Nothing Ear (3) vs Nothing Ear (open)

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

For most buyers the Nothing Ear (3) is the better pick — it scores 75/100 to the Nothing Ear (open)'s 63, leading on Audio and Noise Cancelling. Choose the Nothing Ear (open) instead if battery matters 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

Nothing Ear (3) leads overall

Nothing Ear (3)

Nothing Ear (open)

Why it stands out

Connectivity Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.4
Build Weight per Earbud: 5.2 g (36% less)

Winner by category for Nothing Ear (3) vs Nothing Ear (open)
Category	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)	Winner
Audio	30	0	Nothing Ear (3)
Noise Cancelling	100	0	Nothing Ear (3)
Battery	57	63	Nothing Ear (open)
Connectivity	85	82	Nothing Ear (3)
Calls	100	0	Nothing Ear (3)
Build	66	41	Nothing Ear (3)

In-depth analysisAI

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

Nothing Ear (3)

The Nothing Ear (3) is a pair of true wireless earbuds designed for everyday media playback, hands-free calling, and portable audio. Built around Nothing's signature transparent aesthetic, these earbuds target listeners looking for a distinctive visual style combined with active noise cancellation. Companion software support allows users to adjust audio settings and control gestures to fit their personal preferences.

Best for Everyday audio listening and voice calls with custom sound personalizationBest for Users who prioritize eye-catching hardware design alongside active noise control

Pros

Distinctive transparent enclosure design offering a unique visual identity
Active noise cancellation to help lessen surrounding environmental sound
App-based equalizer options for tailoring audio playback profiles

Cons

Transparent polycarbonate exterior can be susceptible to surface scratches over long-term use
Pinch and touch control mechanisms may require an initial learning curve

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

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Nothing Ear (3)

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Nothing Ear (open)

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Nothing Ear (open)

63.8g

Weight

Nothing Ear (3)

5.2g

Weight

Nothing Ear (open)

8.1g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
Driver Type	Dynamic	Dynamic
Driver Size	12 mm	14.2 mm
Frequency Response	20 Hz - 40,000 Hz	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	No	N/A

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	N/A
Transparency Mode	Yes	N/A

Battery

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
Battery Life per Charge	5.5 h	8 h45% more
Total Battery Life with Case	22 h	30 h36% more
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	Yes	No

Connectivity

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC, LDAC	SBC, AAC
Multipoint Connection	Yes	Yes

Calls

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
Microphones per Earbud	3	N/A

Build

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Nothing Ear (open)
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	5.2 g36% less	8.1 g
Case Weight	N/A	63.8 g

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Nothing Ear (3) vs Nothing Ear (open) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Nothing Ear (3) rates higher at 70/100 versus 66/100 for Nothing Ear (open) — a 4-point lead. Nothing Ear (3) 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 (3) and Nothing Ear (open) 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 70/100 for Nothing Ear (3) and 66/100 for Nothing Ear (open).

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Nothing Ear (3) (70/100) edges out Nothing Ear (open) (66/100). But if Nothing Ear (open) 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.