Nothing Ear (a) Black
Score: 81/100
Soundcore V20i
Score: 76/100Rankings
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.
The Soundcore V20i provides an open-ear design with strong bass, long battery life, and robust IP55 protection. It lacks active noise cancellation and can sound hollow, and the hooks may need adjustment. Best for active users who prioritize awareness and battery endurance over immersive isolation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
42.5 hoursbest | 36 hours | |
9.5 hoursbest | 8 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 60 minutesbest | — |
11 mm | 16 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 10 minutesbest | 10 minutesbest |
5,000 Hz | 20,000 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 59.6 gbest | 76.4 g |
6best | 4 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IP54 | IP55 |
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 59.6 g | 76.4 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 42.5 hours | 36 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 9.5 hours | 8 hours |
Features(1) | ||
Active Noise Cancellation | true | false |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.4 |
Audio(3) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 11 mm | 16 mm |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 5000 Hz | 20000 Hz |
Microphone Count | 6 | 4 |
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.
Professional reviewers commend the V20i for its comfortable open-ear hook design, strong bass via BassUp, clear call performance with AI-enhanced microphones, and robust IP55-rated durability. However, they point out the hollow sound signature, lack of active noise cancellation, and a weight that is higher than some ultra-light competitors.
Everyday users love the secure fit, long battery life, bass punch, and the fun, music-synced lighting, while repeatedly noting the hollow audio character, occasional app glitches, and the need to fine-tune the hooks for a perfect fit.
