Headphone Review: The Verge Nothing Headphone 1

Headphone Review: The Verge Nothing Headphone 1

• Highlights:
• Retro-transparent design with a directional tech aesthetic.
• Built with aluminum frames and memory-foam ear pads.
• Various physical controls: roller, paddle, and buttons for playback and voice assistant.
• Sound quality and tuning: Custom 40mm drivers tuned by KEF.
• Sound tuning benefits from EQ adjustments via the Nothing X app.
• Supports Hi-Res LDAC, AAC, USB-C lossless, and even a 3.5mm jack.
• ANC & Transparency Mode: Delivers solid ANC performance (~42 dB noise reduction).
• Battery & Connectivity: Impressive battery life: 35 hours with ANC on, up to 80 hours with ANC off.
• Supports fast charge: 5 minutes → 5 hours of playback.
• Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint pairing, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair.
• Drawbacks:
• Retro design not for everyone.
• ANC is effective but doesn't outshine Sony XM6 or Bose Ultra earbuds.
• Mic quality for calls is weaker in noisy environments.
• Analog audio is only available when the battery is still active.

Final Verdict:
• For those who appreciate a standout look, tactile controls, and tailored sound, these make a compelling first-generation over-ear from Nothing.
• For focus on top-tier ANC or understated design, established players may still hold the edge.