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Freedom251 › Blog › AirPods Pro 3

Galaxy Buds4 Pro vs. AirPods Pro 3: Which Earbuds Should You Buy?

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

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If you use a Samsung Galaxy phone, choose the Galaxy Buds4 Pro for their closer fit with Samsung’s ecosystem. If you use an iPhone or other Apple devices, choose AirPods Pro 3 for Apple’s device integration. Neither choice is a proven winner for sound, noise cancellation, call quality, or comfort: the available official specifications do not establish a controlled head-to-head result for those areas.

This comparison is between Samsung’s Galaxy Buds4 Pro and the current-generation AirPods Pro 3—not older AirPods Pro models. Samsung announced the Buds4 series in 2026, with general availability beginning March 11. Samsung’s launch announcement has the timing details.

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Which should you buy?

  • Choose Galaxy Buds4 Pro if you use a Galaxy phone and want Samsung-specific features. Samsung says they support Android 12 or later with more than 1.5 GB of memory, but some features may be unavailable on non-Samsung devices. Samsung’s compatibility notes explain the qualification.
  • Choose AirPods Pro 3 if your main device is an iPhone or you rely on Apple’s ecosystem features. Apple says they can function as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited. Apple’s technical specifications list device requirements and limitations.
  • If you use Android without a Samsung phone, the Buds4 Pro are compatible with Android devices meeting Samsung’s stated minimums, but check whether the specific features you want work on your phone.

At US list prices, the choice is nearly even: Samsung listed the Buds4 Pro at $249.99 and Apple listed AirPods Pro 3 at $249 when checked on October 7, 2026. These are manufacturer-listed prices, not retailer sale prices; a promotion may change which costs less. See the Samsung US store and Apple product page for current listings.

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How the main differences affect your decision

What to compare Galaxy Buds4 Pro AirPods Pro 3
US manufacturer-listed price, checked October 7, 2026 $249.99; Samsung US store listing $249; Apple US product-page listing
Compatibility Android 12 or later with more than 1.5 GB memory; Samsung says some features may not be available on non-Samsung devices Apple-device requirements apply to Apple features; Bluetooth use with non-Apple devices is possible, with limited functionality
Manufacturer battery claim with ANC on Up to 6 hours on the earbuds; up to 26 hours including the case Up to 8 hours on the earbuds; up to 24 hours including the case
Water and dust rating IP57, according to Samsung’s specifications IP57, according to Apple
Included/listed silicone tip sizes S, M, L XXS, XS, S, M, L
Charging Wireless charging case; wireless charging pad sold separately Case supports MagSafe, Apple Watch, Qi-certified chargers, or USB-C; USB-C charging cable sold separately

Phone ecosystem and features

Both earbuds can connect beyond their home ecosystems, but basic Bluetooth compatibility is not the same as access to every feature. Samsung highlights its Seamless Codec and Galaxy-specific functions; its product documentation says Hi-Res Audio with Samsung Seamless Codec supports up to 24-bit / 96 kHz, with setup and compatibility dependent on a compatible Galaxy or Android phone and support varying by feature. Samsung’s product page gives the conditions.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | Live Translation, Heart Rate Sensing, Hearing Aid Feature, Bluetooth Headphones, Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging
  • WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
  • BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
  • HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
  • LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
  • EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*

Apple lists features including Adaptive Audio, spatial audio, and hearing-health functions, subject to operating-system and region requirements. Check Apple’s technical specifications for the requirements tied to the feature you plan to use. If those ecosystem features matter, verify compatibility with your exact phone, software version, and region before buying.

Price

The October 7, 2026 US manufacturer listings put the earbuds within 99 cents of each other, so list price alone does not strongly distinguish them. The figures are not a live survey of retailer discounts or stock; compare the price available to you before checkout.

Rank #2
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro (2026) AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, White | Hi-Res Audio, 2-Way Speaker, ANC 2.0, Optimized Comfort, IP57, Live Translation [US Version, 2 Yr Warranty]
  • EXCEPTIONAL AUDIO: Catch details like never before. Designed with a High-Res Audio¹ 24-bit hi-fi codec, the latest Galaxy earbuds maintain the integrity of your favorite audio over Bluetooth.
  • TWO-WAY SPEAKER: Enjoy every audio experience to the fullest with two speakers in both Buds, including a tweeter for rich highs and a woofer for deep, full lows.
  • HD VOICE: Enjoy clear phone calls with Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy S26 Series² —they work together to deliver crisp and clear conversations.
  • ANC 2.0: Wherever you go, Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation 2.0³ intelligently adapts in real time to provide stronger, smoother noise cancellation wherever you go.
  • OPTIMIZED COMFORT: Enjoy that just-right fit, with an improved, ear-hugging design and changeable ear tips.

Battery life

Samsung claims up to 6 hours of listening on the Buds4 Pro earbuds with ANC on, or up to 26 hours including the case. Apple claims up to 8 hours for AirPods Pro 3 with ANC on, or up to 24 hours including the case. These are each manufacturer’s maximum figures, not a controlled comparison; the test conditions are not established as identical, so they do not prove which pair will last longer in your use.

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Fit and ear tips

Samsung lists three silicone tip sizes (S, M, and L); Apple lists five (XXS, XS, S, M, and L). The extra small sizes may be useful if standard tips have not fit you well, but the number of included sizes does not guarantee a comfortable fit or a reliable seal. If possible, try the earbuds and check that the tips stay seated comfortably.

Rank #3
SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds3 Pro (2024, ANC) Water Resistant, AI Real-Time Language Interpreter, True Wireless Bluetooth 5.4 Earbuds, Hi-Fi, Noise Cancelling, Touch Control, International Model R630 (Silver)
  • Compatibility & Battery Life: The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are compatible with Android devices running Android 8.0 or later with at least 1.5GB RAM. They provide 5-8 hours of playback depending on Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) usage, and up to 18 hours with the charging case. The case supports wireless and wired charging, including Fast Charging technology for quick top-ups.
  • Audio Features: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the Buds 3 Pro support SSC HiFi and UHQ audio codecs, delivering 24bit/96KHz audio for superior sound quality. They also include 360 Audio with Direct Multi-Channel for an immersive listening experience, especially when paired with Galaxy devices.
  • ANC & AI Features: The Buds 3 Pro feature improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and advanced Galaxy AI, which enhances functionalities like real-time language translation, personalized sound profiles, and environment-based voice optimization. (Note: Galaxy AI features require a Samsung Galaxy device for full functionality).
  • Call Features: With enhanced Super Wideband (SWB) microphones and AI-based noise reduction, the Buds 3 Pro improve call clarity by filtering out surrounding noise and reconstructing lost voice bits, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication even in noisy environments.Water & Sweat Resistance: These earbuds are IPX7-rated for water resistance, making them more suitable for workouts and outdoor use in varying weather conditions.
  • International Model without Domestic Warranty. Optimized Features: The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are optimized for Android, particularly Samsung Galaxy devices, for advanced features such as 360 Audio, UHQ audio codecs, and real-time AI-based functionalities. While they are compatible with iOS devices via Bluetooth, certain features are exclusive to Galaxy Android devices.

Durability

Both manufacturers list an IP57 rating. That shared rating is useful for comparing their stated resistance, but it is not a promise that either pair is suitable for every kind of exposure. Follow each manufacturer’s care guidance rather than treating the rating as permission for all water or dust conditions. Samsung’s rating appears in its Buds4 Pro specifications; Apple identifies AirPods Pro 3 as IP57 certified on its product page.

Charging and finding your earbuds

The Buds4 Pro case supports wireless charging, but Samsung says the charging pad is not included. AirPods Pro 3 can charge with MagSafe, an Apple Watch charger, a Qi-certified charger, or USB-C; Apple says the USB-C charging cable is sold separately. If you already own a compatible charger, that may make one case more convenient; otherwise, account for any accessory you need. Confirm the included items and charging support on the manufacturer pages before purchase.

Rank #4
Sale
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Ai Advanced 2 Way Speakers Wireless Bluetooth 6.1 Noise Cancelling Real-Time Interpreter Redesigned Comfort Fit Version Latino Americana (White SM-R640NZWALTA)
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Blocks out unwanted background noise so you can focus on music, calls, or podcasts
  • True Wireless Convenience: Enjoy tangle-free Bluetooth connectivity for seamless listening on the go.
  • Intuitive Touch Controls: Easily manage calls, adjust volume, and control playback without reaching for your phone.
  • Call Features: With enhanced Super Wideband (SWB) microphones and AI-based noise reduction, the Buds 4 Pro improve call clarity by filtering out surrounding noise and reconstructing lost voice bits, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication even in noisy environments.Water & Sweat Resistance: These earbuds are IPX7-rated for water resistance, making them more suitable for workouts and outdoor use in varying weather conditions.
  • International Model without Domestic Warranty: The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro SM-R640 are an International Version and do not include a local warranty. Optimized for Android, particularly Samsung Galaxy devices, they offer advanced features such as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), 360 Audio, Hi-Fi sound, and real-time AI-based audio enhancements. While fully compatible with iOS devices via Bluetooth, certain features like ANC customization and 360 Audio are exclusive to Galaxy Android devices.
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What the available specifications can—and cannot—tell you

The official information supports a comparison of compatibility, listed features, battery claims, tip sizes, durability ratings, charging, and manufacturer-listed prices. It does not establish a winner for sound quality, ANC effectiveness, microphone performance, calls, or comfort. Those depend on the listener, fit, device, and use conditions, and no controlled comparison is available here. Do not treat a codec claim or a battery maximum as proof that one set sounds or performs better overall.

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Best Value
Replacement Silicone Ear Tips for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro/Buds 4 Pro
  • 1:1 precision engineered for Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Galaxy Buds4 Pro, these replacement ear tips match the original design and fit perfectly with your earbuds.
  • Made of ultra-soft anti-slip silicone, these Galaxy Buds3 Pro ear tips offer all-day comfort and a secure fit ideal for extended wear.
  • Built-in fine mesh ensures optimal sound performance while the earbuds tips install easily and fit seamlessly in the charging case.
  • High-quality washable silicone makes these Galaxy Buds4 Pro/Buds3 Pro replacement tips durable, skin-friendly and hygienic for daily use.
  • Provides effective noise isolation for clearer audio, with L/M/S sizes available to deliver a fully personalized.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

AirPods Pro 3AppleGalaxy Buds4 ProSamsungwireless earbuds

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