Samsung recently introduced its flagship earbuds, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, during the Galaxy Unpacked event. Not long after, Google unveiled its latest offering, the Pixel Buds Pro 2, at the Made by Google event. Both products are priced closely, with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro retailing at $250 and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 available for $230. Our initial impressions of the Samsung earbuds were positive, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 outshine them in nearly every aspect. For a slightly lower price, the Buds Pro 2 deliver enhanced performance across the board.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Design and Fit
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
The design of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 couldn’t be more different. Samsung’s model features a sleek, elongated appearance with distinctive “blade” stems. These sharp, pointed blades appear triangular from a distance but reveal a unique pentagonal shape upon closer inspection. Additionally, the Pro version includes blade lights that activate whenever the earbuds are placed in or removed from the charging case. Initially, I found Samsung’s emphasis on the blade lights unconvincing, but after using the buds, I appreciated their aesthetic appeal and rarity.
In contrast, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 have a more understated design, resembling small buttons nestled comfortably in your ears. This latest version has been significantly reduced in size and weight compared to the first-gen Buds Pro, making them exceptionally lightweight. They come in four attractive colors: Peony, Wintergreen, Porcelain, and Hazel. While the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer a subtle, stylish look, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro provide a flashier, futuristic aesthetic. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference, but the unique color options of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 could be more enticing than the conventional Silver or Gray of Samsung’s offerings.
The fit of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is particularly well-thought-out, featuring a fit-to-adjust stabilizer that ensures a snug fit in your ear when you twist them once. This is supplemented by rubber wings that have returned in this generation after being absent from the previous model. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro lack these additional components, which would improve their fit. I was also impressed that Google included an extra-small ear tip in the package, accommodating a wider range of ear sizes.
The discreet design of the Pixel Buds facilitates a comfortable fit without causing interference with eyeglasses, hair, or accessories, whereas the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro often clashed with my reading glasses and earrings.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs. Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Navigation
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Surprisingly, the sharp-edged design of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offers a benefit, as the V-shaped stem allows for an easier grip compared to a circular one. However, the control mechanism on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 wins me over. You can adjust the volume by swiping horizontally on the earbuds, while the Galaxy Buds require swiping up and down, which can be less convenient on small devices that could easily fall out when pulled.
Another significant difference lies in the control mechanism: the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro feature pressure-sensitive buttons, similar to the force sensors found on AirPods Pro, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro 2 utilize a touch-capacitive interface. I find myself preferring touch controls over physical buttons, as Google has designed their buds to allow easy tapping without compromising fit. The physical buttons on the Galaxy Buds can require more force to activate, which may shift their position in your ears.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Sound and ANC
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Both the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver impressive sound quality. However, the audio experience differs, with the Samsung earbuds featuring a two-way speaker, dual amplifiers, planar tweeter, and dedicated woofer. On the other hand, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 boast a Tensor A1 chip, 11mm drivers, and an upgraded high-frequency chamber. While the Galaxy Buds deliver overall good audio quality, they struggle with a muddy low-end as the volume increases. This issue has been addressed in the latest Pixel model, which produces clearer audio, especially in the low frequencies.
One of the standout features of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is their impressive bass quality, which is punchy and well-defined. The earbuds offer crystal clear sound, enabling you to appreciate every detail in your music. The mids are spacious, and while the high-end is adequate, it remains somewhat overshadowed by the strong low-end.
In terms of noise cancellation, both earbuds perform well, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 take the edge. Their active noise cancellation (ANC) is highly effective, blocking out challenging sounds like subway rumbling or emergency vehicle sirens. I experienced a significant reduction in noise during phone calls when the ANC activated, whereas the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro were less efficient in similar situations.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Battery Life
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
When it comes to battery life, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the clear winners, offering up to 48 hours with ANC off and 30 hours with it on. In comparison, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro provide 30 hours without ANC and 26 hours with it. I found myself using the Pixel Buds Pro 2 for weeks without needing a charge. Both earbuds also support wireless charging.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Other Features
Compatibility is an important factor, especially when a brand’s earbuds are designed to pair with its own phones. Pixel users enjoy exclusive features with the Pixel Buds Pro 2, including Spatial Audio and Conversation Detection. The Gemini AI integration has been heavily promoted, though we found it to be more cumbersome than expected. Notably, its use isn’t limited to Pixel devices, as Android and iOS users can download the Gemini app too.
Samsung, on the other hand, offers features that enhance the user experience for Galaxy Buds 3 Pro owners, such as spatial audio, equalizer settings, and live translation in eight languages—all optimally designed for use with Galaxy devices.
In terms of water and dust resistance, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 carry an IP54 rating, while the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are rated IP57. Interestingly, the Pixel’s charging case offers IPX4 resistance, which is not common in the wireless earbuds market.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Verdict
The verdict is clear: the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the superior choice. Although we initially praised the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, they fell short in areas like onboard volume controls and bass clarity. In comparison, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 excel in every category while maintaining a competitive price point, even coming in cheaper at $230 compared to the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro’s $250. Our only concern about the Pixel Buds was the lackluster Gemini integration, which is not mandatory for use. For those looking to stay within budget and weighing the options against the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, it is evident that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the better investment.
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