Nothing Headphone (a) B186 vs Beats Studio Pro
Nothing Headphone (a) B186
Beats Studio Pro
What Buyers Say
Nothing Headphone (a) B186
Users are overwhelmingly positive about these Nothing headphones, praising the exceptional battery life, comfortable fit, and intuitive controls like the scroll wheel. The sound quality is generally considered great for the price, though one audiophile friend rated it 5/10 and some note the noise cancellation isn't the strongest. The app's customization options and sleek design are also highlights, with minor complaints about glossy plastic showing smudges and snugness over long periods.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life
- Comfortable fit
- Intuitive controls
- Great sound for price
- Customizable app
Cons
- Glossy plastic shows smudges
- Noise cancellation not strongest
- Slightly snug over long periods
- Transparency mode could improve
Beats Studio Pro
The Beats Studio Pro headphones receive generally positive feedback for their sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life, with many users praising their comfort and style. However, a significant number of reviews report issues with ear pressure, static or crackling in one ear, and occasional build quality concerns. Some users also note that the ANC is not as strong as expected and that the headphones can be uncomfortable during extended wear.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- Comfortable fit
- Stylish design
Cons
- Ear pressure discomfort
- Static or crackling in one ear
- Build quality issues
- Weak ANC compared to expectations
- Uncomfortable for long wear
Scores
Specifications
| Nothing Headphone (a) B186 | Beats Studio Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | over-ear | over-ear |
| Open/Closed | closed | closed |
| Foldable | — | ✓★ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg | 0.26 kg★ |
| Ear Cushion | memory foam | UltraPlush engineered leather |
| Headband | Liquid Silicone Padding | Metal |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers | — | 1★ |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz | 20 Hz |
| Freq Max | 40 kHz★ | 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 16 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 110 dB★ | 95 dB |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Codecs | LDAC | SBC, AAC |
| Surround | Virtual Surround | Spatial Audio |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✓ | ✓ |
| ANC Type | adaptive hybrid | adaptive |
| Transparency | ✓ | ✓ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | 5.4★ | 5.3 |
| Profiles | — | A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP |
| Multipoint | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Detachable Cable | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cable Length | 1.2000000476837158 m | 1.2000000476837158 m |
| Range | 10.100000381469727 m | 30.5 m★ |
| Battery | ||
| Battery Life | 135 hrs★ | 40 hrs |
| Charge Time | 2 hrs | 2 hrs |
| Fast Charging | 5 | 10 Minutes for 4 Hours |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mic Count | 5★ | 2 |
| NC Mic | ✓ | ✓ |
| Boom Mic | ✗ | ✗ |
| Detachable Mic | ✗ | ✗ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, SmartThings | Siri |
| Touch Controls | ✓ | ✓ |
| App | Nothing X | Android Only |
| Gaming Mode | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | Water-Resistant | IPX4 |
Pros & Cons
Nothing Headphone (a) B186
- Strong connectivity (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong battery (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong anc (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong social proof (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Below average affordability (25th percentile)
- Below average comfort (30th percentile)
Beats Studio Pro
- Strong anc (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong build (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong connectivity (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong social proof (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Below average affordability (11th percentile)11th %ile
- Below average user sentiment (22nd percentile)
Pricing
Nothing Headphone (a) B186 offers 1.2x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 87 overall, wins 3 of 7 usage categories and 8 of 41 specs.
