Nothing has officially launched its latest true wireless earbuds, the Ear (3), marking the fourth generation in the company’s lineup. Priced at $179, these earbuds are now available for purchase in the United States, United Kingdom, and select European countries. The Ear (3) introduces several enhancements over its predecessors, focusing on design, audio performance, and innovative features.
Design and Build
The Ear (3) maintains Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic but incorporates polished metal components for a more refined appearance. The charging case is constructed from 100% recycled aluminum, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainability. This design choice not only enhances durability but also provides a premium feel. Both the earbuds and the case carry an IP54 rating, ensuring resistance to dust, sweat, and splashes, making them suitable for various environments and activities.
Super Mic System
A standout feature of the Ear (3) is the Super Mic system integrated into the charging case. This dual-microphone setup can filter ambient noise up to 95 dB, focusing on the user’s voice during calls. Activated via the Talk button on the case, this system allows users to use the case as a handheld microphone, ensuring clear communication even in noisy surroundings. Additionally, users can record voice notes directly from the case, which are then transcribed in the Essential Space app, enhancing productivity and convenience.
Audio Performance
The Ear (3) is equipped with upgraded 12mm dynamic drivers, an improvement from the 11mm drivers in previous models. These drivers feature a patterned diaphragm design that increases the radiating area by 20%, resulting in enhanced bass and treble response. Users can expect a wider soundstage, richer mids, and clearer highs, delivering an immersive audio experience across various genres.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The earbuds support Real-Time Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation, capable of reducing noise by up to 45 dB. This system continuously adjusts to the user’s environment every 600 milliseconds and monitors fit-related leakage every 1,875 milliseconds, ensuring optimal noise cancellation tailored to individual needs. This feature is particularly beneficial for users in noisy environments, allowing for an uninterrupted listening experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Ear (3) utilizes Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC support, enabling high-resolution audio streaming and a stable connection. The earbuds are compatible with Android 6 and later, as well as iOS 13 and later, ensuring broad device compatibility. Features like Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair facilitate quick and seamless pairing with devices. A low-latency mode is available for gaming and video, with an end-to-end delay of under 120 milliseconds, catering to users who require synchronized audio-visual performance.
Battery Life and Charging
Each earbud houses a 55mAh battery, offering up to 10 hours of listening time with ANC off and 5.5 hours with ANC on. Combined with the 500mAh charging case, users can achieve up to 38 hours of total playback time without ANC and 22 hours with ANC. The case supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging, providing flexibility in charging options. A quick 10-minute charge can yield up to 10 hours of playback, ensuring minimal downtime for users on the go.
Additional Features
The Ear (3) includes in-ear detection, automatically pausing playback when the earbuds are removed and resuming when reinserted. Pinch controls on the earbuds allow users to play/pause music, skip tracks, answer or hang up calls, and switch between ANC and Transparency Mode. The Nothing X app offers an 8-band equalizer, profile sharing, and the creation of personal sound profiles, enabling users to customize their audio experience to their preferences.
Availability
The Nothing Ear (3) is available in black and white color options. Pre-orders began on September 18, 2025, through Nothing’s official website and select partners, with open sales commencing on September 25, 2025. While the earbuds are currently available in the U.S., U.K., and Europe, the launch date and pricing for the Indian market have yet to be announced.
Conclusion
The Nothing Ear (3) earbuds represent a significant advancement in the company’s audio product lineup, combining innovative features like the Super Mic system with enhanced audio performance and a sustainable design. Priced competitively at $179, they offer a compelling option for consumers seeking high-quality true wireless earbuds with advanced functionalities.
