Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 3 A Technical Breakdown

Daily Technology

·

27/02/2026

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The wireless earbud market sees two major contenders face off: the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and the Apple AirPods Pro 3. Both represent the pinnacle of their respective ecosystems, offering advanced features and premium audio. This analysis provides a technical comparison of their key performance indicators.

Audio Performance and Codecs

Both earbuds deliver high-fidelity audio, but through different hardware and software approaches. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro utilize a dual-driver system with a woofer for low-end frequencies and a 5mm planar tweeter for clarity. The AirPods Pro 3 employ a single 10.77mm high-excursion driver paired with a high dynamic range amplifier.

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A critical factor is the proprietary codec support. Samsung's Seamless Codec (SSC) and Apple's Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) provide higher-resolution audio streaming than standard Bluetooth, but only when paired with devices from their own ecosystem. For users outside these ecosystems, the audio advantage is diminished.

Active Noise Cancellation

In the realm of active noise cancellation (ANC), both models demonstrate formidable capabilities. They incorporate adaptive ANC, which uses external microphones to analyze ambient noise and adjust the level of cancellation in real-time. While neither manufacturer publishes specific decibel reduction figures, both are highly effective at mitigating unwanted noise in environments like public transit. Performance in this category is largely comparable between the two.

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Design and Build

The design philosophies diverge significantly. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro feature a redesigned look with flat stems and premium metal accents. In contrast, the AirPods Pro 3 retain their iconic minimalist design, with minor refinements for comfort and new foam tips to improve the acoustic seal. Both models are engineered for a secure and comfortable fit.

Distinctive Features

While both models share features like live translation and adaptive EQ, the AirPods Pro 3 introduce a key differentiator: integrated health monitoring. The ability to track heart rate positions the AirPods Pro 3 as a hybrid audio and health device. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro currently lack a comparable health-tracking feature, focusing instead on core audio and ANC performance.

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Battery Life and Power

Battery endurance presents a clear distinction. With ANC enabled, the AirPods Pro 3 offer approximately eight hours of listening time on a single charge. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro provide around six hours under the same conditions. When considering the charging cases, the total playtime is more closely matched, with the AirPods Pro 3 case providing 24 hours of total playtime and the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro case offering 26 hours. The two-hour advantage in continuous earbud usage is a significant factor for long-duration listening.

Conclusion and Pricing

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 3 are priced at $249, placing them in direct competition. The decision largely hinges on user priorities and ecosystem allegiance. The AirPods Pro 3 appeal to users invested in the Apple ecosystem who value longer earbud battery life and integrated health tracking. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro offer a compelling alternative with a distinct design and excellent audio performance, particularly for users within the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem.

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