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

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 usually rated as strong and clearly improved, but not universally best-in-class; it excels more with steady noise than sudden sounds and remains behind the very top Bose, Sony, or Apple options for some listeners.

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

These earbuds pair especially well with Samsung and Android devices, and many reviewers frame that ecosystem fit as one of the product's biggest selling points.

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 Galaxy Wearable experience is feature-rich and useful, but several reviews note that the best tools remain most valuable on Samsung devices.

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.

One review notes that enabling the highest-quality Samsung audio mode can hurt lip-sync performance, making video playback less precise than standard settings.

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

Bass is widely described as deep, punchy, and well-controlled, but a minority of reviewers thought the low end could overpower some tracks without EQ tweaks.

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 serviceable rather than standout. Most reviews land around six hours per charge and see that as fine for everyday use, but short versus the longest-lasting rivals.

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

Bluetooth stability is generally solid, with good range and few disconnect complaints, though one review did note occasional dropouts.

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

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 redesigned case earns mostly positive marks for pocketability, easier docking, and the translucent lid, though a few reviewers found it blockier or more scratch-prone than ideal.

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 convenience is strong thanks to USB-C and wireless charging support, and reviewers generally liked the case's day-to-day practicality.

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 strong for Samsung owners thanks to SSC and UHQ options, but the experience is less compelling outside the Galaxy ecosystem where higher-end features are restricted.

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

Long-session comfort is a major positive. Many reviewers wore the earbuds for hours on flights, work sessions, or daily use without significant fatigue.

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

Samsung's new look is broadly seen as more polished and premium, with the flatter metallic stem and refined case helping the Buds 4 Pro feel more distinct and mature.

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

Samsung includes multiple tip sizes, but fit outcomes still vary widely; some reviewers got a strong seal quickly while others could not find a great match.

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

EQ customization is a clear strength, with reviewers frequently praising the custom bands and the ability to tune the sound away from the stock profile.

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.

Instrument separation is frequently cited as a standout, with cleaner layering and better distinction between elements than earlier Galaxy Buds generations.

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.

Background-noise suppression during calls performs very well in most reviews, especially against wind, traffic, and loud ambient noise, even if the processed voice can sound a bit artificial.

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 overall, with clear enough voice pickup for everyday use, but several reviewers heard some digitizing, fuzziness, or mild warble in tougher 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 a strength, with vocals and core instruments coming through clearly and without being swallowed by the boosted low end.

Outside the Samsung ecosystem, the Buds 4 Pro lose meaningful convenience and some premium features, so cross-platform users get a less complete product.

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

Multipoint and device switching are a weak spot. Galaxy-to-Galaxy switching is convenient, but true cross-platform multipoint is missing or awkward.

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

Passive isolation depends heavily on fit: reviewers with a strong seal found it effective, while others said the tips failed to seal well enough for class-leading isolation.

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 options are generally well received, especially the Dynamic-style tuning, though they are not a full substitute for manual tweaking if you dislike the default balance.

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 is not difficult, but one review noted a small learning curve because some controls moved from the old app-centered flow into Samsung's system settings.

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.

Across the review set, the Buds 4 Pro are consistently praised for rich, detailed, energetic sound, though a few reviewers found the tuning a bit bass-forward or Samsung-dependent at the top end.

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

When reviewers commented on staging, they found the presentation surprisingly open and spacious for true wireless earbuds, especially with Samsung's higher-quality audio modes.

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

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

Fit security is good for many listeners, but not universal. Several reviewers found the buds locked in well, while others reported slipping during movement or difficulty maintaining a seal.

Pinch and swipe controls are usually considered responsive and easier to use than last generation, though a few people still found the gesture scheme awkward at first.

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 or ambient mode is one of the most consistently praised features, sounding natural and useful for conversations, announcements, and day-to-day awareness.

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 generally clear and lively with good sparkle, though a few reviews mention occasional high-frequency leak-through in ANC mode or a slightly uneven top-end balance.

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.

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

The IP57 rating is repeatedly highlighted as a useful advantage for sweaty workouts, rain, and general durability, even though the buds are not meant for swimming.

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