The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro has arrived as the company's latest attempt to capture the premium over-ear market, maintaining the brand's signature transparent aesthetic while introducing hardware refinements. The new model features an aluminum ear cup design that slopes toward a glass exterior, offering a cleaner look than the cassette-tape-inspired visuals of its predecessor. While the industrial design remains a central selling point, the device continues to function as a highly recognizable statement piece for the brand.
Reviewers have praised the device's control scheme, which is among the most comprehensive in the category. The right ear cup houses a physical power switch, a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a roller button, a flapper switch, and a dedicated button on the exterior. Additionally, a hidden Bluetooth button is located inside the cup. A new addition to the left ear cup is a flat-EQ switch, which allows users to bypass custom equalizer settings, though its practical utility remains a point of curiosity for some testers.
Audio performance on the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is generally described as solid, though it requires user intervention to achieve a preferred sound profile. Out of the box, the tuning emphasizes the midrange frequencies, which some reviewers found to be more prominent than desired. While the audio remains crisp and avoids losing detail, users are encouraged to utilize the companion app's equalizer to adjust the sound signature to their personal taste.
Ergonomics and portability present a mixed experience. The ear pads are notably softer than those on previous models, enhancing comfort during extended wear. However, this design choice results in reduced noise isolation, which may be noticeable in loud environments like airplane cabins. The included carrying case is another point of contention; while it protects the ear cups, it leaves the headband exposed and lacks dedicated storage for the provided USB-C and 3.5mm cables, forcing users to find alternative solutions for cable management.
At a price point of $399, the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro enters a competitive space. While it successfully addresses several criticisms leveled at the original Headphone (1), reviewers remain divided on the specific target audience for these premium cans. The combination of high-end build quality and distinctive aesthetics makes them a compelling option for those already invested in the Nothing ecosystem, though the lack of a fully protective case and the need for manual EQ tuning are factors for potential buyers to consider.