Samsung Buds4 Pro: Sound Wars Heat Up

Samsung has introduced its latest wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro, entering the competitive market alongside Apple's AirPods and Google's Pixel Buds. The Buds4 Pro distinguish themselves with advanced audio technology, including Ultra High Quality Audio (UHQ) playback. When paired with compatible Samsung devices from 2023 onwards, they support 24-bit/96kHz audio through Samsung's proprietary SSC UHQ codec, alongside other advanced codecs. This focus on high-fidelity audio results in a richer sound experience, particularly noticeable in the deeper bass and clearer highs of the Pro model. The standard Buds4 also deliver a pleasing audio response with their single dynamic speaker.

Both earbud models incorporate robust noise cancellation features, utilizing multiple microphones and adaptive EQ for personalized sound. The Buds4 Pro additionally offer voice and siren detection, enhancing situational awareness by boosting ambient sound. While Samsung has improved driver technology and introduced advanced codecs, the effectiveness of the noise cancellation was impacted for the reviewer due to an inadequate in-ear seal with the provided silicone tips. The AirPods Pro 3, featuring unique foam-lined tips, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2, with better-fitting silicone tips, reportedly achieved superior noise cancellation for the reviewer. Battery life for the Buds4 Pro is rated at 6-7 hours with ANC on/off, respectively, with up to 26 hours from the charging case, though this falls short of the 8-hour playback offered by competitors.

Ultimately, the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro are positioned as an ecosystem play, designed to integrate seamlessly with Samsung's other devices. While the Buds4 Pro offer superior audio quality, especially when paired with the latest Samsung phones, the reviewer found that the AirPods Pro 3 excelled in overall performance due to their natural tuning, vibrant sound, and effective noise cancellation. The Pixel Buds Pro 2, despite lower audio codec support, provided better noise cancellation for the reviewer. Samsung plans to publish a full review of the Galaxy Buds4 Pro soon.