What we liked
- The dynamic sound and powerful bass
- The exemplary frequency separation
- The bold transparent design
- The comprehensive Nothing X app
- The effective ANC
We would have liked
- For them to have been lighter
- Better control ergonomics
- Support for the aptX codec
Our expert’s opinion
With its Headphone model (1), Nothing has produced a perfectly accomplished pair of headphones. In addition to the futuristic design, which I find very appealing, the British brand has endeavored to develop a truly hi-fi wireless solution. The collaboration with KEF also enables the Nothing Headphone (1) to offer a clear, perfectly balanced sound, where each frequency is fully expressed, without overlap. These Bluetooth headphones also feature the latest technologies, such as highly effective active noise cancelling and head tracking. I'm also particularly impressed by the Nothing X app, which pushes personalization to the extreme with a very useful 8-band equalizer.
Following on from the success of its Nothing Ear wireless earbuds, the young London-based brand has developed its first Bluetooth headphones, the Nothing Headphone (1). This transparent over-ear model is the fruit of a 100% British collaboration, as KEF was responsible for the acoustic design. Noise cancelling, a Transparency mode, a 35-hour battery life and an app for personalized sound are just some of the tempting promises made by the Headphone (1). Priced at €299, is this first attempt another success?
Presentation
Included accessories
The Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones come with a hard carrying case. Also included is a USB-C cable for charging and listening via USB DAC, plus a 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable.
KEF heritage
One of the unique aspects of the Headphone (1) is the fact that Nothing collaborated with KEF on its design. The young London-based brand called on the acoustic expertise of its compatriot, as KEF has already developed several hi-fi headphones and earbuds: the M500 in 2013, the Space One, and more recently the Mu7 (2022). The brand has also become a global benchmark for connected stereo speakers with its LS50 and LSX best-sellers, not to mention over 60 years in hi-fi speaker design.
KEF was responsible for creating the 40mm transducers used in the Nothing Headphone (1)’s earpieces. For its part, the London-based company came up with the design, internal architecture and integration of modern technologies such as ANC, a transparency mode and head tracking.
Nothing has called on KEF’s expertise to design the dynamic transducers for its first audio headphones. This prestigious partnership guarantees an accomplished audio design based on over 60 years of know-how. 
Nothing has called on KEF’s expertise to design the dynamic transducers for its first audio headphones. This prestigious partnership guarantees an accomplished audio design based on over 60 years of know-how.
Retro-futuristic design
Following in the footsteps of the Nothing Ear and Nothing Ear (Open) wireless earbuds, the London-based manufacturer has opted for a retro-futuristic design. The transparent ear cups reveal their internal architecture, including the microphones and the back of the dynamic transducers.
The Nothing Headphone (1)’s design combines plastic on the headband and aluminum on the ear cups. Although very elegant, this material makes the Headphone (1) a little heavy, weighing in at 329 grams – 30% more than the lightest models in its category, such as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (250g). At times transparent, at others white and silver, these headphones sport minimalist hues that highlight their contemporary design.
For the comfort of music lovers, the manufacturer has given the headphones a headband that is partially padded with memory foam. This is the same foam used for the ear pads. Both elements are covered with a leatherette finish.
The Headphone (1)’s earcups swivel outwards to around 100°. This is the position that allows the headphones to be placed into their hard carrying case. It’s a pity that they can’t be folded up completely, like the Marshall Monitor III ANC for example, for even more practical everyday transport.
Connectors and controls
The connectors and controls are all located on the right earpiece. They include the USB-C port (for recharging and the USB DAC mode) and the 3.5mm mini-jack input for wired listening.
As for the controls, a button for activating the voice assistant is installed on the front of the ear cup. Proof of the headphones’ modern approach, this control also enables ChatGPT to be activated with compatible Nothing smartphones.
On the side of the ear cup, towards the top, a roller lets you adjust the volume. A quick press plays/pauses the music, while a longer press activates the noise cancelling or transparency mode. Although practical, I found this roller to be poorly placed, making it difficult to use on a daily basis, and taking some getting used to. Below it, a paddle button is used to skip tracks, or to fast-forward/rewind whatever is playing by holding it down.
Battery life
The Nothing Headphone (1) headphones have a generous battery life of up to 80 hours of playback, with the noise cancelling deactivated and using the Bluetooth AAC codec, and up to 30 hours with ANC and the high-resolution LDAC codec. It takes around 2 hours for the headphones to fully charge using the USB-C cable. The fast recharge feature offers 5 hours of autonomy after just 5 minutes.
LDAC Bluetooth and wired use
The Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones can be used in both wired and wireless modes. Compatible with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard, they provide a stable connection, supporting the traditional SBC and AAC codecs, as well as LDAC. The latter enables you to enjoy high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz sound at a bit rate of 990 kbps. What’s more, the Nothing Headphone (1) is Hi-Res Audio certified, guaranteeing rich, detailed sound with support for high-definition audio files. It’s a pity, however, that the headphones don’t support the aptX codec, which is now widely used.
The Multipoint connection feature also proves highly effective, with sound switching seamlessly from one source to another when receiving a phone call, for example. For those who prefer a wired connection, these headphones also come with a 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable. Note that they need to be switched on even when connected to an audio source.
📝 Expert advice
The source and receiver must share the same codec. Therefore, to get the most out of the Nothing Headphone (1) headphones, be sure to use an audio source with a Bluetooth transmitter that supports the LDAC codec. This is the case for many digital audio players, but also for the latest generation of smartphones from major brands such as Sony, Samsung, Nothing, Huawei, Xiaomi... If your source is not LDAC-compatible, wired listening via USB DAC allows you to enjoy 24-bit/96kHz Hi-Res Audio quality.
Active noise cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode
The Nothing Headphone (1) offers an immersive listening experience, enhanced by powerful active noise cancelling. This system analyzes ambient noise in real time to reduce it, and is particularly effective at cancelling out low frequencies, such as construction noise or air-conditioning. Although this technology doesn’t quite rival that of market benchmarks such as Bose, it proves extremely impressive in many everyday situations, such as public transport or open plan offices. White noise disappears completely, while voices are greatly reduced.
The transparency mode is a valuable asset for those who wish to remain attentive to their surroundings without removing the headphones. This mode allows outside sounds to be heard, while you continue listening to your music. It’s ideal, for example, if you want to hear an announcement at the station or respond briefly to a conversation in the office. A head-tracking function is also included. It enhances immersion thanks to its high tracking accuracy, proving practical for audiobook fans or music lovers who like to relive concerts on video.
Key specifications
- Type: Bluetooth wireless, closed-back, over-ear
- Active noise cancelling and Transparency mode
- 40mm dynamic transducers
- Frequency response: 20Hz – 40kHz
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Bluetooth 5.3: SBC, AAC, LDAC
- Battery life: up to 80 hours (ANC off), up to 35 hours (ANC on)
- Weight: 329g
My impressions
The Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones offered a balanced sound reproduction. Bass was present, with good impact and excellent dynamics without overpowering other frequency ranges. The midrange was expressed with detail, and vocals unfolded with ease on tracks such as Gaël Faye’s “Lundi Méchant” or “Boomer”, for example.
The high frequencies reproduced by the Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones are somewhat subdued. This allowed our listening sessions to remain comfortable over time. The sound was soft, without harshness or sibilance. The sound signature is reminiscent of the brand’s earbuds. It favors roundness and softness, while retaining good dynamics. This profile will suit listeners who are sensitive to overly bright sounds.
However, it is possible to want a little more clarity and openness in this register, in particular to reveal the texture of cymbals, subtle reverberations or certain ambient details in rich recordings more precisely. That said, this approach is measured and does not detract from the overall balance of the sound. What’s more, the Nothing X app and its 8-band equalizer make it possible to fine-tune each frequency range. On acoustic or orchestral tracks, a hint of extra brightness adds a certain airiness and definition.
Comparison: Nothing Headphone (1) vs Marshall Monitor III ANC
The Nothing model adopts an ultra-modern design that’s the opposite of Marshall’s vintage identity, but their differences are also technical. While the Monitor III ANC comes out on top regarding battery life (up to 100h without ANC), the Headphone (1) provides more efficient noise cancelling. What’s more, the Nothing features larger transducers (40mm vs. 32mm), offering a rounder sound thanks to deeper bass, and supports the high-resolution LDAC codec.
Who are these headphones designed for?
The Nothing Headphone (1) wireless headphones are aimed at music lovers who appreciate unique, contemporary designs. Although not designed for sports users (IPX2 certified), they are perfectly suited to use on public transport or in the office, thanks to their high-performance noise reduction. As for audio, their balanced sound signature will appeal to a wide audience, with a coherent reproduction across the entire spectrum. And for those who wish to personalize their listening experience even further, the dedicated app offers an effective 8-band equalizer, enabling the sound to be adjusted according to personal preferences or musical styles.
Nothing Headphone (1) review – FAQ
What is the battery life of the Nothing Headphone (1)?
The battery life of the headphones varies according to the features used (codec, ANC). Here are the details:
Up to 80h of Bluetooth playback (AAC codec) without ANC.
Up to 35h of Bluetooth playback (AAC codec) with ANC.
Up to 54h of Bluetooth playback (LDAC codec) without ANC.
Up to 30h of Bluetooth playback (LDAC codec) with ANC.
How long does it take to recharge the Nothing Headphone (1)?
It takes 2 hours (120 min) to fully recharge the headphones via USB-C. They also have a 5-minute fast charge feature that provides 5 hours of playback without ANC or 2h30 with ANC.
Can I use Bluetooth headphones with a Playstation console?
No, you need to choose headphones that are certified PS5 in order to connect them wirelessly to the console. However, you can also connect the Nothing Headphone (1) to the console via a 3.5mm mini-jack cable, as they also work in wired mode.
How do you clean and look after Bluetooth headphones without damaging them?
Use a microfiber cloth to clean the earcups and headband on a weekly basis. Ideally, store the headphones in their case to protect them from dust. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat, sunlight or humidity. To clean the ear pads, use slightly damp cotton buds once or twice a month.
Are the Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones water and perspiration resistant?
An IPX2 certification protects the Nothing Headphone (1) from water drops when tilted up to 15 degrees vertically.
Do Bluetooth headphones have a noticeable delay between the sound and picture (latency)?
The Nothing Headphone (1) features a low-latency mode available in the Nothing X app for an optimal experience.
Does the Nothing Headphone (1) support Bluetooth Multipoint ?
Yes, the Nothing Headphone (1) supports Bluetooth Multipoint. It can be paired with two sources at the same time.
