Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The Verdict
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds excel for users prioritizing comfort and all-day wear with their innovative cuff-style design, delivering 7.5-hour battery life and Bose's signature spatial audio with head tracking. Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro counters with dual-driver 24-bit Hi-Fi audio, genuine active noise cancellation, and superior water resistance (IP57 vs IPX4), plus Samsung's AI features like real-time translation. Battery capacity favors Samsung at 26 hours total versus 19.5 hours. Sound quality depends on preference: Bose offers directional immersion without ANC, while Samsung provides traditional sealed-fit clarity with powerful noise isolation. At $249.99 versus $299, Samsung delivers better value with ANC and stronger audio credentials. For commuters and travel, Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are the better choice; for open-ear comfort and unique spatial staging, Bose suits lifestyle listeners.
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 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
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 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 | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.5 g (each) | 5.4 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7.5 hrs, 19.5 hrs total with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on) / 7 hrs (ANC off), up to 26 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Bose OpenAudio technology | 10.5 mm dynamic woofer + 6.1 mm planar tweeter (dual-way) |
| 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 | 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 | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC | SSC Hi-Fi, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 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.
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 Buds3 Pro.
