Nothing Headphone (1) – A Masterclass in Thoughtful Audio Engineering
After two decades in the tech and audio industry, I’ve seen countless headphones come and go, some gimmicky, some genuinely groundbreaking. Nothing’s debut over-ear offering, the Headphone (1), co-engineered with KEF, falls into the latter category. It’s not just another pair of premium headphones; it’s a statement of intent from a brand that refuses to follow the herd.
Pricing & Availability – Smart Market Play
Priced at ₹21,999 (with an introductory ₹19,999 offer on July 15, 2025), Nothing is positioning the Headphone (1) as a premium yet accessible option in India. The fact that they’re available across Flipkart, Myntra, Vijay Sales, Croma, and offline stores shows a well-thought-out distribution strategy, no exclusivity nonsense, just wide availability.
The 12-month No-Cost EMI option is a smart move, especially in a price-sensitive market like India. It lowers the entry barrier without devaluing the product.
Design & Build – Where Form Meets Function
Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic is here, but it’s not just for show. The use of aluminium, CNC-machined components, and PU memory foam tells me this is a product built to last. The oil-resistant ear cushions and ergonomic design suggest long-term comfort was a priority, something many brands overlook in pursuit of flashy looks.
Sound Engineering – KEF’s Expertise Shines
Partnering with KEF, a brand revered in high-fidelity audio, was a masterstroke. The custom 40mm drivers promise deep bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs, but what impresses me more is the real-time adaptive ANC with dual feedforward and feedback mics. ANC that actually adjusts to your environment? That’s pro-grade engineering.
The inclusion of LDAC, Hi-Res Audio, USB-C lossless, and a 3.5mm jack means these headphones cater to both wireless convenience and wired purists, a rare balance in today’s market.
Controls & Customisation – Intuitive Yet Powerful
The tactile roller, paddle, and button setup is refreshing. Too many brands rely on touch controls that fail when you need them most. Nothing’s approach? Precision and reliability.
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The customisable “Button” (via the Nothing X app) is where things get interesting. Channel Hop, a quick-switch between recent audio apps, is a feature I didn’t know I needed until now. The ability to trigger voice commands, launch News Reporter, or enter Essential Space (a voice-note quick-capture mode) shows deep UX thinking.
Battery & Extras – No Compromises
35 hours with ANC on is competitive, but the 5-minute charge for 2.4 hours of playback is where Nothing outsmarts competitors. That’s a lifesaver for frequent travelers.
The 8-band Advanced EQ in the app is another nod to audiophiles. Most brands give you a basic bass/treble slider, Nothing lets you fine-tune like a pro.
Final Verdict – A Strong Contender in the Premium Segment
The Nothing Headphone (1) isn’t just another pair of headphones—it’s a well-researched, meticulously engineered product that balances design, sound quality, and usability without compromise.
At ₹19,999 (launch offer), it’s aggressively priced against rivals like Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra. If Nothing delivers on its promises, this could be the sleeper hit of 2025.
Should you buy it? If you value distinctive design, adaptive ANC, and thoughtful features over brand hype, absolutely. This is what happens when a company actually listens to users instead of just chasing specs.
Launch Day Tip: Grab it on July 15 for the best deal—these will sell out fast.
