Nothing Headphones Are Going Budget in 2026

Tech fans eager for affordable over-ear headphones have reason to celebrate. Nothing, the British brand known for its bold, futuristic designs, is reportedly launching a new budget-friendly headphone model in 2026. Early leaks suggest a March 12th release, priced around £149 / €159 (roughly $200 / AU$300). If true, these headphones could offer the perfect mix of style, comfort, and affordability for casual listeners and audiophiles alike.

The move aligns with Nothing’s own plans to “double down” on the over-ear category, signaling a serious push into the mainstream headphone market. While Nothing’s previous Headphone (1) drew attention for its Cyberman-inspired aesthetic, this new model may embrace a more understated, budget-friendly design.

What We Know About the Nothing Headphone (a)

Reliable leaker Billbil-kun has revealed details about the upcoming “Nothing Headphone (a),” a cheaper alternative to the original Headphone (1). The naming follows the pattern of Nothing’s Ear (a) earbuds, which successfully brought high-quality audio to a more accessible price point.

Based on leaks, the Headphone (a) could retain some signature Nothing traits, such as transparent earcups or minimal branding, while streamlining other features to hit a lower price. Fans hope this includes comfortable padding, lightweight construction, and clear audio performance without the premium cost of the Headphone (1).

Why a Budget Option Matters

Budget over-ear headphones remain one of the most competitive categories in consumer audio. Many affordable models deliver solid sound quality and comfort but lack the design flair or brand identity of premium devices. Nothing has the opportunity to stand out by combining eye-catching aesthetics with accessibility.

If the Headphone (a) hits the rumored price point, it could attract users who have hesitated to invest in the £250–£300 range for high-end headphones. For students, casual listeners, and gift buyers, this could be the ideal mid-tier choice that balances affordability with style.

Design Expectations: Will Nothing Copy Classic Budget Traits?

While Nothing has become known for bold, futuristic designs, there’s reason to believe the company may take cues from traditional budget headphones. Many popular budget models favor subtle, nondescript styling that prioritizes comfort over flashy visuals. Adopting this approach could help Nothing appeal to a broader audience without alienating its design-focused fanbase.

This might mean simpler earcups, muted colors, or fewer external lights, while still maintaining the lightweight feel and clean lines Nothing users expect. It’s a smart strategy for bringing in new buyers while preserving the brand’s identity.

Launch Date and Pricing Rumors

Leaks suggest a March 12th, 2026 launch, priced at around £149 / €159. If accurate, this positions the Headphone (a) as a direct competitor to popular mid-range over-ears, offering strong value for money. While pricing can fluctuate before official release, this estimate aligns with Nothing’s strategy of offering high-quality audio at accessible prices.

Early buzz suggests the budget headphones could generate excitement similar to Nothing’s Ear (a) earbuds, which have been praised for making premium features approachable for a wider audience.

Nothing’s rumored Headphone (a) could mark a turning point for budget over-ear headphones in 2026. With a balance of design, sound quality, and affordability, this model has the potential to redefine what consumers expect from mid-range headphones. Fans will be watching closely for the March release, hoping Nothing keeps the best traits of its premium models while embracing a more mainstream-friendly approach.

Affordable, stylish, and functional — the Headphone (a) could be the over-ear headphones everyone has been waiting for.