Samsung's Bass Revolution: A Threat to Apple's Audio Dominance?
In the world of mobile tech, it's not just about phones anymore. Companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung are vying for our attention with their entire ecosystems, including smartwatches and earbuds. Samsung's latest foray into this arena is the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro, and they're here to make a statement.
I had the chance to test these earbuds at Unpacked in San Francisco and compare them to the mighty AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2. Here's a sneak peek at my initial thoughts.
A Tech-Centric Upgrade
Samsung is pulling out all the stops with these earbuds. Both the Buds4 and Buds4 Pro are loaded with cutting-edge features, but the real standout is Ultra High Quality Audio (UHQ).
When paired with a Samsung flagship device like the Galaxy S23, Z Fold/Flip 5, or Tab S9, these earbuds support 24-bit/96kHz playback via Samsung's proprietary SSC UHQ codec. This, combined with Bluetooth 6.1, ensures rich and detailed audio. In contrast, the AirPods Pro 3 and Buds Pro 2 rely on older Bluetooth versions and lack high-quality codecs.
The Buds4 Pro's two-way speaker arrangement, featuring an 11mm Super Wide Woofer and a 5.5mm Planar Tweeter, delivers a powerful audio experience. While Samsung hasn't disclosed the driver's frequency response, the Buds4 Pro's bass and high-end clarity are undeniable.
Noise Cancellation and Beyond
Both Buds4 models excel at noise cancellation, thanks to their onboard mics. The Buds4 Pro takes it a step further with voice and siren detection. When it recognizes your voice or detects an alarm, it boosts ambient sound, ensuring your speech is clear and you're aware of your surroundings. This feature is a welcome addition for safety and convenience.
The Basics: A Competitive Edge
The Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro offer a solid set of specifications that rival their competitors. The Buds4 Pro boasts larger internal batteries, providing up to 7 hours of listening with ANC off, and a slightly bigger case battery. However, the AirPods and Pixel Buds offer longer battery life with ANC on.
The charging cases are compact, but the AirPods and Pixel Buds have smoother, more pocket-friendly designs. Additionally, the Buds4 Pro's IP57 rating allows for heavy rain and easy cleaning, while the Buds4's IP54 rating is more limited.
The Sound Experience
Effective noise cancellation relies on a tight in-ear seal, and here's where the Buds4 and Buds4 Pro fall short for me. The silicone eartips, though comfortable, didn't create a firm seal in my ears. This resulted in partial ANC effectiveness.
In comparison, the AirPods Pro 3's foam-lined silicone tips and the Pixel Buds Pro 2's better-sized silicone tips provide a superior seal. As a result, the Apple and Google earbuds offer better noise cancellation, which is a significant advantage.
The Buds4 produce a basic, balanced sound, while the Buds4 Pro deliver a richer, more defined audio experience. In my A-B-C testing with various music genres, the Buds4 Pro outperformed the Pixel Buds Pro 2 in audio quality, thanks to Samsung's support for superior codecs.
However, the AirPods took the crown for their natural tuning and effective noise cancellation. The Pixel Buds Pro 2, despite their limited codec support, impressed with their noise cancellation capabilities.
The Ecosystem Factor
The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro are designed to work seamlessly within the Samsung ecosystem. Samsung hopes you'll embrace their entire lineup, from phones to smartwatches to earbuds, for a unified experience. The same goes for Apple and Google, each with their own integrated ecosystems.
While you're not obligated to follow this path, if you're already invested in the Samsung ecosystem, the Buds4 Pro is a compelling choice, especially when paired with the latest Samsung devices.
Stay tuned for our full review of the Galaxy Buds4 Pro, coming soon!
So, which earbuds would you choose? The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro, Apple AirPods, or Google Pixel Buds? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this audio battle!
