Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
The Verdict
Audio-Technica's ATH-M50x delivers studio-grade sound quality with its 45mm drivers and professional-grade isolation through circumaural design, making it ideal for critical listening and mixing tasks. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer modern convenience with active noise cancellation, 5-hour battery life with ANC enabled, 360 Audio with head tracking, and IPX7 water resistance, suited for mobile users prioritizing portability and features. ATH-M50x excels in raw audio fidelity and durability as a wired solution requiring no charging, while Buds2 Pro provide wireless freedom, ANC technology, and seamless Samsung ecosystem integration. For professional audio work or studio monitoring, the ATH-M50x remains superior. For everyday listening with commuting or gym use, Buds2 Pro deliver superior versatility. Choose ATH-M50x if sound quality and professional use matter most; select Buds2 Pro for active lifestyles and wireless convenience.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x if…
- →Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- →Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- →Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
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
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
- Foldable with swiveling cups for single-ear monitoring
- Exceptional value — professional quality at a consumer price
Cons
- Wired only — no Bluetooth option (ATH-M50xBT2 exists separately)
- Ear pads can get warm and sweaty during long sessions
- Clamping force is tight on larger heads out of the box
- Sound isolation is passive only — no ANC
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 | Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 285 g | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 5 hrs (earbuds with ANC), 18 hrs total with case |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C, Qi wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | 45mm large-aperture dynamic driver | Custom coaxial 2-way driver (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter) |
| Features | Professional studio monitoring, 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets, 90-degree swiveling ear cups for one-ear monitoring, 3 detachable cables included, Foldable design for portability, Circumaural design for sound isolation | 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 | Samsung Seamless (24-bit), AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX7 |
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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