a day ago
Nothing Headphone (1) first impressions
Nothing has officially entered the over-ear headphone segment with the launch of the Nothing Headphone (1). Priced at Rs 21,999, these headphones promise high-quality audio, unique tactile controls, and the brand's distinctive design language. Developed in collaboration with audio experts KEF, the Headphone (1) is aimed at users seeking immersive audio in a versatile package. Here's what we found in our initial experience with the headphones.
Design and Comfort
The Headphone (1) stands out with a clean, transparent aesthetic, featuring aluminium, precision CNC components, and PU memory foam cushions that naturally adjust to your head.
The earcups, the company says, are oil-resistant and built for extended use. During our initial testing, we found the device to offer a snug fit without feeling heavy.
Available in black and white, the headphones look sleek and feel premium in hand. Despite the metal components in the design, they remain comfortable over long listening sessions.
One of the standout features here is the intuitive three-part tactile control system—a Roller for volume, a Paddle for media control, and a Button to toggle ANC or access custom features. The controls are responsive and easy to navigate, even while on the move. Buttons respond to commands instantly and work without any major hiccups.
Audio Performance
Nothing has partnered with KEF to ensure that Headphone (1) delivers a refined listening experience. The headphones feature custom-built 40mm dynamic drivers that, Nothing claims, produce balanced sound. In our early usage, the audio felt full and immersive, whether streaming music or watching videos.
The device supports Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, USB-C lossless playback, and even includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, making it accessible across various devices and setups. With features like on-device spatialisation and head-tracking, it provides a surround sound-like experience that's responsive to movement, especially noticeable when using the Spatial Audio mode. Overall, the headphones offer a decent audio experience.
Active Noise Cancellation and Battery Life
The Headphone (1) uses a dual-microphone ANC system with beamforming and feedback mics for real-time AI-based adaptive noise cancellation. During our testing, the headphones effectively reduced background noise in a busy workspace. Transparency Mode was equally handy for staying aware of the surroundings.
It is claimed to deliver up to 35 hours of listening time with ANC on. There is also a quick 5-minute top-up that is said to give around 2.4 hours of playback. More about battery life in our detailed review.
With the Nothing X app, the button control on the headphone can be tailored for quick app-switching using Channel Hop, launching voice assistants, or activating Nothing's Essential Space for recording quick notes. There is also an 8-band Advanced EQ to fine-tune sound beyond the basic presets.
What We Think
At Rs 21,999, Nothing Headphone (1) comes with a host of features packed in a unique design. It seems ideal for everyday use—be it work, travel, or casual listening. With smart controls, solid audio tuning, and versatile connectivity options, Nothing's first over-ear headphones are off to a promising start. We'll be diving deeper into long-term comfort, sound tuning, and ANC performance in our full review. Stay tuned.
Nothing Headphone (1) Unboxing and First Look
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