After the presentation a few days ago, the time has come for our test of the new Nothing Ear (3a). Bluetooth earphones that retain Nothing’s unmistakable semi-transparent design, featuring active noise reduction and high-resolution audio.
A model that also stands out for its integrated memory that allows you to record audio and calls. There is also the transcription function of recorded content and a complete app with integrated equalizer.
Let’s therefore analyze in detail all the features and performances of the new Nothing Ear (3a).
Design, controls and packaging
Nothing Ear (3a) retain the iconic semi-transparent design of the English company’s earphones. Lines very similar to the previous Nothing Ear (a) launched in 2024.
Let’s start with the charging case which takes inspiration from drug blisters and objects packaged in shrink film. Plastic case with transparent lid, protected by a protective film, and colored bottom. Inside we find the button for Bluetooth pairing and a new LED light indicator that allows you to quickly check the battery level, the Bluetooth connection and more. Finally we mention the USB-C charging port on the rear. Too bad for the absence of wireless charging.
We continue with the earphones with a semi-transparent design that allows a glimpse of the internal electronics. This version also winks at audio enthusiasts. In fact, the Ears (3a) do not show the classic L/R (Left and Right) identification present on all headphones, but only the white and red colors used on the RCA connectors. Let’s move on to the controls; a pressure system on the stem is also used on this model. Plastic earphones, waterproof and dustproof, with IP54 certification.
We continue with the dimensions of the earphones equal to 31.2 x 21.7 x 24 mm and a weight of 4.5 g. The case measures, however, 48.95 x 64.8 x 22.8 mm, with a weight of 40.2 g.
The Nothing earphones are available in the new Pink finish and in the Black, White and Yellow variants.
We conclude with the package which includes a small manual and rubber tips of different sizes. No USB cable.
Technical characteristics
Nothing Ear (3a) use a new 12mm dynamic driver, with a frequency response of 20 to 40,000 Hz, 32 Ω impedance and ultra-light diaphragm, inspired by materials used in the aerospace industry.
The Ear (3a) earphones are Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified and are equipped with LDAC 5.0 technology: high quality codec, in addition to AAC and SBC, compatible with frequencies up to 24 bit/96 kHz.
Earphones that also boast the Bluetooth version 6 connection, with reduced consumption and low latency. The Dual Connection function is not missing.
We continue with active noise cancellation up to 45 dB and with batteries: 55 mAh in the earphones and 500 mAh in the charging case.
Nothing Ear (3a) are equipped with Clear Voice technology capable of eliminating background noise, improving the user’s voice during calls thanks to the three microphones on each earphone and artificial intelligence, capable of filtering over 28 million sound samples.
Earphones equipped with position sensor: simply remove them from the ear to stop playing music which will restart automatically as soon as you put the earphones back on (3rd).
Audio recording and calls
Ear (3a) host 32 MB of flash memory which allows users to save various audio recordings directly into the earphones. Thanks to the Audio Snapshot function, you can capture an excerpt of what you are listening to, for example during an online lesson or save a voice message received from a friend. With a simple simultaneous press on both earphones, Ear (3a) records both a few seconds before and after activation; feature configurable via the Nothing X app. Recordings are automatically synced to the app, where they can be listened to, edited, shared and transcribed. Users can also transform the most relevant moments of the transcription into shareable elements.
Ear (3a) also allow you to directly record calls and meetings. Again, recordings are automatically synchronized with the Nothing X app, which allows you to listen back, edit and generate transcriptions. A privacy notification informs all participants when recording is active.
Remember the 60-second limit for media, such as music, podcasts, audiobooks, or the audio of a video playing; for calls and meetings the limit increases to 2 hours.
As for transcriptions, three options are available: Pro (in the cloud and paid with 3 free months free), Standard and Fast, locally.
Apps and noise cancellation
Let’s now analyze the Nothing X app for iOS and Android that accompanies these headphones. Application in Italian, with neat, complete and easy-to-use graphics.
Let’s start with the active noise cancellation function, with 3 levels available (high, medium, low) to which is added the Adaptive mode which automatically adjusts the noise reduction level based on the surrounding environment. We continue with the Transparency mode which allows us to clearly perceive the surrounding environment even when we wear headphones.
Within the application we also find the possibility of customizing the controls of the earphones, modifying the double, triple and prolonged pressure of the stem. Unfortunately the single pressure cannot be modified. Controls that allow you to manage volume, noise cancellation, audio tracks, calls and voice assistant.
Let’s move on to the integrated equalizer available in two variants; the simple version with 5 presets available: balanced, more bass, more treble, voice, custom; we also find an advanced equalizer to customize the sound with a higher level of precision. Easy-to-use, eight-band equalizer. Furthermore, through the Nothing X app, you can share your Eq profile or download others.
Let’s not forget the spatial audio, which virtually expands the sound stage, the low latency mode for video games and the function that allows you to easily find your earphones if you lose them.
User experience and price
We conclude the review of the Nothing Ear (3a) with a performance analysis. Let’s start with the bass that is far too generous and often preponderant over other frequencies. We continue with the soft mids, natural vocals and slightly harsh highs. The level of detail and the power of the earphones are good, only the spatial audio is sufficient.
The active noise reduction (ANC – Active Noise Cancellation) is decent, the pressure control system is precise, accompanied by a useful click reproduced by the earphones. Stable Bluetooth connectivity.
The quality of the microphones is good, even in the presence of noise. The build quality and ergonomics are excellent, with the earphones being light and comfortable to wear even for prolonged periods.
Battery life is decent: the earphones last up to 10 hours of listening time, which drops to 6 hours with ANC active, using the Aac codec. With the charging case, the total autonomy goes up to 42 hours (without ANC) or 25 hours (with ANC). If the battery runs out, five minutes of charging is enough to get about an hour of playback. Full charging takes 70 minutes.
Positive opinion on the Nothing X app, complete, useful and full of numerous options. The quality of the audio recordings is good, the transcriptions could be improved.
Ear (3a) are already available for purchase at price of 99 euros.
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