Introduction:
U.K. tech startup Nothing has released its latest wireless earbuds, the Nothing Ear (a), and critics are impressed. Priced at $100, these earbuds offer great sound quality, effective noise cancellation, decent battery life, and a compact charging case. While there is one missing feature – Qi wireless charging – the overall consensus is that these earbuds provide excellent value for the price.
1. Great sound quality:
Nothing Ear (a) earbuds have received praise for their impressive sound quality. Compared to their predecessors, these third-generation earbuds offer a more open midrange, making it easier to hear layered acoustic guitars and piano. The sound is described as neutral and clinical, providing a robust listening experience. In comparison to Apple’s baseline AirPods, which cost $180, Nothing’s earbuds deliver superior sound at a significantly lower price point.
2. Effective noise cancellation:
One notable advantage of the Nothing Ear (a) earbuds is their active noise cancellation (ANC) feature. Unlike Apple’s entry-level AirPods, which lack ANC, the Ear (a) offers a decent level of noise cancellation. Reviewers have reported that it effectively blocks out ambient noise, such as loud cooking sounds. While it may not be considered best-in-class ANC, it provides a significant improvement over previous models and is more than sufficient for reducing everyday noises in various settings.
3. Decent battery life:
Battery life is an essential consideration when purchasing wireless earbuds. The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds offer respectable battery performance. During testing, with all features enabled, including ANC and LDAC support, the earbuds provided approximately five hours of continuous playback. This puts them on par with other earbuds in or above this price range. Considering the affordability of the Ear (a), its battery performance is commendable.
4. One missing feature:
Despite the positive reviews, there is one notable missing feature: Qi wireless charging for the Ear (a) charging case. Reviewers, such as Samuel Gibbs from The Guardian, have highlighted this omission. However, the redesigned case itself has received praise for its compact size, comparable to top competitors like Apple’s AirPods. Although it lacks wireless charging capability, the presence of USB-C charging is seen as a reasonable compromise.
Conclusion:
Nothing’s Ear (a) earbuds have garnered high praise from reviewers, offering impressive sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and decent battery life at a price point of $100. While there is room for improvement, such as the absence of Qi wireless charging, the overall consensus is that these earbuds provide excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. With their competitive features and affordability, the Nothing Ear (a) earbuds are a compelling choice for those in search of quality audio without breaking the bank.