Nothing has just expanded its audio lineup with the exciting launch of the Nothing Headphone (a).
This new, budget-friendly option is crafted to share the brand’s unique style and features with a broader audience.
Unveiled alongside the Phone 4(a) series, these over-ear headphones are designed to offer much of the premium experience that Nothing’s high-end audio products provide — but at a much more accessible price.
See: Nothing Ear (4): Release Date, Price, Features & Wishlist
Familiar Design, Practical Approach
At first glance, the Headphone (a) looks unmistakably Nothing. The transparent-inspired design language remains intact, complete with the distinctive boxy ear cup housing that has become a visual hallmark for the company.
The physical controls are also thoughtfully laid out. Users get a dedicated power switch, a pairing button, a paddle for answering or rejecting calls, and a separate button for triggering virtual assistants, including ChatGPT.
The headphones also support dual-device connectivity, making it easy to switch between a laptop and smartphone.
An IP52 rating adds a layer of dust and water resistance, offering some reassurance for everyday use.
40mm Drivers and Wide Frequency Range
Under the hood, the Headphone (a) features 40mm dynamic drivers with a frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 40kHz. That wide range should ensure solid bass extension and crisp high-end detail for everyday listening.
The headphones support AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs. However, playback endurance varies depending on the codec and whether Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is enabled.
ANC and Transparency Mode
Active Noise Cancellation is one of the headline features. The Headphone (a) uses two dedicated microphones to cancel out ambient noise, with a rated reduction of up to 40dB.
A transparency mode is also included, allowing outside sound to pass through when needed — useful for commuting or quick conversations.
Massive Battery Life
Battery performance is where the Headphone (a) makes a strong impression.
It houses a 1,060mAh battery that can deliver up to 135 hours of AAC playback with ANC turned off. With ANC enabled, that figure drops to 75 hours.
If you’re using the higher-quality LDAC codec, battery life is rated at up to 72 hours without ANC and 50 hours with ANC activated.
Fast charging is supported via USB-C. Nothing claims a five-minute charge can provide up to eight hours of listening time, while a full charge takes roughly two hours.
Connectivity and Software
The Headphone (a) supports Bluetooth 5.4 and integrates with Nothing’s companion app, enabling users to manage settings and customize controls.
The low-latency support and multipoint connectivity further enhance its practicality for daily use.
Nothing Headphone (a) – Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 270 × 230 × 15 mm |
| Weight | 30 g |
| Drivers | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 40,000 Hz |
| Diaphragm | PEN+PU dome, Titanium-coated |
| Tuning | Nothing |
| Battery Capacity | 1060 mAh |
| Fast Charging | 5 min charge: 8h (ANC off), 5h (ANC on) |
| Playback (AAC) | 135h (ANC off), 75h (ANC on) |
| Playback (LDAC) | 90h (ANC off), 62h (ANC on) |
| Talk Time | 72h (ANC off), 50h (ANC on) |
| Type | Adaptive ANC (up to 40 dB) |
| Microphones | 4 total (2 Hybrid ANC per side), 3-mic call algorithm |
| Extra | Transparency Mode |
| Bluetooth | 5.4 (Range: 10 m) |
| Dual Connection | Yes |
| Supported OS | Android 5.1+, iOS 13+ |
| Codecs | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Integrations | Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair |
| Other | Low Latency Mode, Hi-Res Certified, LED Status, IP52 Rating |
Pricing and Availability
Nothing is offering the Headphone (a) in four color options: Black, White, Pink, and Yellow.
The headphones are priced at EUR 159 in Europe and are available globally starting today through Nothing’s official website and selected third-party retailers.
However, buyers interested in the Black or Yellow variants will need to wait until April 6 for retail availability.
With strong battery life, ANC support, and a distinctive design at a competitive price, the Nothing Headphone (a) positions itself as a compelling new option in the mid-range over-ear segment.
Source: Nothing
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
