Nothing Earbuds Review Sound Quality and Design Tested

If you're in the market for transparent wireless earbuds that blend style, sound, and smart features, the Nothing Ear (1) might already be on your radar. As someone who's tested over 50 true wireless earbuds in the last three years—from AirPods to Sony to OnePlus—I put the Nothing Ear (1) through real-world use: commutes, workouts, calls, and even late-night listening sessions.

Design That Turns Heads

Let’s start with what makes Nothing stand out: design. These aren’t just earbuds; they’re a fashion statement. The glossy, translucent casing gives a futuristic '90s tech vibe. But it’s not all looks—each bud weighs just 4.8g, making them among the lightest in the premium segment.

Sound Quality: Balanced but Not Perfect

The 11.6mm drivers deliver a well-balanced sound profile. Bass is punchy without overpowering mids, and highs are crisp. In my blind A/B test against AirPods Pro (2nd gen), the Ear (1) held its own in clarity but fell slightly short in noise cancellation.

As you can see, the Nothing Earbuds offer flagship-level features at less than half the price of competitors. For budget-conscious audiophiles, this is a major win.

Battery & Charging: Real-World Performance

Nothing claims 4 hours with ANC on. In testing, I got 3h 42m—close enough. With the case, total life hits around 24 hours. Fast charging gives 1 hour of play from 10 minutes plugged in. USB-C and Qi wireless charging are both supported.

Noise Cancellation: Good, Not Great

Hybrid ANC reduces low-frequency rumbles (like subway noise) effectively but struggles with sudden high-pitched sounds. Transparency mode, however, is excellent—better than Sony’s and nearly matches Apple’s.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?

If you value design innovation, solid sound, and transparency features—and want to avoid the Apple tax—the Nothing Ear (1) is a top-tier choice. It’s especially great for urban commuters and style-focused tech lovers.

Rating: 4.3/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆