Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
The Verdict
Both earbuds target premium listeners but take different approaches. Bose Ultra Open Earbuds emphasize an open, comfortable design with directional audio and multipoint connectivity, delivering 7.5 hours per charge compared to Samsung's 5 hours with ANC enabled. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro counter with superior active noise cancellation featuring three adjustable levels, better water resistance at IPX7, and tighter integration with Samsung devices through features like Auto Switch and SmartThings Find. Sound-wise, Samsung's dual-driver system provides more balanced audio across frequencies, while Bose prioritizes spacious, ambient listening with head-tracked immersive audio. The $70 price difference matters: Buds2 Pro offer better everyday versatility and ANC performance for most users, while the Bose excels for those seeking all-day wear comfort and directional sound without ANC fatigue. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro edges ahead for comprehensive features and value.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds if…
- →Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- →Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- →Wireless charging case adds convenience
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
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Pros
- Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- Wireless charging case adds convenience
- Multipoint and aptX Adaptive for high-quality streaming
- Ideal for situational awareness during outdoor activities
Cons
- Very expensive at $299 for earbuds without ANC
- Bass is inherently limited compared to sealed designs
- 7.5-hour battery is decent but not exceptional
- Sound leak is noticeable in quiet environments
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 | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.5 g (each) | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7.5 hrs, 19.5 hrs total with case | 5 hrs (earbuds with ANC), 18 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C, Qi wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | Bose OpenAudio technology | Custom coaxial 2-way driver (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter) |
| Features | Cuff-style design clips onto the ear, Bose Immersive Audio with head tracking, OpenAudio directional sound technology, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wireless charging case, Customizable EQ via Bose Music app | 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 | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC | Samsung Seamless (24-bit), AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | 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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Bose products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds or the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro.