Google Pixel Buds Pro vs Nothing Ear (open)
The Verdict
Google Pixel Buds Pro deliver a more feature-rich experience with effective Silent Seal ANC, Google Assistant integration, and real-time translation capabilities, making them ideal for productivity-focused users. Nothing Ear (open) distinguish themselves with an innovative open-ear design, larger 14.2mm titanium drivers, and LDAC hi-res audio support, appealing to those prioritizing ambient awareness and sound quality without isolation. Battery life slightly favors Nothing at 8 hours versus Pixel's 7 hours with ANC enabled. Pixel Buds Pro command a $50 premium justified by active noise cancellation and Google ecosystem integration. For commuters and office workers seeking ANC and smart features, Pixel Buds Pro excel. For casual listeners valuing open-ear comfort and hi-res audio, Nothing Ear (open) offer better value. Pixel Buds Pro are the safer, more versatile choice for most users.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Google Pixel Buds Pro if…
- →Excellent ANC (Silent Seal) adapts to ear canal for effective noise blocking
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects to two devices seamlessly
- →Google Assistant integration with hands-free voice commands
Buy the Nothing Ear (open) if…
- →Open-ear design lets you hear your surroundings while enjoying music
- →LDAC and multipoint at $149 is excellent value
- →8-hour battery per charge is generous for open earbuds
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel Buds Pro
Pros
- Excellent ANC (Silent Seal) adapts to ear canal for effective noise blocking
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects to two devices seamlessly
- Google Assistant integration with hands-free voice commands
- 7-hour battery with ANC is strong — 31 hours total with case
- Comfortable secure fit with multiple ear tip sizes
Cons
- Limited to AAC and SBC codecs — no LDAC or aptX
- ANC can produce some wind noise in outdoor use
- Bluetooth 5.0 instead of newer 5.2 or 5.3
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
- IPX4 is basic water resistance — not suitable for swimming
Nothing Ear (open)
Pros
- Open-ear design lets you hear your surroundings while enjoying music
- LDAC and multipoint at $149 is excellent value
- 8-hour battery per charge is generous for open earbuds
- Directional drivers minimize sound leak to bystanders
- IP54 dust and water resistance for outdoor use
Cons
- No noise cancellation by design — not for noisy environments
- Bass is inherently weaker than sealed in-ear designs
- 8.1 g per bud is heavier than traditional earbuds
- Open design means music is audible to nearby people
Full Specifications
| Spec | Google Pixel Buds Pro | Nothing Ear (open) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.2 g (each) | 8.1 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7 hrs (ANC on), 11 hrs (ANC off), 31 hrs total with case | 8 hrs, 30 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | USB-C |
| Drivers | Custom 11mm dynamic driver | 14.2 mm titanium-coated driver |
| Features | Silent Seal active noise cancellation, Google Assistant with hands-free activation, Multipoint Bluetooth, Volume EQ for balanced sound at all levels, Real-time translation through Google Translate | Open-ear design for ambient awareness, Directional audio minimizes sound leakage, LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Bass Enhance and custom EQ, Nothing X app with equalizer |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP54 |
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 Google products or all Nothing products. View full details for the Google Pixel Buds Pro or the Nothing Ear (open).