We pit the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs Apple AirPods (3rd generation) to see if Samsung can take a bite of Apple’s market.
Even with these platform limitations in mind, Samsung and Apple users may be peering over the walls of their garden to see what the other side has to offer. In this head-to-head, we’ll be comparing the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and Apple AirPods (3rd gen) to see if either is worth jumping ship for. Connecting to the Samsung Galaxy Wearable app offers an ear tip fit test and active noise-cancelling (ANC) controls for the Galaxy Buds 2. The AirPods don’t have ANC, but do feature spatial audio. This brings virtual surround sound, meaning the earbuds can playback media mastered for Dolby Atmos. A “spatialize stereo” setting can also convert non-Atmos media into virtual surround sound, though it doesn’t work as well as music made specifically for it. Accelerometers incorporated into the AirPods also allow for head tracking, which keeps the sound source seemingly locked in one place. IP water protection ratings allow you to use either set of earbuds for working out. An IPX2 rating protects the Galaxy Buds 2 from sweat, while an IPX4 rating protects the AirPods from light splashes of water. The unsealed design of the AirPods makes them a good choice for hearing surroundings while out on a run, while the sealed fit and ANC of the Galaxy Buds 2 are better for blocking out noise in the gym. The Apple AirPods only support SBC and AAC since these are the only Bluetooth codecs Apple devices use. AAC is much more reliable on Apple devices than Android devices, so iPhone users won’t have to worry about connection strength. See also: Bluetooth codecs 101 — everything you need to know Just like the previous Apple AirPods, the AirPods uses the iOS (or iPadOS) settings app for control and customization.
