Nothing Ear (a) vs Nothing Ear (open)

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

For most buyers the Nothing Ear (a) is the better pick — it scores 79/100 to the Nothing Ear (open)'s 63, leading on Noise Cancelling and Calls. 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 (a) leads overall

Nothing Ear (a)

Nothing Ear (open)

Why it stands out

Build Weight per Earbud: 4.8 g (41% less)
Build Case Weight: 40 g (37% less)

Winner by category for Nothing Ear (a) vs Nothing Ear (open)
Category	Nothing Ear (a)	Nothing Ear (open)	Winner
Audio	0	0	Tie
Noise Cancelling	100	0	Nothing Ear (a)
Battery	46	64	Nothing Ear (open)
Connectivity	83	83	Tie
Calls	100	0	Nothing Ear (a)
Build	72	38	Nothing Ear (a)

In-depth analysisAI

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

Nothing Ear (a)

The Nothing Ear (a) is a set of true wireless in-ear headphones crafted for casual listeners seeking modern active noise cancellation combined with a distinct aesthetic. Featuring Nothing's signature transparent design language, these earbuds provide everyday Bluetooth audio playback and hand-free calling. They are designed for users looking for functional daily sound gear with an eye-catching visual style.

Best for Everyday audio listening and hands-free calling during commutesBest for Buyers prioritizing unique modern visual design in personal audio gear

Pros

Distinctive transparent design setting them apart visually from standard earbuds
Active noise cancellation functionality for isolating external ambient sound
Compact and lightweight build suitable for portable daily use

Cons

Omission of higher-end features like wireless case charging
Clear plastic outer shell can show cosmetic scratches over extended handling

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 (a)

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Nothing Ear (open)

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Nothing Ear (a)

40g

Weight

Nothing Ear (open)

63.8g

Weight

Nothing Ear (a)

4.8g

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

Noise Cancelling

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

Battery

Feature	Nothing Ear (a)	Nothing Ear (open)
Battery Life per Charge	5.5 h	8 h45% more
Total Battery Life with Case	24.5 h	30 h22% more
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	No

Connectivity

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

Calls

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

Build

Feature	Nothing Ear (a)	Nothing Ear (open)
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	4.8 g41% less	8.1 g
Case Weight	40 g37% less	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 (a) vs Nothing Ear (open) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Nothing Ear (a) rates higher at 78/100 versus 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open) — a 11-point lead. Nothing Ear (a) 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 (a) 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 78/100 for Nothing Ear (a) and 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open).

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Nothing Ear (a) (78/100) edges out Nothing Ear (open) (67/100). 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.