Nothing Ear (open) vs Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Nothing Ear (open) is the better pick — it scores 65/100 to the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds's 62. Choose the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds instead if audio and noise cancelling matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

  • Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Nothing Ear (open) and Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are closely matched overall (within 3 points).
  • Nothing Ear (open) stands out on Build IP Rating: IP54, Battery Life per Charge: 8 h (7% more).
  • Bose Ultra Open Earbuds counters with Build Weight per Earbud: 6 g (26% less).
Nothing Ear (open) and Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are closely matched
Nothing Ear (open)
65
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
62
Where Nothing Ear (open) stands out
  • Build IP Rating: IP54
  • Battery Life per Charge: 8 h (7% more)
Where Bose Ultra Open Earbuds stands out
  • Build Weight per Earbud: 6 g (26% less)

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Nothing Ear (open)

The Nothing Ear (open) is a pair of open-style wireless earbuds engineered for active users who need to remain aware of their environment. Incorporating Nothing's signature transparent aesthetic with silicone ear hooks, the earbuds offer up to 30 hours of total playback time using the included case. At a price of $99, they prioritize physical stability and situational safety over audio isolation.

Best for Outdoor running and exercising where situational awareness is criticalBest for Users seeking lightweight, hook-based earbuds for secure wear during workouts
Pros
  • Open-ear design maintains full awareness of external surroundings
  • Silicone ear hooks provide a secure and lightweight fit during athletic movement
  • Offers up to 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case
Cons
  • Open sound architecture does not isolate external noise or provide noise cancellation

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are an innovative open-ear audio device designed for users who want to enjoy music or calls while remaining fully aware of their physical surroundings. Featuring Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, support for aptX Adaptive, and a distinct cuff-like design weighing 6 grams per earbud, they cater to active listeners and commuters who prioritize situational awareness over active noise cancellation.

Best for Outdoor runners and cyclists needing environmental awarenessBest for All-day office listening without blocking background conversation
Pros
  • Comfortable open-ear cuff design that leaves the ear canal unblocked
  • Multipoint connection support for seamless device switching
  • Robust battery life offering up to 7.5 hours per charge with quick-charging capabilities
  • Advanced codec support including SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive
Cons
  • Lacks active noise cancellation due to the open-ear design
  • Moderate IPX4 water resistance rating offers basic sweat and splash protection only

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Nothing Ear (open)

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Nothing Ear (open)
63.8g
Weight
Nothing Ear (open)
8.1g
Weight
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
6g
Weight

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Nothing Ear (open) vs Bose Ultra Open Earbuds comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Nothing Ear (open) rates higher at 67/100 versus 58/100 for Bose Ultra Open Earbuds — a 9-point lead. Nothing Ear (open) is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Nothing Ear (open) and Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open) and 58/100 for Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.
If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Nothing Ear (open) (67/100) edges out Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (58/100). But if Bose Ultra Open Earbuds is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.

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