CMF Headphone Pro Review: Incredible Value or Too Good to Be True?
The audio market is flooded with options, but few have generated as much buzz as the CMF Headphone Pro. From Nothing’s sub-brand CMF, these headphones promise premium features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a transparent mode, and solid sound quality at a shockingly low price point. But can a budget headphone truly compete in a space dominated by established giants?
In this hands-on CMF Headphone Pro review, we put them through their paces to see if they live up to the hype, testing their noise cancellation, battery life, comfort, and that unique, modular design.
First Impressions: Bold, Modular, and Unconventional
The first thing you’ll notice about the CMF Headphone Pro is the design. It definitely breaks from the traditional black or silver plastic mold.
- Industrial Aesthetic: They feature an exposed aluminum alloy spine and a distinctive, large dial on the right ear cup for volume control. It’s a bold, industrial look that stands out.
- Modular Magic: True to the CMF (Color, Material, Finish) philosophy, key parts are removable and customizable. The ear pads, headband pad, and even the cable can be swapped out, which is almost unheard of in this price range.
- Build & Comfort: While they have a lot of plastic to hit the price point, the build feels surprisingly robust for the cost. They are lightweight, and the well-padded ear cups make them comfortable for long listening sessions.
Sound & Performance: Punching Well Above Its Weight
1. Sound Quality: Balanced and Enjoyable
For their price, the sound profile is impressive. They deliver a balanced, warm-leaning sound that’s enjoyable for most music genres.
- Bass: It’s present and punchy without being overwhelming or muddy.
- Mids: Vocals and instruments are clear and distinct.
- Highs: The treble is decently detailed without being harsh or sibilant.
While they may not satisfy critical audiophiles seeking absolute neutrality, for the vast majority of users, the sound is more than satisfying and far exceeds what you’d expect at this cost.
2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The inclusion of ANC is the headline feature. It’s not class-leading, but it is remarkably effective.
- Performance: It does an excellent job of dampening low-frequency constant noises like airplane engines, air conditioners, and bus rumble. It struggles more with sudden, sharp sounds like loud conversations, but for the price, its performance is a minor miracle.
- Transparency Mode: The transparency mode works well, allowing you to hear your surroundings clearly without needing to take the headphones off. It’s perfect for commuting or staying aware at home.
3. Battery Life and Connectivity
With up to 40 hours of playback (without ANC) and quick charging via USB-C, battery life is a non-issue. They connect via Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable connection, and the companion app allows for some basic EQ customization and firmware updates.
The Standout Feature: The Dial
The physical dial on the right ear cup is a genius touch. It provides precise, tactile control over volume, a far better experience than tapping a button. It’s intuitive and quickly becomes a feature you’ll miss on other headphones.
Pros and Cons Summary
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Amazing value for money | All-plastic build |
| Good noise cancellation | Bulky carrying case |
| Unique dial control | Bass could be stronger |
| Very comfortable | |
| Great battery life |
Verdict: Who Should Buy the CMF Headphone Pro?
The CMF Headphone Pro is a game-changer in the budget audio segment. It successfully brings features typically reserved for premium products to an accessible price point.
Buy them if:
- You are on a tight budget but refuse to compromise on features like ANC.
- You appreciate unique, customizable design and intuitive controls.
- You’re a student, commuter, or casual listener looking for the best value headphones of the year.
Skip them if:
- You demand absolute top-tier build quality with metal and leather.
- You need the absolute best-in-class noise cancellation for a noisy office or travel.
- You are an audiophile seeking a perfectly flat, reference-grade sound signature.
Final Score: 4.5/5 – Editor’s Choice (Budget Category)
The CMF Headphone Pro isn’t just a good budget headphone; it’s a phenomenal headphone, period. By offering a compelling mix of effective noise cancellation, great sound, a unique design, and marathon battery life, it sets a new benchmark for what consumers should expect from a budget audio product. For anyone looking to spend under $100, this is, without a doubt, the new king to beat.
