The Nothing Ear 1, upon its highly anticipated release, carved out a unique niche in the crowded true wireless earbud market, offering a compelling blend of distinctive transparent design, active noise cancellation ANC, and a surprisingly competitive price point. While it certainly delivered on its promise of a fresh aesthetic and solid core features, early adopters noted areas like battery life and touch control consistency that left room for improvement. It presented a compelling value proposition for those seeking a stylish alternative to the established players without breaking the bank, though it wasn’t without its quirks.
Here’s a quick rundown of how the Nothing Ear 1 stacks up against some notable alternatives in the true wireless earbud space:
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- Key Features: Improved ANC, better sound quality, enhanced battery life, refined design, clearer call quality.
- Average Price: ~$149
- Pros: Significant upgrades over Ear 1, more premium feel, robust app features.
- Cons: Higher price point than the original, still relatively new in the market.
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- Key Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality LDAC support, long battery life, comfortable fit, powerful accompanying app.
- Average Price: ~$279
- Pros: Best-in-class ANC, audiophile-grade sound, excellent call quality, premium build.
- Cons: Higher price, larger charging case, fit might not be universal for all ears.
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- Key Features: Seamless Apple ecosystem integration, excellent ANC and Transparency Mode, Spatial Audio, MagSafe charging, improved H2 chip.
- Average Price: ~$249
- Pros: Unmatched Apple device connectivity, superb ANC, immersive audio experience, comfortable for long wear.
- Cons: Premium price, limited customization for Android users, sound profile might not appeal to all.
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- Key Features: Hi-Fi 24-bit audio, enhanced ANC, comfortable ergonomic design, seamless Samsung device pairing, 360 Audio.
- Average Price: ~$229
- Pros: Great sound for Samsung users, effective ANC, compact design, good call quality.
- Cons: Full features mostly for Samsung users, battery life is decent but not class-leading.
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- Key Features: MultiSensor Voice technology for clear calls, adjustable ANC, long battery life 30 hours with case, IP57 dust and water resistance.
- Average Price: ~$199
- Pros: Excellent call quality, durable design, customizable sound and ANC, good for active lifestyles.
- Cons: ANC is good but not top-tier, fit can be a bit tricky for some, companion app required for full features.
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Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
- Key Features: Audiophile-grade sound, adaptive noise cancellation, customizable sound via app, comfortable fit, IPX4 splash resistance.
- Pros: Superb sound quality, effective adaptive ANC, premium build, strong brand reputation for audio.
- Cons: Battery life is average, price is on the higher side, touch controls can be sensitive.
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- Key Features: Strong noise cancellation, Hi-Res audio support, long battery life up to 10 hours per charge, affordable price point, comprehensive app.
- Average Price: ~$99
- Pros: Excellent value for money, impressive ANC for the price, robust battery life, comfortable fit.
- Cons: Sound quality is good but not elite, plastic build feels less premium than some rivals.
The Nothing Ear 1 arrived with a splash, aiming to disrupt the true wireless earbud market with a distinctive design and a promise of premium features at an accessible price.
Did it hit the mark? Let’s dive deep into what made the Ear 1 a fascinating, if imperfect, contender.
Design and Build Quality: A Clear Statement
Nothing made it abundantly clear from the outset: the Ear 1 was all about design. Its transparent aesthetic was a bold departure from the sea of monochromatic earbuds. This wasn’t just a gimmick. it was a carefully considered choice that allowed users to glimpse the internal circuitry, wires, and magnets, creating a unique visual appeal.
The Transparent Aesthetic: A Double-Edged Sword
The defining feature of the Ear 1 was undoubtedly its transparent case and earbud stems. This design choice garnered significant attention, making it stand out from competitors.
- Unmistakable Look: The clear plastic shell showcased the inner workings, giving it a futuristic, almost deconstructed vibe. This visual identity was strong and divisive – you either loved it or you didn’t.
- Case Intrigue: The charging case itself mimicked the transparent theme, featuring a concave center that perfectly cradled the earbuds and a prominent red dot for the right earbud, adding a touch of playful detail. The haptic feedback on opening and closing the case was also a nice touch.
- Material Choices: While the transparency was captivating, the choice of plastic for the majority of the build felt a little less premium in hand than some competitors. It was lightweight, which was a plus for portability, but perhaps not as durable as metal or more robust composites.
- Fingerprint Magnet: The transparent surfaces were prone to attracting fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent wiping to maintain their pristine look. This was a minor but consistent aesthetic upkeep.
Ergonomics and Fit: Comfort for Most
Beyond the visuals, the physical comfort of the Ear 1 was a key consideration.
Nothing aimed for a lightweight, secure fit that could be worn for extended periods.
- Lightweight Design: Each earbud weighed in at a mere 4.7 grams, making them incredibly light in the ear. This contributed significantly to long-term comfort, reducing ear fatigue.
- Silicone Tips: The Ear 1 came with three sizes of silicone ear tips small, medium, large to help users achieve a proper seal. A good seal is crucial for both sound quality and effective active noise cancellation.
- Stem-Based Form Factor: Like many popular earbuds, the Ear 1 adopted a stem-based design, which helped with stability in the ear and also provided a natural grip point for adjustments.
- Secure, But Not Universal: While many users found the fit comfortable and secure for general use, including light exercise, the ergonomic contours might not have been a perfect match for every ear shape. Some users reported needing to readjust occasionally, especially during more vigorous activities.
Audio Quality: Surprisingly Capable
For a first-generation product from a new company, the Nothing Ear 1 delivered a surprisingly competent audio experience.
It wasn’t audiophile-grade, but it certainly punched above its weight class, especially considering its price point.
Sound Profile: Balanced with a Hint of Bass
Nothing equipped the Ear 1 with 11.6mm dynamic drivers, which are fairly large for true wireless earbuds, typically allowing for a more expansive sound.
- Default Tuning: The default sound profile leaned towards a balanced signature with a pleasant emphasis on the lower frequencies. Bass was present and punchy without being overwhelming or muddy, providing a satisfying thump for most genres.
- Mid-Range Clarity: Vocals and instruments in the mid-range were generally clear and well-defined, not getting lost behind the bass. This made podcasts and vocal-heavy tracks enjoyable.
- Treble Presence: Treble was clear but not overly bright or harsh, avoiding sibilance sharp ‘s’ sounds that can be fatiguing. It offered enough sparkle to bring out details without being fatiguing.
- Soundstage and Imaging: While not expansive, the soundstage was decent for true wireless earbuds, offering a reasonable sense of space. Instrument separation was competent, allowing listeners to discern different elements in a mix.
Customization via the Ear 1 App
To fine-tune the listening experience, Nothing provided a dedicated companion app, aptly named Ear 1.
- Equalizer Presets: The app included several preset EQ options, such as “Balanced,” “More Bass,” “More Treble,” and “Voice,” allowing users to quickly adjust the sound to their preference or the type of content they were listening to.
- No Manual EQ: A notable omission was the lack of a fully customizable manual equalizer. While presets were helpful, power users might have missed the ability to fine-tune individual frequency bands. This limitation was somewhat addressed in later models.
- Firmware Updates: The app also served as the hub for firmware updates, which were crucial for addressing early bugs, improving performance, and adding new features. Nothing was relatively good at pushing out updates to enhance the user experience.
Active Noise Cancellation ANC and Transparency Mode: A Mixed Bag
One of the standout features at its price point was the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation ANC. While not on par with the absolute best in the market like Sony or Bose, it was a commendable effort for a debut product.
ANC Performance: Decent, Not Dominant
The Ear 1 offered three levels of ANC: Light, Maximum, and Transparency Mode. Hp Stream 11 2021 Review
- Low-Frequency Reduction: The ANC was most effective at reducing consistent, low-frequency hums, such as the rumble of an airplane engine, bus noise, or the drone of an HVAC system. It could significantly dampen these sounds, making commutes more peaceful.
- Mid to High Frequencies: Where it struggled more was with mid-range sounds like chatter in an office and sudden, high-pitched noises. While it did offer some reduction, these sounds were still discernible.
- Environmental Impact: In a quiet office, the ANC was subtle but noticeable. In a bustling café, it took the edge off but didn’t create a cone of silence. For the price, its performance was respectable, certainly better than no ANC at all.
- Wind Noise: Like many earbuds, wind noise could sometimes interfere with the ANC performance, creating a slight rustling sound.
Transparency Mode: Hear Your Surroundings
Transparency Mode or Ambient Mode allows external sounds to pass through the earbuds, enabling users to stay aware of their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
- Natural Sound Passthrough: The Ear 1’s Transparency Mode was generally effective, providing a relatively natural sound passthrough. Voices came through clearly, allowing for conversations.
- Microphone Quality: The quality of the microphones used for Transparency Mode was decent, ensuring that external sounds didn’t sound overly digitized or artificial.
- Situational Awareness: This feature was particularly useful for crossing streets, listening for announcements, or having quick chats without having to pause podcast or take out the earbuds.
Connectivity and Controls: A Few Hiccups
Seamless connectivity and intuitive controls are paramount for true wireless earbuds.
The Ear 1 generally delivered, but there were some initial inconsistencies.
Bluetooth 5.2: Stable but Not Flawless
The Ear 1 utilized Bluetooth 5.2, offering improved stability, efficiency, and range compared to older Bluetooth versions.
- Initial Pairing: Pairing with devices was generally straightforward and quick.
- Connection Stability: For the most part, the connection was stable within typical range around 10 meters/33 feet. However, some early users reported occasional dropouts or stutters, particularly in crowded wireless environments. Firmware updates aimed to mitigate these issues.
- Single Earbud Use: The Ear 1 supported using either earbud independently, which was a convenient feature for calls or extending listening time.
Touch Controls: Customizable but Finicky
The Ear 1 featured touch-sensitive panels on the stems of each earbud for control.
- Customization via App: The Ear 1 app allowed users to customize the touch controls for various gestures:
- Double Tap: Play/Pause, Skip Forward, Skip Back, ANC/Transparency Toggle.
- Triple Tap: Skip Forward, Skip Back, ANC/Transparency Toggle.
- Tap and Hold: ANC/Transparency Toggle, Volume Up, Volume Down.
- Pinch: Added later via firmware update for more reliable control, primarily for ANC modes.
- Initial Responsiveness: Early feedback often highlighted inconsistencies in touch responsiveness. Gestures sometimes required multiple attempts, especially the tap and hold.
- Accidental Touches: The sensitivity of the touch panels occasionally led to accidental activations when adjusting the earbuds in the ear.
- Pinch Control Improvement: The introduction of pinch controls via a firmware update was a significant improvement, offering a more tactile and reliable method for controlling ANC modes. This demonstrated Nothing’s commitment to refining the user experience post-launch.
Battery Life and Charging: Decent, But Not Leading
Battery life is a critical factor for true wireless earbuds, especially for users on the go.
The Nothing Ear 1 offered competitive battery life, though it didn’t set new benchmarks.
Earbud Playback: Up to 5.7 Hours
Nothing claimed up to 5.7 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC off, and around 4 hours with ANC on.
- Real-World Performance: In practical use, these figures were generally achievable, though ANC usage, volume levels, and call duration could impact actual battery life. For most casual listeners, this was sufficient for daily commutes, workouts, or short listening sessions.
- Comparison to Competitors: At launch, this was a respectable figure, although some premium competitors offered longer single-charge playback times, especially with ANC enabled.
Charging Case and Total Playtime: 34 Hours
The charging case provided multiple additional charges, extending the total listening time.
- Case Charges: The case held enough power for approximately 34 hours of total listening time with ANC off and around 24 hours with ANC on, including the earbud’s internal battery. This was a strong point, ensuring multiple days of use without needing to find a wall outlet.
- USB-C Charging: The case charged via a ubiquitous USB-C port, which was convenient and widely adopted.
- Wireless Charging: A premium feature at its price, the Ear 1 also supported Qi wireless charging, adding a layer of convenience for those with wireless charging pads. This was a definite perk and not always found on earbuds in this price range.
- Fast Charging: Nothing stated that a 10-minute charge could provide up to 8 hours of listening time earbuds + case, ANC off. This “fast charge” capability was useful for quick top-ups.
Call Quality: Clear, But Room for Improvement
For many, earbuds are not just for listening to podcast but also for making and receiving calls. The Nothing Ear 1 featured three high-definition microphones per earbud for call clarity and noise reduction. Lenovo Ideapad 3 15 2021 Review
Environmental Noise Reduction: Varies by Scenario
The triple microphone setup aimed to provide clear voice pickup while simultaneously reducing ambient noise.
- Quiet Environments: In quiet indoor environments, the call quality was generally excellent. Voices sounded clear, natural, and easily understandable to the person on the other end.
- Moderate Noise: In moderately noisy environments e.g., a busy street with distant traffic, a quiet café, the Ear 1 did a decent job of isolating the voice from background sounds. The microphones successfully reduced some of the ambient chatter.
- Windy or Very Noisy Conditions: This was where the Ear 1, like many true wireless earbuds, struggled somewhat. Strong winds could significantly degrade call clarity, and in very loud environments e.g., extremely busy traffic, crowded public transport, voices could sound muffled or be partially obscured by background noise.
- Overall Impression: For most everyday calls in typical environments, the Ear 1 performed adequately. It wasn’t class-leading in noise suppression for calls, but it was certainly usable for general communication.
Software and User Experience: A Work in Progress
The success of a new tech product often hinges on its accompanying software and the overall user experience.
The Nothing Ear 1, as a first-generation product, demonstrated a commitment to improvement through updates.
Ear 1 App: Essential for Full Functionality
The dedicated Ear 1 app available on iOS and Android was crucial for unlocking and customizing the full potential of the earbuds.
- Key App Features:
- ANC Control: Toggling between Light, Maximum, and Transparency modes.
- Equalizer Presets: Adjusting the sound profile.
- Touch Control Customization: Remapping gestures to preferred functions.
- Find My Earbud: A feature to locate misplaced earbuds by playing a loud sound.
- Fit Test: A helpful tool to ensure a proper ear tip seal for optimal sound and ANC.
- Firmware Updates: Delivering bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features.
- User Interface: The app featured a clean, minimalist interface that aligned with Nothing’s overall design philosophy. It was generally intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Importance of Updates: Crucially, many of the initial rough edges of the Ear 1 were smoothed out through firmware updates. This included improvements to touch control responsiveness, ANC performance, and connection stability. This showed that Nothing was actively listening to user feedback and committed to improving the product post-launch.
Latency: Acceptable for Most Use Cases
Latency, or the delay between audio and video, is a concern for gaming and video consumption.
- Video Streaming: For streaming video content on platforms like YouTube or Netflix, the latency was generally negligible. Audio remained in sync with visuals, providing a smooth viewing experience.
- Mobile Gaming: While casual mobile gaming was fine, competitive gamers might have noticed a slight delay, though it wasn’t severe enough to be a deal-breaker for most. Nothing didn’t specifically market these as gaming earbuds, so the performance was expected.
Long-Term Value and the Nothing Ecosystem
When evaluating any tech product, considering its long-term value and its place within a broader ecosystem is important.
The Nothing Ear 1 was the inaugural product for a company with ambitious plans.
Durability and Longevity: Early Impressions
While impossible to definitively judge longevity at launch, initial build quality impressions provided some clues.
- IPX4 Rating: The Ear 1 carried an IPX4 splash-resistant rating, meaning it could withstand sweat and light rain, making it suitable for workouts and outdoor use. It was not designed for submersion.
- Scratches and Smudges: As mentioned, the transparent plastic was prone to fingerprints and potentially minor scratches over time with rough handling. The charging case, in particular, could show wear.
- Firmware Support: Nothing’s commitment to regular firmware updates was a positive sign for long-term usability, as it meant the earbuds would continue to receive performance enhancements and bug fixes.
The Nothing Ecosystem: A Growing Vision
The Ear 1 was just the beginning of Nothing’s journey.
It laid the foundation for future products, including the Phone 1 and Ear stick, and more recently, the Ear 2. Gigabyte Radeon Rx 6600 Xt Gaming Oc Pro 8G Review
- Design Language Consistency: The transparent design language established with the Ear 1 has been carried forward into subsequent Nothing products, creating a distinct and recognizable brand identity.
- App Integration: The Ear 1 app evolved into the Nothing X app, which now serves as a central hub for controlling all Nothing audio products. This unified app experience is crucial for building a cohesive ecosystem.
- Brand Identity: The Ear 1 played a vital role in establishing Nothing as a brand focused on unique design, user experience, and a somewhat rebellious approach to consumer tech. Its success paved the way for more ambitious projects.
- Software Enhancements: Nothing has continued to refine its software experience across its product line, indicating a commitment to improving the user journey beyond just hardware releases. This includes further improvements to ANC algorithms, sound customization options, and connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main features of Nothing Ear 1?
The main features of Nothing Ear 1 include Active Noise Cancellation ANC, Transparency Mode, 11.6mm dynamic drivers for balanced sound, Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, Qi wireless charging, and a distinctive transparent design.
Is Nothing Ear 1 good for phone calls?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 is decent for phone calls in quiet to moderately noisy environments, thanks to its triple microphone setup for voice pickup and noise reduction. However, performance can be impacted by very loud or windy conditions.
Does Nothing Ear 1 have a strong bass?
Nothing Ear 1 has a present and punchy bass that is satisfying without being overpowering, offering a balanced sound profile with a slight low-end emphasis.
Is Nothing Ear 1 waterproof?
No, Nothing Ear 1 is not waterproof, but it is IPX4 splash-resistant, meaning it can withstand sweat and light rain, making it suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
How long does the Nothing Ear 1 battery last?
Nothing Ear 1 offers up to 5.7 hours of listening time per charge ANC off, and the charging case extends the total listening time to 34 hours ANC off. With ANC on, playback is approximately 4 hours per charge and 24 hours total.
Can I customize the controls on Nothing Ear 1?
Yes, you can customize the touch controls on Nothing Ear 1 using the dedicated Ear 1 app, allowing you to remap gestures like double tap, triple tap, and tap-and-hold or pinch, for later firmware to various functions.
Is the transparent design durable?
The transparent design of Nothing Ear 1 is made of plastic, which is lightweight but can be prone to fingerprints and minor scratches over time with regular use. It’s generally durable enough for everyday handling.
Does Nothing Ear 1 have a companion app?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 has a companion app called Ear 1 now evolved into Nothing X that allows for ANC control, equalizer presets, touch control customization, firmware updates, and other settings.
What Bluetooth version does Nothing Ear 1 use?
Nothing Ear 1 uses Bluetooth 5.2, which provides stable connectivity, improved efficiency, and a decent range for wireless listening.
Does Nothing Ear 1 support wireless charging?
Yes, the charging case for Nothing Ear 1 supports Qi wireless charging, in addition to USB-C charging, offering convenient power options. Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Classic Review
Is Active Noise Cancellation on Nothing Ear 1 effective?
The Active Noise Cancellation ANC on Nothing Ear 1 is effective at reducing low-frequency hums like engine noise and generally good for its price point, though it may not completely block out mid to high-frequency sounds or sudden noises as effectively as premium competitors.
Can I use only one Nothing Ear 1 earbud at a time?
Yes, you can use either the left or right Nothing Ear 1 earbud independently for calls or listening, making it versatile for single-ear usage.
How do I update the firmware on Nothing Ear 1?
You can update the firmware on your Nothing Ear 1 earbuds through the Ear 1 or Nothing X companion app. The app will notify you when updates are available and guide you through the process.
Is the sound quality of Nothing Ear 1 good for podcast?
Yes, the sound quality of Nothing Ear 1 is surprisingly good for podcast, offering a balanced sound profile with clear vocals, decent instrument separation, and punchy bass from its 11.6mm dynamic drivers.
Does Nothing Ear 1 come with different ear tip sizes?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 comes with three sizes of silicone ear tips small, medium, large to help users achieve a comfortable and secure fit for optimal sound and ANC performance.
What is the difference between Nothing Ear 1 and Nothing Ear 2?
Nothing Ear 2 is the successor to Ear 1, featuring improvements in ANC, sound quality, battery life, call clarity, and overall build, offering a more refined and premium experience compared to the original.
Are Nothing Ear 1 comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 earbuds are very lightweight 4.7 grams each and designed for comfort, making them suitable for long listening sessions without causing significant ear fatigue for most users.
Does Nothing Ear 1 have a low-latency mode for gaming?
Nothing Ear 1 does not feature a dedicated “low-latency gaming mode,” but its Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity provides acceptable latency for general video consumption. however, competitive gamers might notice a slight delay.
What kind of microphones does Nothing Ear 1 use for calls?
Nothing Ear 1 uses three high-definition microphones per earbud to enhance call clarity and reduce environmental noise during phone conversations.
Can I find my lost Nothing Ear 1 earbuds?
Yes, the Ear 1 or Nothing X app includes a “Find My Earbud” feature that allows you to play a loud sound from your earbuds to help locate them if they are misplaced nearby. Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5I 14 2021 Review
What is the price range of Nothing Ear 1?
Upon release, Nothing Ear 1 was typically priced around $99-$129, positioning it as a competitive option with ANC at an accessible price point.
How do I switch between ANC and Transparency Mode on Nothing Ear 1?
You can switch between ANC and Transparency Mode on Nothing Ear 1 using touch controls typically a tap-and-hold gesture, or a pinch on later firmware or directly through the Ear 1 / Nothing X companion app.
Does Nothing Ear 1 have an in-ear detection feature?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 supports in-ear detection, which automatically pauses podcast when you take an earbud out and resumes when you put it back in.
Is Nothing Ear 1 compatible with both iOS and Android devices?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, offering full functionality through its companion app on both platforms.
What accessories come with Nothing Ear 1?
Nothing Ear 1 typically comes with the charging case, USB-C charging cable, and multiple sizes of silicone ear tips S, M, L.
How quickly does Nothing Ear 1 charge?
Nothing Ear 1 offers a “fast charge” feature where a 10-minute charge can provide up to 8 hours of listening time earbuds + case, ANC off. A full charge of the earbuds usually takes about an hour, and the case takes longer.
Are there different color options for Nothing Ear 1?
Nothing Ear 1 was primarily known for its transparent white design. A black version was also released later, maintaining the transparent aesthetic.
Can I use voice assistants with Nothing Ear 1?
Yes, you can activate your device’s native voice assistant e.g., Siri, Google Assistant through a customizable touch control gesture on the Nothing Ear 1.
What kind of sound drivers are in Nothing Ear 1?
Nothing Ear 1 features 11.6mm dynamic drivers, designed to deliver a balanced and powerful audio experience.
Was Nothing Ear 1 successful for the company?
Yes, Nothing Ear 1 was critically and commercially successful for Nothing, helping the company establish its brand, unique design philosophy, and gain significant attention in the consumer tech market as its debut product. Ryver Review
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