The latest launch from Nothing once again shows how much the company values creativity and how it constantly challenges conventions around modern tech.
After trying the Headphone (1) Pro for almost two weeks, I’m excited to share my thoughts.
Unboxing and the case
So what happens when you finally get the Headphone (1) Pro in your hands?
First, you probably scream with joy. Second, you can’t help but notice the shiny product shot on the box.
The unboxing is pleasant and satisfying, exactly what you’d expect from a brand like Nothing. When you open the box, the redesigned case is right there in front of you. When you separate the headphones from the case, you’ll notice that the weight splits almost evenly between the case and the headphones.
The case is a love-it-or-hate-it piece. It feels strong and secure. I’ll admit I was apprehensive about carrying the headphones in my bag with the headband exposed, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised: with countless other objects in there, both case and headphones still look brand new, without a scratch or mark.
Because of the way the case is designed, the product looks more like a fashion accessory than a pair of headphones in a case. The strap is not included (though the strap loops are). I see this as an opportunity rather than a limitation, since it allows every customer to use their own preferred strap, adding a level of personalisation.
Even though I wouldn’t wear the case with the strap because it doesn’t match my style, I can see why people will love it, and I’m sure I’ll soon be spotting people around London carrying it exactly like that.
Design
Aluminium, titanium and glass. In perfect Nothing style, you can see the components behind the glass. This is one element I hope Nothing will never change.
Every time I pick the headphones up, I’m struck by how smooth the surface is. Every matte surface (so everything but the glass) feels almost velvety, the rounded corners are pleasant and the soft components are silky and squishy.
Comfort
The ear cushions are really soft, and I like the way the headphones sit on my head without too much pressure. I often wore them for around five hours without taking them off and had no issues, which is great since I’m also wearing jewellery and glasses. If you’re wearing them around your neck, the ear pads rotate 90° so the cushions rest comfortably on your collarbone.
Setup and battery
Setup is straightforward: the headphones pair with your phone quickly and connect to the Nothing X app without issues (there’s a 3.5 mm audio cable included too). I noticed that they take about an hour and a half to two hours to fully charge.
Sound and features
Nothing says that the Headphone (1) Pro combines hardware-led sound, standout design and multi-use flexibility into a pair of headphones that moves naturally between studio work and casual listening.
My first impression, before changing a single setting, was that the sound was clear and full.
Once you start exploring Nothing X, the headphones obviously reach their full potential, and you can appreciate the work the team has put in, even if you’re not a sound expert.
I was able to appreciate songs that I love and constantly listen to in a deeper and fuller way, and more than once, I noticed details that I had completely missed before.
A couple of features that I noticed immediately and I wouldn’t want to give up are:
- Personal Sound Profile. Adds another layer of clarity, giving an even cleaner and more detailed sound.
- Dual device connection. One thing I noticed was that if you’re connected to a laptop and a phone and want to switch between them, you need to actively pause whatever you’re listening to on your first device before pressing play on the second one. The switch won’t happen automatically just because you pressed play on the other device. It depends on the situation, but this comes in handy because whatever you’re watching on your laptop isn’t interrupted as soon as you get a Reel in your feed.
What I’d change
I wish the headphones folded. When I’m carrying a bag or a backpack, they’re usually already full when I leave the house or will fill up as the day goes by, and the headphones become another bulky object to carry around.
I really enjoyed this launch and getting the chance to spend time with the Headphone (1) Pro. It’s been a pleasure trying them out and discovering everything they have to offer.
A special thanks to the Nothing team for allowing me to get my hands on this launch as part of the Nothing Community Review Programme.
