Samsung Galaxy Buds Comparison: Which One Should You Choose?
As a Samsung enthusiast and someone in need of new earbuds, I’ve done extensive research on the Galaxy Buds lineup. In this article, I’ll compare the Galaxy Buds2, Buds2 Pro, Buds FE, Buds3, and Buds3 Pro to help you make an informed decision. I’ll also share my personal choice and reasoning.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Galaxy Buds2 | Galaxy Buds2 Pro | Galaxy Buds FE | Galaxy Buds3 | Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speaker | 2-way | 2-way (10mm Woofer + 5.3mm Tweeter) | 1-way 6.5mm | 2-way | 2-way |
| Active Noise Cancelling | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ambient Sound | Yes | Yes (PSAP) | Yes | No | Yes |
| 360 Audio | Yes | Yes (Direct Multi-Ch) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life (ANC On) | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | IPX7 | IPX2 | IP57 | IP57 |
| Weight | 5g each | 5.5g each | 5.6g each | 4.7g each | 5.4g each |
Key Features and Differences
Sound Quality
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro stands out with its 2-way driver system, featuring a 10mm woofer and 5.3mm tweeter. This configuration likely provides a more balanced and detailed sound compared to the others. The Buds FE, with its single 6.5mm driver, might offer less sophisticated audio but could still be suitable for casual listeners. The Buds3 and Buds3 Pro also feature 2-way speakers, potentially offering improved sound quality over their predecessors.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
All models feature Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), but there’s a notable difference in Ambient Sound functionality. The Buds3 doesn’t offer Ambient Sound, which might be a dealbreaker for some users. The Buds2 Pro offers enhanced PSAP (Personal Sound Amplification Products) functionality, which could be beneficial for those who need occasional hearing assistance.
Water Resistance
The Buds2 Pro leads with an IPX7 rating, making it fully waterproof. Surprisingly, the Buds3 and Buds3 Pro have improved to IP57, offering both dust and water resistance. The Buds2 and Buds FE maintain a basic IPX2 rating.
360 Audio
Except for the Buds FE, all models support 360 Audio for an immersive listening experience. The Buds2 Pro offers Direct Multi-Channel support, potentially providing a more accurate spatial audio experience.
Design
Galaxy Buds2 and Buds2 Pro:
- Traditional bulb-shaped design
- No stem
- Sits flush with the ear
- Matte, rubberized texture
- Buds2 Pro has a slightly more ergonomic shape with a small hump to contour to the ear
Galaxy Buds FE:
- Similar bulb-shaped design to Buds2 series
- No stem
- Includes wing tips for a more secure fit
- Protrudes slightly more from the ear compared to Buds2 series
Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro:
- Completely redesigned with a stem
- Triangular lollipop stem design
- More similar to Apple AirPods in appearance
- Buds3 Pro features a “Cybertruck” aesthetic with angular lines
- Protrudes more visibly from the ear compared to previous models
The main distinction is that the Buds3 series introduces a stem design, marking a significant departure from the traditional bulb shape of the Buds2 series and Buds FE. This new design brings the microphones closer to the mouth and changes the overall look and feel of the earbuds when worn.
My Personal Choice
After careful consideration, I’m leaning towards the Galaxy Buds2 Pro as my first choice, with the Galaxy Buds FE as a solid backup option. However, I haven’t made the final purchase yet due to some availability issues with the Buds2 Pro.
Why Galaxy Buds2 Pro?
- Superior sound quality with the 2-way driver system
- IPX7 water resistance for worry-free use in various conditions
- Enhanced 360 Audio with Direct Multi-Channel support
- Wireless charging capability
The Buds2 Pro offers a more balanced sound profile and includes additional features like voice detect and customizable volume controls. Its design also sits more flush with the ears, which I find appealing.
Why Galaxy Buds FE as an Alternative?
- More affordable option without sacrificing essential features
- Newer model that’s still readily available in the market
- Suitable for casual listening and as a backup pair
While the Buds FE has its strengths, including impressive bass performance, I’m prioritizing the overall package that the Buds2 Pro offers.
Why Not the Galaxy Buds3 Series?
Despite being the latest offerings from Samsung, I’ve decided against the Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro for several reasons:
- Price: The Buds3 series comes with a significantly higher price tag, which is a crucial factor in my decision-making process.
- Lack of Compelling New Features: After reviewing their specifications, I didn’t find any particularly innovative features that would justify the price increase over previous models.
- Design Preferences: The new stem design of the Buds3 series doesn’t align with my aesthetic preferences. I find the appearance of the previous series more appealing and less obtrusive.
- Fit and Security Concerns: Several reviews have highlighted that the Buds3 series may be prone to falling out, especially during physical activities. This is a major concern for me as I plan to use them primarily during workouts, including weightlifting at the gym, skipping, jogging, and running.
- Intended Use: While the Buds3 series might be suitable for stationary listening, my active lifestyle requires earbuds that stay securely in place during various types of movement.
Given these factors, particularly the fit issues during exercise and the higher price point, I’ve concluded that the Buds3 series isn’t the best choice for my specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
While the Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro offer improvements in water resistance and maintain the 2-way speaker system, I found that they don’t provide significant overall improvements to justify the higher price. The lack of Ambient Sound in the Buds3 is a notable drawback.
The Buds2 Pro offers the best balance of features and performance, especially with its superior water resistance and sound quality. For those on a budget or looking for a reliable secondary pair, the Buds FE presents an excellent value proposition, despite its simpler 1-way speaker.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your specific needs, budget, and use cases. Consider factors like sound quality, water resistance, and additional features like Ambient Sound to find the perfect Galaxy Buds for you.
Current Situation
I’m currently in the process of finding a retailer that sells new Buds2 Pro, as I prefer not to consider second-hand options for hygiene reasons. If I’m unable to locate the Buds2 Pro, I’ll likely opt for the Buds FE as my alternative choice.
It’s worth noting that there are more detailed differences between these two models, which I plan to explore in a future, more comprehensive comparison post. For now, my focus is on securing the Buds2 Pro if possible, with the Buds FE as a worthy alternative if needed.