After two weeks with the Nothing ear (Open), I’m ready to share my thoughts on these unique earbuds. If you’re someone who dislikes the in-ear design and prefers something more open and comfortable, especially for sports or outdoor activities, these might just be what you’re looking for 😍
Starting with the design, Nothing maintains its iconic look, but the real game-changer is the silicone grip. Unlike previous models, the ear (Open) fit securely in place, even during intense workouts or long runs. They weigh only 8 grams, which is impressively light for open-type earbuds, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. The charging case, while a bit bulkier than what you might expect, is understandable given the format and the extra protection it offers.
One of the key highlights of the Nothing ear (Open) is their comfort, especially for glasses wearers. I had a few friends and family members try them out, and they all agreed that wearing these earbuds alongside glasses is hassle-free. The lack of rubber ear tips also means there’s no need to worry about different sizes, making them much more convenient. They sit lightly on the ears, creating a “barely-there” feel, which is perfect for long listening sessions 🎵
In terms of durability, these earbuds are IP54 certified, which means they offer solid protection against water splashes, sweat, and dust. I tested them during a rainy day, and they worked without any issues. While they aren’t fully waterproof, they provide enough protection for everyday use, especially during workouts or commutes.
When it comes to sound, you’ll have to adjust your expectations for an open-type earbud. There’s no active or passive noise cancellation, which could be a downside for those looking for complete isolation. However, the open design makes them perfect for outdoor activities, as they allow you to stay aware of your surroundings. The sound quality is surprisingly good, with clear mids and highs, and the bass is punchy enough for most listening situations. Nothing’s X software also enhances the experience, and the microphones are top-notch, delivering clear calls and meeting audio 🎙
Connectivity is another strong point. With Bluetooth 5.1, I didn’t experience any connection issues, and the multi-connection feature worked flawlessly. Switching between my Nothing Phone 2a and MacBook Pro was seamless, which made using the earbuds across multiple devices a breeze.
A standout feature is the integration of ChatGPT, available through the latest Nothing OS update. While it’s a fun feature to have, I didn’t find myself using it much, but it could be a handy tool for those who like interacting with AI directly from their earbuds 🧠
Battery life is impressive. I consistently got around 8 hours of use per charge, with the volume set between 50% and 60%, and with the charging case, the total battery life exceeded 30 hours. This makes them reliable for long days without constantly worrying about charging.
In conclusion, the Nothing ear (Open) is not meant to compete with Nothing’s in-ear models like the Ear A or Ear B. Instead, they’re aimed at a different audience—those who want high-quality sound while staying connected to their surroundings. If you’re into sports or prefer open earbuds for comfort, the Nothing ear (Open) are definitely worth trying ❤
