Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen deliver exceptional value at $129, offering reliable connectivity through the H1 chip, seamless Apple device switching, and 5 hours of playback. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro command a $100 premium with active noise cancellation across three adjustable levels, superior 2-way drivers with 10mm woofers, IPX7 water resistance, and faster USB-C charging that restores 1 hour of playback in just 5 minutes. Sound quality clearly favors Samsung's coaxial driver design and 360 Audio spatial features. However, AirPods 2 lack ANC entirely and offer no water resistance, making them less versatile for varied environments. Galaxy Buds2 Pro also include intelligent voice detection and SmartThings Find locating capability. For iOS-exclusive users seeking affordability, AirPods 2 remain competent; for anyone wanting comprehensive features, active noise cancellation, and durability, Samsung's offering justifies its higher cost.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen if…
- →Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- →H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- →Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro if…
- →24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- →360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- →Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen
Pros
- Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Quick and reliable pairing with all Apple devices
- Affordable entry point into the AirPods lineup
Cons
- No water or sweat resistance rating — risky for workouts
- 5-hour battery life is below average by modern standards
- No noise cancellation or transparency mode
- One-size-fits-all design doesn't suit every ear shape
- Lightning charging only — no USB-C
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Pros
- 24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- 360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
- IPX7 water resistance handles sweat and rain confidently
- Voice Detect automatically pauses and enables transparency mode
Cons
- Samsung Seamless codec only works with Samsung Galaxy devices
- 5-hour ANC battery life is short — case extends to 18 hours
- No multipoint Bluetooth for dual-device connectivity
- Touch controls can be finicky and hard to activate consistently
- ANC is not as strong as Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro 2
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 5 hrs (earbuds with ANC), 18 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C, Qi wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | Custom coaxial 2-way driver (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter) |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | Intelligent ANC with 3 adjustable levels, 360 Audio with head tracking, SmartThings Find for locating lost earbuds, Auto Switch between Samsung devices, Voice Detect for automatic transparency mode |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | Samsung Seamless (24-bit), AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX7 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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