When it comes to wireless earbuds, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds series has been a force to be reckoned with. The Korean tech giant has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, delivering top-notch audio experiences with each successive generation. The latest additions to the family, the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro, have left many wondering: what’s the difference between these two powerhouse earbuds?
Design and Comfort
At first glance, the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro appear identical, with their sleek, compact design and ergonomic fit. Both models boast a similar shape and size, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, there are some subtle differences worth noting.
The Galaxy Buds Pro features a more refined design, with a slightly smaller size and a more seamless fit. The earbuds themselves are 0.2mm smaller than their predecessor, making them even more discreet when worn. The Buds 2 Pro, on the other hand, has a slightly larger design, which might be more noticeable when worn.
In terms of comfort, both models feature Samsung’s proprietary ear tip design, which provides a snug and secure fit. The ear tips are made of a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of your ear, ensuring a comfortable fit for most users.
IPX7 Water Resistance
One area where both models excel is water resistance. Both the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro boast an IPX7 rating, which means they can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. This is a significant upgrade from the IPX4 rating of their predecessors, making them ideal for workouts, outdoor activities, or accidental spills.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro truly shine. Both models feature Samsung’s proprietary audio technology, including 11mm drivers and a dedicated amplifier. This results in clear, crisp sound with deep bass and rich treble.
The Galaxy Buds Pro takes sound quality to the next level with its new “Hi-Fi” audio mode. This feature utilizes a more advanced codec to deliver even more detailed and nuanced sound. The result is an audio experience that’s eerily close to wired earbuds.
The Buds 2 Pro, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing the overall listening experience with its “Scalable Codec” technology. This feature allows the earbuds to dynamically adjust the audio quality based on the environment, ensuring that you always get the best possible sound.
Active Noise Cancellation
Both models feature Samsung’s proprietary Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, which uses a combination of microphones and algorithms to block out background noise. However, the Galaxy Buds Pro takes ANC to the next level with its “Advanced ANC” feature. This technology uses a dedicated microphone to detect ambient noise and adjust the ANC in real-time, providing even better noise cancellation.
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery life, both models offer impressive performance. The Galaxy Buds Pro boasts up to 5 hours of playback time on a single charge, with an additional 13 hours provided by the charging case. The Buds 2 Pro, on the other hand, offers up to 6 hours of playback time, with an additional 12 hours from the charging case.
In terms of charging, both models support fast charging, with the Galaxy Buds Pro charging up to 1 hour of playback in just 5 minutes. The Buds 2 Pro takes a slightly longer 10 minutes to charge up to 1 hour of playback.
Wireless Charging
Both models support wireless charging, making it easy to top up your earbuds without the need for cables. Simply place the charging case on a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, and you’re good to go.
Features and Connectivity
The Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro are packed with features that make them some of the most advanced earbuds on the market.
Touch Controls
Both models feature intuitive touch controls, allowing you to play, pause, and skip tracks with ease. You can also use the earbuds to answer and end calls, as well as activate your device’s voice assistant.
Seamless Connectivity
Both models feature seamless connectivity with Samsung devices, thanks to the proprietary Scalable Codec technology. This allows for near-instant pairing and low-latency audio transmission.
Find My Earbuds
Both models feature Samsung’s “Find My Earbuds” feature, which allows you to locate your earbuds on a map, making it easy to track them down if they’re lost or misplaced.
Price and Verdict
So, which one should you choose? The Galaxy Buds Pro or the Buds 2 Pro?
The Verdict:
The Galaxy Buds Pro is the clear winner for those looking for the absolute best sound quality and advanced features like Hi-Fi audio and Advanced ANC. If you’re willing to pay a premium for top-notch audio performance, the Galaxy Buds Pro is the better choice.
On the other hand, the Buds 2 Pro is a more affordable option that still offers impressive sound quality and a range of features like Scalable Codec technology and seamless connectivity. If you’re on a budget or want a more accessible entry point to the world of wireless earbuds, the Buds 2 Pro is an excellent choice.
| Feature | Galaxy Buds Pro | Buds 2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Hi-Fi audio mode, 11mm drivers | Scalable Codec technology, 11mm drivers |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Advanced ANC with dedicated microphone | ANC technology with ambient noise detection |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours (plus 13 hours from charging case) | Up to 6 hours (plus 12 hours from charging case) |
| Price | $199.99 | $149.99 |
Ultimately, the choice between the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro comes down to your budget and priorities. If sound quality is your top concern, the Galaxy Buds Pro is the way to go. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with impressive features, the Buds 2 Pro is an excellent choice.
What are the key differences between Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro?
The key differences between Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro lie in their design, features, and performance. The Buds 2 Pro has a more compact design and weighs less than the Galaxy Buds Pro. Additionally, the Buds 2 Pro has improved noise cancellation and better sound quality. The Buds 2 Pro also has a longer battery life, with up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, compared to the 5 hours of the Galaxy Buds Pro.
In terms of features, the Buds 2 Pro has more advanced noise-cancellation technology, including a high-frequency noise-cancellation mode. The Buds 2 Pro also has a new feature called “Voice Detect,” which automatically switches to voice recognition mode when you start talking. The Galaxy Buds Pro, on the other hand, has a more rugged design and is IPX7 water-resistant, making it a better option for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor activities.
Which earbuds have better sound quality?
The Buds 2 Pro has slightly better sound quality than the Galaxy Buds Pro. The Buds 2 Pro has a more detailed and balanced sound, with better bass response and clearer highs. The Buds 2 Pro also has a more immersive soundstage, making it feel like you’re surrounded by the music. The Galaxy Buds Pro, on the other hand, has a slightly more boosted bass response, which may appeal to fans of bass-heavy music.
However, it’s worth noting that the sound quality of both earbuds is excellent, and the difference between the two is relatively small. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and listening habits. If you prefer a more detailed and balanced sound, the Buds 2 Pro may be the better choice. If you prefer a more bass-heavy sound, the Galaxy Buds Pro may be the way to go.
Do Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro have the same noise-cancellation features?
No, the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro do not have the same noise-cancellation features. The Buds 2 Pro has more advanced noise-cancellation technology, including a high-frequency noise-cancellation mode. This mode is specifically designed to cancel out high-frequency sounds, such as background chatter and keyboard typing. The Galaxy Buds Pro, on the other hand, has a more basic noise-cancellation feature that is designed to cancel out low-frequency sounds, such as engine rumble and airplane noise.
The Buds 2 Pro also has a feature called “Active Noise Cancellation Off” which allows you to turn off noise cancellation when you’re in a quiet environment. This feature is not available on the Galaxy Buds Pro. Additionally, the Buds 2 Pro has a new feature called “Transparency mode” which allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Can I use Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro with non-Samsung devices?
Yes, you can use both the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro with non-Samsung devices. Both earbuds support Bluetooth 5.2, which allows them to connect to most Bluetooth-enabled devices, including Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. However, some features may not be available when using the earbuds with non-Samsung devices.
For example, the Buds 2 Pro’s “Voice Detect” feature is only available when using the earbuds with a Samsung Galaxy device. Additionally, some features, such as the earbuds’ built-in fitness tracking features, may not be compatible with non-Samsung devices.
How is the battery life of Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro?
The battery life of the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro is excellent. The Buds 2 Pro has a longer battery life, with up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, compared to the 5 hours of the Galaxy Buds Pro. Additionally, the charging case of the Buds 2 Pro provides an additional 20 hours of battery life, compared to the 13 hours of the Galaxy Buds Pro.
Both earbuds also support fast charging, with the Buds 2 Pro able to charge for 1 hour of listening time in just 5 minutes. The Galaxy Buds Pro can charge for 1 hour of listening time in 10 minutes. Overall, the Buds 2 Pro has a longer battery life and faster charging times, making it a better option for users who need earbuds that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Are Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro water-resistant?
Yes, both the Galaxy Buds Pro and Buds 2 Pro are water-resistant. The Galaxy Buds Pro has an IPX7 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. The Buds 2 Pro has an IPX4 rating, which means it can withstand splashes and sweat but should not be submerged in water.
While neither earbud is fully waterproof, they are both designed to withstand the rigors of daily life, including exercise and outdoor activities. However, it’s still important to be careful when using the earbuds in wet conditions, and to avoid submerging them in water.
Which earbuds are more comfortable to wear?
The Buds 2 Pro are generally considered to be more comfortable to wear than the Galaxy Buds Pro. The Buds 2 Pro have a more compact design and weigh less than the Galaxy Buds Pro, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The Buds 2 Pro also have a more ergonomic design, with a contoured shape that fits snugly in the ear.
The Galaxy Buds Pro, on the other hand, have a more rugged design and a slightly bulkier shape, which can make them less comfortable to wear for some users. However, the comfort of earbuds is highly subjective, and what works for one user may not work for another. It’s recommended to try both earbuds before making a purchase to see which one is more comfortable for you.