Compare Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro 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 performance is polarized: several reviewers find it strong and effective, while others rate it merely average and still behind the best-in-class models, especially for certain environments. The buds offer multiple noise modes and adaptive behaviors. Some like the options, but multiple reviews describe adaptive switching as inconsistent or not clearly different from other modes.

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

Android compatibility is strong overall, and the experience is best on recent Samsung phones where the newest codec and AI features are available.

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 app unlocks core features like EQ, noise modes, and Find My tools. Reviews repeatedly warn that iPhone support is limited and some features are Samsung-only.

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

Several reviewers explicitly note there is no aptX support, which is a drawback for some Android users who want broader high-quality codec compatibility.

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

Video and gaming latency is generally reported as good, helped by a low-latency or game mode in some setups, though availability can depend on device and settings.

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

Bass is frequently described as boosted and punchy. Many enjoy the impact, but a few reviewers call it thumpy or overcooked without EQ.

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 varies noticeably by reviewer and settings: some measured around 4.5 to 5 hours with ANC, while others report closer to 6 hours or more, and some tests cite longer runtimes. Reviews note the battery is not designed to be user-replaceable, so long-term serviceability is limited compared to more repairable designs.

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 strong, with few dropouts reported and solid range, though occasional stutters or device-specific quirks are mentioned.

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 generally good with strong water resistance, though early QC chatter and fragile or finicky ear-tip swapping show up repeatedly.

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 clear-lid case is generally compact and convenient, but a few reviewers dislike the feel, one-hand opening, or the fussiness of seating stems correctly.

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 well rounded with USB-C and wireless charging. Some sources highlight fast top-ups or convenient reverse wireless charging support on compatible phones.

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 solid for Samsung owners via Samsung Seamless Codec options, but limited for everyone else, with common fallbacks to AAC or SBC.

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

Long-wear comfort is widely praised thanks to the stemmed design and reduced ear pressure, but side sleeping can be uncomfortable and fit still varies by ear shape.

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

Design is divisive: many like the blade-stem look and lights, while others view it as too AirPods-like or slightly plasticky.

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

Ear tips come in three sizes. Several reviews mention the swap process can be annoying and early units had tearing complaints.

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

EQ options are unusually deep for mainstream earbuds, with a 9-band equalizer and presets called out as a major advantage for tuning the sound.

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

Find My and tracking features are improved with lights and alerts, but some reviewers still want UWB-grade precision and note occasional quirks.

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

Measured tuning is often reported as close to a modern target in mids and treble, with extra bass energy that can be dialed back via EQ.

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 strong, with multiple reviewers noting they can track individual elements in busy mixes more easily than on older Galaxy Buds.

Multiple reviews point out there is no LDAC option, limiting hi-res codec flexibility outside of Samsung’s proprietary codec path.

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

Maximum volume is generally ample for typical listening. No major complaints surface, though the loudest levels can sound a bit strained in some accounts.

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

Noise reduction for calls is mixed: some tests show strong background suppression, while others struggle to pull much reduction without the right client or 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 usually rated good to excellent, with clear voice reproduction in many tests; a few reviewers still describe it as only fine or slightly unnatural depending on device and 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 is typically clean and articulate with good vocal detail, though some describe it as slightly recessed in a V-shaped tuning.

These earbuds work on many devices, but cross-platform value depends on how much you rely on Samsung-only features and the lack of a full iOS app experience.

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 often limited to the Samsung ecosystem. Some reviews praise seamless Galaxy-to-Galaxy switching, while others note weak or missing multipoint for mixed-device setups.

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

Passive isolation is decent with a good seal, but it varies by fit and ear tips; some reviewers say it lags behind foam-tip competitors for blocking high-pitched noise.

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.

Sensors enable wear detection and convenience features in supported apps, with some reviews highlighting automatic pausing and posture or voice-detect behaviors.

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

Setup is usually straightforward, helped by quick pairing and clear in-app controls, but some reviewers find the interface non-intuitive or note feature lock-in outside Samsung.

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 reviews, sound quality is a standout: a lively, detailed presentation with strong clarity and a generally wide, engaging mix that can compete with top-tier earbuds, especially after EQ tuning.

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

Soundstage is commonly praised as wider than average for in-ears, helping music feel more open and layered.

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

Spatial and 360 audio features are included and can be fun, but reviews are mixed on immersion, head tracking accuracy, and real-world usefulness.

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

Stability is often improved versus older Galaxy Buds, with many reporting a secure fit for workouts, but some testers still experienced easy dislodging depending on ear shape.

Controls are a frequent talking point: many find pinch and swipe gestures responsive and precise, while others dislike the stem shape and the learning curve for consistent pinches or swipes.

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 mode is a highlight for many, described as natural and very clear, though a few note slight hiss or less realism than the very 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 is crisp and revealing with good sparkle and detail. It can lean bright or forward for sensitive listeners, and some note a bit less refinement with ANC engaged.

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 controls and assistant integration are widely mentioned, including hands-free commands. Reliability is often praised, but setup and feature depth can vary by device and preferences.

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

With an IP57 rating, water and sweat resistance is consistently positioned as a strong point for workouts and daily use.

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