Nothing Headphone (1) Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Black

These wireless headphones pair KEF-tuned 40 mm dynamic drivers with a 1 040 mAh battery offering up to 80 hours of use and 42 dB adaptive noise cancellation, blending audiophile-grade fidelity with outstanding stamina. A physical control system - roller, toggle and button - accompanies the recognisable transparent design, making music and call handling more straightforward.

High-fidelity KEF sound

Nickel-coated 40 mm drivers reproduce a 20 Hz-40 kHz response with LDAC, AAC and SBC. KEF's characteristic tuning favours a broad soundstage and restrained bass, exceeding the definition offered by models in its range such as the Sony WH-1000XM5.

Adaptive Noise Cancellation

The ANC system varies attenuation dynamically up to 42 dB, and is joined by transparency mode and head-tracked spatial audio, catering for both immersion and awareness of surroundings whenever needed.

Autonomy and express charging

• 80 h of playback (ANC off, AAC).
• 35 h with ANC on.
• Full charge in ≈2 h via USB-C; 5 min provide an extra 5 h.

Connectivity and versatility

Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint, Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair simplify pairing. Comes with 3.5mm jack and USB-C audio for passive use, alongside reduced latency for gaming and microphones featuring a noise-cancelling algorithm.

Transparent design and physical controls

The square polycarbonate frame exposes the internal engineering and weighs 329g; though heavier than the Bose QC Ultra, the viscoelastic cushioning eases pressure. Volume and modes are handled by the roller, tracks are navigated with the toggle, and the customisable button integrates wizards or "Channel Hop" on Nothing mobiles.

Our expert's opinion

The Nothing Headphone (1) stands as a direct rival to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QC Ultra. It beats both on raw battery life (80 h vs. 40 h and 30 h, respectively) and provides more intuitive physical control; nevertheless, its greater weight and discreet voice pick-up work against it on lengthy calls. Against the AirPods Max, it prevails on compatibility and battery life, yet falls short on iOS integration and fine ANC quality. Compared with the Ear (2) itself, this over-ear delivers a notable step up in soundstage and comfort across long sessions. On balance, Nothing Headphone (1) shines in its performance-to-power ratio and distinctive aesthetics, suited to users who value extended wireless listening without giving up balanced sound and precise physical controls.

Technical Specifications Nothing Headphone (1) Black:

• Brand: Nothing
• Model: Headphone (1)
• Sound:
  • 40 mm dynamic driver
  • High-Resolution Audio Certified
  • AAC and SBC compatible
  • LDAC compatible
• Noise cancellation
  • 6 microphones (3 per side)
  • ANC: Up to 42 dB
  • Frequency range: 2000 Hz