Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 vs. Buds 3 Pro: Which Earbuds Are Right for You?
Samsung’s latest Unpacked event brought us a slew of exciting new devices, including the Galaxy Fold 6, the Galaxy Watch Ultra, and the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy Ring. But let’s not forget the more subtle upgrades: the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. While some might consider these to be minor updates to existing earbuds, they offer intriguing differences that make choosing between them a thoughtful exercise.
At first glance, both new Buds models sport similar features, including:
- 24-bit hi-fi audio: You can expect top-notch sound quality across the board. However, it’s important to note that this high-fidelity experience is only guaranteed when paired with a Samsung phone.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A welcome addition for both models, particularly for the base Buds 3, which often goes without in this price range.
- Customizable EQ: Fine-tune your audio preferences to your heart’s content.
- Galaxy AI: Enjoy features like Interpreter for real-time language translation and Voice Command for hands-free control.
- Blade Design: Both earbuds feature the familiar Apple AirPods-style stems, lending a sleek, modern look.
- IP57 Rating: Resist light splashes and sweat, making them ideal for casual exercise.
- Quick and Wireless Charging: Charge up quickly and conveniently.
However, the differences lie in the details, and they may be the determining factor for your decision:
Galaxy Buds 3:
- Open-Ear Design: The Buds 3 sit comfortably outside your ear canal, offering a more open and ambient-aware listening experience. If you prioritize situational awareness, this is a compelling advantage, allowing you to hear what’s happening around you while enjoying your music.
- Simple design: The Buds 3 lack the intricate blade lights you’ll find on the Pros, but they also come in at a a more affordable price.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro:
- In-Ear Design: The Buds 3 Pro are designed to fit snugly inside your ear canal, offering more noise isolation and potentially enhanced bass. However, if you struggle with in-ear buds like I do, you might find these a bit uncomfortable.
- Enhanced Audio Tech: Featuring a two-way speaker system with a planar tweeter and dual amplifiers, the Pros deliver crisp highs, rich mids, and a more refined overall sound. While not as bass-heavy as some dedicated bass-focused earbuds, they are certainly impressive.
- Adaptive ANC: The Pros boast Adaptive ANC, which automatically adjusts the noise cancellation based on your surroundings. While this feature is promising, in my initial hands-on, I found the ANC performance to be comparable across both models.
- Blade Lights: The stylish blade lights add a touch of visual flair, illuminating when docking or removing from the case.
- Higher Price: The Pros represent a $70 premium over the base model.
To help you make the right choice, consider the following:
- Your Ear Preferences: Are you a fan of in-ear buds that isolate you from the outside world or do you prefer an open-ear design for a more comfortable, ambient-aware audio experience?
- Your Lifestyle: Do you prioritize situational awareness, as you might when running or walking in a bustling city? Open-ear buds like the Buds 3 are a great match. Are you looking for the most immersive sound and noise cancellation while commuting or enjoying audiobooks? The Pros offer a superior audio experience.
- Your Budget: Are you comfortable paying a premium for the added features of the Pros?
So, which Buds are for you?
If you value a rich audio experience and are willing to spend extra, the Pros are the clear winner. Their superior sound quality powered by the two-way speaker system and Adaptive ANC will satisfy the discerning earbud enthusiast.
But if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers great features like ANC and a comfortable open-ear design, the Buds 3 are an excellent choice. Ultimately, the best earbuds for you are those that fit your lifestyle, your needs, and your ears.
As I continue testing both models, I’ll provide further insights and a more detailed analysis of their performance across various scenarios. But for now, this guide offers a solid foundation on which to base your decision.
Do you have any questions about the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 or Buds 3 Pro? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
