The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is a capable premium wireless headphone, but its $399 / £349 / AU$699 launch price makes it a selective upgrade rather than an automatic recommendation. Its three-driver design, Flat EQ mode, wired listening options and extensive feature set will appeal most to critical listeners and creators. If you want a more energetic sound or better value, compare it with the much cheaper Headphone (a) before buying.
What is Nothing Headphone (1) Pro?
Released on September 28, 2026, the Headphone (1) Pro is a 327 g wireless over-ear headphone with adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, spatial audio, multipoint Bluetooth and tactile physical controls. Nothing’s UK product page lists three drivers in each ear cup: a 40 mm bass dynamic driver, a 13 × 8 mm precision dynamic driver and a 3.2 × 6.0 × 1.15 mm solid-state xMEMS treble driver. The listed frequency range is 20 Hz–40 kHz.
Wireless music playback supports AAC, SBC and LDAC over Bluetooth 6.1; LC3 is listed for broadcast audio. The headphones also support USB-C and 3.5 mm wired listening. Nothing advertises ten microphones, dual connection and Auracast. Auracast reception depends on an Auracast-compatible receiving device; when the headphones transmit, the connected phone does not itself need to support Auracast broadcasting, according to Nothing Support.
How does it sound?
There is no single reviewer consensus that the Pro is a clear sonic upgrade for everyone. TechRadar describes its default tuning as neutral and integrated, and characterizes its spatial audio profiles as subtle. Its reviewer notes that the less expensive Headphone (a) may sound more fun, depending on listener preference. Creative Bloq’s reviewer, by contrast, reports stronger bass authority, textured vocals and spacious treble from the Pro. Those are individual listening impressions, not measured or universal findings.
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- Triple Driver Architecture: Experience balanced, detailed audio with Nothing Headphone (1) Pro wireless headphones, built around a dedicated three-driver system featuring a 40 mm bass driver, precision driver, and treble XMEMS driver. Each driver is engineered to handle part of the frequency range, working together to unlock deeper bass, sharper vocals and richer textures across music, gaming, and more.
- Certified Hi-Res Audio for wireless and wired listening: Enjoy high-quality wireless audio with LDAC, or connect via USB-C for lossless, high-fidelity playback at up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
- 10-Mic Real-time Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation: Nothing Headphone (1) Pro delivers up to 46 dB of Active Noise Cancellation with 10 microphones and a new silicone sound seal. Ten microphones monitor your surroundings and automatically adjust noise cancellation in real time to reduce unwanted background noise. A new 8 mm silicone wall baffle wall inside the ear cushion provides passive isolation, while Transparency Mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed.
- Studio-Level Tuning with Metropolis Studios: Nothing partnered with Metropolis Studios, home to some of the world’s most influential audio engineers, to bring studio-level tools to Nothing Headphone (1) Pro noise cancelling headphone. Listen to the raw track with Flat EQ for reviewing music, producing or mixing, discover new EQ Profiles and feel what it's like to listen in a recording studio through a unique Dynamic Spatial Audio mode.
- Spatial Audio & Advanced EQ: Dynamic Spatial Audio has five modes: Standard, Studio B, Live House, Club and Concert Hall. Advanced EQ gives you precise control over your sound, letting you drag tuning points across multiple drivers.
Flat EQ is the distinctive listening mode
Flat EQ is designed for neutral listening without the added processing of other EQ settings. Creative Bloq identifies it as the clearest pro-audio reason to choose the Pro. There is an important trade-off: Nothing Support says Flat EQ disables transparency, spatial audio and all EQ settings. If you want to use those features, you must leave Flat EQ.
Wired playback and spatial audio
The Pro offers both USB-C and 3.5 mm audio connections. TechRadar notes that USB-C wired playback supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz, compared with the Headphone (a)’s stated 24-bit/96 kHz ceiling. These are reported format ceilings, not a guarantee that every source will sound better. Spatial audio is also available, though TechRadar describes its profiles as light-touch rather than dramatic.
Rank #2
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation Adapts with You: Our Nothing headphone 1 feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, powered by next-gen processors and adaptive mics, to block out distractions. Smart Adaptive Mode automatically adjusts to your environment, while Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound when you need awareness. Personalize your experience with four ANC settings (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for truly focused, crystal-clear listening
- Nothing x KEF Headphone (1) : Nothing Headphone (1) experience audio perfected through a unique partnership with British audio legend KEF. Leveraging over 60 years of acoustic expertise, Nothing Noise Cancelling Headphone delivers a naturally balanced sound stage where every note shines as artists intended. Enjoy unparalleled flexibility with Hi-Res Audio support including LDAC technology, USB-C audio, and a 3.5mm jack. Dual Connection capability lets you seamlessly switch between two devices
- Uninterrupted Audio with Immersive Sound: Engineered for all-day use, Nothing Headphones 1 deliver up to 80 hours of playtime (35 hours with ANC on). A quick 5-minute charge provides 5 hours of power. Coupled with this endurance is a lossless audio experience, Nothing Wireless Headphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking and Hi-Res Wireless certification for exceptional clarity and a deeply immersive sound stage
- Sink In, Take Control: Designed for all-day wear, Nothing Bluetooth Wireless Headphone ergonomic frame and memory foam cushions provide a comfortable, secure fit. The Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone features intuitive roller and paddle interface puts volume adjustment, playback, and noise mode switching at your fingertips, with full customization available in the Nothing X app. This thoughtful integration of form and function ensures a continuously surround sound Journey
- Explore the Nothing X app: Craft your unique audio profile with the Nothing X app's advanced 8-band equalizer.Tailor your Nothing Headphone 1 with Adaptive ANC settings and enhance depth with the Ultra Bass mode. Customize your Bluetooth active noise canceling headphones' touch buttons to execute your most-used commands instantly
How good are the ANC, battery and everyday features?
Nothing advertises ANC of up to 46 dB, but this is a theoretical laboratory maximum, not a field guarantee. Adaptive ANC adjusts noise cancellation, and transparency mode lets outside sound through. The product also supports multipoint connection, so it can connect to two devices, and Auracast broadcast features.
Nothing’s battery figures vary by codec and ANC setting. Its battery-life support article reports the following manufacturer test results at 25°C, 50% volume and default settings for other features. Nothing warns that actual playback time varies with use.
Rank #3
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation Adapts with You: Our Nothing headphone 1 feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, powered by next-gen processors and adaptive mics, to block out distractions. Smart Adaptive Mode automatically adjusts to your environment, while Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound when you need awareness. Personalize your experience with four ANC settings (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for truly focused, crystal-clear listening
- Nothing x KEF Headphone (1) : Nothing Headphone (1) experience audio perfected through a unique partnership with British audio legend KEF. Leveraging over 60 years of acoustic expertise, Nothing Noise Cancelling Headphone delivers a naturally balanced sound stage where every note shines as artists intended. Enjoy unparalleled flexibility with Hi-Res Audio support including LDAC technology, USB-C audio, and a 3.5mm jack. Dual Connection capability lets you seamlessly switch between two devices
- Uninterrupted Audio with Immersive Sound: Engineered for all-day use, Nothing Headphones 1 deliver up to 80 hours of playtime (35 hours with ANC on). A quick 5-minute charge provides 5 hours of power. Coupled with this endurance is a lossless audio experience, Nothing Wireless Headphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking and Hi-Res Wireless certification for exceptional clarity and a deeply immersive sound stage
- Sink In, Take Control: Designed for all-day wear, Nothing Bluetooth Wireless Headphone ergonomic frame and memory foam cushions provide a comfortable, secure fit. The Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone features intuitive roller and paddle interface puts volume adjustment, playback, and noise mode switching at your fingertips, with full customization available in the Nothing X app. This thoughtful integration of form and function ensures a continuously surround sound Journey
- Explore the Nothing X app: Craft your unique audio profile with the Nothing X app's advanced 8-band equalizer.Tailor your Nothing Headphone 1 with Adaptive ANC settings and enhance depth with the Ultra Bass mode. Customize your Bluetooth active noise canceling headphones' touch buttons to execute your most-used commands instantly
| Playback mode | ANC off | ANC on |
|---|---|---|
| AAC music | Up to 68 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| LDAC music | Up to 53 hours | Up to 28 hours |
| Talk time | Up to 40 hours | Up to 33 hours |
Nothing says five minutes of charging can provide up to four hours of playback with ANC off under its stated defaults. Treat that as a manufacturer claim under specified conditions, not a guaranteed result for every listening setup.
Are they comfortable and durable?
The Pro weighs 327 g, so it is not especially light on paper. Creative Bloq’s reviewer found the new cushions and wider, padded headband comfortable, including when wearing glasses. That comfort impression is subjective and may not predict fit for every head shape. The reviewer also notes that the control paddle could snag when leaning back.
Rank #4
- Dynamic Noise Cancellation Tailored for You: Experience the Nothing Headphone (a) with cutting-edge Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, utilizing state-of-the-art processors and adaptive microphones to eliminate distractions. The innovative Smart Adaptive Mode adjusts seamlessly to your surroundings, while the Transparency Mode allows ambient sounds for situational awareness. Select from four customizable ANC levels (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for a personalized listening journey
- Endless Listening with Rich Sound Quality: Crafted for 5 HD Mics, our Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth Headphones Over the Ear boasts a Spatial Audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification for remarkable clarity and an immersive auditory experience, Noise Cancelling Headphone with impressive battery life of up to 135 hours (75 hours with ANC on). A rapid 5-minute charge delivers 8 hours of playback time (ANC off)
- Remote Camera Shutter: Control your camera with a simple press of your Wireless Over-Ear headphones. No more running back and forth—just smooth, uninterrupted content creation. Perfect for vlogs, outfit checks, selfies, or group shots. Frame, get into position, and capture instantly.(On Nothing OS: Directly activates the camera; one press to record. On iOS & Android: Quickly capture or control recording if the camera function is already open)
- Comfort Meets Control: Designed for all-day comfort, the Nothing Headphones Wireless Over Ear features an ergonomic design with memory foam cushions for a secure fit. The Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones design includes an intuitive roller and paddle interface, providing easy access to volume controls, playback, and noise mode switching. The Nothing X app allows for extensive customization, ensuring a continuous, immersive sound experience
- Built For Your Unique Style: Start with your Personal Sound Profile and immerse yourself in Nothing X APP (with Ultra Bass included). Nothing Active Noise Canceling Headphones with Spatial Audio for concert or cinema-level listening for quick access to your most-used commands
Nothing rates the headphones IP52 but explicitly says they are not waterproof. The rating is not intended to cover rain, splashes, immersion or excessive sweat, so these are not headphones to rely on for wet-weather use or strenuous workouts. Nothing also notes that materials include nickel, acrylates and cyclosiloxanes; check the product information if you have relevant sensitivities. Specifications and feature availability can vary by region or production changes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What comes in the box?
The package includes the headphones, a hard-shell case with strap loops, a 3.5 mm audio cable, a USB-C cable and a quick start guide. Because both types of cable are included, you do not need to buy them separately for ordinary wired listening. Nothing Support says replacement ear cushions can be purchased through its support channel.
Recommended Free Tools
Best Value
- The Groundbreaking New Sound - Latest wireless over ear Bluetooth headphones from CMF by Nothing, Headphone Pro, Features LDAC and Dual Hi-Res Certification. with customized 40mm dynamic drivers to deliver a more remarkable listening experience than ever before
- Broad Compatibility, Simple to Use - An ideal headphone choice for iOS and Android, it supports various streaming devices via Bluetooth pairing or AUX and is also compatible with macOS & Windows. With built-in Google Fast Pair & Microsoft Swift Pair, it is ready to use right out of the box for most
- Less Noise, Purer Sound - Experience up to 40 dB of Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation that elevates your listening experience and immerses you more fully in the music. Need to hear ambient sound? Just press the ANC button to toggle Transparency Mode instantly
- All-Day Endurance and Comfort - Enjoy up to 50 hours of non-stop ANC-on wireless playtime, Our over-ear headphones featuring memory foam earpads and a cap-friendly headband that offer all-day comfort and stylish portability, from a quick podcast to hours of deep focus...
- Built For Your Unique Style - Featuring Personal Sound Profile & CMF Spatial Audio. Why settle for standard sound? Explore your own concert/cinema-level experience for each listening session. Customizable via the Nothing X app
Nothing Headphone (1) Pro vs. Headphone (a) and other alternatives
The following are launch or review prices reported by TechRadar on September 29, 2026, not verified current offers. Check local pricing and availability before buying.
| Model | US | UK | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nothing Headphone (1) Pro | $399 | £349 | AU$699 |
| Nothing Headphone (1) | $299 | £299 | AU$549 |
| Nothing Headphone (a) | $199 | £149 | AU$329 |
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | $449 | £399 | AU$699 |
The Pro costs substantially more than the Headphone (a) at those reported prices. Its case, three-driver arrangement, Flat EQ and higher stated USB-C audio ceiling may matter if you need them; they do not establish that every listener will prefer its sound. The Sony is another premium-priced alternative in the same reported Australian price bracket, but the available comparison here does not establish which headphone has better ANC or sound.
Should you buy Nothing Headphone (1) Pro?
Buy it if
- You specifically want Flat EQ for neutral or critical listening and accept that it turns off transparency, spatial audio and EQ.
- You value USB-C and 3.5 mm wired listening alongside ANC, multipoint and spatial audio.
- You prefer the neutral presentation described by TechRadar or the bass, vocal and treble qualities reported by Creative Bloq’s reviewer.
Compare alternatives first if
- You are choosing mainly on value: the Headphone (a) was reported at a much lower launch price.
- You want a more energetic or playful presentation; TechRadar’s reviewer says the Headphone (a) may be more fun, depending on taste.
- You need especially lightweight headphones, or need a product suitable for rain, heavy sweat or immersion.
Overall, the Pro is a feature-rich headphone with a stronger case for audio creators and listeners who want Flat EQ and wired playback than for buyers seeking an uncomplicated upgrade. The differing reviewer impressions make auditioning or checking the return policy sensible if sound preference is your deciding factor.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
