CMF By Nothing Neckband Pro

Description

CMF By Nothing Neckband Pro 

CMF by Nothing continues to disrupt the audio accessories market with its latest budget-friendly yet feature-rich offering – the Neckband Pro. Positioned as a high-performance wireless neckband, it brings a strong mix of audio clarity, robust battery life, and active noise cancellation at a compelling price point. Here’s our in-depth technical breakdown.

Design and Build

The Neckband Pro features a minimalist, functional design that aligns with Nothing’s aesthetic philosophy. The neckband is constructed from flexible silicone material, making it lightweight and comfortable for long usage. Magnetic earbuds help prevent tangling when not in use, and IP55 water and dust resistance makes them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.

Audio Performance

Powered by 13.6mm dynamic drivers, the Neckband Pro delivers rich sound with well-defined bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. It offers a balanced sound profile that suits both casual listeners and audiophiles looking for a budget daily driver.

• Driver size: 13.6mm

• Impedance: ~32Ω

• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz

• Audio Codec Support: AAC, SBC

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

One of the standout features is Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation up to 50dB, a rare inclusion in this price segment. It uses feedforward and feedback microphones to effectively cancel out ambient noise, making it suitable for commuting and noisy environments. There’s also a Transparency Mode for ambient awareness.

Connectivity and Controls

The Neckband Pro supports Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and efficient connection with low latency. It also includes dual-device pairing, allowing users to switch seamlessly between two devices.

• Latency: ~120ms (in low-latency mode)

• Bluetooth Range: 10 meters (33 feet)

• Multi-point Connectivity: Yes

Physical buttons on the neckband offer tactile control for volume, playback, calls, and ANC mode switching.

Battery Life

Battery life is a strong suit for the Neckband Pro:

• Playback time: Up to 37 hours (without ANC), ~23 hours with ANC

• Charging: USB-C fast charging

• Charge Time: 10 minutes = 18 hours playback (without ANC)

This impressive endurance ensures it lasts through extended listening sessions or even a few days of regular use.

Microphone and Calling

Equipped with 5 microphones and AI noise reduction, the Neckband Pro provides excellent call clarity. Whether you’re in a windy outdoor setting or a busy café, it suppresses background noise effectively during calls.

App Integration

Using the Nothing X app, users can:

• Customize the equalizer

• Update firmware

• Toggle ANC and Transparency modes

• Configure button controls

This adds a layer of personalization uncommon in this category.

Verdict

The CMF By Nothing Neckband Pro sets a new benchmark for neckband-style earphones in the sub-$50 range. It offers premium features like 50dB ANC, dual-device support, and long battery life, all packed in a sleek, ergonomic design. For users seeking a reliable, affordable, and powerful audio companion, the Neckband Pro is a top contender in its class.

Pros:

• Exceptional ANC (50dB)

• Long battery life with fast charging

• Solid audio performance

• IP55 rating

• Multi-device connectivity

Cons:

• No LDAC or aptX support

• Neckband design may not suit everyone