I recently had the opportunity to test out Samsung's new Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and compare it with Apple's AirPods Pro 3 and Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2. Here's my take on whether these noise-cancelling earphones are worth the hype and how they stack up against their competitors.
Tech-Minded Upgrade
Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro are packed with cutting-edge features, including Ultra High Quality Audio (UHQ) support for 24-bit/96kHz playback via the proprietary SSC UHQ codec. This ensures rich, detailed audio when streamed from the right source and future-proofs the earphones for years to come. The Buds 4 Pro also boasts a two-way speaker arrangement with a Super Wide Woofer and a Planar Tweeter for deeper bass and crisper highs.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
Both the Buds 4 and 4 Pro handle noise cancellation exceptionally well, with three mics on board for each bud. The Pros have an additional HSNR mic for improved sound quality. They also feature adaptive EQ and ambient sound modes that adjust on the fly. The Buds 4 Pro's voice and siren detection add an extra layer of convenience, allowing you to focus on your surroundings when needed.
Battery Life and Charging
The Buds 4 and 4 Pro offer decent battery life, with the Buds 4 providing 5 hours of playback with ANC on and 6 hours without. The Buds 4 Pro, on the other hand, offers 6 hours with ANC on and 7 hours without. The charging cases provide additional hours of playback, but the overall battery life is slightly shorter than competitors like the AirPods and Pixel Buds.
In-Ear Seal and Sound Quality
The Buds 4's in-ear seal was only partially effective due to the sizing of the eartips. The Buds 4 Pro, however, delivered noticeably richer sound with deeper bass and clearer highs. In an A-B-C testing, the AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 outperformed the Buds 4 Pro in terms of noise cancellation, which is a crucial factor for many users.
Ecosystem Play
Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro are designed to work seamlessly with the company's phone, smartwatch, and other devices. Similarly, Apple and Google offer integrated ecosystems for their respective products. While you can use these earphones with other brands, the full potential of the features and integration is best realized within the respective ecosystems.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro are impressive earphones with strong features, but they may not be the best choice for everyone. The AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer superior noise cancellation and overall sound quality. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
