Nothing Headphone (1) vs. AirPods Max, Sony XM6, and Bose QC — who wins?

The Nothing Headphones (1) are formally right here and might be bought for the comparatively attainable value of $299. There hasn’t been this a lot hype round a headphone design since, effectively, the AirPods Max, which speaks to their reputation proper now.

The UK model’s signature translucent aesthetic has been one of many greatest developments within the wi-fi audio sector, inspiring rival manufacturers (e.g., Beats, Sony) to repeat this style for choose true wi-fi releases. Their debut headphones are the corporate’s boldest launch up to now and pay homage to classic audio merchandise, like FM radio headsets and the Sony Walkman. 

Evaluations for the Headphones (1) have been typically constructive (I scored them 4.4 out of 5 for my Mashable evaluate). I used to be impressed with their adaptive lively noise cancellation, hi-res sound, and prolonged playtimes, however was disenchanted of their wi-fi efficiency and look. (What can I say, the aesthetic is find it irresistible or hate it.)

For those who’re significantly contemplating the Headphones (1) as your subsequent over-ear improve, then you definately’ll wish to know the way they examine to the perfect headphones of the 12 months. Particularly, the Massive Three: the AirPods Max, Bose QuietComfort Extremely, and Sony WH-1000XM6. You may additionally be eager about how they fare in opposition to different newcomers. I’ve received you lined.

Right here’s a breakdown of the Nothing Headphones (1) versus the sphere — it is all or Nothing.

Nothing Headphones (1) vs. Sony XM6 headphones

The $449 Sony WH-1000XM6 are far more costly than the Headphones (1). They’re thought of the finest sound-first headphones by many and an enchancment over the critically acclaimed WH-1000XM5. Do the Headphones (1) stand an opportunity?

Battery life: The Headphones (1) last more on a single cost. Anticipate as much as 35 hours of noise cancellation and as much as 80 hours of playback when disabling the function. That’s 5 hours extra in ANC mode and double the listening time with ANC off than Sony provides. Fast charging goes to the WH-1000XM6: a 3-minute cost generates 3 hours of playtime. This requires a USB-PD (energy supply) appropriate cost. Nothing’s fast charging isn’t too far behind with a 5-minute cost netting you 5 hours of use.

Noise cancellation: The WH-1000xM6 have superior noise cancellation. These headphones get rid of near 90 p.c of noise and suppress high-frequency sounds at a excessive stage. Sony’s 20-level transparency mode additionally does a outstanding job of accelerating ambient consciousness. Nothing’s real-time ANC successfully optimizes noise neutralization for all environments. I used to be shocked by how effectively the Headphones (1) silenced most low- and mid-frequency sounds. Their transparency mode was simply as rewarding, although some noises sounded tinny. 

Sound efficiency: Solely a handful of firms can compete with Sony’s wi-fi audio. Nothing isn’t one in every of them. Regardless of having KEF-engineered drivers, the Headphones (1) lack the WH-1000xM6’s dynamic vary and personalization. Sony’s headphones function a extra balanced soundstage, stabler bass, and varied proprietary applied sciences that improve audio. These embrace DSEE upscaling, Equalizer with quite a few preprogrammed presets, and smooth-streaming LDAC codec assist. You must tinker with the Headphones (1)’s EQ and allow LDAC to get the perfect audio doable. In any other case, songs sound compressed with restricted element. Nothing’s spatial is OK. Sony’s 360 Actuality Audio platform is extra convincing. Lossless playback is equally satisfying over USB-C connection.

Usability: You’re taking a look at two of the perfect multiplatform headphones round. They’ve companion apps (iOS/Android) and assist fashionable Android options like one-tap Google Quick Pair. Connectivity goes to Sony. Multipoint expertise (pair to 2 gadgets concurrently) is extra dependable on the XM6 and doesn’t trigger stuttering just like the Headphones (1). Controls additionally go to Sony. The XM6 have meticulous movement detection, bodily/contact inputs, and voice help. I like the Headphones (1)’s distinctive controls, particularly the multifunctional curler for seamless quantity adjustment and paddle for observe administration. Nonetheless, their iffy voice help and horrible put on detection depart a lot to be desired.

Must you purchase Nothing Headphone (1) or Sony XM6 Headphones?

The Nothing Headphones (1) would possibly get you extra to your greenback, however the Sony WH-1000XM6 win out with class-leading efficiency. Nonetheless, if you cannot afford the $450 value of entry for flagship headphones, then the $299 Nothing cans are a greater than worthy different.

Mashable Mild Velocity

Nothing Headphone (1) vs. Apple AirPods Max

These two smartphone makers are actually duking it out within the over-ear headphone market. Apple lately up to date its flagship headphones with lossless audio, USB-C charging, and… not a lot else. The Headphones (1) ought to have this within the bag. Proper?

Battery life: That is the one class the place Nothing destroys Apple. The AirPods Max obtain a measly 20 hours per cost, whereas the Headphones (1) get between 35 to 80 hours of playtime, relying how you employ them. Fast charging is stronger on the Headphones (1). You’ll earn 5 hours on a 5-minute cost versus the AirPods Max’s 1.5 hours in the identical charging time.

Noise cancellation: Nothing’s ANC is up there with Bose and Sony, no less than primarily based on Mashable’s testing to date. Apple’s shouldn’t be. I’ve worn the Headphones (1) in a number of environments and have hardly ever been caught off guard by the fracas round me. Not all the pieces goes unnoticed (i.e., my crying child). Nonetheless, the Headphone (1) reduce high-frequency sounds higher than the AirPods Max. It’s arduous to guage between the 2 transparency modes. Each are strong. I am leaning towards Apple’s model because it makes ambient noise sound extra pure.

Sound efficiency: The Headphones (1) are extra appropriate for traditional listening, and the AirPods Max are perfect for 3D audio. Nothing provides extra hi-res playback choices through lossless audio over Bluetooth and USB-C connector. The AirPods Max solely present the latter, and the outcomes are nice. Bluetooth playback is the place the AirPods Max stumble; the usual AAC codec lacks the readability and nuance delivered by LDAC on the Headphones (1). Apple’s spatial audio creates immersive stereo sound that locations you in the midst of stay performances. The Headphones (1) have respectable spatial audio with raised acoustics. That’s about it.

Usability: Apple’s intuitive ecosystem permits for flawless interconnectivity with all appropriate model gadgets. The Headphones (1) don’t function as intuitively because the AirPods Max do on iOS/macOS, however they carry out nice. They’re additionally extra Android pleasant (e.g., Google Quick Pair) and may pair to 2 audio sources on the similar time, granted the expertise isn’t as polished as it’s on different headphones. A number of options on the AirPods Max are disabled when utilizing an Android telephone, like Siri voice help. The Nothing model makes most options out there on each platforms through companion app. The AirPods Max have a extra versatile management scheme, highlighted by the Digital Crown (aka the multifunctional dial) and unbeatable “Hey Siri” voice activation. As beforehand acknowledged, the Headphones (1)’s curler and paddle controls are environment friendly, however their spotty voice help and put on detection diminish performance. 

Ought to I purchase Nothing Headphone (1) or AirPods Max?

As handy and high-performance because the AirPods Max are for iOS/macOS customers, the Headphones (1) beat their foe in most classes, and accomplish that at practically half the worth. There is a motive the AirPods Max are conspicuously lacking from our information to the perfect headphones.

Nothing Headphone (1) vs. Bose QuietComfort Extremely

The Bose QuietComfort Extremely presently stand because the finest noise-canceling headphones total. This a steep hill for any newcomer to climb, and Nothing places its finest foot ahead, even when the result isn’t favorable. However there’s extra to this battle than simply noise cancellation.  

Battery life: Nothing pulls off the trifecta and beats the Massive Three in playtimes. As much as 80 hours of listening time (35 hours with ANC on) is ample for a number of weeks of average use. Battery life stays Bose’s kryptonite. Not solely do the QC Extremely max out at 24 hours, however their fast charging is weaker: 2.5 hours on a 15-minute cost versus 5 hours on a 5-minute cost. 

Noise cancellation: The QC Extremely show why Bose is the King of ANC. Adaptive algorithms and extra strategically positioned mics produce elite noise discount. It takes extremely loud commotions to disrupt the soundstage, particularly when ANC is about to stage 10. No matter breaks by will sound like background results on songs. Bose’s Conscious Mode precisely picks up ambient noise. The Headphones (1) have excellent noise-canceling and transparency modes, however they don’t block out or seize as a lot ambient noise because the QC Extremely.

Sound efficiency: Bose will get the nod solely on spatial audio. Its common Immersive Audio mode works with all stereo content material, that means you should utilize the function with virtually any media gadget and soak up distinctive 360-degree sound. The QC Extremely additionally make the most of proprietary CustomTune expertise to personalize audio primarily based on the distinctive properties of your ear and ear canal. It really works surprisingly effectively and produces well-balanced frequencies. Then there’s aptX Adaptive codec assist for detailed, hi-res playback with minimal latency. The Headphones (1) include extra lossless playback choices (LDAC and USB-C), each of which ship clear, dynamic sound. It’s the restrictive soundstage and so-so spatial audio that stop Nothing’s wi-fi cans for making a much bigger sonic splash.

Usability: Working the Headphones (1) is far more enjoyable, due to the paddle and curler on the proper earcup for observe administration and quantity, respectively. If solely their digital help and put on detection had been on level. The QC Extremely’s bodily button scheme, voice activation, and put on detection all work effectively. Connectivity is stronger on Bose’s headphones. Vary extends as much as 40 toes when in multipoint mode earlier than stutter happens. Stepping previous the 20-foot mark causes some dropout on the Headphones (1). Each fashions pair immediately to iOS/macOS and Android gadgets and have serviceable companion apps.

Which is the higher funding? That is one other situation the place the Headphones (1) get you extra bang to your buck. Nonetheless, the QC Extremely current the absolute-best noise cancellation and spatial audio cash can purchase. They’re additionally essentially the most comfy headphones Mashable has ever examined, and excellent for lengthy flights. To not point out these headphones are sometimes on sale (I’ve seen them go for as little as $299), making them simply as inexpensive because the Headphones (1) throughout annual purchasing occasions like Amazon Prime Day. 

How do the Nothing Headphones examine to different prime contenders?

The $449 JBL Tour One M3 come to thoughts. These are feature-rich headphones with sturdy ANC and a distant controller that doubles as a transmitter to connect with any audio supply. The upper MSRP interprets to extra options and stronger audio efficiency. Some customers could discover the Headphones (1)’s ease of use and putting ANC extra interesting for the worth. One other mannequin price contemplating is the $399 Sonos Ace, which have partaking sound and incredible ecosystem integration for Sonos soundbar homeowners. App assist, noise cancellation, and playtimes are better on the Headphones (1), nevertheless.

Curious how the Nothing Headphones (1) examine to mid-range gems just like the $199 Sony ULT Put on or a few of the finest headphones underneath $100? Give us your suggestions and we could put collectively one other comparability piece sooner or later.

So, do you have to purchase the Nothing Headphone (1)?

I reviewed the Nothing headphones for Mashable, and total, it was a really constructive evaluate. Whereas these lose out on a technical stage to some elite flagships, I really like them higher than the Apple AirPods Max, which value much more. And in the event you’re a fan of Nothing’s retro-futuristic aesthetic, then I believe you will be more than happy with these cans.

Here is the underside line: If you need the perfect headphones cash can purchase, I’ve to offer it as much as the XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Extremely over the Nothing Headphone (1). Nonetheless, that $299 price ticket is tough to withstand, and that is the one pair of over-ears that allows you to get true flagship high quality for underneath $300.