Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods 3 deliver seamless ecosystem integration and spatial audio excellence for iPhone users, with solid 6-hour battery life and IPX4 water resistance at a competitive $169 price point. Samsung's Galaxy Buds3 Pro command a $80 premium but justify it with active noise cancellation, superior dual-driver audio (10.5mm woofer + 6.1mm tweeter), multipoint connectivity, and Galaxy AI features like real-time translation. Battery performance slightly favors Apple at 30 hours total versus 26 hours, though Samsung matches the 6-hour bud rating with ANC engaged. Sound quality tilts toward Samsung's dual-driver hybrid approach and Hi-Fi codec support, while Apple excels in spatial audio implementation via H1 chip processing. Water resistance edges to Samsung (IP57 vs IPX4). For iPhone loyalists seeking elegant minimalism, AirPods 3 remain excellent; Android users or those prioritizing ANC and audio versatility should invest in the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.
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 Buds3 Pro if…
- →Detailed dual-driver sound with 24-bit Hi-Fi via SSC codec
- →Strong active noise cancellation rivaling AirPods Pro 2
- →Galaxy AI features like real-time Live Translate via the buds
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 Buds3 Pro
Pros
- Detailed dual-driver sound with 24-bit Hi-Fi via SSC codec
- Strong active noise cancellation rivaling AirPods Pro 2
- Galaxy AI features like real-time Live Translate via the buds
- Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint and IP57 water resistance
- Comfortable open-style fit with pressure-relief vent
Cons
- Best features (Hi-Fi codec, 360 Audio, AI) are locked to Galaxy phones
- Touch and pinch controls can be finicky
- Stem design with LED accents looks similar to AirPods
- Battery life is only average compared to rivals
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 5.4 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on) / 7 hrs (ANC off), up to 26 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 10.5 mm dynamic woofer + 6.1 mm planar tweeter (dual-way) |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | 24-bit Hi-Fi audio over Samsung Seamless Codec, 360 Audio with head tracking, Real-time Interpreter and Live Translate (Galaxy AI), Adaptive ANC and Adaptive EQ, Voice Detect and Siren Detect, Blade-style stem with LED accent |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SSC Hi-Fi, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.4 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP57 (buds) |
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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