Compare Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

ANC performance ranges from solid to near-flagship when the seal is good, often compared favorably with AirPods Pro 2, but it is less convincing against voices and wind and generally trails the very best from Bose and Sony.

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 works well for core playback and features through the Beats app, but it lacks some Apple-only conveniences and is held back by limited codec and multipoint support.

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.

On iOS, many controls live in system settings; on Android, the Beats app covers essentials like modes, customization, and updates, but experiences vary depending on how much you care about deeper audio tweaking.

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.

The Apple H2 chip delivers the most polished experience on iOS (fast pairing, device switching, Siri features), and it helps overall responsiveness and stability within the Apple ecosystem.

No aptX support is a downside for Android users who want Qualcomm codec options.

Video/audio latency is generally low; at least one reviewer specifically reports no noticeable lip-sync delay.

Bass is consistently highlighted as powerful and well-controlled for a Beats product, adding drive without usually overwhelming the mix, though it can boom at high volumes for some listeners.

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 a major strength: most reports align with roughly 8 hours (ANC on) and up to 10 hours (ANC off), with a few tests exceeding the rated numbers.

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.

Connection stability is generally reported as strong in everyday use, especially on Apple devices, with few dropouts for audio playback.

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 impressions are mixed: many call the redesign durable and sweat-ready for workouts, but a few reviews point to flimsy case parts or comfort/fit hardware that feels unforgiving.

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 and volume rockers are widely appreciated for workouts (especially with gloves), with easy playback/volume control; a few users report accidental presses while inserting the buds.

The case is smaller than the original and generally functional with strong magnets, but it is still bulky compared with most earbuds; at least one review criticizes build/hinge feel.

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 well modernized with wireless charging and fast-charge support; most reviewers like the convenience, even if the case itself remains sizable.

Codec support is basic (AAC/SBC), which is fine for iOS but leaves Android users without higher-resolution options.

Long-wear comfort is generally good for a sport earhook design, with many able to wear them for hours, but comfort varies widely: some reviewers felt hook or in-ear pressure after extended use and a few found them outright uncomfortable.

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.

The redesign (smaller hook, slimmer housings, new colors) is widely seen as a meaningful refinement over gen 1, improving ergonomics and how they work with glasses, even if the look is still more conspicuous than standard earbuds.

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.

Five tip sizes (XS to XL) and built-in fit tests help most users dial in a seal, but a minority still struggle to get a consistent seal with the stock tips (and seal quality strongly affects sound, ANC, and heart-rate tracking).

A recurring complaint is the lack of a true user EQ; you largely live with Beats/Apple tuning plus Adaptive EQ, which frustrates listeners who want to fine-tune bass/treble.

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.

Find My/Locate features are useful for tracking, but multiple reviews note it is more basic than AirPods Pro 2 (e.g., missing Precision Finding).

Instrument separation is often praised as improved over older Beats buds, but it is not universally class-leading; some reviewers hear a slightly compressed presentation compared with the best premium earbuds.

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.

No LDAC support further limits high-bitrate Bluetooth audio on Android.

At high volumes, clarity generally holds up well without obvious distortion, though the overall tuning can get more bass-forward as you push volume.

Noise reduction on calls is typically praised for suppressing background noise, though wind handling and consistency vary by reviewer and device.

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 mic quality is often rated very good, especially on iPhone with Apple processing, but at least one review reports highly inconsistent or poor call clarity.

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 enough for vocals and guitars, but a few reviews note occasional honkiness or distance that can make some vocals feel less present, especially when fit is off.

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.

They play nicely across Apple devices and are usable on Android/other Bluetooth sources, but true cross-platform flexibility can be hampered by pairing quirks and feature gaps.

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.

True multipoint is a notable omission; Apple device switching works smoothly via iCloud, but simultaneous multi-device connections (and some HR use cases) are limited.

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.

Passive isolation depends heavily on achieving a good seal; with the right tips it blocks a lot of gym/street noise, but inconsistent fit can let voices and sharp sounds leak through.

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.

Pocketability is improved but still a weak spot: many can fit it in pockets, yet it is often described as chunky and better suited to a gym bag.

Adaptive EQ and mode-dependent tuning help keep sound consistent, but the experience can change with ANC/transparency on vs off; some reviewers prefer the sound with ANC/transparency enabled.

Sensors are a headline feature (in-ear detection and heart-rate monitoring). Heart-rate can match Apple Watch closely when it behaves, but multiple reviewers report dropouts, limited iOS app support, and inconsistent performance during runs.

Smudge and fingerprint resistance is noted as better than expected on at least one colorway/case finish, helping them look cleaner over time.

Setup is easy for many users (especially iPhone pairing), but heart-rate permissions, limited supported apps, and occasional pairing conflicts can make initial configuration frustrating for some.

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.

Overall sound is tuned for energy: punchy and engaging for workouts, with good detail for the category; audiophile-focused listeners may find it less refined than top-tier premium buds.

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 reported as reasonably open for in-ears, with some reviewers noting a bigger stage than prior Beats, while others still find it more compact than reference-grade earbuds.

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 (often with head tracking on Apple devices) is available and generally works well, though not everyone prefers it for music and some note it changes the sound signature.

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.

Earhook stability is a standout: most reviewers report the buds stay locked in through runs and gym sessions with minimal slippage, though a few note tips can loosen when readjusting and the hook can create pressure points for some ears.

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.

Transparency mode is a strong point, frequently described as natural and easy to trust outdoors; a few reviewers still rate AirPods Pro 2 slightly more realistic, especially in high frequencies.

Treble is usually crisp and lively, but multiple reviewers mention either muted sparkle or occasional sharp/metallic moments depending on track, device, and fit.

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 is a welcomed update and, paired with wireless charging, makes top-ups simpler than the previous Lightning-era Beats cases.

Hands-free Siri and voice-assistant support are strong in the Apple ecosystem, and basic voice assistant access is available across platforms.

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.

They can play loud with plenty of headroom, and several reviewers note extra energy/volume compared with some competitors.

IPX4 is adequate for sweat and light rain, but several reviewers call it underwhelming for a fitness-first product and note tougher-rated rivals exist.

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.

Despite being chunkier than non-hooked buds, weight is usually not noticeable once seated, helped by the lighter redesign; comfort issues tend to come more from hook pressure than sheer weight.