Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) vs. Nothing Ear (2):
A Detailed Comparison
In this analysis, we delve deep into a comparison of two highly popular earbuds models – the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) and the Nothing Ear (2).
When faced head-to-head, which model emerges as the winner?
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) DESIGN
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) DESIGN
To start, let's talk about the design. You'll notice that both earbuds share similar designs, especially with regard to the body. The significant difference lies in the transparent look of the Nothing Ear (2), which extends to its case. The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are only avilable in a glossy white color while the Nothing Ear (2)s are now available in Black or White. Declaring a winner in terms of design, however, is highly subjective and ultimately comes down to personal preference.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) CONTROLS
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) CONTROLS
When it comes to controls, both models use the same pinch-style controls on the stem to perform certain actions or toggle different modes. However, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) take the lead with their new swipe gesture feature for volume control. This is a convenient feature, especially compared to the pinching required for the Nothing Ear (2) to adjust volume.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) LOCATION TRACKING
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) LOCATION TRACKING
The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) also shine in terms of location tracking. They offer precise tracking that can help locate each earbud or the case via Apple’s iOS “Find My” app. The Nothing Ear (2)s do allow you to emit a sound from the earbuds to locate them, but they lack the ability to emit a sound from the case. Furthermore, there is no precision tracking for the Nothing Ear (2) earbuds and you are limited to locating them only within a Bluetooth range via sound.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) SOUND QUALITY
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) SOUND QUALITY
In terms of sound quality, both earbuds deliver impressive performance. The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) feature Adaptive EQ that adjusts according to the environment and listening situation. The Nothing Ear (2), on the other hand, offer much more professional-level manual EQ control through their companion app. Despite the Adaptive EQ of the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), the Nothing Ear (2)s takes the crown in this category due to their better balanced sound, more powerful bass, and a more well-rounded and pleasant listening experience overall.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) ANC/TRANSPARENCY MODE
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) ANC/TRANSPARENCY MODE
Regarding the sound modes available, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) outperform the Nothing Ear (2) with a broader range of frequencies canceled by their active noise cancellation (ANC) but not by a large margin. Additionally, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)'s “Transparency Mode,” which amplifies environmental sounds, is arguably the best on the market. It feels almost like not having any earbuds in your ears at all!
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) MICROPHONE QUALITY
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) MICROPHONE QUALITY
When considering microphone quality, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) again stand out. The quality is more refined compared to the Nothing Ear (2), which may be an essential factor for people who often use their earbuds for phone calls. To listen to microphone audio quality examples, please see the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) vs. Nothing Ear (2) video comparison below!
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) BATTERY LIFE & CHARGING
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) BATTERY LIFE & CHARGING
The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) provide up to six hours of audio playback with ANC on, compared to the four hours from the Nothing Ear (2)s. Including their charging cases, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) deliver up to 30 hours of total battery life, while the Nothing Ear (2) offer around 22 hours. Both earbuds have quick charging capabilities. The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are able to provide 60 minutes of ANC playback on just a quick 5-minute fast charge, while the Nothing Ear (2) are able to provide up to 80 minutes of ANC playback on on just a quick 10-minute charge. This makes the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) the clear winner in the battery and charging category.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) CONNECTIVITY
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) CONNECTIVITY
Connectivity-wise, both models offer Bluetooth 5.3, providing strong, long, and stable Bluetooth connections. They both offer universal compatibility. This makes them equal in this category.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) PRICE
vs.
NOTHING EAR (2) PRICE
Finally, let's talk about price. The Nothing Ear (2)s usually cost about 25% less than the price of the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen). This significant price difference might sway some buyers towards the more affordable Nothing Ear (2) option.
AIRPODS PRO (2ND GEN) vs. NOTHING EAR (2)
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) and the Nothing Ear (2) have their strengths and offer impressive features. Depending on your individual preferences and needs, you may find one model more appealing than the other. However, considering factors such as controls, location tracking, sound modes, microphone quality, and battery life, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) edge out the Nothing Ear (2). Nonetheless, if sound quality and price are your main considerations, you might find the Nothing Ear (2) more compelling.