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Choose the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro if you want its revised comfort design, extra audio features and stronger noise-cancelling proposition; choose the original Headphone (1) if longer stated battery life and its lower reported launch price matter more. If you already own the original, upgrading is worthwhile mainly when you will use the Pro’s specific additions—not simply because it is newer.
At a glance: which model suits you?
| Your priority | Better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Longer stated battery life | Headphone (1) | Nothing’s lab figures are higher in both AAC and LDAC modes, with ANC on or off. |
| Updated cushion and headband design | Headphone (1) Pro | Nothing says the Pro has softer cushions, a wider headband and thicker padding; that is a manufacturer comparison, not a guarantee about individual fit. |
| Flat EQ and additional sound features | Headphone (1) Pro | It adds a physical Flat EQ switch, spatial audio with head tracking and personal sound features. |
| Lower reported launch price | Headphone (1) | TechRadar reported lower launch prices for the original in the US, UK and Australia. These are not current prices. |
| Replacing the original you already own | Depends on your use | Creative Bloq’s reviewer considered the original good value and not dated, while seeing an upgrade case for listeners who will use the Pro’s sound and Flat EQ features. |
What changes with Headphone (1) Pro?
Comfort: a promising redesign, not a fit guarantee
Nothing says the Pro’s dual-layer cushions are 50% softer than those on Headphone (1), with a 10% wider headband and 12% thicker padding. These are Nothing’s own comparisons, not independent measurements. What Hi-Fi? found the original’s comfort mixed, citing concerns about weight distribution and heat during its review. If the original felt uncomfortable to you, the Pro’s changes may be relevant, but fit remains personal.
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Sound controls and listening features
The Pro lists three drivers: a 40 mm bass dynamic driver, a 13 × 8 mm precision dynamic driver and an xMEMS treble driver. It also offers spatial audio with head tracking, personal sound, Flat EQ and Nothing X equalization. A physical switch lets you move between Flat EQ and the usual EQ. These additions may appeal if you value extra ways to shape or experience audio; the number of drivers by itself does not establish that a headphone sounds better.
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Noise cancelling and calls
Nothing lists up to 46 dB ANC for Headphone (1) Pro. That is a manufacturer specification, not a universal real-world reduction or a direct standardized comparison with the original. Creative Bloq’s reviewer reported hearing an ANC improvement over Headphone (1), a subjective review finding rather than a controlled test. For calls, Nothing says the Pro uses environmental noise cancellation and two microphones on each side.
#1 Best Overall
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation Adapts with You: Our Nothing headphone 1 feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, powered by next-gen processors and adaptive mics, to block out distractions. Smart Adaptive Mode automatically adjusts to your environment, while Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound when you need awareness. Personalize your experience with four ANC settings (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for truly focused, crystal-clear listening
- Nothing x KEF Headphone (1) : Nothing Headphone (1) experience audio perfected through a unique partnership with British audio legend KEF. Leveraging over 60 years of acoustic expertise, Nothing Noise Cancelling Headphone delivers a naturally balanced sound stage where every note shines as artists intended. Enjoy unparalleled flexibility with Hi-Res Audio support including LDAC technology, USB-C audio, and a 3.5mm jack. Dual Connection capability lets you seamlessly switch between two devices
- Uninterrupted Audio with Immersive Sound: Engineered for all-day use, Nothing Headphones 1 deliver up to 80 hours of playtime (35 hours with ANC on). A quick 5-minute charge provides 5 hours of power. Coupled with this endurance is a lossless audio experience, Nothing Wireless Headphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking and Hi-Res Wireless certification for exceptional clarity and a deeply immersive sound stage
- Sink In, Take Control: Designed for all-day wear, Nothing Bluetooth Wireless Headphone ergonomic frame and memory foam cushions provide a comfortable, secure fit. The Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone features intuitive roller and paddle interface puts volume adjustment, playback, and noise mode switching at your fingertips, with full customization available in the Nothing X app. This thoughtful integration of form and function ensures a continuously surround sound Journey
- Explore the Nothing X app: Craft your unique audio profile with the Nothing X app's advanced 8-band equalizer.Tailor your Nothing Headphone 1 with Adaptive ANC settings and enhance depth with the Ultra Bass mode. Customize your Bluetooth active noise canceling headphones' touch buttons to execute your most-used commands instantly
Wired listening and connections
Nothing lists Bluetooth 6.1, dual-device connection, USB-C audio and a 3.5 mm input for the Pro. Nothing Support specifies USB-C audio up to 24-bit/192 kHz and aux audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz. What Hi-Fi? lists Bluetooth 5.3, AAC/SBC/LDAC, USB-C audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz and a 3.5 mm connection for the original. A complete official, like-for-like codec comparison is not established here, so these specifications should not be taken to mean the original lacks a particular feature.
Battery life: the original has the stated edge
Nothing’s figures below are laboratory ratings at 50% volume with default feature settings; actual runtime varies with use. The original is rated for longer playback in both listed codecs and with ANC either on or off.
Rank #2
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation Adapts with You: Our Nothing headphone 1 feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, powered by next-gen processors and adaptive mics, to block out distractions. Smart Adaptive Mode automatically adjusts to your environment, while Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound when you need awareness. Personalize your experience with four ANC settings (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for truly focused, crystal-clear listening
- Nothing x KEF Headphone (1) : Nothing Headphone (1) experience audio perfected through a unique partnership with British audio legend KEF. Leveraging over 60 years of acoustic expertise, Nothing Noise Cancelling Headphone delivers a naturally balanced sound stage where every note shines as artists intended. Enjoy unparalleled flexibility with Hi-Res Audio support including LDAC technology, USB-C audio, and a 3.5mm jack. Dual Connection capability lets you seamlessly switch between two devices
- Uninterrupted Audio with Immersive Sound: Engineered for all-day use, Nothing Headphones 1 deliver up to 80 hours of playtime (35 hours with ANC on). A quick 5-minute charge provides 5 hours of power. Coupled with this endurance is a lossless audio experience, Nothing Wireless Headphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking and Hi-Res Wireless certification for exceptional clarity and a deeply immersive sound stage
- Sink In, Take Control: Designed for all-day wear, Nothing Bluetooth Wireless Headphone ergonomic frame and memory foam cushions provide a comfortable, secure fit. The Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone features intuitive roller and paddle interface puts volume adjustment, playback, and noise mode switching at your fingertips, with full customization available in the Nothing X app. This thoughtful integration of form and function ensures a continuously surround sound Journey
- Explore the Nothing X app: Craft your unique audio profile with the Nothing X app's advanced 8-band equalizer.Tailor your Nothing Headphone 1 with Adaptive ANC settings and enhance depth with the Ultra Bass mode. Customize your Bluetooth active noise canceling headphones' touch buttons to execute your most-used commands instantly
| Listening mode | Headphone (1) | Headphone (1) Pro |
|---|---|---|
| AAC, ANC off | 80 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 68 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| AAC, ANC on | 35 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 30 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| LDAC, ANC off | 54 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 53 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
| LDAC, ANC on | 30 hours — Nothing, 2026 | 28 hours — Nothing, 2026 |
The gap is most pronounced in the AAC ANC-off rating. The LDAC ANC-off figures are nearly even, while the original also leads in the ANC-on figures. If you often go long stretches between charges, this is a concrete reason to favor Headphone (1).
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TechRadar reported launch prices of $299 / £299 / AU$549 for Headphone (1) and $399 / £349 / AU$699 for Headphone (1) Pro. Those are reported launch prices, not current listings: prices and availability can change by market and date. Check local retailers for the actual difference before deciding; the relevant question is whether the Pro’s features are worth that gap to you.
Rank #3
- Dynamic Noise Cancellation Tailored for You: Experience the Nothing Headphone (a) with cutting-edge Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, utilizing state-of-the-art processors and adaptive microphones to eliminate distractions. The innovative Smart Adaptive Mode adjusts seamlessly to your surroundings, while the Transparency Mode allows ambient sounds for situational awareness. Select from four customizable ANC levels (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for a personalized listening journey
- Endless Listening with Rich Sound Quality: Crafted for 5 HD Mics, our Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth Headphones Over the Ear boasts a Spatial Audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification for remarkable clarity and an immersive auditory experience, Noise Cancelling Headphone with impressive battery life of up to 135 hours (75 hours with ANC on). A rapid 5-minute charge delivers 8 hours of playback time (ANC off)
- Remote Camera Shutter: Control your camera with a simple press of your Wireless Over-Ear headphones. No more running back and forth—just smooth, uninterrupted content creation. Perfect for vlogs, outfit checks, selfies, or group shots. Frame, get into position, and capture instantly.(On Nothing OS: Directly activates the camera; one press to record. On iOS & Android: Quickly capture or control recording if the camera function is already open)
- Comfort Meets Control: Designed for all-day comfort, the Nothing Headphones Wireless Over Ear features an ergonomic design with memory foam cushions for a secure fit. The Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones design includes an intuitive roller and paddle interface, providing easy access to volume controls, playback, and noise mode switching. The Nothing X app allows for extensive customization, ensuring a continuous, immersive sound experience
- Built For Your Unique Style: Start with your Personal Sound Profile and immerse yourself in Nothing X APP (with Ultra Bass included). Nothing Active Noise Canceling Headphones with Spatial Audio for concert or cinema-level listening for quick access to your most-used commands
Should you upgrade from Headphone (1)?
For an existing owner, start with what you would actually use. Creative Bloq’s October 2, 2026 review judged the original still good value and not dated, while its reviewer saw a case for the Pro among listeners who would use its sound features and Flat EQ. That is one reviewer’s judgment, not a universal upgrade verdict.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Transparent Design: Ear (3a) features Nothing's signature technological codes in vibrant new colours. A wider range of ear tips means the buds sit comfortably in everyone's ears, and a new status bar lets you see everything on the case.
- Hi-Res Audio: Ear (3a) delivers stronger sound with a bigger 12 mm driver. Improved wideband Active Noise Cancellation at up to 45 dB lets you ignore the boring things, and Clear Voice Technology means you sound good on calls. On the Nothing app X, you can boost bass, treble and vocals, or use the advanced 8-band EQ.
- Wideband Active Noise Cancellation: Nothing Ear (3a) delivers up to 45dB of Active Noise Cancellation. These Bluetooth wireless earbuds recalibrate every millisecond to block a wide range of noise (up to 5000Hz) for clear audio. Switch to Transparency Mode to stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds. Low Latency mode ensures lag-free gaming.
- Bluetooth 6.0 & Smart AI Features: With Bluetooth 6.0, Ear (3a) stays connected in more places than before. Easy swapping with dual-device connnections compatible with both iOS and Andoid. And with one-touch AI features like ChatGPT and Essential News, you're always ready to go without touching your phone.
- Audio Snapshot and Call Recording: Audio Snapshot and call recording let you save what you hear directly onto Ear (3a). You can record up to a minute of media or up to two hours of calls and meetings. With the Nothing X app, you can sort and transcribe using AI. With Pro Transcription, you can also identify speakers, get reminders and send quotes to your friends. Note: Call recording is available only in supported countries/regions due to local regulations. For the current list of supported countries/regions, please refer to the Product Description.
Rank #4
- Dynamic Noise Cancellation Tailored for You: Experience the Nothing Headphone (a) with cutting-edge Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, utilizing state-of-the-art processors and adaptive microphones to eliminate distractions. The innovative Smart Adaptive Mode adjusts seamlessly to your surroundings, while the Transparency Mode allows ambient sounds for situational awareness. Select from four customizable ANC levels (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for a personalized listening journey
- Endless Listening with Rich Sound Quality: Crafted for 5 HD Mics, our Nothing Headphone (a) Bluetooth Headphones Over the Ear boasts a Spatial Audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification for remarkable clarity and an immersive auditory experience, Noise Cancelling Headphone with impressive battery life of up to 135 hours (75 hours with ANC on). A rapid 5-minute charge delivers 8 hours of playback time (ANC off)
- Remote Camera Shutter: Control your camera with a simple press of your Wireless Over-Ear headphones. No more running back and forth—just smooth, uninterrupted content creation. Perfect for vlogs, outfit checks, selfies, or group shots. Frame, get into position, and capture instantly.(On Nothing OS: Directly activates the camera; one press to record. On iOS & Android: Quickly capture or control recording if the camera function is already open)
- Comfort Meets Control: Designed for all-day comfort, the Nothing Headphones Wireless Over Ear features an ergonomic design with memory foam cushions for a secure fit. The Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones design includes an intuitive roller and paddle interface, providing easy access to volume controls, playback, and noise mode switching. The Nothing X app allows for extensive customization, ensuring a continuous, immersive sound experience
- Built For Your Unique Style: Start with your Personal Sound Profile and immerse yourself in Nothing X APP (with Ultra Bass included). Nothing Active Noise Canceling Headphones with Spatial Audio for concert or cinema-level listening for quick access to your most-used commands
- Consider the Pro if its comfort redesign addresses a problem you have, you want the Flat EQ switch or spatial audio with head tracking, or the reviewer-reported ANC improvement is important to you.
- Keep the original if it fits and sounds good to you, its battery life meets your needs, and you would not make meaningful use of the Pro’s added features.
- Compare the alternatives again if your original is damaged or uncomfortable: the purchase decision then depends on the current price, condition and fit of the options available to you, not just the model name.
Sources
- Nothing Headphone (1) Pro product page
- Nothing Support: Headphone (1) battery life
- Nothing Support: Headphone (1) Pro battery life
- Nothing Support: product features
- Creative Bloq’s Headphone (1) Pro review, October 2, 2026
- TechRadar’s Headphone (1) Pro review, September 29, 2026
- What Hi-Fi?’s Headphone (1) review, January 23, 2026
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
