This review covers the Nothing Headphone (1), a wireless over-ear model. The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones carry KEF tuning and add hybrid active noise cancellation and adaptive technology that responds to your environment. Features include spatial audio with head tracking and an 80-hour battery life.
We cover how the Nothing Headphone (1) Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones handle setup, design, sound quality, comfort, and connectivity. We look at the personalized ANC, the Hi-Res Wireless audio, LDAC support, and the 40mm dynamic drivers, plus the Nothing X app’s customization and 8-band EQ tools.
The Nothing Headphone (1) combines modern industrial design with serious sound engineering. Bluetooth 5.3, dual-device connection, and ultra-fast charging suit users who switch between work, travel, and entertainment. Nothing also uses memory foam ear cushions, aluminum reinforcement, and oil-resistant materials.
We also compare it to Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and Sennheiser Momentum 4, showing where Nothing leads and where it trails. If you’re looking for the best noise cancelling headphones for travel of 2025, wireless headphones for business, or a design-forward pair with good sound, this review covers the details.
Table of Contents
How easy is the Nothing Headphone (1) to set up and control?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones are quick to set up. Powering on triggers pairing mode, and the Bluetooth 5.3 connection links to phones, tablets, laptops, or other Bluetooth devices. The Nothing X app shows clear prompts, identifies your headset, and syncs your preferences in seconds.
In the Nothing X app, you can adjust everything from adaptive hybrid active noise cancellation to personalized spatial audio. The app walks you through setting ANC to High, Medium, Low, or Adaptive, depending on your surroundings. For open environments or office use, switching to transparency mode keeps you aware of ambient noise without removing the headphones. You can also adjust the 8-band EQ or activate Ultra Bass mode for extra low-end punch.
Instead of touch gestures, Nothing uses physical controls. The roller dial adjusts volume precisely, while a single click pauses or plays music. The paddle tab handles track changes, and you can program the dedicated button control via the app to open Spotify or activate your favorite playlist. Each function is customizable.
Connecting to multiple devices simultaneously works through dual Bluetooth connectivity, useful if you switch between a laptop and smartphone during the day. USB-C audio and a 3.5 mm jack offer wired options for Hi-Res lossless sound. The Nothing Headphone (1) also maintains a consistent low-latency performance of around 120 milliseconds, which keeps gaming and video playback tightly synchronized.
How is the Nothing Headphone (1) designed and built?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones have a transparent design that exposes the components inside. The mix of aluminum and plastic feels durable. At 329 grams, the headphones feel solid yet light enough for daily wear.
The Nothing Headphone (1) features ergonomic earcups with memory foam PU cushions that mold to the shape of your head, creating a snug seal for effective hybrid active noise cancellation. The materials are oil- and makeup-resistant, keeping them fresh even after hours of use. The adjustable headband maintains even pressure without pressure points, which helps for long listening sessions. The over-ear design also adds passive noise isolation to support the adaptive ANC system.
The aluminum core adds durability and prevents flex or squeak during movement. The Nothing Headphone (1) uses reinforced joints for a sturdy folding mechanism, allowing the headset to fit neatly into the included carrying case. That makes it travel-friendly and a solid competitor to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra in build and portability.
The roller dial feels tactile and responsive, giving volume control precision you rarely find in Bluetooth headphones. The paddle tab for skipping tracks and the dedicated programmable button provide easy control without cluttering the surface with unnecessary touch sensors. With the Nothing X app, these controls handle playback and switching between ANC or transparency modes.
The transparent body, strong materials, and ergonomic comfort make it visually distinctive while staying practical for everyday use.
How does the Nothing Headphone (1) sound?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones sound balanced. KEF, a brand with over six decades of audio expertise, tuned them for natural tonality, controlled bass, and crisp detail across frequencies. That works for a live acoustic recording or a bass-heavy electronic mix.
The 40mm dynamic drivers inside the Nothing Headphone (1) produce a full, rounded sound that doesn’t distort at high volumes. The frequency response extends up to 40,000 Hz, giving clear vocals and treble with clean low end. Lossless audio over LDAC and Hi-Res Wireless modes makes the most of the drivers.
Spatial audio with head tracking creates a 3D sound environment that adjusts as you move your head, so the sound seems to come from a fixed point in space. It works for both movies and music. Combined with adaptive bass enhancement, it adds depth.
The Nothing Headphone (1) also has personalized ANC that adjusts to your surroundings. The six-microphone array monitors ambient noise so music stays consistent indoors, outdoors, or in transit. In quiet settings the noise floor stays low. In louder environments, ANC increases without creating pressure on your ears.
What features does the Nothing Headphone (1) have?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones cover music listening, business calls, and travel. The headline feature is the hybrid active noise cancellation system, powered by adaptive microphones. It offers multiple ANC levels, including High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive modes, allowing users to fine-tune noise control based on their surroundings. Transparency mode switches on instantly to bring in external sounds when you need awareness.
Through the Nothing X app, you can create your own audio signature using an 8-band EQ and the Ultra Bass enhancement mode, from flat studio-style sound to deep lows. The app also allows custom button mapping, so the dedicated control button can open Spotify, activate your favorite playlist, or switch between ANC modes.
The Nothing Headphone (1) supports Bluetooth 5.3, with stable, low-latency connections up to 10 meters for streaming, gaming, and calls. Dual-device pairing lets you switch between a smartphone and a laptop without manual reconnection. For wired listening, the USB-C and 3.5 mm jack options support Hi-Res lossless audio.
A six-microphone system with environmental noise reduction supports voice and call performance. Voices stay clear even in noisy environments. The spatial audio with head tracking adds a 3D sound field that adapts to movement, for films, music, or gaming.
For anyone looking for headphones with transparency mode, adaptive ANC, and Hi-Res Wireless audio, the Nothing Headphone (1) is a strong choice.
How long does the Nothing Headphone (1) battery last, and how does it connect?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones carry a rating of 80 hours of battery life on standard mode and up to 35 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. A quick 5-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of playback, which suits travelers, commuters, and professionals.
The Nothing Headphone (1) supports USB-C audio input, allowing users to listen while charging or to experience Hi-Res lossless sound directly through the wired connection. For those who prefer a traditional setup, the included 3.5 mm cable connects easily to any compatible device, for wired listening.
Bluetooth 5.3 brings faster pairing, better signal stability, and improved power efficiency compared to older versions. The range is up to 10 meters. Dual-device pairing lets you switch from streaming on a tablet to answering a phone call.
The Nothing Headphone (1) also has low latency of around 120 milliseconds, which keeps video and gaming in sync. The headphones’ six-microphone array and noise reduction filter out background sounds on calls.
The Nothing X app includes a power-saving feature that turns off the headphones when idle.
How does the Nothing Headphone (1) compare to Sony, Bose and Sennheiser?
This section compares the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones with three other over-ear headphones on specifications, build quality, and technology features.
Nothing Headphone (1) vs Sony WH-1000XM5
The Nothing Headphone (1) and Sony WH-1000XM5 both offer hybrid active noise cancelling, but their approaches differ. Nothing’s KEF-tuned setup emphasizes balanced and natural sound, while Sony prioritizes warmth and bass presence. Nothing’s 80-hour battery life outlasts Sony’s 30-hour average, and its roller-based controls feel more tactile compared to Sony’s touch-sensitive system. Read our in-depth Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones review to learn more about its performance and features. Alternatively, read our in-depth Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones review if you are looking for a pair of premium headphones with stronger performance and sound quality.
| Feature | Nothing Headphone (1) | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid ANC (Adaptive, High, Mid, Low) | Adaptive ANC |
| Battery Life | 80 hours (35 with ANC) | 30 hours |
| Audio Codec | LDAC, Hi-Res Wireless, USB-C Audio | LDAC, AAC |
| Drivers | 40mm Dynamic | 30mm Carbon Fiber |
| App Control | 8-band EQ, Ultra Bass, Custom Controls | EQ, 360 Reality Audio |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Weight | 329g | 250g |
| Charging | 5 min = 5 hrs | 3 min = 3 hrs |
| Price | See Price | See Price |
Nothing Headphone (1) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra
The Nothing Headphone (1) competes with Bose’s comfort and clarity on endurance and tuning. Both models use personalized ANC and transparency modes, but Nothing offers spatial audio with head tracking and Hi-Res lossless playback through USB-C and 3.5 mm input options. Bose remains lighter, yet Nothing’s aluminum-reinforced frame offers greater durability for travel and long-term use. Read our in-depth Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones review to learn more about its specifications and performance. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay within your budget, our Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones review is a popular budget option.
| Feature | Nothing Headphone (1) | Bose QuietComfort Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 80 hrs (35 with ANC) | 24 hrs (18 with ANC) |
| Audio Tuning | KEF Collaboration | Bose Custom EQ |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, Dual Device | Bluetooth 5.3, Dual Device |
| Controls | Roller + Paddle + Button | Touch + Button |
| Audio Input | USB-C + 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| ANC Modes | 4-Level Adaptive | Custom ANC |
| Weight | 329g | 250g |
| Price | See Price | See Price |
Nothing Headphone (1) vs Sennheiser Momentum 4
The Nothing Headphone (1) targets users who value customization and endurance. Both Sennheiser and Nothing deliver Hi-Res Wireless sound, but the Nothing X app provides deeper control with an 8-band EQ and programmable button options. The Nothing Headphone (1) also benefits from adaptive hybrid ANC and 80-hour battery life, giving it a longer runtime compared to most in its category. Read our in-depth Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones review to learn more about it. Likewise, if you want a budget-friendly alternative, read Sennheiser Accentum headphones review to find out if it is a good match for your listening needs.
| Feature | Nothing Headphone (1) | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 80 hrs (35 with ANC) | 60 hrs |
| Audio Codec | LDAC, Hi-Res Wireless | aptX Adaptive |
| ANC | Hybrid Adaptive ANC | Adaptive ANC |
| App Control | 8-band EQ, Custom Mapping | Smart Control App |
| Charging | 5 min = 5 hrs | 5 min = 4 hrs |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + USB-C | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Weight | 329g | 293g |
| Price | See Price | See Price |
Should You Buy the Nothing Headphone (1) Headphones?
If you want wireless over-ear headphones with good sound, strong noise cancellation, and long battery life, the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones are worth a look. With KEF-tuned audio, hybrid active noise cancellation, and Hi-Res Wireless certification, they suit music sessions, long flights, or focused work.
The personalized ANC system adjusts to your surroundings, keeping clarity without overcompressing the sound. Spatial audio and head tracking add a more open, spacious feel. These noise cancelling headphones perform consistently for streaming, editing, or gaming.
The 80-hour runtime with ANC off and 35 hours with ANC on are a big advantage. Even when you forget to charge, a quick 5-minute top-up gives up to five hours of playback. Combined with Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity and dual-device pairing, the Nothing Headphone (1) makes multitasking easy. You can take a call on your phone, then switch to a laptop or tablet instantly.
The Nothing X app’s 8-band EQ, customizable controls, and Ultra Bass mode let you tailor the sound. Add in the USB-C and 3.5 mm audio options for Hi-Res lossless sound, and it suits both casual listeners and audio professionals.
If you value clarity, long battery life, and physical controls, the Nothing Headphone (1) is worth buying, especially for noise cancelling headphones with spatial audio and adaptive ANC. You can buy Nothing Headphone (1) Hybrid ANC headphones here on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are ten common questions about the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones.
Are the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones good for noise cancellation?
The Nothing Headphone (1) delivers hybrid active noise cancellation that adapts to your surroundings. It has four modes (High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive), and the system adjusts based on ambient sound. The ANC stays consistent in a noisy airport or a quiet office. The six microphones detect environmental noise and counter it in real time without creating the pressure sensation found in older ANC designs. Transparency mode allows outside sound in when needed, which helps for commuting or quick conversations without removing the headphones.
How long does the battery last on the Nothing Headphone (1)?
The Nothing Headphone (1) provides up to 80 hours of playback with ANC off and 35 hours with ANC on. Just five minutes of fast charging provides up to five hours of listening, which suits travelers and long workdays. USB-C charging supports simultaneous USB-C audio playback, so you can listen while charging.
Does the Nothing Headphone (1) support Hi-Res audio?
Yes. The Nothing Headphone (1) is Hi-Res Wireless certified for use with compatible sources. It supports LDAC for high-bitrate streaming over Bluetooth, preserving clarity and dynamic range. For those who prefer wired listening, the USB-C and 3.5 mm jack connections offer direct audio with 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. That suits critical listening and music production.
What makes the Nothing Headphone (1) tuning by KEF special?
KEF tuned the headphones for a balanced sound signature with clear highs, natural mids, and controlled bass. Unlike bass-heavy consumer models, the Nothing Headphone (1) aims for neutrality, so instruments and vocals sound realistic. That suits classical, jazz, and acoustic music, and adaptive bass enhancement still gives pop and electronic tracks impact.
How comfortable are the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones for long-term use?
The Nothing Headphone (1) features memory foam PU cushions that contour to the shape of your head, reducing pressure and heat buildup. The lightweight aluminum-reinforced frame provides stability without adding bulk. These materials resist oils and makeup, which suits extended daily wear. The clamping force is secure but relaxed, keeping the headphones in place during movement.
Can the Nothing Headphone (1) connect to multiple devices at once?
Absolutely. The Nothing Headphone (1) supports Bluetooth 5.3 dual-device connectivity, which allows you to maintain two active connections simultaneously. This means you can switch instantly from watching a video on your tablet to answering a call on your phone without manually disconnecting. The Bluetooth 5.3 standard also improves range up to 10 meters and reduces latency to approximately 120 milliseconds, ensuring stable, low-lag performance for streaming and gaming.
What features can be customized in the Nothing X app?
In the Nothing X app, you can fine-tune your audio using an 8-band EQ, activate Ultra Bass mode for deeper low-end presence, or adjust ANC levels. The app also lets you reassign the control button for specific actions like launching Spotify or switching ANC modes. The app handles firmware updates directly.
Does the Nothing Headphone (1) support spatial audio?
Yes. The Nothing Headphone (1) integrates personalized spatial audio with head tracking, creating a 3D listening environment that reacts to your movement. It turns stereo sources into a wider soundscape for movies, games, and concerts, with more depth and positioning.
Is the Nothing Headphone (1) waterproof or sweat resistant?
The headphones are water-resistant, offering protection against light moisture, rain, or sweat. The materials used in construction, particularly the PU ear cushions and aluminum frame, help prevent damage from daily wear. While not designed for heavy workouts or swimming, they perform well under normal usage conditions, including commuting or outdoor activities.
Who should buy the Nothing Headphone (1)?
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones suit users who want noise cancelling headphones with long battery life, adaptive ANC, Hi-Res audio, and personalized control. They fit professionals needing clear calls, travelers wanting long battery life, and music lovers who want detailed, accurate sound.
What do the Nothing Headphone (1) specs mean for daily use?
These figures come from the Nothing Headphone (1) specs. Each one shows what the spec means for daily listening.
- Latency of around 120 milliseconds keeps video and gaming in sync.
- Bluetooth 5.3 holds a connection up to 10 meters for streaming, gaming and calls.
- At 329 grams, the headphones feel solid yet light enough for daily wear.
- Frequency response reaches 40,000 Hz, which gives clear vocals and treble.
- Wired USB-C and 3.5 mm connections offer 24-bit/96 kHz resolution for Hi-Res listening.
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