Nothing Ear (1) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
The Verdict
Nothing Ear (1) delivers impressive value at $99, featuring solid ANC with dual modes, crisp 11.6mm drivers, and extended total battery life of 24 hours with case. Samsung Galaxy Buds Live command a $70 premium, offering superior single-charge battery life (6 hours with ANC versus 4 hours) and AKG-tuned 12mm drivers with Bass Duct technology for deeper lows. Galaxy Buds Live excel in call quality with three microphones per bud and support Samsung's proprietary Scalable Codec, though their IPX2 rating trails Nothing's IPX4 water resistance. Sound signature differs notably: Nothing prioritizes balanced clarity while Samsung emphasizes bass response. For budget-conscious listeners prioritizing ANC versatility and longevity, Nothing Ear (1) represents exceptional value. Audiophiles preferring richer bass, longer per-charge stamina, and Samsung ecosystem integration should consider Galaxy Buds Live despite the steeper price. Nothing Ear (1) wins on affordability and water protection, making it the better choice for most consumers.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live if…
- →Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- →Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- →AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
Pros
- Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
- 6-hour battery with ANC is decent for the form factor
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Open design means ANC effectiveness is very limited
- Sound leakage at higher volumes is noticeable to others
- IPX2 is barely splash-proof — not workout-friendly
- Fit can be insecure without ear tips — prone to falling out
- No wing tips or ear hooks for active use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Nothing Ear (1) | Samsung Galaxy Buds Live |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.7 g (each) | 5.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) | 6 hrs ANC on (8 hrs off), 21 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 11.6mm dynamic driver | 12mm driver with Bass Duct |
| Features | 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 | Open-type Active Noise Cancellation, 12mm speaker with AKG tuning, Bass Duct for deep low-end, 3 microphones per bud for calls, Qi wireless charging case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX2 |
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 Nothing products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Nothing Ear (1) or the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live.