Nothing Ear (a) Black
Score: 81/100
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC and USB-C
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Nothing Ear (a) are lightweight true-wireless earbuds offering up to 42.5 hours of total playback and 45 dB hybrid ANC. They lack wireless charging and the microphones are mediocre, leading to occasional call quality issues. Ideal for budget-conscious users who value long battery life and customizable EQ.
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC deliver premium sound, pro-level noise cancellation and a feature-rich MagSafe case. The larger case and occasional control imprecision are notable trade-offs. Best suited for Apple users who need top-tier ANC and advanced health features.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
42.5 hoursbest | 30 hours | |
9.5 hoursbest | 6 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 60 minutesbest | — |
11 mmbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 10 minutesbest | — |
5,000 Hzbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 59.6 gbest | 61.4 g |
6best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 59.6 g | 61.4 g |
Battery & Power(3) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 42.5 hours | 30 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 9.5 hours | 6 hours |
Wireless Charging | false | true |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Ear (a) for delivering premium-level sound quality, a sophisticated adaptive ANC system, and a highly customizable app, all at a sub-$100 price point. They also note the low harmonic distortion and rapid charging as standout technical achievements, while pointing out the need for manual Fast Pair reconnections and the relatively modest microphone performance.
Everyday users love the earbuds' sleek transparent design, strong ANC for the price, lightweight comfort, and the long battery life provided by the case. Common frustrations revolve around occasional connectivity hiccups with iPhones, the need to re-pair after device power cycles, and the earbuds' microphone not being as clear as desired.
“Excellent ANC for travel/commutes”
Professional reviewers commend the AirPods Pro 2 for its dramatically improved active noise cancellation, the powerful H2 audio processor, and new adaptive features like personalized Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. They also appreciate the upgraded microphones and rear vent for clearer calls, while noting the case's increased bulk and limited non-Apple customization as minor drawbacks.
Everyday users consistently applaud the strong ANC, natural Transparency mode, reliable battery life, and effortless pairing with iOS devices. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit problems, imprecise swipe controls, and reduced battery endurance when using Spatial Audio, as well as the case's larger size.
