Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: Reviews, Specs & What’s New
Samsung has refined its premium earbud offering with the release of the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. Building on the design shift introduced with the Buds 3 Pro, the new model maintains the stem-like aesthetic while focusing on improvements to sound quality, fit, and overall performance. Priced at $250, the Buds 4 Pro aim to compete directly with leading earbuds like Apple’s AirPods Pro, and early reviews suggest they’ve made significant strides.
Design and Comfort
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro represent an evolution, not a revolution, in design. Samsung acknowledged criticism surrounding the move to a stemmed design with the Buds 3 Pro, but has doubled down on that approach with the new flagship. While some users may still prefer a stemless design, the Buds 4 Pro offer a more refined and comfortable fit than their predecessors. The earbuds are available in black, white, and a new pink gold color. The slightly adjusted shape and improved ergonomics contribute to a more secure feel, crucial for active use.
Sound Quality and Performance
A key focus of the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro is improved audio fidelity. Upgraded drivers deliver excellent sound, and reviewers consistently highlight the enhanced clarity and richness of the audio experience. The earbuds achieve a 8.8/10 score from CNET, largely due to the improvements in sound quality. Beyond music, the Buds 4 Pro excel in voice calling and transparency mode, providing clear communication and situational awareness. Built-in voice and touch controls offer convenient operation, and the robust feature set caters to a wide range of user preferences.
Noise Cancellation and Connectivity
Adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) has seen a slight improvement in the Buds 4 Pro, though it remains an area for potential refinement. While the ANC performs well, it doesn’t quite reach the top tier of noise-canceling earbuds currently available. The Buds 4 Pro also support Auracast, a feature that allows connection to broadcast-enabled audio sources. However, some features remain exclusive to Samsung Galaxy devices or Android, limiting functionality for users on other platforms. A notable limitation is the lack of Multipoint connectivity, preventing simultaneous connection to multiple devices.
Ecosystem and Compatibility
Samsung continues to integrate its earbuds tightly within its ecosystem. The Buds 4 Pro offer a seamless experience for Samsung phone owners, unlocking the full range of features and customization options. However, the proprietary eartip design presents a challenge for users who prefer third-party tips, as compatibility is limited to those specifically designed for the Buds 4 Pro. This is a departure from more standard earbud designs and could be a point of frustration for some users.
Battery Life and Value
Battery life remains a moderate concern. While adequate for typical use, it doesn’t stand out as a strength compared to competitors. The Buds 4 Pro list for $250, the same price as the Buds 3 Pro. A more affordable option, the Galaxy Buds 4, with an open design, is available for $180, but sacrifices some of the Pro model’s features, including the silicone eartips and advanced noise cancellation. The value proposition of the Buds 4 Pro is strongest for Samsung users who will benefit from the integrated features and optimized performance.
A “Fixer-Upper” with Potential
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are described as an “iterative improvement” over previous models. While not a groundbreaking release, they address many of the criticisms leveled at the Buds 3 Pro and deliver a compelling audio experience, particularly for Samsung device owners. SoundGuys awarded the Buds 4 Pro a rating of 7.9/10, highlighting the sound quality, price, and Samsung-specific features as key strengths. The earbuds represent a solid, if not spectacular, entry into the premium earbud market, and demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to refining its audio offerings.
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are a strong contender for those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem, offering a refined design, improved sound, and a feature-rich experience. However, potential buyers should consider the limitations of the proprietary eartip design and the lack of Multipoint connectivity before making a purchase.