Nothing Headphone (a) vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

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

For most buyers the Nothing Headphone (a) is the better pick — it scores 89/100 to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x's 19, leading on Noise Cancelling and Wireless. Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x instead if comfort & build 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

Key takeaways

  • Nothing Headphone (a) leads Audio-Technica ATH-M50x overall by 70 points (89 vs 19 out of 100).
Nothing Headphone (a) leads overall
Nothing Headphone (a)
89
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
19

Watch-outs

Compromises to know before you buy

Nothing Headphone (a)

No notable compromises found.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

  • No microphone — you can't take calls.

In-depth analysisAI

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

Nothing Headphone (a)

The Nothing Headphone (a) is a wireless headphone designed to deliver active noise cancellation and high comfort for daily use. Positioned as a budget-friendly option, it targets value-conscious listeners and audiophiles who want key features without premium pricing. No specific processor or chip details are disclosed in the provided source material.

Best for Budget-conscious listeners seeking active noise cancellationBest for Users prioritizing physical comfort for extended wear
Pros
  • Provides built-in active noise cancellation performance
  • Designed with a focus on wearing comfort during long sessions
  • Positioned as a high-value option compared to flagship headphones
Cons
  • Requires external hardware adapters to achieve high-resolution codec support like LDAC or aptX on standard playback devices

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a pair of closed-back professional monitor headphones designed for audio tracking, mixing, and critical listening. Released as part of a remastered M-Series lineup, it serves as the direct successor to the widely popular ATH-M50, offering a refined design tailored for both studio environments and creators.

Best for Studio mixing and audio monitoringBest for Video editing and content creation
Pros
  • Detachable cable design that addresses a major limitation of the previous model
  • Collapsible, folding design that makes them easier to pack and transport
  • Reliable and accurate sound signature preferred for studio monitoring
Cons
  • Wired-only base configuration that lacks modern conveniences like active noise cancellation or wireless connectivity

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Nothing Headphone (a)

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Physical Comparison

Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D

310 g285 g
Nothing Headphone (a)Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Nothing Headphone (a) is 25 g (9%) heavier than Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Nothing Headphone (a) vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50x comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Nothing Headphone (a) rates higher at 83/100 versus 23/100 for Audio-Technica ATH-M50x — a 60-point lead. Nothing Headphone (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 Headphone (a) and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are compared side by side above across every spec in the headphones category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 83/100 for Nothing Headphone (a) and 23/100 for Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.
At launch, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x was the more affordable option ($169) versus Nothing Headphone (a) ($199). Weigh that against the overall scores (83/100 vs 23/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated headphones option overall, Nothing Headphone (a) (83/100) edges out Audio-Technica ATH-M50x (23/100). But if Audio-Technica ATH-M50x 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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