Your old earbuds finally bit the dust, and now you’re stuck deciding between Apple’s AirPods and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds. Whether you’re running to catch the train or trying to block out your noisy office, you want earbuds that won’t let you down in sound, comfort, and battery life.
| Feature | AirPods (3rd Gen) | Galaxy Buds2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $179 | $149 |
| Battery Life (per charge) | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Active Noise Cancellation | ✗ | ✓ |
| Wireless Charging | ✓ | ✓ |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX2 |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Bixby/Google Assistant |
✅ airpods Pros
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Solid battery life with fast charging
- Great for calls with mic quality
❌ airpods Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Expensive for the feature set
✅ galaxy buds Pros
- Active noise cancellation
- Customizable sound profiles
- More affordable price point
❌ galaxy buds Cons
- Shorter battery life per charge
- Less water resistance
Performance
The AirPods deliver reliable sound quality with a focus on mid-range frequencies, making them great for calls and podcasts. However, without active noise cancellation, they struggle in noisy environments. On the other hand, the Galaxy Buds2 offer customizable sound profiles and active noise cancellation, which are game-changers if you’re commuting or working in a bustling setting. If you’re an audiophile who needs immersive sound, the Galaxy Buds2 take the cake, especially with the added noise isolation.
Build Quality
AirPods are iconic for their minimalistic design and durable build. They’re sweat-resistant, making them a good option for light workouts, though they might not survive a heavy downpour. Galaxy Buds2 have a more traditional in-ear design, offering a snug fit. They lack the same water resistance level, so think twice if you’re planning on using them in the rain. Both are pocket-friendly and come with a wireless charging case, so they’re easy to grab and go.
Value
AirPods are undoubtedly on the pricier side, but they offer a flawless experience within the Apple ecosystem, which can be worth the investment if you’re already hooked on Apple products. Galaxy Buds2 come in at a lower price and offer more features like active noise cancellation, providing better value for money if you’re looking for feature-packed earbuds without breaking the bank. Consider what matters most: seamless integration or feature richness?
AirPods may seem like the go-to choice for iPhone users, but they lack some modern features like noise cancellation which you might expect at their price point. Galaxy Buds2 offer more bang for your buck, but their battery life isn’t leading the pack, so you’ll need to be mindful of frequent charging.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re an Apple user who prioritizes seamless device integration and call quality, AirPods are your best bet despite their higher price. However, if you value features like noise cancellation and customizable sound at a more affordable price, Galaxy Buds2 are the way to go, especially for Android users or those who frequently find themselves in noisy environments.
Do AirPods and Galaxy Buds fit comfortably for long periods?
AirPods have a more universal fit but may slip out during rigorous activity. Galaxy Buds, with their in-ear design, offer a more secure fit, though some might find them uncomfortable for extended wear.
Are both earbuds compatible with all smartphones?
AirPods work best with Apple devices, but they can connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device. Galaxy Buds2 are more versatile with Android devices but also work with iOS.
How durable are these earbuds over time?
AirPods have a solid build and are known for their longevity, especially if you’re careful with the case. Galaxy Buds2 are durable but slightly less water-resistant, so they need more care around moisture.