What we liked
- The tight bass
- The distinctive design
- The comfort
- The case with integrated microphones
- The comprehensive, intuitive app
We would have liked
- Support for the aptX codec
- More intuitive touch-sensitive controls
Our expert’s opinion
The quality of the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds is consistent with that of the previous generation and the Headphone (1). They offer a clever combination of technology, futuristic design, and audio performance. I appreciated the impeccable finish and the rather effective noise reduction, but what stood out most to me was the efficiency of the app. A true extension of the earbuds, it allows you to precisely adjust the sound quality. The microphones built into the case are also a practical, but occasional, solution for making clear calls in all circumstances.
One year after its entry into the Bluetooth earbuds sector, Nothing continues to expand its catalog. The young London-based brand is providing a higher-end model with the Nothing Ear (3) wireless earbuds, featuring new dynamic transducers and an innovative charging case with integrated microphones. Buoyed by the success of its Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones released this summer, Nothing is now widely recognized. So what should we expect from this pair of True Wireless earbuds available for less than €180, which frankly treads on the toes of the Airpods Pro 3?
Presentation
Included accessories
The Nothing Ear (3) Bluetooth earbuds come with four pairs of silicone eartips (XS, S, M and L) to provide a perfect fit for as many music lovers as possible. By default, the size M eartips are pre-installed. A USB-C to USB-C cable is included for charging the case. A mains adapter or a computer with a powered USB-C port is therefore required for charging.
A bold design
Few manufacturers are able to offer audio equipment that is instantly recognizable by its design. Despite being relatively young (the company was founded in 2020), Nothing is part of this exclusive club, alongside Marshall, for example. In just a few years, the brand has carved out a place for itself in this highly competitive sector, not only through its aesthetic appeal but also through the audio quality and ergonomics of its equipment, as demonstrated by the success of the Nothing Headphone (1) Bluetooth headphones.
The Nothing Ear (3) earbuds feature a mostly transparent design with a stem format. This design, unique to the British brand, makes it possible to see the various electronic components inside the earbuds. The part that houses the transducer is opaque and molded to fit the auricle. There’s nothing revolutionary here, as the structure of the earbuds is the same as in previous models. This tried-and-tested design is extremely comfortable. The silicone tip fits snugly in the ear, without being too intrusive.
The charging case chassis features a translucent plastic lid with a magnetic closing system, revealing the earbuds and forming a coherent, transparent design. It is also embellished with ergonomic contours that give it a futuristic look. The battery is housed in an opaque aluminum chassis (silver or black, depending on the finish chosen). The case is stamped with the brand’s logo, integrates an LED indicator, the pairing button and the USB-C charging port.
One of the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds’ major innovations, the charging case also features two microphones and a TALK button for calls and communication with voice assistants.
An innovative charging case
The Nothing Ear (3) wireless earbuds’ charging case has undergone a thorough overhaul, now incorporating two microphones for communication in noisy environments. The first is located on the side, between the LED and the USB-C port, while the second is positioned underneath the case.
The TALK button on the front panel activates the Super Mic mode. This is designed to facilitate telephone conversations in noisy environments without having to raise your voice. When the TALK mode is activated, the case takes over from the earbuds’ microphone, transforming itself into a hand-held microphone. All you have to do is bring the case closer to your mouth, and the person you’re talking to will be able to hear your more clearly. This is one of the major innovations of Nothing Ear (3) earbuds.
The Super Mic mode also lets you interact with voice assistants or ChatGPT artificial intelligence, natively integrated into the new Nothing smartphones.
Audio design
The Nothing Ear (3) in-ear monitors differ from the previous generation in that they incorporate new dynamic transducers. Their diameter has been increased from 11 to 12mm for greater control. They are mounted on TPU surrounds to enhance diaphragm excursion and deliver deeper bass.
LDAC Bluetooth
The Nothing Ear (3) wireless earbuds are Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified. This means their frequency response extends to 40kHz. To meet these specifications and optimize signal transmission, these True Wireless earbuds support the high-resolution LDAC codec (24-bit/96kHz). To guarantee optimum compatibility with most devices, SBC and AAC codecs are also included. It’s a shame, however, that the brand continues to overlook the aptX codec, which is now widely available.
Battery life
When it comes to battery life, the Nothing Ear (3) Bluetooth earbuds are an improvement over the previous generation. However, battery life fluctuates according to usage and features. Using the AAC codec and without active noise cancelling, the earbuds alone boast 10 hours of autonomy. With the ANC activated, the battery provides 5h30 of playback. Naturally, the high-resolution LDAC codec is more power-hungry: 3h30 with ANC activated and 5h30 without ANC. For its part, the charging case extends the battery life to 38 hours.
When used exclusively for communication, the Nothing Ear (3) provide between 4 and 5 hours of autonomy, with or without active noise cancelling. Fast charging offers 10 hours of battery life (without ANC) after just 10 minutes.
Nothing X app
Among the strengths of Nothing equipment is the quality of the app. It is perfectly intuitive, providing full access to settings such as the various DSP modes (Balanced, More Bass, More Treble, Voice and Custom), as well as to the eight-band equalizer offering an even more precise adjustment of the sound reproduction.
Expert's note
The Nothing X app includes a function for testing the fit of the ear tips. This is because the silicone tip affects the quality of the music reproduction and wearing comfort. An eartip that's too small won't provide optimum passive isolation, while one that's too large will limit the earbuds' fit in the ear canal. This test, which only takes a few seconds, can be used to determine whether the size of the tip fitted to the earbuds is suitable for you, or whether the earbuds are correctly inserted in your ear canal.
Available free of charge on iOS and Android, the Nothing X app also lets you activate features such as low-latency mode for gaming or the bass boost option, which has five levels. The Bluetooth Multipoint option can also be activated/deactivated from within the app for optimum comfort, as can in-ear detection (automatic play and pause when the earbuds are inserted).
The Nothing X app also lets you configure control gestures. Halfway between a touch-sensitive zone and a physical button, the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds feature clickable zones located at the bottom of each stem. The London-based manufacturer has retained a system used on previous models, but one that proves impractical. It requires pressing the area with your thumb and index finger, which can affect the position of the earbud in your ear.
Expert advice
To prevent the earbuds from moving in the ear when you want to control playback or change the volume, simply hold them against your ear with your index finger and press the stem between your thumb and middle finger.
Noise cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode
The Nothing Ear (3) wireless earbuds provide complete control over the sound environment, thanks to active noise cancelling (ANC) and a Transparency mode. The ANC reaches 45 dB, effectively eliminating background noise. Three levels of reduction are available in the app, with an optional Adaptive mode that automatically adjusts the reduction according to the sound context.
The Transparency mode, meanwhile, allows you to remain aware of your surroundings without removing your earbuds. Once activated, it amplifies outside sounds so you can clearly hear what’s going on around you.
Key specifications
- 12mm dynamic transducers
- Hi-Res Audio Wireless
- Bluetooth codecs: AAC, SBC and LDAC
- Active noise cancelling, Transparency mode
- Case/earbuds battery life: 38h/10h (without ANC), 22h/5h30 (with ANC)
- Dual-microphone case for calls
- 8-band equalizer, with profile sharing, bass boost, custom acoustic test
- Pairing functions: Bluetooth Multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair
- Water and dust resistance: IP54
Test conditions
During this review, I set out to put the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds to the test in a variety of configurations. I was able to put the British brand’s new earphones through their paces by using them on public transport, during a walk in the city center, in an open-plan office and at home. They were paired with my Android smartphone, enabling me to take advantage of the Google Fast Pair feature. I listened to them from Qobuz for Hi-Res music and Spotify for podcasts.
My impressions
The Nothing Ear (3) earbuds delivered warm sound. Bassheads will appreciate their assertive presence from the get-go. Even more so when the bass boost mode is activated in the app, bringing more power and dynamism to the music, sometimes to the detriment of the upper end of the spectrum. However, there’s nothing to stop music lovers looking for a more balanced sound, as the app’s eight-band equalizer makes it possible to adjust the reproduction. The high frequencies sometimes lacked precision, especially at high volume, but the overall sound remained clear and well-balanced, with satisfactory imaging that ensured immersion in the music.
As mentioned above, the advanced equalizer is, in my opinion, a major asset. It allows very precise adjustment to suit individual tastes. This app is a real selling point for the brand, which has succeeded in developing a solution that is both comprehensive and intuitive. Presets facilitate rapid personalization to suit every musical style, while the automatic personalization feature effectively adjusts the sound for optimal listening without extensive manual intervention. In addition, the app has a 3-minute hearing test to define a personalized response curve. This profile can be saved and activated to enjoy sound that’s optimized for your hearing.
In terms of technology, the active noise cancelling of the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds provided effective isolation at medium volume levels, particularly for low-frequency sounds. Higher-pitched sounds were still very audible, but in this price range, the Ear (3) have nothing to be ashamed of, and rival the competition. What’s more, the ANC’s adaptive mode, capable of modulating its power according to the surrounding noise, also proved effective. The transparency mode, for its part, was in line with the previous generation, allowing us to remain aware of our surroundings.
However, the aspect for which I really had high expectations was call quality, especially in noisy environments. To put the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds’ microphone case to the test, I made some calls in a train station during rush hour. It was clear that this feature provides a real advantage. Far from being a mere gadget, it keeps the conversation really clear. The person I was talking to didn’t experience any interference despite the noise and ambient resonance.
Comparison
Nothing Ear (3) vs Marshall Motif II ANC
With dynamic transducers that are twice as large (12mm vs 6mm), the Nothing earbuds offer a more realistic and detailed sound than the Marshall model. However, bass control remains a point on which the vintage-design brand remains king. For ANC, on the other hand, the Ear (3) comes out on top, with better performance across the enitre frequency range for greater immersion. Support for the LDAC codec is another advantage for the young London-based brand. Finally, the microphones built into the case enable better call quality, especially in noisy environments, with the Nothing Ear (3).
Nothing Ear (3) vs Apple AirPods Pro 3
Beyond their obvious design similarities, Apple’s earbuds (€249) and Nothing’s earbuds differ primarily in terms of their Bluetooth chip. Apple uses a 5.3 module with AAC codec support, while Nothing goes one step further with its LDAC-compatible 5.4 chip. In terms of battery life, the British model has the upper hand, with a total of 38h, compared to 28h for the AirPods. However, Apple products are more geared toward sports enthusiasts, with features such as heart rate monitoring that offer personalized workout tracking. The Ear (3) has the advantage of a microphone case, ensuring clearer and more accurate calls in noisy environments.
Who are the Nothing Ear (3) for?
The Nothing Ear (3) wireless earbuds are aimed at music lovers looking for deep bass and a model capable of offering a high degree of customization. Support for the LDAC codec is also an argument for discerning enthusiasts who want a wireless solution compatible with high-definition streaming. Active noise cancelling and an optimized hands-free kit in the case make them ideal companions for travelers and professionals who are often on the phone. Finally, owners of one of the brand’s smartphones will also appreciate the TALK function for direct communication with ChatGPT.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ Nothing Ear (3)
What are the differences between the Nothing Ear (3) and Nothing Ear (2)?
The Ear (3) brings several improvements over the Ear (2): a dynamic transducer that increases in diameter from 11 to 12mm (fuller sound), increased autonomy with ANC activated, and a new partially aluminum case with integrated Super Mic.
What is the Nothing Ear (3) “Super Mic” function and how does it improve calls?
Super Mic refers to the dual microphone integrated into the charging case. In call mode, these microphones filter out noise and pick up your voice from closer, making calls much clearer even in noisy environments.
What is the purpose of the “Talk” button on the Nothing Ear (3) charging case?
This button activates the case’s microphones (“Super Mic”). In very noisy environments, you can bring the case up to your mouth and press TALK to use the two microphones built into the case instead of those in the earbuds. This greatly improves voice pick-up when making a call in a noisy environment.
What is the battery life of the Nothing Ear (3)?
The Nothing Ear (3) offers up to 5.5 hours of listening per charge with ANC activated (10 hours without ANC) and 22 hours total with the case (38 hours without ANC).
Do the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds support fast charging, and what does it achieve in just a few minutes?
Yes, they are compatible with fast-charging: 10 minutes is enough for around 2 hours of listening (earbuds only).
How long does it take to fully recharge the Nothing Ear (3) (case + earbuds)?
Approx. 70 minutes via USB-C for a full charge (case + earbuds) and approx. 120 minutes via wireless charging.
Are the Nothing Ear (3) compatible with iPhone and iOS devices?
Yes, they work with the iOS ecosystem: they are compatible from iOS 13 and the Nothing X app is available on iPhones.
Can they work with Android smartphones from different brands?
Of course, they can be used with Android (from Android 6.0) and even benefit from Google Fast Pair on compatible Android devices.
Can the Nothing Ear (3) be connected to two devices simultaneously (Bluetooth multipoint connection)?
Yes, they support multipoint. You can pair them with two devices at the same time and switch between them.
What version of Bluetooth do the Nothing Ear (3) use, and what does it imply?
The earbuds use Bluetooth 5.4, offering a more stable connection than the previous generation. This ensures better range and less interference.
Are the Nothing Ear (3) water and dust resistant?
Yes, the earbuds and case have an IP54 rating, which means protection against dust and splashes.
Can the Nothing Ear (3) be used in the rain or during sports without damaging them? Within the limits of the IP54 certification, they are resistant to small drops (light rain) and perspiration. So they’re ideal for moderate exercise or for going out in wet weather.
How many pairs of ear tips are included with the Nothing Ear (3) and what sizes are available?
Nothing supplies four pairs of silicone tips in different sizes (XS, S, M and L) with the Ear (3), to ensure a good fit in every ear.
Are the Nothing Ear (3) comfortable to wear for long periods?
Yes, they’ve been redesigned for comfort: they’re lightweight (5.2g) and their shape has been optimized to match that of the auricle, making them pleasant to wear over time.
Do the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds have touch-sensitive or gesture controls?
Absolutely. Simply pinch the stem to execute commands. Several gestures (single pinch, double pinch, triple pinch, hold) control playback, calls, etc., and are customizable via the app.
Can I adjust the volume or change tracks directly from the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds (without using the phone)?
Yes, among the five configurable Ear (3) gestures, you can assign actions such as volume adjustment or track switching to the controls on the earbuds.
Do the Nothing Ear (3) detect when they are removed from the ears (automatic pause)?
Yes, they include an in-ear detection function: playback pauses automatically when an earbud is removed, and resumes when it is put back on, making them even more ergonomic.
Does the ANC of the Nothing Ear (3) automatically adjust to ambient noise (adaptive)?
Yes, the Ear (3) feature an adaptive ANC mode that modulates the noise reduction in real time, every 600 ms, according to the surrounding noise level.
Which Bluetooth audio codecs are supported by the Nothing Ear (3)?
They support the SBC and AAC universal codecs, as well as LDAC for 24-bit high-definition audio.
