Finding high-end over-ear headphones that combine striking industrial design with refined acoustic performance often means accepting major compromises. The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro aims to resolve the audio and usability shortcomings of earlier generations while keeping its signature transparent aesthetic intact.
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro ($399) refines its predecessor’s design with softer ear pads, physical hardware controls, a dedicated flat-EQ switch, and capable active noise cancellation. While audio clarity and noise suppression show marked improvements, a poorly designed carrying case and non-reassignable buttons remain key drawbacks for buyers comparing it against options like the $199 Headphone (a).
Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Specifications & Features
| Feature | Specification / Detail |
|---|---|
| Retail Price | $399 USD |
| Release Date | September 29 |
| Included Accessories | USB-C charging cable, 3.5mm audio cable, protective earcup shell |
| Physical Controls | Power switch, roller wheel, flapper switch, dedicated Flat-EQ switch, outer action button |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with wind noise suppression & ambient Transparency Mode |
| Equalizer Settings | Simple (3-Band), Advanced (Parametric), and Community Explore Profiles |
Refined Hardware Design and Daily Comfort
Visually, the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro builds upon the distinctive look of the original model. The transparent ear cups return, but the inner layout replaces the cassette tape styling with a clean view of internal components under smooth glass. The aluminum shell sloped toward the outer glass gives the device a polished, premium aesthetic.
Comfort receives a noticeable boost thanks to softer ear cup padding. While the softer material improves wearability during extended listening sessions, passive sound isolation drops slightly compared to denser ear pads. Nevertheless, the industrial design remains instantly recognizable without feeling overly loud.
Carrying Case Flaws and Missing Storage
The protective case bundled with the Headphone (1) Pro leaves much to be desired. Similar to the design strategy seen with the AirPods Max, the shell protects the earcups while leaving the headband completely exposed to open space. While it prevents physical damage to the primary housing, it offers zero overhead protection inside a crowded backpack.
Storage capacity inside the hard plastic shell is another oversight. The headphones ship with both a USB-C charging cord and a 3.5mm audio cable for wired listening, yet the case includes no internal compartment or slot to hold them. Tether anchor points are present on the exterior, but Nothing does not include an actual lanyard in the box.
Physical Controls and the Hardware Flat-EQ Toggle
Hardware control layout on the right earcup remains one of the best available on modern over-ear headphones. It includes a dedicated power switch, a USB-C port, a 3.5mm jack, a roller control, a flapper switch, a main action button, and a hidden Bluetooth pairing button. Right-handed users will find navigation intuitive, though left-handed listeners may face an adjustment period.
The left earcup features a standalone toggle: a hardware Flat-EQ switch. Flipping this switch instantly resets all frequency bands to zero, neutralizing software adjustments. While aimed primarily at audio purists who want an immediate baseline sound profile, it operates independently without interfering with standard usage.
Audio Performance and Software Tuning Options
Nothing parted ways with previous tuning partnerships for this release, resulting in a cleaner baseline audio output. Out of the box with flat EQ enabled, the sound profile emphasizes midrange frequencies with modest bass response. Highs and vocals remain crisp across genres ranging from rock to instrumental compositions without muddying instrument separation.
For listeners seeking deeper bass or customized soundstages, the mobile application provides three distinct equalizer tiers:
- Simple EQ: A basic three-band slider for adjustments to bass, midrange, and treble levels.
- Advanced EQ: A full parametric equalizer that provides granular control over specific frequency curves.
- Explore Tab: A community-driven library where users can upload, share, and download custom audio profiles.
One minor software limitation is the inability to fully remap key button functions. While the default control scheme is well-planned, users looking for complete button customization will find restricted options in the settings menu.
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Performance
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performs admirably, creating an effective seal against low-frequency background ambient noise. While flagship models from traditional audio brands still edge it out slightly in extreme environments, the ANC easily manages everyday office sounds and commuter noise. Wind isolation is particularly strong, dampening rushing air forces up to 22 miles per hour.
Transparency Mode delivers natural ambient sound awareness. It reduces the harsh sidetone effect—where a user’s own voice sounds muffled or amplified while speaking—making conversations feel clear without needing to remove the headset.
Pricing and Value Comparison
Launching at $399 on September 29 across Amazon, Best Buy, and Nothing’s official store, the Headphone (1) Pro enters a competitive price segment. It offers strong build quality, rich software options, and versatile physical controls that justify its position as a top-tier offering in Nothing’s lineup.
However, buyers seeking maximum value may still want to consider the $199 Nothing Headphone (a). While the budget variant lacks transparent design accents, aluminum cup elements, and the dedicated Flat-EQ switch, it delivers comparable noise cancellation and core audio performance at half the price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price and release date for the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro?
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro launches on September 29 for $399 USD. It is available directly through Nothing’s official website, Amazon, and Best Buy retail locations.
Does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro case store audio cables?
No, the included plastic case only protects the earcups and leaves the headband exposed. It does not feature internal compartments or slots to store the included USB-C or 3.5mm audio cables.
How does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro compare to the Headphone (a)?
The $399 Headphone (1) Pro features transparent styling, aluminum construction, softer ear pads, and a physical Flat-EQ switch. However, the $199 Headphone (a) offers similar active noise cancellation and sound performance, making it a stronger choice for value-focused shoppers.