The Nothing Ear (3a) earbuds are positioned as a sub-£100 true wireless option, improving upon their predecessor while maintaining the brand’s signature transparent aesthetic. Key upgrades include refined fit, improved noise cancellation, and new on-device recording features, all at a £99 price point.
The design retains the original semi-transparent look and glossy pill-shaped case, though it is noted as difficult to open with one hand. The model introduces an additional pink color option alongside white, black, and yellow. Furthermore, the case has been upgraded with a triple-LED system that indicates pairing mode, battery levels, charging status, and firmware updates.
A significant improvement noted is the fit, which benefits from an extra-small ear tip size. This enhances comfort and security for various users, leading to better passive isolation and more effective noise cancellation than even Nothing’s flagship Ear (3).
The active noise cancellation performs well against low-frequency rumbles, such as those found on a flight. However, the ANC is not class-leading; midrange frequencies like chatter can still pass through, and wind noise remains an issue outdoors.
The transparency mode has seen a definite improvement, sounding natural and facilitating easy conversations without needing to remove the buds.
Feature customization is a major selling point via the Nothing X app. Users gain access to an ear tip fit test, multipoint connectivity for dual device pairing, customisable pinch controls, a low-lag gaming mode, and an advanced 8-band parametric equaliser for sound tuning.
The new on-device audio recording feature utilizes 32MB of onboard storage, allowing users to record “audio snapshots” of ambient sound or record phone calls. The call recording process includes an audible warning and countdown. Other app additions include a potential AI-powered transcription service with a paid ‘Pro’ tier, the cost of which remains unrevealed.
Battery life shows only slight improvements: 6 hours with ANC active (up from 5.5) and 10 hours without it. The case offers a total of approximately 25 hours with ANC on. These figures are considered average for the category, lagging behind competitors like the EarFun Air Pro 4 Plus, which provides 8 hours on a single charge.
Regarding sound quality, the new 12mm dynamic drivers deliver a bass-heavy default tuning that was described as boomy and muffled. The advanced 8-band parametric equaliser in the app is crucial for correcting this by allowing users to adjust bass levels and boost mids, improving the overall sound significantly. Supporting LDAC on Android devices also adds more texture and nuance.
The Nothing Ear (3a) are characterized as a solid set of budget earbuds that excel in style, customisation options, and improved comfort. While the default sound profile is very bass-heavy, the enhanced fit, upgraded ANC performance against low rumbles, and extensive app features make them easy to recommend for those who prioritize Nothing’s distinctive design and deep feature set.
The reviewer ultimately suggests that the EarFun Air Pro 4 Plus or the OnePlus Buds 4 are more well-rounded choices overall. However, the Ear (3a) maintain a strong recommendation for users prioritizing unique aesthetics and extensive app functionality.
Source: Trusted Reviews