Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro: Smart, But Not Outstanding
Samsung has been striving to match the success of Apple, Bose, and Sony in the world of true wireless earbuds. While their Galaxy Buds lineup has received praise, it hasn’t reached the iconic status of Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones. With the release of the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Samsung aims to change that, introducing AI-driven features and a familiar design reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods.
What We Loved
Impressive Sound Quality
Sound quality has always been a strength of the Galaxy Buds series, and the new models don’t disappoint. Samsung’s adaptive EQ enhances sound in real-time, creating a rich audio experience, especially when paired with a Galaxy smartphone. Whether listening to classic rock or modern hip-hop, these earbuds deliver clear, vibrant sound. The Galaxy Buds 3’s open-ear design may cause some sound leakage, but the audio remains superior to the AirPods 2. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, with their in-ear design, offer a more immersive experience.
Effective Noise Cancellation
The Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro feature three noise-canceling modes: Ambient Sound, Adaptive, and Active Noise Canceling (ANC). ANC performs well, reducing low- and mid-frequency noises effectively. Although high-pitched sounds are still audible, they aren’t overly distracting. The open-ear design of the Galaxy Buds 3 supports ANC, which reduces background noise by about 20%.
Comfort and Durability
Both models are comfortable to wear and are built to withstand everyday use with a solid IP57 rating for dust and water resistance. Samsung’s Find feature makes it easy to locate your earbuds if misplaced.
Where They Fall Short
Too Similar to Apple’s Design
Samsung’s choice to mimic Apple’s long-stem design feels uninspired. While the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro feature multifunctional force sensors, they’re not as user-friendly as those found on Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. The slim design makes it difficult to find and use these controls effectively.
Unimpressive AI Features
Samsung touted AI as a game-changer for these earbuds, but the execution falls flat. Adaptive ANC and other AI-driven features, like Smart Voice Capture and Siren Detect, don’t perform as promised. In some cases, these features barely function or require specific software updates that not all devices support.
Disappointing Battery Life
The Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro offer up to 6 and 7 hours of playtime, respectively. With ANC and spatial audio activated, battery life takes a significant hit. These figures lag behind competitors, making battery life a potential deal-breaker.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro bring solid sound quality and noise cancellation to the table, particularly for Galaxy smartphone users. However, the borrowed design, inconsistent AI features, and subpar battery life make it hard to recommend them over other options. While they are a decent choice for Galaxy users, those seeking top-tier wireless earbuds may want to explore alternatives.
https://pixelbyte.dev/2024/08/25/samsung-galaxy-buds-3-review-smart-features-mixed-results/
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