Looks might not be everything—but in the world of tech, they still matter. And for Nothing, the U.K.-based company known for its design-driven approach, looks are practically part of its DNA. The brand has always worn its aesthetic on its sleeve, blending ‘90s-inspired transparency with a futuristic flair that says, “we’re here to experiment.” Their gadgets don’t just look good—they mean something. They’re playful, bold, and not afraid to try new things, even if every attempt doesn’t land perfectly.
That experimental spirit has carried across Nothing’s product lineup, from smartphones with flashy light interfaces to earbuds that integrate ChatGPT and feature innovative—but occasionally impractical—microphone tricks. Some ideas soar; others stumble. But if there’s one area where Nothing consistently finds its groove, it’s audio—and that’s where its sub-brand, CMF, steps in.
Enter the CMF Headphone Pro: an affordable alternative to Nothing’s own Headphone 1, built for listeners who want good design, great sound, and battery life that just doesn’t quit—all without breaking the bank.
Design and Build: Familiar Roots, Fresh Personality
The CMF Headphone Pro instantly feels lighter—both in hand and on your wallet. Sure, it’s not as premium-feeling as the $300+ Headphone 1, but that’s to be expected given the price difference. The materials may not scream luxury, yet the headphones manage to hold their own with a clean, modern aesthetic. CMF’s signature playful colorways return here, with a light green and orange combo that makes the device stand out in a sea of black and gray.
One cool touch? Interchangeable earcups. You can easily swap them out for new colors or replacements, which not only gives your headphones a bit of personality but also extends their lifespan. That modularity is a small but meaningful design choice—it’s sustainability with flair.
No, these won’t turn as many heads as the Headphone 1, but they still carry that “Nothing” DNA—fun, functional, and refreshingly different.
Audio and Performance: Big Bass, Big Battery
For $99, expectations should be modest—but the CMF Headphone Pro delivers more than you’d think. They’re tuned with an emphasis on bass, which makes them shine with electronic and pop tracks. Songs from Daft Punk, Kaytranada, or ODESZA feel punchy and full, with a soundstage that’s surprisingly wide for the price.
That said, the bass-heavy tuning can overpower softer genres like folk or acoustic music. Vocals and high frequencies occasionally lose clarity, but you can tweak the sound in the Nothing X app, which includes a handy hearing test for personalized tuning.
Then there’s the “Energy Slider”—a physical bass control that lets you crank up the low end. It works, though most users will probably find the default bass strong enough. The tactile controls overall are solid, even if the build quality doesn’t feel quite as refined as the premium Nothing models.
Where the Headphone Pro really shines, though, is battery life. CMF claims up to 50 hours with ANC on and a massive 100 hours with it off, and testing suggests those numbers are accurate. You can go days—if not weeks—without reaching for a charger. For frequent travelers or long work sessions, that’s a huge win.
Features: Smart but Simple
The CMF Headphone Pro includes Active Noise Cancellation that’s impressively effective for the price range. It won’t beat Bose or Sony, but it cuts out background hums well enough for commuting or focusing in noisy environments.
There are also spatial audio modes like Concert and Cinema, but they’re a bit hit-or-miss. Concert Mode adds a subtle sense of space, while Cinema Mode… well, let’s just say it makes your movies sound like they’re playing inside a tin can. Still, the effort to bring advanced sound features to the budget range is commendable.
Verdict: A Worthy Budget Contender
The CMF Headphone Pro may not redefine what budget headphones can be, but they come impressively close. You get stylish design, long-lasting battery, decent ANC, and customizable sound—all for under $100. Yes, the materials feel cheaper, and no, you won’t get audiophile-level clarity, but for everyday users who just want solid performance and a touch of personality, these are a win.
CMF continues Nothing’s mission to make tech that’s both experimental and accessible, and the Headphone Pro embodies that ethos perfectly. If you’re after premium features at a fraction of the price—and can forgive a few rough edges—these headphones definitely deserve a spot on your shortlist.