Compare Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as best-in-class for earbuds, often quieting commutes and flights to near over-ear levels. Performance depends on achieving a good seal, and a few users report rare pressure/flight-related artifacts. Multiple listening modes (ANC, transparency, adaptive blends) make it easy to adjust noise control for different situations, and mode switching is generally smooth. Customization is still more preset-driven than fully user-tunable.

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 support is consistently described as basic Bluetooth audio with many features missing, including deeper settings and firmware updates. Reviewers regularly frame these as iPhone-first earbuds.

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.

There is no standalone AirPods app in the traditional sense; most controls live in Apple’s Settings on iOS. This works well for Apple users but offers little for Android users beyond pairing.

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.

H2-based processing is referenced as enabling Apple’s adaptive features, call processing, and ecosystem behaviors, keeping the overall experience cohesive for iOS users.

Reviewers explicitly note that aptX is not supported, which limits Android-focused low-latency and hi-quality codec options.

Bass is commonly described as deeper, more impactful, and cleaner than prior generations, helping energy in modern tracks. A minority find it overemphasized or fatiguing over long sessions.

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.

Single-charge battery life is widely reported around eight hours with ANC, with some tests pushing higher at moderate volume. The common caveat is reduced total runtime with the case compared with the prior generation.

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.

Apple-device pairing and switching are generally smooth, but there are scattered reports of connection quirks such as occasional manual reconnects or odd channel behavior. Non-Apple pairing is possible but less seamless.

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.

Overall build is considered solid, helped by an IP57 rating for buds and case, but long-term serviceability is criticized. Some sources point out poor repairability and battery service constraints typical of true wireless earbuds.

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.

Stem squeeze and swipe controls are broadly viewed as intuitive, enabling volume and mode changes without reaching for the phone. A few reviewers still mention occasional uncertainty with tap-based case controls or gesture reliability.

The case remains compact and pocketable but is often described as glossy and scratch-prone, with slight size changes versus Pro 2. Pairing controls moving to a touch area can feel less tactile than a physical button.

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 flexible with USB-C, MagSafe/Qi wireless, and Apple Watch charger support, plus quick top-ups in the case. Some reviewers wish the fast-charge rate improved and note the missing cable in the box.

Codec support is typically summarized as SBC and AAC only, with frequent disappointment about no hi-res or wireless lossless playback. This is a recurring reason reviewers cite for looking at competitors.

Comfort is divisive: several reviewers find the new shape better for multi-hour sessions, while others feel pressure, digging, or faster ear fatigue. Tip sizing down (or mixing sizes per ear) often improves comfort.

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 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 included tip sizes (XXS through L) plus the hybrid foam-infused design are frequently called out as a meaningful upgrade. Reviewers emphasize trying different sizes and using Apple’s seal/fit tests.

Lack of a proper user EQ is one of the most repeated complaints, especially from listeners who dislike the default tuning. Workarounds exist via iOS settings, but they do not replace a full EQ experience.

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 support is repeatedly highlighted as a practical strength, with newer UWB in the case improving precision finding range and speed. Case speakers further help locate misplaced earbuds.

Frequency response and tonal balance are seen as less strictly neutral than Pro 2, with some reviewers noting a more V-shaped or bass-forward tilt. Fit and listening volume can noticeably change perceived balance.

In-box extras focus on multiple ear-tip sizes, but several reviews mention the lack of a bundled USB-C cable. Accessory value is therefore seen as mixed despite the improved tips.

Instrument separation and imaging are generally considered improved or at least highly competitive, helping layered mixes sound less congested. Spatial processing can further enhance placement cues for some listeners.

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.

LDAC support is repeatedly called out as absent, keeping Bluetooth streaming firmly in AAC/SBC territory.

Clarity at higher volumes is usually described as good with limited distortion, though tonal shifts and preference sensitivity still apply. Most sources do not report major breakup at typical listening levels.

Noise reduction and Voice Isolation are generally effective at reducing chatter and traffic, but wind and very loud noise can introduce artifacts or leave some noise audible. Results vary by environment and settings.

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 is commonly rated excellent, with voices sounding clear and natural in both quiet and moderately noisy places. Some sources even suggest the mics are usable for lightweight content capture.

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 and vocal clarity are often praised as smooth and full, staying intelligible even with stronger low-end presence. Speech-heavy content and podcasts are generally easy to follow.

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 can connect to non-Apple devices (Android, PCs, some consoles), but functionality is limited compared with using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Expect a working audio connection, not the full feature set.

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.

Foam-infused silicone tips and the deeper fit improve passive sealing for many users, helping low-frequency rumble and chatter before ANC kicks in. It still does not behave like full memory-foam isolation for everyone.

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.

Apple’s adaptive tuning features (such as Adaptive EQ and personalized behaviors) are generally credited with keeping sound consistent and enjoyable for most listeners. Some reviewers still prefer more direct user control.

Sensors and smart features are a headline theme: heart-rate tracking is often reported as close to smartwatch readings, and hearing/translation tools add utility beyond audio. Wear-detection and fit-dependent sensing can also affect performance if the seal is inconsistent.

Setup is repeatedly described as effortless inside the Apple ecosystem with quick pairing and easy mode toggles. A few reviewers still call out certain controls as buried or unintuitive in iOS, especially for advanced audio routing.

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 quality is widely rated strong and detailed with a punchier presentation than Pro 2 for many listeners. The main split is preference: some love the added weight, while others miss the older model’s neutrality.

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.

Many reviews describe a bigger, wider presentation, especially when spatial features are enabled, making movies and big mixes feel more expansive. Perceived width still varies by content and settings.

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 is frequently praised for movies and immersive content, with head tracking adding convincing placement. Spatial music remains more polarizing, with some preferring it turned off.

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 improved for many thanks to the new angle and deeper insertion, making the buds feel more locked in for daily wear. Some reviewers still note slip-outs during intense workouts or when sweat/oil builds up.

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.

Sustainability notes are mixed: there is recycled material content and trade-in/recycling programs, but repairability and battery longevity limits remain concerns. Some reviewers explicitly call out low repair scores.

Control responsiveness is mostly good, but some reviewers call gestures stubborn or less responsive than expected. Overall reliability improves with familiarity, but it is not universally perfect.

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 is repeatedly praised for sounding natural and clear, with speech coming through realistically and less processed than many rivals. This also supports hearing and safety use cases outdoors.

Treble is typically described as crisp and detailed, though some sources mention occasional sharpness depending on volume, fit, or personal taste. The result is lively detail that may not suit everyone.

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 on the case is now standard and repeatedly highlighted as a modern convenience, especially alongside MagSafe/Qi options.

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.

Several reviewers note strong loudness headroom, making it easier to overcome noisy environments without maxing out volume. Loudness is often paired with strong ANC for commuting and travel.

IP57 is repeatedly cited as a meaningful durability upgrade for both buds and case, improving confidence for sweat, rain, and dust exposure. Reviewers still caution against treating them like dedicated swim gear.

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.