Thorough Analysis of nwm ONE Disadvantages
PRODUCT
- Product
- nwm ONE
- Provider
- nwm
- Price
- ¥39,600
Dr. Bravo
The nwm ONE is a product in a new category: an open-ear overhead speaker. With 12mm and 35mm 2-way drivers, it delivers spacious, high-quality sound without blocking your ears. The lightweight 185g body offers up to 20 hours of battery life—quite impressive! PSZ technology suppresses sound leakage while still letting you hear your surroundings, making it perfect for working from home or extended listening sessions. For those seeking a new musical experience, this is a truly innovative choice.
BooLab Reviewer Negative Reviews
The ¥40,000 price point places this in the premium range for this new product category. While it can be viewed as an investment in proprietary technologies like the 2-way drivers and PSZ technology, considering the abundance of completely wireless earbuds and headphones available at the same price point, opinions will be divided on cost-performance value. The 20-hour battery life is excellent, but the lack of long-term data on charging port standards and durability is also a concern worth noting.
The overhead design has strong visual impact, but it's unavoidable that it will affect your hairstyle. Especially if you put it on after styling your hair, it's easy for your hairstyle to get messed up, requiring consideration when using it before or after going out. The limited color variations and design options might also feel insufficient for those who prioritize fashion. While the neck area form is futuristic and innovative, it's fair to say it's not a style that will appeal to everyone.
Due to the open-ear structure, the bass impact and sound density physically tend to be inferior compared to closed-back headphones. While the 2-way drivers improve sound quality, there's a high possibility that those who prioritize deep bass or audiophiles will find it lacking. Although PSZ technology suppresses sound leakage, it's not completely zero, so consideration for those around you is necessary when using it in quiet environments. Since sound quality preferences vary greatly between individuals, I definitely recommend trying them out if you have access to a listening opportunity.
The overhead form presents portability challenges for commuting and going out. Without a folding mechanism, it tends to be bulky when putting it in a bag, requiring a dedicated case for transport. While the 185g weight is comfortable for extended wear, the burden on your neck varies greatly depending on body type and posture. Also, there are situations where it can be difficult to use depending on your lifestyle, such as interference with glasses or earrings, or poor fit if the neck area size doesn't match.
Negative Review Summary
Dr. Bravo
Summarizing the analysis from our four Boo analysts, we see four main trends: 'high price,' 'individual fit variations,' 'divided sound quality preferences,' and 'portability challenges.' The ¥40,000 price point especially divides opinion on whether it's justified for this new product category. Additionally, the overhead design raises concerns about hairstyle impact and portability when going out. While the 2-way drivers offer benefits, some users note the characteristic lack of bass depth typical of open-ear designs.
What People Are Saying
BooLab Survey: February 28, 2026
Not Recommended For
Dr. Bravo
Those who prefer bass-heavy music genres (EDM, hip-hop, etc.)
Those primarily planning to use it on the go
Those who want to maintain their hairstyle at all times
Those looking for audio equipment under ¥30,000
Those prioritizing compact, portable storage
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A Different Perspective
Dr. Bravo
But here's the thing—these disadvantages become significant advantages when you shift your perspective. The ¥40,000 price can be seen as an investment in technology that balances comfort without blocking ears and quality sound. Individual fit variations are simply the flip side of finding a device you can wear all day comfortably. Thanks to sound leakage suppression technology, you get more openness than fully sealed types while maintaining privacy. As for portability, since it's designed specifically for long-term use at home or in the office, it shows its true value when used as a stationary device.
Recommended For
Dr. Bravo
Those who want to work from home while listening to music for extended periods
Those who dislike ear pressure and seek an open, comfortable fit
Those who want to enjoy music while staying aware of their surroundings
Those who understand the value of investing in new audio experiences
Those primarily planning to use it at home or in the office
Convinced After BooLab's Analysis?
Choose with confidence, backed by thorough analysis
Dr. Bravo says
After reading BooLab's thorough analysis, there's no need to hesitate. Go ahead and choose with confidence!
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