JBL Reflect Aero vs Nothing Ear (1)
The Verdict
Both earbuds deliver solid ANC performance at different price points, but serve different priorities. JBL Reflect Aero offers superior durability with IP68 waterproofing versus Nothing Ear's IPX4 rating, making it ideal for workouts and water exposure. Nothing Ear (1) compensates with a larger 11.6mm driver for richer bass response and lighter 4.7g design, though its 4-hour ANC runtime falls short compared to JBL's 7 hours. JBL includes Qi wireless charging and dual ambient modes, while Nothing provides gesture controls and two ANC intensity levels. At $149, JBL justifies premium pricing through ruggedness and battery longevity. Nothing Ear (1) at $99 represents exceptional value for casual listeners prioritizing sound quality over extreme durability. Choose JBL for active lifestyles or gym use; Nothing suits everyday listeners seeking better audio at budget pricing.
Who Should Buy
Buy the JBL Reflect Aero if…
- →IP68 rating is the most waterproof of any ANC earbuds
- →Adaptive ANC adjusts to your environment automatically
- →Wireless charging case at $149 is value-packed
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 Reflect Aero
Pros
- IP68 rating is the most waterproof of any ANC earbuds
- Adaptive ANC adjusts to your environment automatically
- Wireless charging case at $149 is value-packed
- Secure fit with oval tube tips stays in place during workouts
- Multipoint for seamless device switching
Cons
- Sound quality is good but not audiophile-grade
- 7-hour ANC battery is average — not class-leading
- Slightly bulky fit may protrude from smaller ears
- Touch controls have limited customization
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 Reflect Aero | Nothing Ear (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.4 g (each) | 4.7 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7 hrs ANC on (21 hrs total with case) | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C or Qi wireless | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 6.8mm dynamic driver | 11.6mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Ambient Aware and TalkThru, JBL Headphones app with customizable EQ, Oval tube ear tips for secure fit, Qi wireless charging case, IP68 — most waterproof earbuds available | 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 | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP68 | 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 Reflect Aero or the Nothing Ear (1).
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