The wireless earbud market keeps getting more competitive. Every brand wants to be your top choice. Samsung just launched the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro with a bold new design. These earbuds bring AI features, excellent sound quality, and a comfort upgrade. This review explores everything about these earbuds. You will learn if they are worth your money.
Samsung made big changes with the Buds 3 Pro. They moved away from the traditional bean shape. The new design uses stems like Apple AirPods. This change might surprise longtime Samsung fans. But the earbuds pack powerful features inside. They offer 24-bit Hi-Fi audio, active noise cancellation, and real-time translation. The company also added their Samsung Seamless Codec for better audio quality. These earbuds work best with Galaxy phones. However, they still function with other Android devices and even iPhones.
Key Takeaways
Here are the most important points about Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro:
Premium Sound Quality: The Buds 3 Pro feature a dual driver system with one planar magnetic tweeter and one low frequency driver. This setup delivers 24-bit/96kHz audio quality. You get studio-grade sound in your ears. The Samsung Seamless Codec maintains ultra high-quality audio from source to earbuds.
Powerful AI Features: These earbuds bring Galaxy AI to your ears. You get real-time interpreter mode for instant language translation during conversations. The AI also powers voice detection that pauses music when you start talking. Plus, there is adaptive sound that adjusts to your environment automatically.
Strong Active Noise Cancellation: The ANC system blocks external noise effectively. You can choose different levels of noise cancellation. The adaptive mode automatically adjusts based on your surroundings. This feature works great on planes, trains, and busy streets.
Comfortable New Design: Samsung redesigned these earbuds with longer stems. They include multiple ear tip sizes for better fit. The IP57 water resistance rating protects against sweat and rain. You can wear them during workouts without worry.
Solid Battery Performance: Expect around 5 to 6 hours of playback with ANC enabled. The charging case provides an additional 18 to 24 hours. Total battery life reaches up to 30 hours without ANC. The case supports wireless charging and USB-C fast charging.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
Opening the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro box reveals a clean package. Samsung includes the earbuds, charging case, multiple ear tip sizes, and a USB-C cable. The case feels premium with a smooth finish. It comes in silver and white color options. The blade lights on the stems glow when you open the case. This small detail adds a nice touch.
The earbuds feel light in your hand. Each earbud weighs just 5.4 grams. The case weighs 46.5 grams total. Everything feels well-built and premium. The materials used show Samsung paid attention to quality. You can tell these are premium earbuds from the moment you hold them.
Design and Build Quality Changes
Samsung made a bold design choice with the Buds 3 Pro. They switched from the previous bean-shaped design to a stem design. Many people will compare them to AirPods. The stems serve important purposes though. They house better microphones for calls. They also provide space for touch controls.
The stem design brings both advantages and disadvantages. The longer shape improves microphone placement. Your voice sounds clearer during calls. The stems also make the earbuds easier to grab from the case. However, some users miss the unique Samsung look from previous models.
Build quality remains excellent throughout. The earbuds feel solid without being heavy. Samsung used quality plastic that resists scratches. The IP57 rating means they can handle dust and water. You can submerge them in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for gym sessions and rainy days.
Comfort and Fit Experience
Comfort matters for earbuds you wear for hours. The Buds 3 Pro include three different ear tip sizes. Finding the right fit is essential for good sound quality and noise cancellation. The silicone ear tips feel soft against your skin. They create a good seal without causing pressure.
The stem design actually improves comfort for many users. The weight distribution feels more balanced. The earbuds do not press as deeply into your ear canal. You can wear them for long periods without fatigue. However, some people with smaller ears might find the stems too long.
The fit remains secure during most activities. They stay in place during jogging and gym workouts. The lack of ear hooks means they might shift during very intense exercise. But for most daily activities, they stay put nicely. The touch controls on the stems are easy to reach without readjusting the fit.
Audio Quality and Sound Performance
Sound quality stands out as a major strength. The dual driver system delivers impressive audio across all frequencies. The planar magnetic tweeter handles high frequencies with clarity. The separate low frequency driver provides deep, punchy bass. This two-way setup reduces interference between speakers.
Music sounds detailed and balanced. You can hear individual instruments clearly. The soundstage feels wide for in-ear buds. Classical music lovers will appreciate the separation. Hip-hop fans will enjoy the strong bass response. The 24-bit/96kHz audio capability shows when you play high-resolution music files.
The Samsung Seamless Codec makes a real difference. This proprietary codec compresses and transmits audio at 24-bit/96kHz quality. Then it decodes perfectly on the earbuds. You get studio-quality sound if you have compatible Samsung devices. The codec works with Galaxy phones running recent software.
Gaming and video watching also benefit from low latency. The Bluetooth 5.4 connection stays stable. Audio syncs well with video content. You can watch movies without annoying delays between picture and sound.
Active Noise Cancellation Performance
The ANC system performs admirably. It blocks out a significant amount of external noise. Low frequency sounds like airplane engines disappear almost completely. Mid-range frequencies like conversations get reduced substantially. Only very high-pitched sounds occasionally break through.
You get multiple ANC modes to choose from. High mode provides maximum noise cancellation. Low mode still blocks noise but lets in more ambient sound. The adaptive mode automatically adjusts based on your environment. This smart feature works well in practice.
Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. The ambient sound feature amplifies external noise. You can have conversations without removing the earbuds. The voice detect feature automatically pauses music when you start speaking. After you finish talking, music resumes automatically.
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Galaxy AI Features and Smart Functions
Samsung packed these earbuds with AI capabilities. The real-time interpreter feature stands out as particularly useful for travelers. When paired with a compatible Galaxy phone, the interpreter translates conversations. You hear translations directly in your earbuds. This works in listening mode for lectures or conversation mode for two-way talks.
The interpreter supports multiple languages. You can select your desired language pair in the app. The translation happens quickly with minimal delay. However, accuracy depends on clear speech and good pronunciation. Background noise can sometimes confuse the system.
Voice detect is another smart feature. The earbuds use AI to recognize when you start speaking. Music automatically pauses and switches to transparency mode. You can talk to someone without touching the earbuds. When you stop speaking for a few seconds, music resumes and ANC turns back on.
Adaptive sound continuously monitors your environment. The AI adjusts noise cancellation levels automatically. When you walk from a quiet room to a busy street, the earbuds respond. This creates a seamless listening experience without manual adjustments.
Call Quality and Microphone Performance
Call quality impresses with the Buds 3 Pro. The stem design positions microphones closer to your mouth. This improves voice pickup significantly. People on the other end report clear audio. Your voice sounds natural without being muffled.
The AI-based noise reduction works during calls too. It filters out background noise around you. Wind noise gets reduced effectively. Even in moderately noisy environments, your voice remains clear. The earbuds reconstruct lost voice bits using AI. This ensures smooth conversations even with connection issues.
The Super Wideband microphones capture a wider frequency range. This makes your voice sound more natural and less compressed. Conference calls benefit from this improved clarity. You can take business calls confidently while using these earbuds.
Battery Life and Charging Options
Battery performance meets expectations for premium earbuds. You get approximately 5 to 6 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. Turning off ANC extends this to about 7 to 8 hours. These numbers align with competitors in this price range.
The charging case adds substantial battery life. Total playback time reaches up to 30 hours without ANC. With ANC enabled, expect around 24 hours total. This means you can go several days between charges with moderate use.
Charging happens quickly with the USB-C port. A 10-minute quick charge provides about an hour of listening time. Full charging takes around 90 minutes. The case also supports Qi wireless charging. You can drop it on any compatible charging pad.
Battery management through the app shows remaining charge for each earbud. You get notifications when battery runs low. The earbuds automatically enter low power mode to extend battery life when needed.
Connectivity and Compatibility Features
Bluetooth 5.4 provides excellent connectivity. The connection remains stable even in crowded areas with lots of wireless signals. Range extends up to about 10 meters without obstacles. You can leave your phone on a desk and walk around your home.
Multipoint connectivity lets you connect to two devices simultaneously. You can switch between your phone and laptop seamlessly. When a call comes in on your phone, audio automatically switches from your laptop. This feature proves useful for people who work across multiple devices.
The earbuds work with all Bluetooth-enabled devices. However, you get the best experience with Samsung Galaxy phones. Many advanced features require a Samsung device. The real-time interpreter, adaptive sound, and 360 Audio need compatible Galaxy phones. iPhone users will miss out on these Samsung-specific features.
Pairing is straightforward. Open the case near your Samsung phone for instant pairing. For other devices, hold the pairing button on the case. The process takes just a few seconds.
Touch Controls and App Integration
Touch controls sit on the stems of each earbud. You can tap, double tap, triple tap, or press and hold. Each gesture performs different functions. The controls feel responsive without being too sensitive.
Default controls include play/pause, skip tracks, answer calls, and toggle ANC modes. You can customize these controls through the Galaxy Wearable app. Assign different functions to each earbud. This customization lets you set up controls that match your usage.
The Galaxy Wearable app provides extensive customization options. You can adjust equalizer settings with preset modes. Create custom EQ profiles for different music genres. The app also shows battery levels and lets you update firmware.
Other app features include finding lost earbuds with a beeping sound. You can enable or disable features like voice detect and ambient sound. Software updates arrive through the app automatically.
360 Audio and Spatial Sound Experience
Samsung includes 360 Audio support for immersive sound. This spatial audio feature creates a surround sound effect. Music and movies feel more three-dimensional. The technology tracks your head movements to adjust sound direction.
360 Audio works best with compatible Samsung devices. You need a Galaxy phone or tablet that supports the feature. Content also needs to be compatible. Many streaming services now offer spatial audio content.
The experience feels genuinely immersive with the right content. Watching movies becomes more engaging. You can hear sounds coming from different directions. Gaming also benefits from the positional audio. However, the effect varies depending on the content quality.
Some users love spatial audio while others prefer traditional stereo sound. You can easily toggle the feature on or off through the app. Try it with different content types to see if you enjoy the effect.
Water Resistance and Durability
The IP57 rating provides excellent protection. The first number (5) indicates dust protection. The earbuds resist dust ingress effectively. The second number (7) shows water resistance. They can survive immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
This rating makes them suitable for workouts. Sweat will not damage the earbuds. You can also wear them in light rain without worry. However, Samsung recommends against wearing them in the shower or while swimming. The IP57 rating is for accidental exposure, not prolonged submersion.
The charging case does not have an IP rating. Keep the case away from water and dust. The case uses a tight seal when closed to protect the charging contacts.
Build quality suggests these earbuds will last. The materials resist normal wear and tear. The hinges on the case feel solid. With proper care, these should remain in good condition for years.
Value for Money Analysis
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro retail for around $249. This positions them as premium earbuds. The price competes directly with Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM5. You get a lot of features for this price point.
Sound quality justifies the cost. The dual driver system delivers excellent audio. Active noise cancellation performs well. The AI features add genuine value, especially for Samsung users. Build quality and design feel premium throughout.
However, value depends on your device ecosystem. Samsung Galaxy phone owners get the most value. They can use all the advanced features. Android users with other brands miss some functionality. iPhone users get even fewer features.
Frequent deals and promotions often reduce the price. Watch for sales during holiday periods. Samsung sometimes bundles earbuds with phone purchases. These deals can make the value proposition more attractive.
Comparison with Previous Galaxy Buds Models
The Buds 3 Pro represent a significant upgrade from the Buds 2 Pro. The new design divides opinion. Some prefer the old bean shape. Others like the new stem design better. Functionally, the stem design improves call quality and control access.
Sound quality improved with the dual driver system. The previous model used a single driver. The new setup provides better separation across frequencies. Bass sounds punchier while treble remains clear.
AI features are completely new. The Buds 2 Pro lacked real-time translation and advanced voice detection. These additions make a real difference in daily use. However, they require newer Samsung devices to work.
Battery life stayed roughly the same. Both models offer similar playback times. The charging cases provide comparable total battery life. Water resistance improved slightly from IP55 to IP57.
Pros and Cons Summary
Advantages of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro:
The sound quality stands out immediately. The dual driver setup delivers clear, balanced audio. Bass hits hard without overwhelming other frequencies. The 24-bit Hi-Fi audio makes a noticeable difference with high-quality music files.
Active noise cancellation works effectively. It blocks out most environmental noise. The adaptive mode adjusts automatically. You rarely need to manually change settings.
AI features add genuine utility. Real-time translation helps during travel. Voice detection makes conversations convenient. These smart features justify the premium price.
Build quality feels premium throughout. The IP57 rating provides excellent protection. The earbuds withstand sweat and rain easily. They feel durable enough for daily use.
Disadvantages to Consider:
The design change will not please everyone. Long-time Samsung fans might miss the unique bean shape. The stems make these look more generic.
Battery life is adequate but not exceptional. Five to six hours with ANC is average for this category. Some competitors offer longer playback times.
Many features require Samsung devices. Android users with other brands miss out. iPhone users get even less functionality. This limits the potential audience.
The price puts them in premium territory. Not everyone wants to spend $249 on earbuds. More affordable options exist with decent features.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
These earbuds work best for Samsung Galaxy phone owners. You can access all features with compatible devices. The real-time interpreter, adaptive sound, and 360 Audio require Samsung phones. If you own a recent Galaxy phone, these earbuds integrate perfectly.
Audiophiles who want portable Hi-Fi sound should consider these. The dual driver system delivers excellent audio quality. The 24-bit/96kHz capability matters if you have high-resolution music files. Sound quality rivals much more expensive audiophile earbuds.
Frequent travelers benefit from the AI translation feature. Real-time interpreter helps in foreign countries. The strong ANC blocks airplane and train noise. Compact size makes them easy to pack.
Active users appreciate the IP57 water resistance. You can work out without worrying about sweat damage. The secure fit keeps them in place during most activities. Call quality helps if you take work calls while exercising.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro worth buying in 2024?
Yes, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer excellent value for Samsung users. The sound quality impresses with the dual driver system. Active noise cancellation performs well. AI features like real-time translation add useful functionality. However, you get the most value with a Samsung Galaxy phone. Other Android and iPhone users will miss key features.
How long does the battery last on Galaxy Buds 3 Pro?
The battery lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. Turning off ANC extends playback to about 7 to 8 hours. The charging case adds extra charges for a total of up to 30 hours without ANC. With ANC enabled, total battery life reaches around 24 hours. A 10-minute quick charge provides about an hour of listening time.
Can I use Galaxy Buds 3 Pro with an iPhone?
Yes, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro work with iPhones through standard Bluetooth connection. However, you will miss many advanced features. Real-time translation requires a Samsung device. The Galaxy Wearable app is not available for iOS. You lose access to EQ settings, customization, and firmware updates. Basic playback and ANC will function, but the experience is limited.
How does the noise cancellation compare to AirPods Pro?
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer competitive noise cancellation versus AirPods Pro. Both block low-frequency noise effectively. The Samsung earbuds provide more customization with multiple ANC levels. Adaptive mode works well on both. Sound quality differences come down to personal preference. Samsung offers more bass while AirPods sound more neutral.
Are Galaxy Buds 3 Pro waterproof for swimming?
No, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are not designed for swimming. They carry an IP57 rating for water resistance. This means they can survive accidental submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. They handle sweat and rain effectively. However, Samsung does not recommend wearing them while swimming, showering, or in saunas. The rating covers accidental exposure, not intentional water activities.
What makes the sound quality better than previous models?
The Buds 3 Pro use a dual driver system with independent woofer and tweeter. Previous models used single drivers. This separation reduces interference between speakers. The planar magnetic tweeter delivers clearer highs. The dedicated woofer provides deeper bass. The Samsung Seamless Codec maintains 24-bit/96kHz audio quality. These improvements create noticeably better sound than earlier Galaxy Buds.
Can the real-time translation feature replace a human translator?
No, the translation feature helps with basic communication but cannot replace human translators. It works best in quiet environments with clear speech. The system handles simple conversations reasonably well. However, complex discussions, idioms, and technical language cause problems. Background noise reduces accuracy. Think of it as a helpful tool for travelers, not a professional translation service.
Do the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro work with non-Samsung Android phones?
Yes, they work with all Android phones through Bluetooth. However, many advanced features require Samsung devices. The Galaxy Wearable app provides basic controls on other Android phones. You get access to EQ settings and some customization. Real-time translation and some AI features need Samsung Galaxy phones. Sound quality and ANC work fully across all Android devices.
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