Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) vs Nothing Ear (1)
The Verdict
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) deliver superior sound quality through their custom-engineered drivers and seamless ecosystem integration, particularly for iPhone users who benefit from automatic device switching and spatial audio capabilities. Nothing Ear (1) offer compelling value at less than half the price, featuring newer Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, customizable EQ via their app, and adjustable ANC modes that rival the AirPods' performance. Battery life favors Apple slightly with 4.5 hours of ANC playback versus Nothing's 4 hours, though Nothing provides better longevity with ANC disabled. Both earbuds feature IPX4 water resistance and support wireless charging. For Apple ecosystem devotees seeking premium sound and convenience, AirPods Pro justify their premium positioning. However, Android users or budget-conscious buyers will find Nothing Ear (1) delivers 85 percent of the performance at 40 percent of the cost, making them the smarter overall choice for value-seekers.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) if…
- →Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- →Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- →Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
Buy the Nothing Ear (1) if…
- →Iconic transparent design with unique aesthetic
- →ANC and wireless charging at just $99 is outstanding value
- →Comfortable and lightweight at 4.7 g per earbud
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen)
Pros
- Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
- Spatial Audio support added via firmware update
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
Cons
- 4.5-hour ANC battery life is short compared to newer models
- Lightning charging port — no USB-C
- Ear tips are prone to degradation and cracking over time
- Force sensor on stems can be tricky to press without dislodging
- Superseded by AirPods Pro 2 with significantly better specs
Nothing Ear (1)
Pros
- Iconic transparent design with unique aesthetic
- ANC and wireless charging at just $99 is outstanding value
- Comfortable and lightweight at 4.7 g per earbud
- Squeeze gesture controls are intuitive and precise
- Qi wireless charging case adds convenience
Cons
- 4-hour ANC battery life is quite short
- No multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
- ANC is mild — doesn't match premium competitors
- Limited codec support — AAC and SBC only
- Transparent case shows dust and scratches easily
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) | Nothing Ear (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.4 g (each) | 4.7 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 4.5 hrs ANC on (24 hrs total with case) | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) |
| Charging | Lightning or Qi wireless charging | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 11.6mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio (added via software update), Three sizes of silicone ear tips, Ear tip fit test | Active Noise Cancellation with two modes (Light and Maximum), Transparency Mode, In-ear detection for auto play/pause, Nothing app with EQ customization, Squeeze gesture controls on stems |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Nothing products. View full details for the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) or the Nothing Ear (1).