Nothing Ear (3) review

Nothing's Ear (3) is a mid-priced pair that competes on documented specs. Nothing lists 45 dB of noise cancelling, which it adapts to your surroundings, and backs it with environmental noise cancellation for calls that it says was trained on over 20 million hours of real-world audio. Audio supports 24-bit Hi-Res LDAC, and the headline feature is a Super Mic for clearer calls and voice notes that Essential Space can transcribe on Nothing phones. The earbuds are rated IP54, support dual connection and come with a wireless charging case. Battery is the main weakness for travel: Nothing lists up to 5.5 hours per charge with Adaptive Noise Cancellation on, though the case holds up to 38 hours and a 10-minute charge adds up to 10 hours of playback. At $149 on Nothing's US store it costs far less than the flagships, making it a sensible pick for commuting and office days rather than long flights.

Who it is for

Buyers who want strong documented cancelling depth and hi-res audio for under $150.

Price

$149 at Nothing.

24-Bit Hi-Res LDAC Audio White White Black $149
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 7, 2026.

Key features

• 45 dB adaptive noise cancelling
• 24-bit Hi-Res LDAC audio
• Super Mic for calls and voice notes
• Up to 5.5 hours per charge with Adaptive Noise Cancellation on, up to 38 hours with the wireless charging case
• IP54 rating and dual connection

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Publishes a cancelling depth of 45 dB
• Strength: LDAC and wireless charging at a mid-range price
• Strength: Dual connection for two devices
• Weakness: 5.5 hours per charge with noise cancelling on is the shortest here
• Weakness: Voice notes through Essential Space are built around Nothing phones
• Weakness: Design-led case may not suit everyone

Key facts

• Price: $149
• Noise cancelling: 45 dB
• Battery with ANC: Up to 5.5 hours, 38 hours with case
• Water resistance: IP54

Where it ranks

Nothing Ear (3) is No. 9 in our Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds verdict and No. 10 in Best Wireless Earbuds.