Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro

The fundamental distinction between the Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) and the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro lies in their core feature sets, particularly the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers both true ANC and Transparency Mode, capabilities entirely absent from the AirPods (3rd Generation). This immediately positions the Buds2 Pro as a more versatile option for environments requiring noise isolation or ambient awareness, making it a stronger contender for use in noisy commutes or busy offices. Furthermore, the Buds2 Pro includes a dedicated companion app, which the AirPods lack, offering users greater control over settings and sound profiles, a significant feature for personalization.

Delving into connectivity, Samsung’s offering features a more modern Bluetooth Version 5.3 compared to the AirPods’ Bluetooth 5.0. While both support the AAC audio codec, the Buds2 Pro adds SBC and Samsung Scalable Codec, potentially offering broader compatibility or optimized performance with specific devices. For standalone bud battery life, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro excels with 8 hours when ANC is off, surpassing the AirPods’ 6 hours. However, both products offer an identical total battery life with their respective cases, reaching 30 hours, and similar quick charge capabilities, providing 1 hour of playback from a 5-minute charge.

Charging and durability also present clear differences. The Buds2 Pro boasts USB-C charging, a widely adopted standard, in addition to wireless charging. The AirPods (3rd Generation) forgo USB-C, relying on a proprietary connector for wired charging, though they do support wireless charging. Water resistance is a crucial differentiator: the Galaxy Buds2 Pro carries an IPX7 rating, indicating significant water immersion protection, making it considerably more robust for rigorous activities than the AirPods’ IPX4 rating, which is limited to splash resistance. In terms of physical design, the AirPods (3rd Generation) are lighter per bud at 4.28 g, compared to the Galaxy Buds2 Pro’s 5.5 g. The AirPods case is also lighter at 37.91 g versus the Buds2 Pro case at 43.4 g.

Both earbuds support Spatial Audio, offering an immersive listening experience. For voice assistants, the AirPods integrate with Siri, while the Galaxy Buds2 Pro uses Bixby. The AirPods (3rd Generation) come in at a current best price of $128.5, slightly less expensive than the Galaxy Buds2 Pro at $142.5. Both products offer a standard 12-month warranty.

The choice between these two hinges primarily on the necessity of active noise cancellation, transparency, and superior water resistance. If these advanced features are paramount, alongside a more modern Bluetooth standard and universal USB-C charging, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro justifies its slightly higher price. For users prioritizing a lighter form factor and who do not require advanced noise management or high water resistance, the AirPods offer a compelling package at a marginally lower cost. The absence of ANC and Transparency Mode on the AirPods 3 is a significant omission for many users, making the Buds2 Pro a more feature-rich, albeit slightly heavier and pricier, option for diverse listening environments.