Nothing Ear (3) Wireless Earbuds Super Mic 45dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones Hi-Res 6 Mics, 12mm Dynamic Bass Boost, Dual Connect ANC Sport Ear Buds for iPhone Android, Black
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AI Verdict
These are 45dB ANC, 12mm dynamic driver earbuds with Bluetooth 5.4 and LDAC, best for users prioritizing app-based EQ and a unique case microphone.
These earbuds are a situational fit because while they offer advanced features like 45dB ANC, LDAC, and extensive app customization, user experiences highlight significant inconsistencies in ANC effectiveness and microphone clarity. The 5.5-hour earbud battery life with ANC on is also below average for the price band.
If ANC and microphone clarity are top priorities, look for earbuds with independently verified ANC performance metrics and multiple microphone tests in varied environments.
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Pros
- Offers up to 45 dB of Active Noise Cancellation for blocking external sounds.
- Features 12mm dynamic drivers and LDAC support for high-resolution audio streaming.
- The Nothing X app provides extensive sound customization, including adjustable EQ, Ultra Bass, and Adaptive ANC settings.
- Supports Bluetooth 5.4 with dual-device connection for seamless pairing across two devices.
- The case features wireless charging and fast charging, providing up to 10 hours of playback from a 10-minute USB-C charge.
- The earbuds have an IP54 rating, offering resistance against sweat, rain, and dust.
Cons
- Active Noise Cancellation is reported by some users to be ineffective or to alter the sound signature.
- The Super Mic feature in the charging case is often described as awkward to use and can result in muffled or robotic voice quality.
- Battery life is on the lower end for its price range, with around 5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled.
- Stock sound tuning can be V-shaped, with some users finding it 'quite bad' without EQ adjustments.
- Reports of product defects, such as rapid earbud battery drain, and unsatisfactory customer support experiences exist.
Dimension Scores
Features 12mm dynamic drivers and LDAC support for high-resolution audio, but stock tuning can be V-shaped and requires app adjustment for optimal sound.
Advertised at 45 dB ANC, but multiple user reports indicate the ANC is often ineffective or only changes the sound signature.
Users generally find the earbuds comfortable and light, with a stable fit and natural nozzle angle.
Offers 5.5 hours of earbud battery life with ANC on, which is on the lower end for this price range, though the case extends it to 38 hours.
Best For
- Commuters who need strong noise cancellation for public transport, provided the ANC performs as advertised.
- Users who frequently take calls and want the option of a dedicated, though potentially awkward, case microphone.
- Audiophiles who appreciate extensive EQ customization and LDAC support for high-resolution audio.
- Gamers needing a low-lag mode for synchronized audio.
Not Recommended For
- Users prioritizing long battery life for extended listening sessions without the charging case.
- Individuals who prefer a neutral sound profile out of the box without needing to adjust EQ settings.
- Those who rely heavily on clear microphone performance directly from the earbuds for calls in noisy environments.
Watch Out For
- ANC performance is inconsistent; some users report it doing 'practically nothing' or just changing the sound.
- The 'Super Mic' in the case is often found to be 'awkward to use' and can produce 'muffled and robotic' voice quality.
- Left earbud battery draining within an hour has been reported by multiple users, along with poor customer support for these issues.
- The 5.5-hour earbud battery life with ANC on is considered 'on the lower end' compared to other earbuds in its price bracket.
- Initial sound quality without app adjustments can be 'V-shaped' and 'crunched up' for some listeners.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0FHWM1D2Y |
| Brand | Nothing |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Modern |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Batteries | 3 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Generation | 3 |
| Model Name | Nothing Ear (3) |
| Form Factor | In Ear |
| Item Weight | 2.52 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 45 dB |
| Control Type | Touch Control |
| Manufacturer | Nothing |
| Audio Latency | 110 Milliseconds |
| Cable Feature | Without Cable |
| Ear Placement | In Ear |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Series Number | 3 |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Earpiece Shape | In Ear |
| Bluetooth Range | 10 Meters |
| Controller Type | App Controll, Touch |
| Headphones Jack | No Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Fast Charging, Noise Cancellation |
| Audio Driver Size | 12 Millimeters |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.4 |
| Item model number | B173 |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Gaming Consoles, Laptops, Music Production Equipment, Tablets |
| Frequency Response | 40 KHz |
| Hardware Interface | Bluetooth 5 |
| Product Dimensions | 0.82 x 0.85 x 1.2 inches |
| Carrying Case Color | Black |
| Carrying Case Width | 55.5 Millimeters |
| Included Components | Eartip, User Manual, Wireless Charging Case |
| Carrying Case Height | 56 Millimeters |
| Carrying Case Length | 22.25 Millimeters |
| Carrying Case Weight | 71.4 Grams |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | Bluetooth |
| Noise Control Features | active_noise_cancellation |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | All |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wireless |
| Specific Uses For Product | Business, Entertainment, Fitness |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Calling, Exercising, Gaming, Office Meetings, Running |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
What Buyers Say
The ANC on these earbuds is a real letdown for many, with users saying it barely works or just messes with the sound. The 'Super Mic' in the case, while a novel idea, often sounds muffled and is awkward to use for actual calls. Battery life for the earbuds themselves is also shorter than competitors, clocking in at just over 5 hours with ANC. Plus, there are worrying reports of earbuds failing quickly and customer support being unhelpful. However, the design is sleek, and the app's EQ customization is a standout feature for those willing to tweak the sound.
“Honestly, the ANC is a joke, barely does anything, and the mic in the case? Forget about it, sounds like I'm talking through a tin can. My left earbud died in 3 months, and support was useless. Don't waste your money.”
Common Praise
- The transparent design and polished aluminum case feel premium.
- The earbuds are comfortable and light for extended wear.
- The Nothing X app offers extensive and effective EQ customization.
- Supports LDAC for high-quality audio streaming.
- Dual Connect feature allows seamless switching between two devices.
Common Complaints
- Active Noise Cancellation is largely ineffective and can negatively impact sound.
- The Super Mic in the case is awkward to hold and produces muffled voice quality.
- Earbud battery life with ANC on is short, around 5 hours.
- Some users experienced left earbud battery drain issues within months.
- Customer support is reportedly unhelpful with product defects.
- Out-of-the-box sound can be overly V-shaped and 'crunched up'.
Ownership Tips
- The ANC might not block much noise, so don't expect quiet subway rides.
- You'll probably need to spend time in the Nothing X app to get the sound profile you like, as the default can be too bass-heavy.
- The Super Mic is more of a gimmick; stick to the earbud mics or your phone for calls.
- Keep an eye on the battery life of individual earbuds, as some users reported premature failure.
- The metal accents on the case are a visual upgrade but don't fundamentally change the experience from previous models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the battery life of the Nothing Ear (3) earbuds?
The earbuds offer up to 5.5 hours of listening with Active Noise Cancellation on. With the charging case, you can get up to 38 hours of total playback.
Does the Nothing Ear (3) have active noise cancellation?
Yes, it features Smart Hybrid ANC, delivering up to 45 dB of Active Noise Cancellation.
Can I use these earbuds with both iPhone and Android devices?
Yes, the Nothing Ear (3) supports dual connect functionality, allowing seamless pairing with both iPhone and Android devices.
What is the 'Super Mic' feature?
The 'Super Mic' is a dual-microphone system integrated into the charging case, designed to amplify your voice and cut through background noise up to 95 dB during calls.
Do these earbuds support high-resolution audio?
Yes, they support Hi-Res Wireless Audio and are compatible with the LDAC codec for higher streaming quality up to 990 kbps 24 bit/96kHz.
Buying Guide
When buying wireless earbuds, you need to think about how they'll fit into your daily life. 'Active Noise Cancellation' (ANC) is about blocking out distractions, but the effectiveness varies wildly between models, so don't just trust the numbers. 'Battery life' is usually split between the earbuds themselves and the total time with the charging case; the earbud-only time is what matters for a single listening session. 'Sound quality' is subjective, but features like 'LDAC' mean higher fidelity if your device supports it. Finally, 'microphone quality' is crucial if you take calls, and a 'low lag mode' is a bonus for gaming.
45dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling
12mm Dynamic Bass Boost
Bluetooth 5.4 with Dual Connect
LDAC Hi-Res Audio
Alternatives
If these don't fit, look for earbuds with independently verified ANC performance, longer earbud-only battery life (8+ hours), and consistent microphone clarity in user reviews.
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