Compare Edifier NeoBuds Planar Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

ANC is widely described as effective or better than expected, though most reviewers stop short of calling it class-leading.

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 setup is straightforward, with Android recognition and Fast Pair both mentioned.

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.

The ConneX app is widely described as useful and feature-rich, even if not every reviewer liked its look or behavior.

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.

aptX family support is explicitly confirmed, including aptX Adaptive.

Where tested, video and gaming latency are described positively, with low-latency use called fine or strong.

Bass is the main dividing line: several reviews hear limited punch or body, while others report strong or satisfying bass once fit or tuning is dialed in.

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 usually judged average or mediocre for the price, though some reviews report acceptable day-to-day runtime.

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.

Reviews note Bluetooth 5.4 support and solid wireless basics.

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 quality gets mixed-to-positive feedback, with some reviews calling the buds well-made and others criticizing cheap-looking materials.

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.

Reviews repeatedly confirm hi-res playback support, though they focus on playback capability rather than DAC specifics.

Squeeze, pinch, and pressure controls are often described as deliberate and more reliable than typical touch inputs.

Case impressions are mixed, ranging from ugly or cheap-looking to robust and well-made.

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 a clear strength thanks to wireless support and quick top-ups.

Codec support is a major strength, with repeated praise for the unusually broad hi-res codec list.

Comfort is consistently strong, with several reviewers saying they could wear the earbuds for hours or all day.

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.

Design is divisive: some reviewers call the earbuds modern or futuristic, while others simply do not like the look.

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.

With the right tip size, reviewers report an excellent seal and secure fit.

Multiple reviews confirm a wide ear-tip selection, typically spanning extra small through extra large.

The EQ offers real customization, but several reviews say it is limited, technical, or less effective than expected.

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.

One review confirms a find-my feature that makes the earbuds beep when misplaced.

One review says the tuning stays reasonably close to the Harman curve.

Reviews confirm a generous bundle that can include multiple ear tips, a charging cable, manuals, and a pouch or carrying case.

Instrument separation and layering are a standout, with reviewers repeatedly calling the presentation clean and highly detailed.

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.

Multiple reviews explicitly mention a six-mic or three-per-side microphone setup.

LDAC support is repeatedly confirmed across reviews.

Lossless support is explicitly cited through aptX Lossless and related hi-res codec support.

Microphone noise reduction is mixed: some reviewers hear background suppression struggle, while others say it helps keep calls usable outdoors.

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 quality ranges from decent to very good, with clear pickup in good conditions but not universal best-in-class performance.

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 performance is generally clear and natural, but one review says vocals can dip back in the mix on some material.

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.

Reviews describe straightforward use across Apple devices and Android, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.

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.

Multipoint support is present and often works well, though some reviews report occasional sluggish or manual switching.

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.

One review says the earbuds provide decent passive isolation with a proper fit.

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.

One review calls the case very pocketable and easy to carry.

Presets such as Dynamic or Electrostatic are often useful, with reviewers finding modes that better suit their tastes.

Several reviews note customizable case lighting with multiple color options.

Wear detection and other onboard sensors are present, but wear-detection behavior is not consistently praised.

One review says the matte case finish helps prevent fingerprints.

Setup and pairing are often easy, but one review notes awkward app behavior across devices.

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.

Reviews repeatedly praise the NeoBuds Planar for detailed, high-fidelity sound, though one review found the tuning inconsistent from track to track.

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.

One review explicitly says the presentation has width but lacks depth.

Multiple reviews describe an open, spacious presentation with a large soundstage.

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.

One review explicitly notes that spatial audio is not included.

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.

Fit security is generally good, including for workouts and movement.

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.

Controls are generally usable, but responsiveness and refinement are not universally praised.

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 usable and sometimes helpful, but most feedback stops short of calling it natural or fully open-sounding.

Treble clarity is a recurring strength, with reviewers highlighting clean, precise highs and strong upper-frequency detail.

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 charging is explicitly confirmed in multiple reviews.

Value is the main weakness, with frequent pushback on the $299 price even from reviewers who liked the sound.

One review says native voice assistant commands are acted on swiftly.

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 usable but not exceptional, with some reviewers saying the buds are not especially loud.

Reviews cite IP54 or IP55 protection for sweat, dust, and light weather exposure.

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.

One review notes the 5.6g weight keeps them from feeling heavy.