Compare Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

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 the main weakness. The open design limits sealing, so the effect is modest against chatter and steady noise and much less convincing against higher-frequency or sudden sounds, even if it appears somewhat improved over Buds 3.

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

Android compatibility is strong, and Galaxy phones get the most complete experience. Non-Samsung Android users still get meaningful control through Samsung's software, but the best extras remain Galaxy-first.

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.

Samsung's settings integration and Wearables app expose useful controls, EQ options, and ANC adjustments. The software feels feature-rich, though some advanced features stay exclusive to Galaxy phones.

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

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

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

Bass is a standout strength, with reviewers repeatedly calling it punchy, warm, and satisfyingly deep for an open-fit earbud. It is not as textured as the Pro model, but it gives the Buds 4 a lively, full sound.

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 acceptable rather than exceptional at roughly 5 to 6 hours from the buds and up to 30 hours with the case. Reviewers treat endurance as serviceable, not a category advantage.

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

Connectivity looks strong overall, helped by Bluetooth 6.1 and solid range in real-world use. The bigger limitation is not dropouts but that the smartest switching behavior is mostly reserved for Samsung-centric setups.

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 and finish are seen as more refined than the previous generation, with a more polished stem design and cleaner execution. The Buds 4 feel premium enough for the price, though not especially rugged.

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

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

The case earns positive marks for its flatter layout, translucent lid, and practical physical pairing button. It feels useful and better thought out than a generic accessory shell.

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.

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

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 one of the Buds 4's biggest wins, especially for listeners who prefer open-fit earbuds or have smaller ears. The only caveat is that the looser fit can require occasional readjustment.

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

Design feedback is favorable overall: slimmer stems, a cleaner case, and a more polished look improve the presentation. The main knock is that the styling still feels very close to Apple's template.

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

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

EQ flexibility is unusually strong for mainstream earbuds, with both a multi-band equalizer and preset options available. This gives listeners real room to tailor the sound signature.

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

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

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

The Buds 4 separate vocals, synths, percussion, and layered mixes well for the class. They are not hyper-analytical, but they rarely sound congested or smeared.

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

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

Noise reduction during calls performs better than expected and can suppress loud background noise effectively. The tradeoff is that strong processing can make the speaker sound a bit digitized.

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 quality is good in quiet spaces and usable in noisier ones, but it is not best-in-class. Voices remain understandable, though they can sound slightly muffled or processed compared with stronger premium rivals.

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 tuning is clear and well judged, keeping vocals and core instruments present even with the Buds 4's fuller bass. This helps the earbuds sound richer than many entry-level competitors.

Basic listening works across devices, but the overall experience is plainly Samsung-centric. iPhone users and people mixing Apple, Windows, and Galaxy hardware lose access to several of the best features.

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

Automatic switching is strongest inside the Galaxy ecosystem and notably less convenient elsewhere. Mixed-device users should expect more manual intervention than they would want at this price.

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

Passive isolation is weak because the open design does not create a proper seal. That physical limitation is a big reason the ANC never becomes truly class-competitive.

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.

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

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

Setup and customization are straightforward on Galaxy phones and still manageable on other Android devices through Wearables. The biggest friction comes from Galaxy-only options rather than a confusing interface.

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 quality is the clearest reason to buy the Buds 4. Across the reviews, the earbuds are praised for rich tuning, strong bass, clear vocals, and a presentation that beats many direct price rivals.

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

For everyday earbuds, the Buds 4 sound fairly open and spacious, especially with higher-quality Galaxy playback modes enabled. They do not sound huge, but they avoid the boxed-in feel common at this tier.

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

Spatial audio is present as a headline feature, but clear enthusiasm is limited. It adds another box to the feature list more than it defines the Buds 4 listening experience.

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

Fit stability is acceptable for regular daily use, but the open shape can shift enough to require adjustment. This is not the best pick for people who prioritize a locked-in feel.

Touch and stem-based controls are a strength. Reviewers repeatedly call them easy to locate, responsive, and customizable, with the flatter stem helping usability.

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

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

Treble comes through cleanly with good detail and vocal presence. Reviewers do not describe it as harsh or thin, which helps the Buds 4 avoid sounding brittle despite their lively tuning.

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 support is solid on paper, with access to Bixby and Gemini plus Galaxy-focused conveniences. It adds real hands-free utility, even if reviewers do not treat it as the product's main selling point.

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

IP54 is enough for sweat and light splashes, making the Buds 4 workable for everyday workouts and commuting. Still, the rating is not especially rugged and is a downgrade from tougher earlier protection.

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