JBL Live 660NC vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The Verdict
JBL Live 660NC excels in marathon listening sessions with exceptional 40-50 hour battery life and comfortable over-ear design, making them ideal for travel and all-day wear. Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro deliver superior audio quality through dual-driver architecture and 24-bit Hi-Fi codec support, plus innovative Galaxy AI features like real-time translation and head-tracked 360 audio. Battery longevity clearly favors JBL (40 hrs ANC-on vs 6 hrs per bud), while sound quality and feature richness lean Samsung. Form factor matters here: over-ears suit commuters and studio listeners; true wireless earbuds offer superior portability and gym-friendly design. For pure audio fidelity and cutting-edge features, Galaxy Buds3 Pro win despite shorter single-charge duration. However, if extended listening without recharging is critical, JBL dominates. Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro edges ahead for premium sound and AI capabilities.
Who Should Buy
Buy the JBL Live 660NC if…
- →40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- →JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
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
JBL Live 660NC
Pros
- 40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Built-in voice assistant support for hands-free control
- Comfortable lightweight fit for extended wear
Cons
- ANC is decent but noticeably behind Sony and Bose
- No LDAC or aptX codecs — limited to AAC
- Bluetooth 5.0 is a generation behind newer models
- Plastic build doesn't feel premium
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 | JBL Live 660NC | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 5.4 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 40 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off) | 6 hrs buds (ANC on) / 7 hrs (ANC off), up to 26 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 40 mm | 10.5 mm dynamic woofer + 6.1 mm planar tweeter (dual-way) |
| Features | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes, JBL Signature Sound, Multipoint Bluetooth connection, Google Assistant and Alexa built-in, Speed Charge support | 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 | None | 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 JBL products or all Samsung products. View full details for the JBL Live 660NC or the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro.