Nothing Headphone (a) review: Bluetooth headphones with XXL battery life

With the Nothing Headphone (a), the London-based brand has released a streamlined version of its flagship Nothing Headphone (1) model, priced at €159. At this price, Nothing is packing a punch: original colors, an instantly recognizable signature design, full connectivity, Hi-Res certification, and, above all, record non-stop use of up to 135 hours, or more than five days without recharging—the longest battery life currently available among wireless headphones. True to the semi-transparent design of Nothing earbuds and smartphones, the Headphone (a) adopts an instantly recognizable look that contrasts radically with other headphone models. Durable and particularly pleasant to use on a daily basis, the Headphone (a) offers excellent value for money. We tested it to assess its technical and musical potential.

Introducing the Nothing Headphone (a)

The Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth headphones follow a pattern already seen in the manufacturer’s earbuds: a more accessible version of a successful reference, designed to appeal to a wider audience. Where the Headphone (1), developed in collaboration with KEF, favors cutting-edge musical reproduction, this version is more focused on autonomy and style, without sacrificing audio performance.

Ultra-modern, minimalist design

With the Headphone (a), the London-based brand expands its range of headphones and earbuds. Building on the foundations laid by the Nothing Ear earbuds, now available in 4 versions—Nothing Ear, Nothing Ear (3), Nothing Ear (a) and Nothing Ear (open)—Nothing is using the same strategy for its headphones. Visually, it continues the design of the first version, abandoning the full transparency of the previous model for a less flashy aesthetic, with a plain, glossy outer shell. Weight-wise, it still comes in at 310g, partly due to the weight of the 1060 mAh battery. As a result of cost-cutting measures, the metal components of its predecessor have been replaced by high-quality plastic. The premium look has given way to trendy colors.

These headphones are not foldable, but the earcups can be swiveled so that they can be laid flat or worn more comfortably around the neck, a design choice that favors robustness by limiting fragile components such as hinges.

The new Nothing Headphone (a) is available in white, yellow, pink and black, original shades including the London-based brand’s signature yellow. Each Nothing Headphone (a) color asserts an aesthetic bias and contrasts with other models in the sector, often confined to very sober palettes.

With its new colors and fashionable design, Nothing is clearly targeting an audience that appreciates style and personal expression. The yellow and pink hues have a bolder, more expressive look, true to the brand’s approach of designing technological products capable of standing out visually. The perforated acoustic fabric of the earcups is reminiscent of the exterior color, a detail that’s particularly fun on the yellow and pink versions. Nothing has also worked on the ergonomics of the headphones to ensure comfortable everyday wear. The headband and memory foam pads have been designed to adapt to different users and remain comfortable even for those with glasses, piercings, or earrings, an aspect that’s often overlooked by other manufacturers.

Nothing uses 100% renewable energy for final assembly, giving the Nothing Headphone (a) a carbon footprint of 12.6kg CO₂e. This sustainable approach is commendable, but the fact that the ear pads and battery aren’t replaceable isn’t consistent with this philosophy.

The headphones are also IP52-certified for dust and splash resistance, making them suitable for sports. A plus for everyday use.

Included accessories

The Nothing Headphone (a) is accompanied by a full set of accessories, making it easy to transport and charge.

The packaging includes:

• The Nothing Headphones (a)
• A soft carrying case
• A 3.5mm jack audio cable (1.2m)
• A USB-C cable for charging and audio (1.2m)
• A quick-start guide

This package, including a USB-C audio cable and a 3.5mm jack cable, ensures extensive compatibility with the majority of audio sources: smartphones, DAPs, computers and headphone amplifiers.

Nothing also underlines its environmental approach, with packaging designed entirely in cardboard, in line with the brand’s sustainable commitments.

Marathon battery life

The new Nothing Headphones (a) immediately stand out for their remarkable endurance, designed to last all week without being charged. Its 1,060 mAh lithium-ion battery makes it the most enduring model in its category. In AAC audio playback, autonomy reaches up to 135 hours (without ANC). In LDAC, a more demanding codec, autonomy stands at 90 hours without ANC and up to 62 hours with ANC, with all processors activated.

Fast charging optimizes the experience: 5 minutes of charging is enough to recover up to 8 hours of ANC-free playback. A full charge takes 2 hours via USB-C.

This endurance transforms intensive daily use: travel and listening sessions, video games and calls become natural, without battery-related interruptions.

Bluetooth connectivity and ANC

The Nothing Headphone (a) wireless headphones use one of the latest versions of Bluetooth 5.4. The 10-meter range guarantees comfortable freedom of movement. In outdoor tests, the connection remained stable beyond this distance. Compatible with the Hi-Res Audio certification, the Headphone (a) enables high-resolution transmission via LDAC. However, the absence of Auracast is regrettable.

Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair speed up pairing, while Bluetooth multipoint allows simultaneous connection to two sources, making it easy to switch from a call to audio or video content. The Nothing Headphone (a) also works wired via the USB-C and jack cables included in the box, allowing you to reduce latency or prolong use when the battery is running low.

The Nothing Headphone (a) features active noise cancelling, with attenuation of up to 40 dB (in addition to passive reduction, of course). Three levels are available in the app, plus an adaptive mode that adjusts the music reproduction depending on ambient noise. A transparency mode completes the package so you can remain aware of your surroundings when necessary. Of the headphones’ four microphones, two are assigned to ANC management (one per ear).

Nothing X app

The Nothing X app offers a comprehensive interface for fine-tuning the Headphone (a)’s behavior, both sonically and functionally. A visual display of the headphones appears as soon as you open the app, along with the battery level. By scrolling down the screen, several options become available: ANC and spatial audio customization, activation of the low-latency mode, multipoint management, and multifunction button configuration. The latter can be used to activate noise control or the Nothing phone’s camera shutter, navigate between equalizer presets, or activate the voice assistant, including ChatGPT with compatible Nothing smartphones. The other controls can’t be modified.

The bass boost can be activated directly from the main screen. For more precise adjustment, the equalizer offers three options: a simple mode with preset profiles, an advanced 8-band mode, and an Explorer section containing equalization settings shared by the community, which can be downloaded. This feature allows you to apply equalization settings for specific genres.

In the settings, the user can adjust the duration of inactivity before the headphones go into sleep mode, switch between Bluetooth AAC and LDAC (the app specifies that the latter has an impact on autonomy) and locate the headphones. When using the latter feature, the Headphone (a) emits a beep so that it’s easier to find. All in all, this is a rich app that effectively completes the Nothing Headphone (a) experience.

Physical controls and connectors

The Nothing Headphone (a) has 2 connectors and controls on the right earcup: a USB-C port for charging and digital audio transmission and a 3.5mm jack input for wired listening. A physical on/off switch is located at the bottom of this right earpiece.

In addition to a dedicated pairing button on the inside of this earcup, the headphones feature two distinctive control elements:

• A roller for audio settings (volume, pause, ANC)
• A navigation-oriented Paddle (call management, next/previous track…)

The roller has 4 functions: volume wheel, playback control, noise reduction and Transparency mode. The paddle makes it easy to navigate between content. Pushing it to the right plays the next track or answers a call, pushing it to the left returns to the previous track or rejects a call. A long press allows you to fast-forward or rewind a track or podcast.

The button on the outside provides a real touch of personalization. It can be associated with various functions, such as changing the ANC mode, activating spatial audio, or triggering specific actions depending on the connected device.

The architecture of these physical controls gives the Headphone (a) distinctive ergonomics. Although it takes some getting used to, particularly because of its high placement, the end result is greater precision and comfort, and very limited inadvertent manipulation.

Key specifications

• Over-ear headphones
• 40mm transducteurs
• Frequency response: 20Hz – 40,000Hz
• ANC up to 40 dB and Transparency mode
• Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint
• Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC
• Hi-Res certification
• Spatial Audio
• Battery life: up to 135 h
• Fast charge: 5 min = up to 8 h playback
• Weight: 310g
• Protection class: IP52

Test conditions

The Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth headphones were evaluated in different contexts to assess their behavior when listening to music, watching films and series and making calls. Data was transmitted via Bluetooth HD, mainly from Qobuz, Spotify, Netflix and YouTube.

The headphones were also tested for gaming with Elden Ring to evaluate spatial imaging and the low-latency mode. A wired comparison was also made with an Astell & Kern HC4 DAC to analyze differences in precision and delay.

Tests were carried out using a latest-generation Android smartphone and a laptop, both via Bluetooth and wired. The ANC and Transparency mode were used in a variety of environments: quiet interiors, offices, busy streets and public transport.

My impressions

The Nothing Headphone (a) gave me a good first impression. The design still has the brand’s instantly recognizable identity. The shiny center replaces the transparency of the Headphone (1) and adds a more minimalist touch. Our editorial team was also impressed by the choice of colors available. The yellow and pink versions add a more stylish and bold twist. This modern approach reinforces the fashion-forward positioning of the Nothing Headphone (a), which targets an audience that is more interested in self-expression. In the same vein, the design is more sustainable, with an assembly process that uses 100% renewable energy.

Battery life is clearly one of the strengths of these headphones. Over almost 30 hours of use with active noise cancelling, the battery lost only around 20% of its charge. This endurance really changes the relationship with the headphones: it becomes possible to use them intensively for over a week without having to worry about recharging.

The controls are another strong point. Everything is grouped together on the right earcup. The volume wheel is particularly pleasant to use, and the gesture to control it quickly becomes natural, although the paddle takes a little getting used to. The separation of functions limits handling errors, notably answering or ending calls unintentionally.

The ear pads fit snugly around the ears and provide good passive isolation. I found the headphones comfortable to wear with glasses and earrings, which is a nice plus for everyday use. This is also a real advantage for users with piercings, a detail that will appeal to millennials and Gen Z, who are more likely to have piercings. However, the weight of 310g is noticeable during long sessions. It should also be noted that the headband is easier to adjust when the headphones are removed. Once adjusted, the fit remains stable, and the headband does not slip.

During phone calls, the user’s voice remains clear, and the microphones pick up speech effectively, without overemphasizing ambient noise. When viewing video content, the reproduction is pleasant, with clear dialogue and no perceptible lag.

The active noise cancelling performs well in open-plan offices and when there is surrounding chatter. It effectively reduces voices and continuous noise. In public transport and in the presence of engine noise, the reduction is more measured. Finally, there is some sound leakage at high volume, but it isn’t a big problem.

Listening to music on Qobuz in Hi-Res gave me a clearer idea of the sound signature. On Adele’s Easy On Me, the low frequencies were balanced, and the vocals stood out clearly. As the arrangement became denser, the instrumental separation was less precise. On Howard Shore’s Misty Mountains, the headphones offered immersive spatial imaging: the backing vocals were enveloping, even if the soundstage could have been wider. Lastly, on Believer by Imagine Dragons, the rhythm section retained its impact, and the stereo was well structured. The chorus could have done with a little more openness, despite its pleasant dynamics.

Globally, the original setting favored the bass and midrange. The sound was dynamic, with pronounced bass. The highs were more discreet. The equalization in the app allows you to adjust this balance. It’s also possible to boost bass if you prefer, which is particularly useful for techno music.

The soundstage lacked a little openness, and this is where spatial audio really came into its own. The Theater and Concert modes provided a convincing sense of space. In Theater mode, the performer seemed to be in front of me, with the audience positioned to one side. In Concert mode, immersion was even more enveloping, similar to being in a pit at a live show. On Imagine Dragons – Live in Vegas, the audience’s energy came through with intensity, without overpowering the band.

It is very handy to be able to use the headphones in wired mode. Whether via USB-C or 3.5mm jack, the sound gains in precision and sharpness compared to Bluetooth. The reproduction feels cleaner. When playing Elden Ring, the spatial imaging was impressive, with no latency. With Bluetooth, there was a slight lag, which was attenuated by activating the low-latency mode.

Ultimately, the Nothing Headphone (a) prioritizes listening pleasure, endurance, and versatility. It aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible experience rather than a strictly hi-fi approach. Overall, it is particularly impressive considering its price tag of €159.

Nothing Headphone (a) vs Sennheiser Accentum Plus

The Sennheiser Accentum Plus are versatile Bluetooth headphones focused on sound quality and comfort. They feature hybrid active noise cancelling, as well as support for aptX and aptX HD codecs, enabling high-quality audio transmission. It also boasts a battery life of around 50 hours, making it an enduring model for when you’re on the move.

Opposite the Accentum, the Nothing Headphone (a) takes a different approach. Where Sennheiser favors a discreet, classic design, the Nothing headphones opt for a more assertive style, with bold colors and semi-transparent elements, in keeping with the brand’s visual identity.

The Nothing headphone (a) also stands out for its Hi-Res Audio certification and LDAC compatibility, enabling high-resolution wireless transmission. The gap is even wider when it comes to endurance: while the Sennheiser Accentum Plus’s 50 hours are still very decent, the Nothing Headphone (a) can achieve up to 135 hours of autonomy, one of the highest figures on the market.

In short, the Sennheiser Accentum Plus will appeal to those looking for discreet, balanced headphones. The Nothing Headphone (a), on the other hand, is a more expressive and considerably more enduring alternative, with a distinctive design and Hi-Res Audio certification for high-quality playback.

Nothing Headphone (a) vs Marshall Major V

The Marshall Major V on-ear headphones and the Nothing Headphone (a) over-ear headphones embody two different styles. The Marshall model features a vintage design inspired by the brand’s guitar amps. In contrast, the Nothing Headphone (a) takes a much more contemporary approach, with its bold colors and semi-transparent elements.

However, the two headphones do have one thing in common: endurance. The Marshall Major V already impresses with over 100 hours of autonomy, making it one of the most long-lasting models in its category. The Nothing Headphone (a) goes even further, with up to 135 hours of playback, giving it the edge in this field.

The Marshall Major V have a number of interesting features. First of all, they’re very compact and foldable. As for technologies, they’re compatible with both Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast, a technology that enables audio streams to be shared with several compatible headphones in the same environment. The Nothing Headphone (a) does not yet offer this functionality but makes up for it with ANC, spatial audio and a Hi-Res Audio certification, features that are absent on the Major V.

In short, the Marshall Major V will appeal to fans of retro styling and those looking for compact headphones for on-the-go use. The Nothing Headphone (a) is a larger, more modern choice, with a greater number of features and even more impressive battery life.

Who are these headphones for?

The Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth headphones are for those looking for comprehensive, modern, durable headphones. Their record-breaking battery life means you can listen for weeks on end without worrying about recharging them. The physical controls are intuitive, and the multipoint connection makes it easy to switch from one device to another. All in all, a versatile companion offering particularly appealing value for money.

This model also appeals to design-conscious customers. Its modern aesthetic, available in bold colors, adds a touch of originality.

Frequently asked questions about the Nothing Headphone (a)