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| Galaxy Buds 3 |
Samsung has shaken things up with its Galaxy Buds series, and in a surprising twist, the new Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro look and feel remarkably like Apple's AirPods. This might just be a good thing.
Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro: What’s New?
Take a look at the new Galaxy Bud 3
The Galaxy Buds 3, priced at $179, offers an open fit similar to Apple’s base AirPods. On the other hand, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, at $249, includes silicone tips like the AirPods Pro, providing a proper seal.
However, it’s not just the fit that makes these new Galaxy Buds resemble AirPods. Samsung’s design changes are evident.
Design Overhaul
Samsung’s move to a stemmed design aims to improve fit and comfort. This design decision was informed by scanning ears and utilizing AI to determine the best fit. As much as some might dislike the look, earbuds with stems tend to be more comfortable and balanced, and they move the microphone closer to the mouth.
The uncanny resemblance to AirPods is particularly noticeable in the base model. The new case design has also shifted from a square-ish form to a flattened case with a smaller lid, much like the one used for AirPods Pro. Samsung adds a touch of uniqueness with a “Silver” color and a transparent lid.
Enhanced Comfort and Usability
Despite the similarities, the design choices make sense. Stemmed earbuds, like the Galaxy Buds 3, are more comfortable to wear for extended periods. The weight distribution is better, and the microphone placement improves call quality.
Samsung’s touchpad, located on the edge of the earbuds, includes touch and squeeze gestures similar to AirPods. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro features an LED strip that lights up during pairing, locating lost earbuds, and indicating battery status.
Audio Specs and Features
Galaxy Buds 3
The Galaxy Buds 3 uses an 11mm driver, while the Buds 3 Pro includes a 10.5mm driver with a 6.1mm Planar. Both models offer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), with the Pro model featuring “Voice Detect” to adjust volume and ANC when speaking. Enhanced Hi-Fi audio at up to 24-bit and 96kHz is available when paired with a Galaxy smartphone running One UI 6.1.1 or higher. Both models also offer “360 Audio” and up to 30 hours of battery life with their case.
Galaxy-Specific Features
A notable feature for Galaxy AI smartphone users is the new “Listening mode,” which provides real-time translations through on-device translation features.
Pre-orders and Availability
Samsung has opened pre-orders for the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro today, priced at $179 and $249, respectively. Both models will ship later this month, with a 25% discount available when bundled with the purchase of a Galaxy Z Fold 6 or Flip 6.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds 3 series might look like AirPods clones, but the changes could be for the better. The design choices prioritize comfort and usability, and if the audio quality matches the on-paper specs, these could be a great option for Samsung users.
Stay tuned for a hands-on review once we get to try these new earbuds in action.
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