with high-end audio brand KEF, initial reviews vary regarding the overall sound quality.

Nothing Headphone (1): Aesthetic

The design merits attention. These headphones are unlike any other audio product, showcasing Nothing’s distinctive retro-futuristic style. Similar to the popular Beats Studio Buds +, they incorporate transparent components that provide a view of the inner workings. In general, I value the design, although it may not resonate with everyone.

Nothing Headphone (1): High-resolution headphones with active noise cancellation

As anticipated from $299 headphones, these over-ear units feature active noise cancellation. We will withhold our assessment of how they measure up against Sony and other brands for now, but the audio quality benefits from Nothing’s partnership with high-fidelity audio brand KEF. In a press statement, Nothing claimed, “With support for Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, USB-C lossless playback, and a 3.5mm jack, Headphone (1) provides outstanding sound — whether wired or wireless.”

The headphones also include various adaptive features for a more engaging audio experience. Besides spatial audio and head tracking capabilities, they offer adaptive bass enhancement and intelligent transparency modes. Users can customize EQ settings through the Nothing app and adjust ANC settings to suit their preferences.

The Nothing Headphone (1): Specifications

Let’s take a look at the specifications. Most importantly, these headphones provide up to 80 hours of playback time, although ANC shortens that to 35 hours. The audio is powered by a “custom-built 40mm dynamic driver.” Additionally, the headphones feature only four internal microphones, whereas the new Sony XM6 has 12 built-in microphones.

– Size: 174mm x 189mm x 78mm
– Case size: 220mm x 220mm x 52mm
– Weight: 329 grams
– Playback with ANC: Up to 35 hours
– Playback without ANC: Up to 80 hours
– Fast charging: 5 minutes for 5 hours of playback (or 2.4 hours with ANC)
– Codecs: AAC, SBC, LDAC
– Water resistance: IP52 rated for water and dust protection
– Inputs: USB-C and 3.5mm headphone jack
– Microphones: 4

The Nothing Headphone (1) is available now for $299 in white or black from Nothing, Amazon, and other retailers.