Nothing Headphone 1 Review: A Worthwhile Investment

The Nothing Headphone 1 is a design-focused, over-the-ear headphone with a transparent casing, sculpted aluminium framing, and a comfortable fit. Weighing 329g, it feels substantial without being heavy. The headphone has passed over 50 reliability tests and has an IP52 rating for dust and water resistance. It features tactile controls, including a volume roller, track skip/scrub paddle, and customizable button for ANC modes or voice assistant activation. The headphone is priced at ₹21,999.

The Nothing Headphone 1, launched alongside the Nothing Phone 3 on July 1, is making waves in the premium audio market with its unique design and robust features. The headphones, priced at ₹21,999, are positioned to compete with established brands such as Sony, Bose, and Apple.

Design and Build Quality
The Nothing Headphone 1 boasts a retro design with a transparent casing that showcases internal components inspired by vintage cassette tapes. The headband features a comfortable cushion and is made of aluminium, lending the headphones a premium feel. The headphones weigh 329 grams, which is slightly heavier than competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM6 (254 grams) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra (254 grams), but this weight does not significantly impact comfort [1].

Sound Quality and Features
The headphones are equipped with 40mm drivers with a nickel-plated diaphragm, designed to enhance clarity in the highs and power in the bass. They offer a balanced sound signature, with well-defined low frequencies and clear highs. The Nothing Headphone 1 also features active noise cancellation (ANC) with six microphones, supporting low, medium, high, and adaptive modes. This ANC is effective in suppressing ambient noise, though it may not match the depth and richness of more premium headphones [2].

Controls and Connectivity
The Nothing Headphone 1 eschews touch controls in favor of tactile buttons. The right earcup features a volume roller, a track skip/scrub paddle, and a customizable button for ANC modes or voice assistant activation. Additionally, there is a Bluetooth pairing button on the bottom-right corner of the right earcup’s cushion. For wired playback, the headphones support both USB-C and the 3.5mm audio jack, making them versatile for various devices [2].

Reliability and Durability
The Nothing Headphone 1 has undergone over 50 reliability tests and has an IP52 rating, making it resistant to dust, sweat, and light rain. The headphones are designed to be durable, with aluminium reinforcements in the headband for added strength [1].

Price and Availability
The Nothing Headphone 1 is available for purchase in the U.K., U.S.A., and India at ₹21,999, ₹299, and $299, respectively. They are available through Amazon and the company’s website in the U.S.A., and through Flipkart, Myntra, Vijay Sales, Croma, and all leading retail stores in India [1].

Conclusion
The Nothing Headphone 1 offers a compelling blend of design, sound quality, and features at a competitive price point. While it may not match the depth and richness of more premium headphones, it provides a well-rounded listening experience with a unique aesthetic. For those seeking a stylish and functional pair of over-the-ear headphones, the Nothing Headphone 1 is a strong contender.

References
[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/prakharkhanna/2025/07/15/nothing-headphone-1-now-shipping-with-retro-design-and-kef-tuned-sound/
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-reviews/nothing-headphone-1-review-audiophile-sound-meets-bold-polarising-design-125070800529_1.html