Nothing Ear (1) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2
The Verdict
Nothing Ear (1) delivers surprising competence at an aggressive $99 price point, featuring capable 11.6mm drivers, dual ANC modes, and respectable 4-hour ANC battery life. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 command a $50 premium with dual-driver acoustics, superior 5-hour ANC endurance, and Samsung Scalable Codec support for deeper integration with Galaxy devices. Sound quality favors Galaxy Buds2's two-way speaker design, producing more balanced treble and midrange, while Nothing Ear (1) emphasizes bass response. ANC effectiveness differs notably: Galaxy Buds2's three-level adjustment provides more nuanced control compared to Nothing's Light/Maximum binary approach. Water resistance edges toward Nothing at IPX4 versus IPX2. For Android users seeking true wireless earbuds without ecosystem lock-in, Nothing Ear (1) represents exceptional value. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 suit Galaxy ecosystem owners prioritizing audio fidelity and longer battery endurance. Choose Nothing Ear (1) for budget-conscious buyers; select Galaxy Buds2 for premium sound and integration.
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 Buds2 if…
- →Two-way speaker system delivers surprisingly detailed audio
- →ANC at $149 with three adjustable levels is great value
- →Lightweight at 5 g each — among the lightest ANC earbuds
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 Buds2
Pros
- Two-way speaker system delivers surprisingly detailed audio
- ANC at $149 with three adjustable levels is great value
- Lightweight at 5 g each — among the lightest ANC earbuds
- Wireless charging case included
- Compact, low-profile design sits flush in ears
Cons
- IPX2 only — not suitable for heavy workouts or rain
- 5-hour ANC battery life is below average
- No multipoint — limited to Samsung's auto-switch within Galaxy ecosystem
- Call quality suffers in noisy environments
Full Specifications
| Spec | Nothing Ear (1) | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.7 g (each) | 5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 4 hrs (ANC on), 5.7 hrs (ANC off), 24 hrs total with case (ANC off) | 5 hrs ANC on (7.5 hrs off), 20 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 11.6mm dynamic driver | Two-way speaker (11mm woofer + 6.5mm tweeter) |
| 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 | Active Noise Cancellation with 3 levels, Ambient Sound mode, Two-way speakers for balanced sound, Galaxy Wearable app with EQ, 360 Audio, Qi wireless charging case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| 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.
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