Samsung Galaxy Buds4 & Buds4 Pro: First Look & AirPods/Pixel Buds Comparison

SAN FRANCISCO—Tech companies are increasingly focused on building comprehensive ecosystems, extending beyond phones to include wearables like smartwatches and, crucially, earbuds. Samsung’s latest entry into this space, the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro, represent a direct challenge to Apple’s AirPods and Google’s Pixel Buds, aiming to solidify Samsung’s position as a one-stop shop for mobile technology.

I recently had the opportunity to listen to the Buds4 Pro and compare them directly with the AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2. The initial impression is that Samsung is taking a serious swing, packing both the Buds4 and Buds4 Pro with a significant amount of technology and features. The most notable advancement is the introduction of Ultra High Quality Audio (UHQ).

A Tech-Minded Upgrade

When paired with a Samsung flagship phone or tablet from 2023 or later – including the Galaxy S23, Z Fold/Flip 5, and Tab S9 – the Buds4 support 24-bit/96kHz playback via Samsung’s proprietary SSC UHQ codec. This, combined with the Bluetooth 6.1 backbone, also supports the SSC HiFi codec, alongside AAC, SBC, LC3, and Auracast. Samsung’s inclusion of 360-degree audio and direct multi-channel audio further enhances the listening experience.

This focus on high-resolution audio and advanced codecs positions the Buds4, and particularly the Buds4 Pro, as future-proofed options. In comparison, the AirPods Pro 3 utilize Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC and SBC codecs, while the Buds Pro 2 use Bluetooth 5.4 with at least SBC, but lack support for these higher-quality codecs.

The internal hardware also differentiates the two models. The Buds4 feature an 11mm Dynamic Speaker, while the Buds4 Pro employ a two-way configuration with an 11mm Super Wide Woofer and a 5.5mm Planar Tweeter. While Samsung hasn’t disclosed the driver’s frequency response range, initial listening tests reveal that the single-driver Buds4 deliver a pleasing audio response, but the two-channel Buds4 Pro offer palpably deeper bass and crisper highs. The Pixel Buds Pro 2, for reference, utilize a single 11mm driver.

This emphasis on audio quality suggests Samsung is aiming for a premium listening experience, particularly with the Pro model.

Both Buds4 models incorporate noise cancellation, utilizing three microphones each to capture external sounds. The Buds4 employ three digital mics, while the Buds4 Pro feature one digital mic and two HSNR (high signal-to-noise-ratio) mics. Both pairs also include adaptive EQ to tailor the sound to the user’s ears, ambient noise detection, and adaptive ambient sound modes that adjust dynamically.

The Buds4 Pro introduce two additional features: voice and siren detection. When the earbuds recognize the user’s voice, they boost ambient sound to improve clarity. Similarly, they detect sirens or alarms, increasing ambient sound to ensure the user remains aware of their surroundings. These features are comparable to those found in Apple and Google’s offerings.

The Basics Are Here, Too

Beyond the advanced features, the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro boast solid core specifications. The Buds4 have 45mAh internal batteries and a 515mAh charging case, providing 5 hours of playback with ANC enabled and 6 hours with it disabled. The case offers an additional 24 hours of charge with ANC on and 30 hours with it off. The Buds4 Pro have larger 61mAh internal batteries and a 530mAh case, offering 6 hours of listening with ANC on or 7 hours with it off, and 26/30 hours of additional charge from the case, respectively. Six hours of playback with ANC enabled is somewhat shorter than the 8 hours offered by both the AirPods and Pixel Buds.

The charging cases themselves measure 1.1 by 2.0 by 2.0 inches, a somewhat blocky design compared to the smoother, more compact cases of the AirPods and Pixel Buds. Both cases feature a frosted, translucent lid, a design element not currently seen in Apple’s products.

The Buds4 have an IP54 rating, protecting them from light rain and sweat, making them suitable for workouts but not for full submersion. The Buds4 Pro boast a more robust IP57 rating, allowing them to withstand heavier rain and even rinsing. The AirPods Pro 3 also have an IP57 rating, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 have an IP54 rating. These ratings apply only to the earbuds themselves, not the charging cases.

But How Do The Buds4 and Buds4 Pro Sound?

A crucial aspect of effective noise cancellation is a secure in-ear seal. Both the Buds4 and Buds4 Pro utilize silicone eartips, shipping with three different sizes. However, I found that none of the provided tips created a firm seal in my ears, impacting the effectiveness of the ANC. The small size was too small, the medium size barely fit, and the large tips were oversized. This resulted in only partial noise cancellation.

In contrast, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 feature foam-lined silicone tips that conform to the ear canal, providing a more secure fit. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also offer better sizing options and a more reliable seal. The AirPods and Pixel Buds demonstrated superior noise cancellation in my testing. Your experience may vary depending on ear anatomy.

The Buds4 deliver a basic, balanced sound profile without significant emphasis on any particular frequency range. The Buds4 Pro, however, offer a noticeably richer sound, with deeper bass and clearer highs. Across various musical genres, they performed admirably.

Using a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 with Spotify as the source, I conducted a direct comparison between the Buds4 Pro, AirPods Pro 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2. The AirPods Pro 3 emerged as the clear winner, thanks to their natural tuning, vibrant sound, and effective noise cancellation. The Buds4 Pro outperformed the Pixel Buds Pro 2 in pure audio quality, benefiting from Samsung’s support for superior codecs and high-quality source files. However, the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s superior noise cancellation remains a significant advantage.

AirPods, Pixel Buds, or Galaxy Buds4: Which One Is Right for You?

The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro are designed to integrate seamlessly within the Samsung ecosystem. Samsung aims to encourage users to adopt its phones, smartwatches, and earbuds for a cohesive experience. While not mandatory, this ecosystem approach is a key part of Samsung’s strategy. If you’re already invested in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, particularly with a newer device like the upcoming Galaxy S26, the Buds4 Pro are a compelling option, especially given their optimized performance with Samsung’s latest technology.

A full review of the Galaxy Buds4 Pro will be published in the coming weeks, providing a more in-depth assessment.