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.
ANC is widely rated top-tier for everyday noise and transit rumble, but several reviews stop short of calling it the absolute best in the category. Noise control is highly adjustable, with adaptive ANC plus granular sliders that let you tune intensity and reduce pressure effects.
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.
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 Technics Audio Connect app is feature-rich (ANC, EQ, multipoint, spatial settings), but some reviews call the interface clunky or menu-heavy.
Several reviews explicitly note aptX codecs are not supported.
Where tested, audio-video sync is reported as excellent with minimal to no noticeable lag.
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.
Bass is repeatedly called deep and unusually controlled for true wireless, though one review found it can feel heavy or change with ANC settings.
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.
Battery life is commonly reported around 10 hours with ANC on (AAC) plus substantial case recharges, with lower figures when using high-res modes.
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.
Bluetooth stability is generally reported as reliable with few dropouts across devices and environments.
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.
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.
The case is generally pocketable and premium-feeling, but some reviews mention weak magnets, slight rattle, or scratch/scuff issues.
Charging is praised for USB-C plus Qi wireless and quick-charge support; full recharge times are typically a few hours.
Codec support is strong (SBC/AAC plus LDAC and LC3/LE Audio features noted), appealing to both iOS users and Android audiophiles.
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.
Comfort is widely rated high thanks to a smaller/lighter fit, though some users may still experience fatigue or fit variability over long sessions.
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.
Design is viewed as premium and more compact than the prior model, though not everyone finds it the sleekest-looking option.
Multiple ear tip sizes are commonly included, helping most users achieve a seal, though tip choice remains key to fit.
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.
EQ customization is a strength, often cited as an 8-band EQ plus presets that can significantly change the sound.
Find My/location features are present, but feedback varies; some appreciate the feature, while others complain the locating beep or accuracy is limited.
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.
Instrument separation is frequently praised on busy tracks, helping the AZ100 stay clean and layered.
LDAC support is frequently highlighted for higher-quality Android streaming, with the usual battery-life tradeoff.
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.
Voice noise reduction is often effective at cutting wind and background noise, though aggressive processing can create artifacts.
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.
Call quality is mixed: many find it usable or improved, while others report robotic processing or, in one case, serious call glitches.
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.
Midrange is generally clear and natural for vocals, with occasional notes that bass-heavy mixes can push voices slightly back.
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.
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.
Three-device multipoint is a major differentiator and is often described as seamless; occasional switching lag is mentioned but not common.
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.
Preset EQ options are generally useful, though some (like extra-bassy modes) may be too much for neutral listeners.
Case finish durability is mixed, with some noting scratches/scuffs and others calling it relatively scratch-resistant.
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.
Setup is mostly straightforward, but the lack of a case pairing button and some app UX quirks can add friction.
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.
Reviews consistently praise the AZ100 for highly detailed, spacious sound with strong dynamics; a few note the default tuning can be bass-forward or benefit from EQ.
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.
Soundstage is a standout: multiple outlets describe an immersive, wide presentation that feels larger than typical earbuds.
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.
Dolby spatial audio/head tracking is supported and can add immersion, but some reviewers find it subtle or prefer it off for music.
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.
Fit stability varies: many report a secure hold, while some reviewers experienced looseness or buds falling out during vigorous movement.
Touch and stem-based controls are a strength. Reviewers repeatedly call them easy to locate, responsive, and customizable, with the flatter stem helping usability.
Touch controls are responsive and highly configurable, with the main complaint being occasional over-sensitivity.
Transparency/ambient mode is strong and adjustable, but some reviewers note hiss at higher levels, an unnatural voice-focused mode, or not enough outside sound for awareness.
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.
Treble is described as airy and detailed without harshness, but a few critics wanted more sparkle or presence.
USB-C charging is consistently supported and frequently mentioned as a modern convenience.
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.
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.
The earbuds are commonly cited as IPX4-rated for sweat and light rain, but not for heavy water exposure.