The wait is finally over, and Nothing has unveiled its first-ever over-ear headphones, the Nothing Headphones 1. Since their first leak, these headphones have caught everyone’s attention with their unusual retro-inspired design. But beyond aesthetics, do these headphones deliver on performance, features, and sound quality at a premium price tag of ₹21,999.
Nothing Headphones 1: Bold Design That Stands Out
Nothing has built its brand reputation on unique, transparent designs, and the Headphones 1 carry forward this philosophy confidently.
Key Design Highlights:
Sleek, lightweight build that feels premium
Aluminium earcups reminiscent of Apple AirPods Max
Transparent glass panels with cassette-inspired inner design for a nostalgic yet futuristic feel
Available in Nothing’s signature black and white colours
Intuitive Controls with Roller Button
Another standout feature is the roller button for volume adjustment, which is far more intuitive and easier to use than traditional touch controls. There is also:
A paddle button to change tracks or fast-forward seamlessly
An Instant Shortcut button, which works best when paired with the Nothing Phone 3
Nothing Headphones 1: Performance and Sound Quality
While design catches your eye, it’s the performance and audio quality that matter the most. The Nothing Headphones 1 bring impressive specifications:
Sound Hardware and Features:
40mm dynamic driver surrounded by an 8.9mm PU driver, enhancing bass and blocking unwanted sounds even without ANC
Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that effectively blocks out background noise, ensuring an immersive listening experience
Head tracking feature that smartly manages music orientation, enhancing the spatial audio experience during movement
Audio Partnership with KEF
Nothing’s collaboration with British high-end audio brand KEF plays a major role in refining the headphones’ sound quality. In initial usage, the bass output feels powerful – something Indian music lovers often seek. The overall tuning seems tailored to deliver:
Strong bass
Clear vocals
Balanced mids and highs
Transparency Mode: Room for Test
The Transparency mode’s effectiveness is yet to be fully assessed. The headphones’ snug fit slightly limits external sound flow even when ANC is off, so a more detailed review will confirm how practical this feature is during commutes and outdoor use.
Nothing X App: Customise Your Listening Experience
Alongside the headphones, Nothing has launched the Nothing X app. This app enables:
Custom equalizer settings
Personalised listening profiles
Firmware updates for feature enhancements
This addition empowers users to tailor their audio experience based on their preferences and genres they frequently listen to.
Nothing Headphones 1: First Verdict
So, are the Nothing Headphones 1 worth ₹21,999?
Based on first impressions, these headphones offer:
Unique and premium design Excellent build quality with comfortable fit Intuitive physical controls Strong bass and immersive sound signature Effective ANC with initial promise