Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Samsung Galaxy Buds+
The Verdict
AirPods 3 excels with Spatial Audio and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, while Galaxy Buds+ delivers superior battery life at 11 hours versus 6 hours per charge. Samsung's two-way drivers produce notably warmer sound with AKG tuning, whereas Apple focuses on balanced clarity and adaptive EQ. Galaxy Buds+ charge via standard USB-C and Qi wireless, offering broader compatibility, while AirPods 3 feature convenient MagSafe charging exclusive to Apple devices. Both lack active noise cancellation, limiting options for commuters. AirPods 3 better suits iPhone users valuing seamless connectivity and spatial features; Galaxy Buds+ rewards Android users prioritizing endurance and audio customization at a $20 lower price point.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds+ if…
- →11-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for true wireless
- →Two-way speaker system produces rich, detailed audio
- →Three microphones per earbud deliver excellent call quality
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
Samsung Galaxy Buds+
Pros
- 11-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for true wireless
- Two-way speaker system produces rich, detailed audio
- Three microphones per earbud deliver excellent call quality
- Wireless charging case at no extra premium
- Compact and comfortable for extended listening sessions
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- IPX2 rating barely covers light splashes
- Ambient Sound mode has noticeable white noise
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive and accidentally triggered
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Samsung Galaxy Buds+ |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 6.3 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 11 hrs (22 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | Two-way driver (11mm woofer + 6.5mm tweeter) |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | Two-way dynamic speakers by AKG, Ambient Sound mode, 3 microphones per bud, Qi wireless charging, Galaxy Wearable app with EQ and touchpad settings |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX2 |
Related Comparisons
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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