Nothing, a smartphone manufacturer, has launched its first over-ear headphones, the Headphone (1), in collaboration with the premium speaker brand KEF. These headphones showcase the company’s signature transparent design, providing a peek into their internal components. Unlike the transparency seen in Nothing’s smartphones, the effect here is less pronounced, but it certainly attracts attention. The Headphone (1) features rectangular ear cups with memory foam padding covered in PU, combined with an adjustable headband crafted from a blend of plastic and aluminum.
Unlike other Nothing products, these headphones forego any distracting glyph lights, presenting a more understated aesthetic. However, users may find that the ear cups are not as spacious as those on other over-ear models, resulting in notable pressure on the ears that can become uncomfortable after extended use. This tight fit, similar to that of the AirPods Max, concentrates weight around the ear cups, which can lead to fatigue. In terms of sound quality, the Headphone (1) performs admirably for a price point of $299, holding up well against competitors like Sony, Bose, and Apple.
Initially, the audio leans towards a heavy bass response, but users can adjust the equalizer through the Nothing X app to enhance mids and highs, achieving a more balanced sound profile. The headphones incorporate features reminiscent of Apple’s offerings, including spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, although they lack some iCloud functionalities like automatic pairing and seamless device switching. Additionally, they come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, which works effectively given their snug fit. The headphones are designed to analyze external noise every 600 milliseconds, enhancing sound isolation.
Physical control buttons allow for customization of functions, including a paddle for audio playback and a roller for volume adjustment. The Headphone (1) also includes a 3.5mm audio jack, support for LDAC, and USB-C connectivity. Battery life is impressive, offering 35 hours with Active Noise Cancellation and up to 80 hours without it. What are your thoughts on the Headphone (1)?
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