JBL Live 660NC vs Nothing Ear (1)
The Verdict
JBL Live 660NC delivers exceptional battery life with 40 hours of ANC usage, over-ear comfort for extended listening sessions, and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity ideal for switching between devices. Nothing Ear (1) offers superior portability at just 4.7g per earbud, IPX4 water resistance for active use, and modern Bluetooth 5.2 with wireless charging at half the price. Sound quality differences favor JBL's larger 40mm drivers for bass and warmth, while Nothing provides clarity with customizable EQ through their app. ANC performance is comparable on both, though JBL edges ahead with dedicated Ambient Aware modes. Nothing Ear (1) excels in convenience and value, making it perfect for everyday use and fitness. JBL suits those prioritizing all-day comfort and battery longevity. For budget-conscious buyers seeking true wireless functionality with water resistance, Nothing Ear (1) represents superior value. JBL wins for stationary listening and device switching.
Who Should Buy
Buy the JBL Live 660NC if…
- →40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- →JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
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
JBL Live 660NC
Pros
- 40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Built-in voice assistant support for hands-free control
- Comfortable lightweight fit for extended wear
Cons
- ANC is decent but noticeably behind Sony and Bose
- No LDAC or aptX codecs — limited to AAC
- Bluetooth 5.0 is a generation behind newer models
- Plastic build doesn't feel premium
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 | JBL Live 660NC | Nothing Ear (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 4.7 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 40 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off) | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 40 mm | 11.6mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes, JBL Signature Sound, Multipoint Bluetooth connection, Google Assistant and Alexa built-in, Speed Charge support | 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 | None | 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 JBL products or all Nothing products. View full details for the JBL Live 660NC or the Nothing Ear (1).