JBL Tune 230NC TWS vs Nothing Ear (1)
The Verdict
Both headphones cost $99 and share similar connectivity features including Bluetooth 5.2, IPX4 rating, and USB-C charging. JBL Tune 230NC excels with superior battery endurance, delivering 8 hours with ANC on versus Nothing Ear (1)'s 4 hours, plus faster charging through Speed Charge technology. Nothing Ear (1) counters with a larger 11.6mm driver for potentially richer sound, wireless charging capability, dual ANC modes for flexibility, and customizable EQ through their app. Sound signature preferences will vary: JBL emphasizes Pure Bass while Nothing offers tuning options. Build quality appears comparable with both under 5 grams per earbud. For commuters prioritizing all-day listening, JBL wins decisively. For audio enthusiasts wanting sound customization and wireless charging convenience, Nothing Ear (1) proves the better choice despite shorter battery life.
Who Should Buy
Buy the JBL Tune 230NC TWS if…
- →ANC at $99 with 8-hour battery is exceptional value
- →32 hours total battery with case lasts well over a week
- →JBL Pure Bass Sound delivers punchy, energetic low-end
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 Tune 230NC TWS
Pros
- ANC at $99 with 8-hour battery is exceptional value
- 32 hours total battery with case lasts well over a week
- JBL Pure Bass Sound delivers punchy, energetic low-end
- Lightweight and compact stem design
- Speed Charge gives 2 hours from 10 minutes
Cons
- ANC is basic — reduces background hum but not strong noise
- No wireless charging on the case
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- Treble can sound harsh at higher volumes
- Bass-heavy tuning masks detail in mids
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 Tune 230NC TWS | Nothing Ear (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.1 g (each) | 4.7 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 hrs ANC on (32 hrs total with case) | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 5.8mm dynamic driver | 11.6mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Aware mode, JBL Pure Bass Sound, Voice assistant integration, Speed Charge (10 min = 2 hrs) | 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 | 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 JBL products or all Nothing products. View full details for the JBL Tune 230NC TWS or the Nothing Ear (1).