Choose Nothing Headphone (1) Pro if its claimed comfort changes, added audio features and stronger noise-cancelling proposition are worth paying more for. Choose the original Headphone (1) if you want longer stated battery life or find it at a meaningfully lower price. For current owners, upgrading makes sense mainly if you will use the Pro’s specific improvements; it is not an automatic replacement.
At a glance: which model fits your priorities?
| Your priority | Better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Longer stated battery life | Headphone (1) | Nothing’s lab figures are higher for the original in both AAC and LDAC modes. |
| More comfort-focused design | Headphone (1) Pro | Nothing claims softer cushions and more headband padding; independent fit results for the Pro are not established here. |
| Flat EQ, head-tracked spatial audio, and a three-driver setup | Headphone (1) Pro | These are listed Pro features, though specifications alone do not establish better sound. |
| Lower reported launch price | Headphone (1) | Its reported launch prices were lower in the US, UK, and Australia. These are not current prices. |
| Already own Headphone (1) | Keep it unless the Pro adds something you will use | Creative Bloq’s reviewer considered the original good value and not dated, while seeing an upgrade case for listeners who want the Pro’s sound features. |
What does Headphone (1) Pro add?
Comfort changes
Nothing says the Pro’s dual-layer cushions are 50% softer than the original’s, adapt better to glasses, and pair with a headband that is 10% wider and padding that is 12% thicker. These are manufacturer comparisons, not independent measurements or a guarantee that the Pro will fit every listener better. What Hi-Fi? found the original’s comfort mixed, noting weight distribution and heat concerns during its review.
Audio features and controls
The Pro lists three drivers: a 40 mm bass dynamic driver, a 13 × 8 mm precision dynamic driver, and an xMEMS treble driver. It also lists spatial audio with head tracking, personal sound, Flat EQ, and Nothing X equalization. A physical switch lets you move between Flat EQ and the usual EQ. These additions may appeal if you actively adjust sound or want the specific spatial-audio mode; driver count by itself does not prove superior sound quality. See Nothing’s Headphone (1) Pro specifications.
Noise cancellation and calls
Nothing lists the Pro’s ANC at up to 46 dB. That is a manufacturer rating, not a promise of uniform real-world noise reduction in every setting. Creative Bloq’s reviewer reported hearing an improvement over the original, but that is a subjective review rather than a controlled standardized comparison. For calls, Nothing says the Pro uses environmental noise cancellation and two microphones on each side.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
Wired and wireless connections
Nothing lists Bluetooth 6.1 and dual-device connection for the Pro, alongside USB-C audio and a 3.5 mm input. Its support information specifies USB-C audio up to 24-bit/192 kHz and aux audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz. What Hi-Fi? lists Bluetooth 5.3, AAC/SBC/LDAC, USB-C audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz, and 3.5 mm for the original. The available specifications do not establish a complete official, like-for-like codec comparison, so do not assume the original lacks a feature simply because it is not listed in the Pro comparison.
How do battery life and price compare?
Battery life: the original has the higher stated figures
Nothing’s battery figures are manufacturer lab results at 50% volume with default feature settings. Actual runtime varies with use and conditions. The figures below distinguish codec and ANC mode.
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
| Codec and ANC setting | Headphone (1) | Headphone (1) Pro |
|---|---|---|
| AAC, ANC off | 80 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 68 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| AAC, ANC on | 35 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 30 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| LDAC, ANC off | 54 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 53 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| LDAC, ANC on | 30 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 28 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
Nothing publishes the model-specific figures in its Headphone (1) battery support article and Headphone (1) Pro battery support article.
Price: compare today’s local offers, not launch prices
TechRadar reported launch pricing of $299 / £299 / AU$549 for Headphone (1), compared with $399 / £349 / AU$699 for Headphone (1) Pro. These are reported launch prices, not current listings; availability and prices vary by market and date. Compare the prices where you plan to buy before deciding whether the Pro’s additions justify the premium.
Rank #3
- 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
Should you upgrade from Headphone (1) to Pro?
For an existing owner, treat this as a feature-led upgrade, not a routine refresh. Creative Bloq’s October 2, 2026 review says the original remains good value and does not feel dated, while the reviewer sees a case for the Pro if you will use its sound and Flat EQ features. That is one reviewer’s assessment, not a universal verdict.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Transparent Design: Ear (3a) features Nothing's signature technological codes in vibrant new colours. A wider range of ear tips means the buds sit comfortably in everyone's ears, and a new status bar lets you see everything on the case.
- Hi-Res Audio: Ear (3a) delivers stronger sound with a bigger 12 mm driver. Improved wideband Active Noise Cancellation at up to 45 dB lets you ignore the boring things, and Clear Voice Technology means you sound good on calls. On the Nothing app X, you can boost bass, treble and vocals, or use the advanced 8-band EQ.
- Wideband Active Noise Cancellation: Nothing Ear (3a) delivers up to 45dB of Active Noise Cancellation. These Bluetooth wireless earbuds recalibrate every millisecond to block a wide range of noise (up to 5000Hz) for clear audio. Switch to Transparency Mode to stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds. Low Latency mode ensures lag-free gaming.
- Bluetooth 6.0 & Smart AI Features: With Bluetooth 6.0, Ear (3a) stays connected in more places than before. Easy swapping with dual-device connnections compatible with both iOS and Andoid. And with one-touch AI features like ChatGPT and Essential News, you're always ready to go without touching your phone.
- Audio Snapshot and Call Recording: Audio Snapshot and call recording let you save what you hear directly onto Ear (3a). You can record up to a minute of media or up to two hours of calls and meetings. With the Nothing X app, you can sort and transcribe using AI. With Pro Transcription, you can also identify speakers, get reminders and send quotes to your friends. Note: Call recording is available only in supported countries/regions due to local regulations. For the current list of supported countries/regions, please refer to the Product Description.
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
- Consider the Pro if the original’s fit has been a problem for you, or you specifically want Flat EQ, head-tracked spatial audio, the listed three-driver arrangement, or the reviewer-reported ANC improvement.
- Keep the original if it meets your needs and the Pro’s named additions would not change how you listen. The original also has higher manufacturer-stated battery figures.
- Compare the actual price gap in your market. The launch-price difference is not a reliable substitute for current offers.
How to make the choice
- Start with fit. If your current headphones cause discomfort, the Pro’s cushion and headband claims may make it worth considering, but try it on if possible; the percentages do not guarantee an individual fit.
- Decide whether you will use the new audio features. Flat EQ and head-tracked spatial audio are more persuasive reasons to choose the Pro than its driver count alone.
- Check your listening habits. If longer intervals between charges matter most, compare the appropriate AAC or LDAC row for the ANC mode you normally use.
- Check local pricing and availability. Compare current offers for both models rather than treating historical launch prices as today’s prices.
- If you already own Headphone (1), name the specific problem the Pro solves. If none of its additions addresses a need you have, the available reviewer assessment supports keeping the original rather than upgrading by default.
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.

