Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Review: Third Time’s the Charm for These Stunning Flagship Cans

The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro arrive with high expectations, and they largely manage to deliver on them, proving that the third time truly is the charm for the brand's audio lineup. Priced at $399, these flagship over-ear headphones boast a striking sci-fi design, superior comfort, and a refined triple-driver audio setup that significantly elevates the listening experience.

Design and Comfort

True to Nothing's distinctive design philosophy, the Headphone (1) Pro feature a transparent aesthetic combining matte aluminum, machined titanium alloy arms, and shatter-resistant glass earcup windows. Weighing in at 11.53 ounces, they feature exceptionally soft ear cushions and headbands that make wearing them for extended sessions—up to six hours at a time—an absolute breeze.

Sound Quality

The most notable upgrade comes in the sound department, thanks to a triple-driver configuration inside each earcup (comprising a 40mm dynamic driver, an 8mm precision dynamic driver, and a 1.15mm xMEMS driver). Certified for Hi-Res Audio and supporting high-end codecs like LDAC, these headphones deliver deep, weighty sub-bass, warm mids, and crisp, non-fatiguing treble. The Nothing X app also allows for deep EQ customization, including a personalized sound profile generated via a quick hearing test.

Battery Life and Competitors

Battery performance is stellar. With Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned off, the headphones offer up to 68 hours of playback, and roughly 30 hours with ANC enabled. While they face stiff competition from heavyweights like the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) and the Sony WH-1000XM6, Nothing's offering carves out a distinct space thanks to its futuristic look and highly customizable audio.

The Drawbacks

Despite their many strengths, the Headphone (1) Pro are not without flaws. The hardshell carrying case is bulky and resembles an unconventional fashion accessory that some might find silly, adding considerable weight to a backpack. Furthermore, the ANC performance, while decent indoors and for basic commuting, lags behind market leaders like Bose.

Verdict

For audio enthusiasts who prioritize a unique visual statement, extensive EQ controls, and exceptional comfort, the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro are a fantastic choice, easily justifying their $399 price tag.