Compare Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE Earbuds

ANC performance ranges from average to solid-for-the-price: it reduces low-frequency rumble well but is not class-leading versus premium models. Noise control is adjustable in the app with ANC on/off and hear-through options, making it easy to tailor for different environments.

ANC is frequently described as a standout for the price and, in some reviews, competitive with or better than more expensive Samsung models. However, at least one reviewer found it only marginal in very loud subway conditions, so expectations should be tempered versus best-in-class ANC leaders. ANC and ambient intensity are described as adjustable via Samsung settings/app controls, often with multiple levels or sliders. Some note the lack of certain adaptive/conversation features found on higher-end models.

Android support is strong thanks to features like Google Fast Pair and aptX/aptX Adaptive compatibility.

Compatibility and feature completeness are repeatedly framed as best on Samsung Galaxy phones (and often Samsung tablets/TVs), acceptable on other Android phones with some limitations, and highly restricted on iPhone.

The Connect app is feature-rich (EQ, noise modes, codec selection, updates, extras like soundscapes and ear-profile tools) and is generally reported as stable.

The Samsung Wearable/settings integration is portrayed as essential for unlocking key features like EQ, ANC/ambient tuning, firmware updates, Find My, and AI features. iOS support is repeatedly called very limited beyond basic Bluetooth audio.

aptX/aptX Adaptive support makes these particularly attractive for Android users seeking higher-quality Bluetooth audio.

Multiple reviews explicitly state there is no aptX support.

Low-latency mode delivers good audio-video sync, with most reviewers reporting minimal lip-sync delay for video and casual gaming.

At least one hands-on video reviewer reports no noticeable lip-sync delay when watching video, suggesting good real-world A/V sync in common streaming playback.

Bass is the headline: deep extension and punch are repeatedly praised, though it can sound forward on bass-heavy mixes.

Bass is generally portrayed as well-defined with a mild boost; it competes with outside noise without dominating vocals for most listeners. Some reviewers wanted more bass punch, while others felt the boosted low end contributed to a muddier presentation on certain tracks.

Battery life is repeatedly described as best-in-class, commonly around 20 hours in the buds (about 15 with ANC) plus roughly 30 more from the case.

Battery life is consistently characterized as average for the category: roughly mid-4 to ~6 hours with ANC on depending on volume, with totals rising into the mid-20s to ~30 hours with the case and ANC off.

Bluetooth stability is typically strong (including longer-range anecdotes), but a few users report occasional dropouts, especially in multipoint or obstructed scenarios.

Connectivity is generally described as stable in testing, with quick pairing for Samsung phones and smooth day-to-day use. Auto-switch behavior is ecosystem-dependent and not always perfect.

Build quality is widely seen as robust for the price, though a few note the silicone tips feel thin and may wear over time.

Build quality is usually described as sturdy and premium-feeling for the price. A recurring caution is that the case lid may loosen over time with regular use.

Physical buttons help avoid accidental touches, but their placement and size can be fiddly; some find multi-tap actions or locating the buttons frustrating.

Pinch and swipe controls are generally liked for reducing accidental touches, but the stem shape and required pinch force are cited as less ergonomic than some rivals, and can shift the earbuds slightly in-ear.

The case is generally sturdy with clear battery indicators and secure retention, but its large footprint is a common complaint.

The case is generally described as compact and pocket-friendly with a firm snap early on, but there are repeated cautions that the hinge/lid may loosen with time, and wireless charging is repeatedly noted as missing.

Charging is USB-C with strong fast-charge results (about 10 minutes for roughly 90 minutes playback); most reviews note no wireless charging on the CKS50TW.

Charging is USB-C only with repeated notes that wireless charging is not supported and that a charging cable may be omitted in the box. Some hands-on impressions report a roughly around-one-hour top-up for the case in normal charging.

Codec support is a strength, with SBC/AAC plus aptX and aptX Adaptive mentioned often, and some app control over codec selection.

Codec support is consistently described as SBC and AAC plus Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC) for compatible Samsung devices; this is framed as a Samsung-first product choice that affects cross-device consistency.

Comfort is generally good once the right tips are found, but the larger housings can feel bulky or less secure for smaller ears.

Comfort is generally rated highly for long listening sessions, helped by low earbud weight and a familiar stem-based in-ear fit, though comfort still depends on tip sizing and seal.

Design is functional but plain, and the size is frequently called bulky compared to sleeker rivals.

The matte, understated look is repeatedly praised, with many liking the premium-feeling Buds 3 Pro-like shape while noting the absence of decorative blade lights as a cost-saving simplification.

Multiple ear tip sizes are included (often four), helping with fit and seal, even if durability concerns pop up in a few reviews.

Ear tip options are a common complaint: some sources mention three sizes, others only two additional sizes, and multiple reviewers wish an XL tip existed. Getting a tight seal is repeatedly emphasized as critical for best sound and ANC.

EQ customization is a highlight, offering a five-band EQ and useful adjustments to tailor bass/vocals and overall balance.

Reviews commonly mention multiple EQ presets plus a custom multi-band EQ (often described as 9-band) to tailor sound. Some note the absence of certain personalized tuning tests found on competitors.

The app includes a locate/find function for the earbuds, which is useful if you misplace them.

Find My-style locating is mentioned through Samsung tools (often tied to SmartThings/Find My Earbuds). Some sources note the lack of ultra-wideband precision finding compared to higher-end models.

Tuning trends warm rather than strictly neutral, but multiple reviews call it well-balanced across the range with good overall coherence.

One detailed measurement-focused review describes the default tuning tracking a target curve closely, with only a modest bass emphasis and less problematic treble emphasis than some pricier siblings.

Included accessories typically cover multiple ear tip sizes, but several reviews criticize limited sizing (sometimes only small/large beyond the default) and frequently mention that a charging cable is not included.

Separation and imaging are strong for the class, keeping transient details in context, but it does not match higher-end audiophile flagships.

Instrument separation is generally described as competent, but at least one long-term reviewer felt fine detail and separation lag behind some competitors and the Buds 3 Pro.

Multiple reviews explicitly state there is no LDAC support.

At very loud listening levels, some note dynamics can feel slightly compressed or squashed, even if clarity remains decent.

Clarity at higher volumes is usually reported as solid with limited obvious distortion, but best results are tied to a good seal and reasonable listening levels; some note performance assumptions change with volume settings.

Noise reduction on calls is inconsistent, with wind and busy-street noise sometimes bleeding through and degrading intelligibility.

Background noise reduction for calls is often praised as improved and effective in office/street noise, though very windy scenarios remain a weak spot and a few reviewers describe occasional muffling depending on conditions.

Call quality is mostly clear in quiet settings, with mixed results outdoors or in noisy rooms; some experiences are excellent while others report average performance.

Call mic quality is commonly reported as a strong point, with clear voice pickup and generally good intelligibility in everyday environments. Wind can still degrade clarity in harsher conditions.

Midrange is generally clear, but the stock tuning can let bass mask lower mids and push vocals back; the Clear Vocal/EQ options help restore presence.

Midrange performance is commonly praised for clear, present vocals and good everyday clarity, helping speech and music remain intelligible even at moderate volumes.

They connect to multiple platforms via Bluetooth, but advanced features and seamless switching are consistently described as ecosystem-dependent, working best inside Samsung’s device lineup.

Multipoint is widely appreciated for switching between phone and computer, though there can be slight delays and occasional reliability quirks.

True multipoint is repeatedly noted as missing. Samsung Auto Switch can approximate device switching within the Galaxy ecosystem but does not replace simultaneous two-device connections.

The seal provides solid passive isolation, sometimes good enough to reduce noise even before ANC is enabled.

Sealed ear tips are repeatedly credited for strong passive isolation and more consistent fit compared with unsealed designs. Seal quality varies by ear shape and included tip sizing, and some users may need third-party tips.

Portability is the main physical downside: the case is chunky and the buds are large, so jeans-pocket carry can be awkward even if bags and jacket pockets are fine.

Preset EQ modes (such as Bass Boost and Clear Vocal) are frequently cited as helpful and can meaningfully change the listening profile.

Preset EQ profiles are generally seen as useful and well-implemented, with several reviewers preferring specific presets (for example, Dynamic) for a more engaging sound.

Wear-detection sensors are a notable omission in multiple reviews, so playback does not auto-pause when you remove a bud.

Wear sensors are mentioned, but auto-pause behavior is described as limited or inconsistent (some note it does not auto-pause music reliably, or is used mainly for calls rather than playback controls).

Sidetone/side-talk features help you hear your own voice more naturally during calls, which several reviewers appreciate.

Matte finishes on buds/case are repeatedly described as less prone to fingerprints and smudges than glossier alternatives.

Across reviews, sound is described as warm and engaging with strong detail for the price, especially after EQ tweaks; a minority find it merely average without tuning.

Sound is widely described as smooth, balanced, and surprisingly high quality for the price, with some reviewers preferring it to pricier Samsung buds. A minority found it less detailed or a bit muddy/v-shaped out of the box, and Samsung-only codec/settings can make a noticeable difference.

Soundstage is often called convincing and well-staged for true wireless, though a few impressions place it closer to average rather than expansive.

Several reviews note a pleasantly wide, open soundstage for the price, with decent separation between elements, though not always matching more premium dual-driver models.

Spatial audio/360 Reality Audio is a mixed bag: some find it immersive, others dismiss it, and it is limited by supported services.

Samsung 360 Audio/spatial features are mentioned as supported, but head tracking is repeatedly noted as missing on the FE. The effect is described as situationally enjoyable but sometimes diluting sound on music.

Stability is generally strong once fitted, with multiple workout and head-movement anecdotes indicating the buds stay put.

Stability is generally good for everyday wear with a proper seal, but at least one review warns they may not be rock-solid for high-impact activities like running compared with winged/fin-style designs.

Pinch-and-swipe control responsiveness is often described as good once learned, but at least one reviewer reports finicky tap behavior (especially double/triple actions) and occasional jostling due to the light fit.

Hear-through/transparency is generally usable and fairly natural, but it can be mild and is not on the level of the best implementations.

Transparency/ambient mode is consistently rated as clear and natural for conversations and awareness, with adjustability. A light hiss/white noise at higher gain levels is mentioned by some reviewers.

Treble is usually smooth and non-fatiguing; some reviewers want more sparkle or sharpness, while others note it stays crisp at higher volumes.

Treble is often characterized as clear but not overly fatiguing compared with some flagship tunings. A few reviewers reported the highs could sound splashy or less controlled depending on fit, EQ, and expectations.

USB-C charging is consistently included and straightforward.

Voice assistant support is limited in some coverage, with at least one review noting a lack of built-in voice-assistant control compared with certain rivals.

Voice assistant integration is frequently referenced via hands-free Gemini and Samsung Bixby on compatible devices, alongside Samsung/Google AI features like interpreter and translation.

Multiple reviewers describe very high loudness potential, sometimes bordering on too loud, making it easy to overpower noisy environments when needed.

Water resistance is consistently positioned as workout-friendly (commonly IPX4, with some coverage citing higher ratings on newer variants).

Buds 3 FE are repeatedly described as IP54-rated, suitable for sweat and light rain but not submersion. One included older Galaxy Buds FE review highlights much lower water resistance for that different model, underscoring model confusion in mixed sources.

Weight is noticeable for some (and a few describe the fit as unbalanced), but others find the buds comfortable for long sessions.