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 performance is widely considered good to very good, especially for steady low-frequency noise (commutes, travel). Multiple sources still rank Sony or Bose as stronger overall, with some higher-frequency or sudden sounds bleeding through. Reviews highlight flexible ANC control via the app, including adaptive behavior and anti-wind options. The tradeoff is that some modes can reduce cancellation strength compared with a full-max setting.
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.
Android compatibility is frequently highlighted as the best match for this product, since Android devices can access more codecs and future-facing features. Most reports describe stable performance on Android, with fewer issues than on iOS in some tests.
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 Smart Control app is widely praised for depth and polish, offering fit tests, customization, updates, and sound tools. The main critique is that it can feel feature-dense or that certain controls (like EQ depth) could be more advanced.
aptX support (including Adaptive/Lossless on compatible devices) is frequently praised as a differentiator for Android users. Several reviewers also note that audible gains can be subtle versus AAC, and depend heavily on phone support and content quality.
For video and casual gaming, sync and latency are generally reported as good, aided by low-latency modes and modern Bluetooth. Competitive gaming may still benefit from dedicated dongle-based solutions, but most users should find A/V sync acceptable.
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 described as deep, punchy, and well controlled, adding weight without drowning details. Some listeners feel the stock bass tilt is more consumer-friendly than neutral, and prefer trimming it via EQ.
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 typically around 7 to 7.5 hours per charge in many tests, with ANC reducing runtime in some reports. With the case, total endurance is commonly cited around 30 hours, which is competitive for the premium class.
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 strong, with several reviewers noting fewer dropouts and good on-the-go continuity. A few reports mention iPhone-related cutouts or codec-dependent behavior (e.g., stereo-to-mono at distance with high-res modes).
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.
Build quality is commonly described as solid and durable, with premium materials and a robust case. Overall impressions point to a flagship-level fit and finish.
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.
Case quality is consistently rated premium, with a fabric exterior and solid feel. The main knock is size rather than materials or durability.
Charging is a strong point: USB-C and Qi wireless charging are standard, and fast top-ups are commonly quoted around 8 to 10 minutes for about an hour of playback. Battery-protection and intelligent charging modes trade speed and max capacity for longevity.
Codec support is a major selling point, repeatedly cited as future-proof: Bluetooth 5.4 with broad codec options, plus LE Audio/LC3 and Auracast support via updates depending on source device. iPhone users are largely limited to AAC, reducing the practical benefit.
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 commonly rated high for a premium TWS, with stable in-ear fit for long listening. The buds are physically large, and some users with small ears or very long sessions report fatigue or pressure over time.
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 repeatedly described as premium and stylish, with new colorways and a recognizable Momentum look. Many reviews note the external design is very similar to the prior generation, so upgrades are mostly internal.
Multiple ear tip sizes and fin options are a recurring positive, supporting both comfort and isolation. Some reviewers still struggle to get a consistent seal due to tip shape or softness, so fit can be somewhat ear-dependent.
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 tools are considered effective for shaping the sound, and many reviewers recommend using them to tailor bass or clarity. A few power users want a more advanced EQ than the built-in 5-band option and report limitations or compression when pushing bands.
Find-my style tracking and precision locating are not emphasized, and multiple reviewers note it is not on the same level as Apple ecosystem tracking. If you often misplace earbuds, this is a weaker point versus AirPods.
Measured/tonal accuracy is broadly good, but several reviewers note a mild upper-mid/high underemphasis that can read as less crisp detail out of the box. Personalization tools and EQ can compensate, and many still find the tuning musically pleasing.
Included accessories are typically appreciated, especially the multiple ear tip sizes and stabilizing fins plus USB-C cable. This variety helps users find a better seal and fit.
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 and imaging are strong, with reviewers frequently noting easy placement of instruments and clean layering. This is a recurring reason these are favored for immersive music listening.
At higher listening levels, clarity is usually maintained, and multiple sources note low distortion or clean playback. The main caveat is that pushing volume higher to overcome outside noise is not ideal for hearing health.
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.
Noise reduction for calls is inconsistent across reviews. Wind remains the most common weakness, and some tests report background noise suppression that is less reliable than top competitors.
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 mic quality is mixed: many find it fine in quiet to moderate settings, and some report clear voice pickup. Others rate it below class leaders, especially outdoors, with processing artifacts or inconsistent clarity in noisy streets.
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 praised for natural vocals and good presence, often cited as a key strength. A few reviewers note an upper-mid dip or a darker voicing out of the box that can reduce perceived clarity until adjusted.
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.
Multi-platform use is generally good across phones and computers, but the experience is not equal across ecosystems. iPhone works reliably for basics, yet the most compelling codec and feature benefits largely land on compatible Android devices.
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.
Multipoint is supported and usually works as expected for switching between two devices. Some reviewers note occasional quirks or platform-specific issues, but overall reliability is viewed as solid after firmware updates.
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.
Passive isolation is strong when the seal is right, helped by multiple ear tip sizes and stabilizing fins. A few users report seal sensitivity depending on ear shape and tip stiffness, which can impact both sound and ANC.
Portability is good in-pocket for the earbuds themselves, but the fabric case is frequently described as chunky. Several reviewers accept the size as a premium tradeoff, while others prefer smaller cases for everyday carry.
Sound Personalization and presets are often highlighted as genuinely useful, helping users correct tonal preferences and automate settings via Sound Zones. Results depend on user patience and ear fit, but most find the feature worthwhile.
Sensors such as in-ear detection are generally reported as accurate and convenient, reliably pausing and resuming playback. This contributes to the overall flagship feel and day-to-day ease of use.
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 usually straightforward, and firmware updates address some early quirks; most reviewers describe smooth pairing and daily use. A minority report pairing oddities, platform glitches, or UI annoyances that prevent a flawless experience.
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.
Across reviews, sound quality is a standout: rich, detailed, and engaging with a spacious presentation. A minority find the stock tuning a bit warm/dark or slightly lacking upper-mid or top-end bite, but EQ and Sound Personalization can dial in clarity.
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 consistently reported as wide and immersive for true wireless, with a strong sense of space. Some describe it as more expansive than key rivals, while others call it excellent but not the most out-of-head possible.
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.
Spatial audio features are not a focus here, and multiple sources note the lack of built-in spatial audio/head tracking compared with some rivals. For listeners who prioritize immersive spatial modes, this can be a deciding drawback.
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.
Stability is generally strong, with fins helping keep the earbuds secure during movement and even light workouts. A small subset report fit/seal challenges that can make them feel less locked-in.
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 generally described as responsive and customizable, with quick mode switching. Some users simply dislike touch input or note occasional mis-triggers in wet conditions, but responsiveness itself is usually strong.
Transparency is often described as natural and adjustable, with some calling it among the best they have used. A minority report slight hiss/white noise or say it could be more lifelike compared with Apple or Bose in certain environments.
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 typically smooth, airy, and non-fatiguing, with sparkle that avoids harshness. The main criticism is that the highest frequencies can feel slightly tamed or recessed for listeners who want extra bite and air.
USB-C charging is standard and frequently mentioned, though some note the case port placement is unconventional. In practice, wired charging is easy, and most emphasis is on the convenience of pairing USB-C with Qi wireless charging.
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.
Volume output is generally adequate, but at least one test found the earbuds on the quieter side, sometimes needing near-max volume for certain tracks. Most listening impressions still describe the presentation as full and satisfying at normal levels.
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 IP54 rating is frequently mentioned as a meaningful upgrade, making them suitable for workouts, rain, and dust exposure. They are not designed for submersion, so they remain a splash and sweat solution rather than a swim option.
Weight is noticeable for some: a few reviews describe them as heavy or fatiguing after hours, while others find the distribution and fins keep them comfortable. Comfort varies significantly by ear shape and tip choice.