
The Battle for Over-Ear ANC Supremacy: A Review of the Nothing Headphone 1 and AirPods Max
When it comes to over-ear active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones, you’re spoiled for choice. With numerous options flooding the market, deciding which pair is right for you can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll pit two industry giants against each other: Nothing’s Headphone 1 and Apple’s AirPods Max.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – the design. When it comes to aesthetics, there’s no denying that Nothing’s emphasis on style wins over AirPods Max. While both pairs are comfortable to wear, I find the sleek, futuristic design of the Headphone 1 more appealing. However, this is a minor point, as both pairs will still be able to effectively block out noise.
Comfort and noise cancellation are two essential categories that cannot be ignored. Unfortunately, AirPods Max take the crown in these areas. They deliver outstanding noise reduction, thanks to their ability to create a tighter seal around your ears. This results in 88% noise reduction compared to the Headphone 1’s impressive 85%. It’s clear that Apple has put in the effort to ensure its product excels in this department.
On the other hand, Nothing’s Headphone 1 delivers an astonishing 35 hours of battery life – a whopping 15-hour advantage over AirPods Max. This is not only an incredible feat but also a game-changer for those who require long listening sessions or travel extensively. The lack of a USB-C charging port on the AirPods Max, while inconvenient, doesn’t hold it back from being a great product.
In terms of features, both pairs boast impressive software-based hearing tests and adaptive noise cancellation, as well as transparency mode – a feature that blends music and ambient noise. Unfortunately, the AirPods Max lack a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is present on the Headphone 1.
In conclusion, while both headphones excel in various areas, there can be no denying that Apple’s AirPods Max takes the crown in terms of noise reduction. However, Nothing’s Headphone 1 still manages to impress with its battery life and unique design. If you’re an Apple fanboy or girl, then the AirPods Max is the obvious choice. But for those who value longevity over aesthetics, the Nothing Headphone 1 might just be the better option.
In a world where you can’t have your cake and eat it too, one must weigh their priorities – noise cancellation versus battery life – before making a purchase decision.
Source: gizmodo.com