The innovative Nothing over-ear headphones have been making waves in the audio industry since their debut in 2025, showcasing a distinct industrial design, remarkable battery longevity, and active noise cancellation (ANC) that competes with industry leaders like JBL and Sony. Recently launched in 2026, the Nothing Headphone(a) offers a more budget-friendly option compared to the flagship model, while still incorporating many premium features and an appealing aesthetic. Currently, these headphones are available at a historic low price of $169, down from the original $199, marking a 15% discount.
These wireless ANC headphones have garnered accolades, including the PCMag Editors' Choice Award, thanks to their exceptional battery life, outstanding sound quality, and efficient noise cancellation capabilities. They can deliver up to 135 hours of playback with ANC and AAC codec disabled, and 75 hours with ANC activated. A quick five-minute charge provides up to eight minutes of listening time, while a full recharge takes just two hours. The accompanying app allows users to switch between listening modes, control the filtering of high and low-frequency sounds, and activate Transparency mode.
According to PCMag, the audio quality is described as "rich, bright, and bass-heavy." The enhanced bass is achieved through the More Bass EQ preset, which maintains a balance without overshadowing the mids and highs. Equipped with 40mm dynamic drivers and a frequency response of 20-40kHz, these headphones have earned Hi-Res Audio certification.
Employing four HD microphones, the headphones effectively capture voice clarity while minimizing background noise. Although this is a slight downgrade from the six microphones found in the Headphone(1), they still retain many features, such as ANC, spatial audio with head tracking, LDAC high-res codec support, and USB-C lossless audio. The primary differences lie in material quality, aesthetics, and subtle sound tuning variations. While the earcups remain comfortable, they are not as plush as those on the flagship model.
For those who prefer a more understated appearance, the Nothing(a) may be the ideal choice, offering superior battery life and a lighter design for enhanced comfort and portability. If you seek a long-lasting, feature-rich pair of over-ear ANC headphones that deliver impressive sound quality alongside stylish looks, the Nothing Headphone(a) stands out as a compelling option.