Nothing Ear (Stick) Review: Alluring looks, great audio

tech.hindustantimes.com:

Is Nothing a tech brand, or a fashion brand that also does tech? Based on the first few launches, the answer seems to gravitate towards the latter. Nothing stole the limelight earlier this year with its Phone (1) and as the year draws to an end, it once again does the same with the Ear (Stick). The Ear (Stick) is unmistakably outstanding in the way it looks, and it sounds as good. In fact, it can make many consider it over the rather mundane pair of TWS earbuds you get for similar or higher prices.

At a price of Rs. 8499, the Nothing Ear (Stick) seems expensive, especially on paper. Ogle through the spec sheet and you will be disappointed to see the missing ANC and some clever tricks that we assume as standard. However, this could very well be the pair of earbuds most people out in the real world may prefer over the older ear (1), and even the Apple AirPods 2.

It is great to see Nothing pushing the boundary when it comes to design. We have had enough of those square or oval plastic boxes, and the Ear (Stick)'s cylindrical case design stands out like the brightest star. It has a semi transparent case, showing the smart looking earbuds in all their glory. You twist it open with a click to access the earbuds, and this is a highly satisfactory feel. The red element you see on the top is to mask the USB-C port, and a silver pairing button – both of these giving away the lipstick case look. While it looks stunning, I am concerned about the glossy plastic surface getting all scratched over time; my Nothing ear (1) case hasn't held up well to denim pockets.

The earbuds themselves wear the iconic Nothing earbuds look, having the semi-transparent look revealing the silicon boards. The only change here is the lack of the silicon